National Blame Someone Else Day is a quirky and humorous holiday celebrated annually on the first Friday the 13th of the year. It’s a day dedicated to shifting blame and avoiding responsibility, all in good fun. Originating from an amusing mishap in 1982, this day has become a playful excuse to point fingers and laugh at life’s little misfortunes.
Quick Facts
- When is it? The first Friday the 13th of each year.
- Tagged as: Weird & Obscure.
- What’s the hashtag? #BlameSomeoneElseDay.
- When was it founded? August 13, 1982.
- Who founded it? Anne Moeller of Clio, Michigan.
History of National Blame Someone Else Day
The holiday began when Anne Moeller’s alarm clock failed to go off on Friday, August 13, 1982. This small incident caused a cascade of bad luck throughout her day. Instead of accepting responsibility, she humorously decided to blame others for her misfortunes—and thus, National Blame Someone Else Day was born. Over time, it has evolved into a lighthearted tradition where people can poke fun at themselves and others.
Timeline
- 44 BC: The concept of blaming others can be traced back to ancient Rome during political turmoil after Julius Caesar’s assassination.
- 1920s: The term “blame someone else” gained cultural prominence.
- 1982: Anne Moeller created the holiday after her alarm clock mishap.
- 2000s: The internet popularized blame culture with memes and online humor.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 13 | Friday |
| 2026 | February 13 | Friday |
| 2027 | August 13 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 13 | Friday |
| 2029 | April 13 | Friday |
| 2030 | September 13 | Friday |
Observed
National Blame Someone Else Day is observed by embracing the freedom to shift blame for any mishap or mistake. It’s a day for humor, creativity, and storytelling.
Fun Facts About National Blame Someone Else Day
- The phrase “scapegoat” originated from a Jewish ritual described by William Tyndale in the 16th century.
- Adam blamed Eve (and God) for eating the forbidden fruit—arguably history’s first instance of blaming someone else.
- Pop culture references like Milli Vanilli’s song “Blame It on the Rain” highlight the universal appeal of this concept.
Quiz
- Who founded National Blame Someone Else Day?
(Answer: Anne Moeller) - When is National Blame Someone Else Day celebrated?
(Answer: The first Friday the 13th of each year) - What event inspired this holiday?
(Answer: Anne Moeller’s alarm clock failing to go off in 1982)
FAQs
What prompts people to blame others?
Blaming others often stems from psychological projection—a defense mechanism where individuals deny their own faults and attribute them to others.
How can I celebrate this holiday?
Stay home, make up humorous excuses, or share your funniest “blame” stories online using #BlameSomeoneElseDay.
Is there a deeper meaning behind this day?
While primarily lighthearted, it reminds us not to take life too seriously and to laugh at our mistakes.
Importance of National Blame Someone Else Day
This holiday offers a chance to reflect on our tendency to avoid accountability while encouraging humor and creativity. It’s an opportunity to bond with others over shared experiences of mishaps and excuses.
Related
- International Fun at Work Day
- Opposite Day
- April Fools’ Day