Happy National Girl Hug Boy Day celebration with friends hugging

National Girl Hug Boy Day: A Celebration of Affection

National Girl Hug Boy Day is an annual celebration that encourages women and girls to express their care and appreciation for the males in their lives through the simple yet powerful act of hugging.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: January 11th annually
  • Tagged as: Love & Affection, Social Connection
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NationalGirlHugBoyDay #GirlHugBoyDay
  • When was it founded?: 2007
  • Who founded it?: Emerged following a school incident involving Megan Coulter

History

The day originated in 2007 following an incident where 13-year-old Megan Coulter received a two-day suspension for hugging two classmates. This sparked discussions about physical expressions of friendship and led to the establishment of this special day.

Timeline

  • 1610: Word “hug” first appeared (wrestling context)
  • 1650s: “Hug” began being used in its current meaning
  • 2007: National Girl Hug Boy Day established
  • Present: Celebrated globally as a day of appreciation

Dates by Next Year

YearDateDay
2025Jan 11Saturday
2026Jan 11Sunday
2027Jan 11Monday
2028Jan 11Tuesday
2029Jan 11Thursday

Observed

The day is celebrated through genuine displays of affection, organizing hug parties, and sharing moments on social media.

Fun Facts About Hugging

  • Hugging releases oxytocin, known as the “bonding hormone”
  • We need 4 hugs daily for survival, 8 for maintenance, and 12 for growth
  • The word “hug” comes from the Old Norse word “hugga” meaning “to comfort”

Quiz

  1. When is National Girl Hug Boy Day celebrated?
  2. What hormone is released during hugging?
  3. How many hugs do we need daily to thrive?
    (Answers: January 11th, Oxytocin, 12)

FAQs

Q: Can anyone participate?
A: Yes, regardless of age or relationship status.

Q: Is it only for romantic relationships?
A: No, it celebrates all types of relationships including family and friendship.

Importance of Girl Hug Boy Day

This day promotes emotional expression, breaks down gender barriers around physical affection, and celebrates the healing power of human touch.

  • National Hugging Day
  • International Day of Friendship
  • World Kindness Day
  • Global Love Day