Great American Smokeout

The Great American Smokeout is an annual event organized by the American Cancer Society to encourage smokers to quit tobacco use. This intervention takes place on the third Thursday of November each year, challenging people to stop smoking for 24 hours or to make a plan to quit.

Quick Facts

When is it?: Third Thursday of November
Tagged as: Health awareness event
What’s the hashtag?: #GreatAmericanSmokeout
When was it founded?: 1976
Who founded it?: American Cancer Society

History of the Great American Smokeout

The Great American Smokeout evolved from smaller initiatives. In 1970, Arthur P. Mullaney in Randolph, Massachusetts, suggested people give up cigarettes for a day and donate the money to a local high school. In 1974, Lynn R. Smith of the Monticello Times in Minnesota promoted a “Don’t Smoke Day.” The first official Smokeout occurred in 1976 when the California Division of the American Cancer Society prompted nearly one million smokers to quit for the day.

Timeline

1970: Arthur P. Mullaney suggests giving up cigarettes for a day
1974: Lynn R. Smith promotes “Don’t Smoke Day” in Minnesota
1976: First official Smokeout in California
1977: The event becomes a national campaign

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	November 20	Thursday
2026	November 19	Thursday
2027	November 18	Thursday
2028	November 16	Thursday
2029	November 15	Thursday
2030	November 21	Thursday

Observed

The Great American Smokeout is observed nationwide in the United States. It involves various activities such as rallies, parades, and informational events in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Many organizations and healthcare providers participate by offering resources and support for those trying to quit smoking.

Fun Facts About the Great American Smokeout

The event has contributed to significant changes in tobacco-related legislation and public attitudes towards smoking.
Since its inception, smoking rates in the US have dropped from about 42% to less than 14% of adults.
The event has inspired similar initiatives in other countries.

Quiz

In what year did the first nationwide Great American Smokeout take place?
What organization sponsors the Great American Smokeout?
On which day of the week does the Great American Smokeout occur?

(Answers: 1. 1977, 2. American Cancer Society, 3. Thursday)

FAQs

Q: How long does the Great American Smokeout last?
A: The event lasts for 24 hours, but it’s meant to inspire long-term quitting.

Q: Can non-smokers participate in the Great American Smokeout?
A: Yes, non-smokers can participate by supporting friends and family who are trying to quit and by raising awareness about the dangers of smoking.

Importance of the Great American Smokeout

The Great American Smokeout plays a crucial role in public health by raising awareness about the dangers of smoking and providing resources for those who want to quit. It has contributed to a significant decrease in smoking rates in the United States and has helped save countless lives by preventing smoking-related diseases.