National Humor Month: A Celebration of Laughter and Joy
What is National Humor Month?
National Humor Month, celebrated every April, was founded in 1976 by comedian and author Larry Wilde. Its purpose is to highlight the therapeutic value of humor and laughter, which can reduce stress, improve health, and bring people together.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: Every April, starting with April Fool’s Day.
- Tagged as: A month to promote humor, joy, and laughter.
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalHumorMonth
- When was it founded?: 1976
- Who founded it?: Larry Wilde, Director of the Carmel Institute of Humor.
History of National Humor Month
Larry Wilde created National Humor Month to emphasize the healing power of laughter. Inspired by scientific research showing that laughter reduces stress, boosts immunity, and improves overall well-being, Wilde positioned the celebration in April to start with April Fool’s Day. Over the decades, this observance has grown into a global celebration of humor’s role in enriching lives.
Timeline
- 1976: Larry Wilde establishes National Humor Month.
- 1980s: Comedy clubs begin promoting the event across the U.S.
- 1999: World Laughter Tour launches in Ohio.
- 2008: Steve Wilson becomes the director of National Humor Month.
- 2016: The 40th anniversary is celebrated with special events nationwide.
National Humor Month Dates (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 1 | Sunday |
| 2030 | April 1 | Monday |
How It’s Observed
National Humor Month encourages activities that spread joy and laughter. Popular ways to celebrate include:
- Hosting comedy nights or watching funny movies.
- Sharing jokes or humorous stories with friends and family.
- Engaging in laughter yoga sessions.
- Organizing humorous contests or scavenger hunts.
Fun Facts About National Humor Month
- It begins with April Fool’s Day, a day dedicated to pranks and jokes.
- Larry Wilde also served as the Director of the Carmel Institute of Humor.
- It coincides with Stress Awareness Month, emphasizing laughter as a stress reliever.
- Scientific studies show that laughter can reduce cortisol levels and improve cardiovascular health.
Quiz
- Who founded National Humor Month?
- (a) Steve Wilson
- (b) Larry Wilde
- (c) Dr. Madan Kataria
- What day does National Humor Month start on?
- (a) March 31
- (b) April Fool’s Day
- (c) May Day
- What is one health benefit of laughter?
- (a) Increases stress
- (b) Boosts immunity
- (c) Causes headaches
(Answers: 1-b, 2-b, 3-b)
FAQs
1. Why is humor important?
Humor enhances mood, reduces stress, and strengthens social bonds.
2. How can I celebrate National Humor Month?
Share jokes, attend comedy shows, or simply spend time laughing with loved ones.
3. Can laughter really improve health?
Yes! Laughter reduces stress hormones like cortisol and releases endorphins for pain relief.
Related Observances
- World Laughter Day (May)
- International Joke Day (July)
- Belly Laugh Day (January)
Celebrate this April by spreading smiles and embracing humor—it’s good for your health and your soul!