National Mad Hatter Day: A Whimsical Celebration
National Mad Hatter Day is a quirky and fun-filled holiday celebrated annually on October 6th. Inspired by the eccentric Mad Hatter character from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this day encourages people to embrace silliness, creativity, and a touch of madness in their lives.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 6th
- Tagged as: Fun, Whimsy, Creativity
- What’s the hashtag?: #MadHatterDay
- When was it founded?: 1986
- Who founded it?: A group of computer technicians in Boulder, Colorado
History of National Mad Hatter Day
The idea for National Mad Hatter Day originated in 1986 when a group of computer technicians in Boulder, Colorado, decided to dedicate a day to silliness inspired by the Mad Hatter. The date, 10/6, aligns with the label on the Mad Hatter’s hat—“10/6”—which refers to its price (10 shillings and 6 pence). The day gained popularity and was officially recognized as an unofficial holiday in 1988.
The phrase “mad as a hatter” predates Carroll’s story and stems from the 18th and 19th centuries when mercury poisoning among hat-makers caused symptoms resembling insanity. This historical tidbit adds depth to the whimsical celebration.
Timeline
- 1865: Lewis Carroll publishes Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, introducing the Mad Hatter.
- 1986: Boulder, Colorado technicians celebrate the first National Mad Hatter Day.
- 1988: The day receives national recognition as an unofficial holiday.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 06 | Monday |
| 2026 | October 06 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | October 06 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | October 06 | Friday |
| 2029 | October 06 | Saturday |
| 2030 | October 06 | Sunday |
Observed
National Mad Hatter Day is celebrated with activities that embrace creativity and absurdity. Popular ways to observe include:
- Wearing eccentric hats or mismatched outfits
- Hosting Alice in Wonderland-themed tea parties
- Sharing riddles or jokes
- Engaging in whimsical crafts or art projects
Fun Facts About National Mad Hatter Day
- The Mad Hatter’s tea party in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is perpetually ongoing because his watch stopped working.
- The term “mad as a hatter” originated from mercury poisoning among hat-makers.
- Lewis Carroll never actually referred to the character as “The Mad Hatter” in his book.
Quiz
- What does “10/6” on the Mad Hatter’s hat refer to?
(A) The price of the hat: 10 shillings and 6 pence. - Who wrote Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland?
(A) Lewis Carroll. - What animal told Alice, “We’re all mad here”?
(A) Cheshire Cat. - What celebration were they having at the tea party?
(A) An Unbirthday Party. - What happens to Alice when she drinks the potion labeled “Drink Me”?
(A) She shrinks.
FAQs
Q: Why is it called National Mad Hatter Day?
A: It is named after the Mad Hatter character from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and celebrates silliness inspired by his antics.
Q: How can I celebrate National Mad Hatter Day?
A: Wear a silly hat, host a tea party, or embrace your creative side with whimsical activities.
Related
- Alice in Wonderland Day (July 4th)
- International Tea Day (May 21st)
- World Creativity and Innovation Day (April 21st)