National When Pigs Fly Day is a fun and imaginative celebration that encourages people to believe in the impossible and embrace creativity. This whimsical holiday is centered around the common phrase “when pigs fly,” which typically describes something highly unlikely to happen. The day serves as a reminder that even seemingly impossible dreams are worth pursuing.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 9th annually
- Tagged as: Creativity, Imagination, Possibilities
- What’s the hashtag?: #WhenPigsFlyDay
- When was it founded?: September 9, 2020
- Who founded it?: Lisa J. Schanley
History of National When Pigs Fly Day
National When Pigs Fly Day was officially recognized on September 9, 2020, when Lisa J. Schanley submitted it for consideration as a new holiday. The inspiration came from her unexpected marriage to Tom Schanley, an actor and confirmed bachelor. Neither of them thought they would ever marry, but a series of seemingly impossible events led to their wedding, which featured flying pigs as the theme and on their wedding topper.
The phrase “when pigs fly” has roots dating back to Scottish proverbs from the 1500s and was used to express disbelief at something unlikely to happen. By the 1930s, it had even inspired characters like Pigasus in Ruth Plumly Thompson’s “Oz” books.
Timeline
- 1500s: The phrase “when pigs fly” originates in Scottish proverbs
- 1616: John Withals’ English-Latin dictionary lists the proverb “pigs fly with their tails forward”
- 1930s: The phrase inspires characters in literature
- 2020: National When Pigs Fly Day is officially established by Lisa J. Schanley
Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 9 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 9 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 9 | Thursday |
| 2028 | September 9 | Saturday |
| 2029 | September 9 | Sunday |
| 2030 | September 9 | Monday |
Observed
National When Pigs Fly Day is celebrated across the United States, particularly by those who enjoy embracing creativity and imagination. People celebrate by flying kites, hosting pig-themed parties, creating impossible art, setting ambitious goals, and watching movies with impossible themes. Some visit zoos or farms, participate in piggyback races, or create flying pig crafts.
Fun Facts About National When Pigs Fly Day
The day is all about letting go of doubts and aiming high, making it a perfect opportunity for everyone to think big and push boundaries. While the phrase “when pigs fly” is common in the United States, other countries use similar expressions to represent impossibility, such as “when cows fly” or “when frogs grow hair” in France and Spain.
Quiz
- When is National When Pigs Fly Day celebrated?
- Who founded National When Pigs Fly Day?
- What does the phrase “when pigs fly” typically mean?
- In what year was National When Pigs Fly Day officially recognized?
(Answers: 1. September 9th, 2. Lisa J. Schanley, 3. Something highly unlikely or impossible, 4. 2020)
FAQs
Why was National When Pigs Fly Day created?
National When Pigs Fly Day was created to give people hope that impossible things can happen and impossible dreams can come true. It encourages people to think outside the box, take risks, and pursue their wildest dreams.
How can I celebrate National When Pigs Fly Day?
You can celebrate by flying kites, hosting a pig-themed party, creating impossible art, setting ambitious goals, or watching movies with impossible themes. The key is to embrace creativity and believe in possibilities.
What is the meaning behind the phrase “when pigs fly”?
The phrase “when pigs fly” is an adynaton, a way of saying that something will never happen. It’s often used for humorous effect to scoff at over-ambition or to express that something is highly unlikely.
Importance of National When Pigs Fly Day
National When Pigs Fly Day serves as a celebration of possibility and hope. It reminds us that anything is possible if we are brave enough to take risks and pursue our dreams, no matter how farfetched they may seem. The day encourages people to keep dreaming, to set ambitious goals, and to believe that with creativity, perseverance, and hard work, even the seemingly impossible can become reality.
Related
- National Pig Day (March 1)
- Dream Day
- Creativity Day
- International Day of Happiness
- World Dream Day