National Nothing Day: A Celebration of Doing Absolutely Nothing
National Nothing Day is an annual “anti-holiday” observed every January 16. True to its name, it’s a day dedicated to doing absolutely nothing—no celebrations, no obligations, and no events. The day was created to provide people with a chance to take a break from the constant hustle of life and simply exist.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: January 16
- Tagged as: Anti-holiday, Relaxation
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalNothingDay
- When was it founded?: 1972
- Who founded it?: Harold Pullman Coffin
History of National Nothing Day
The concept of National Nothing Day was proposed in 1972 by Harold Pullman Coffin, a columnist for the San Francisco Examiner. He wanted to create a day free from the growing trend of commemorative holidays. Officially observed since 1973, the day was added to Chase’s Calendar of Events and is sponsored by the National Nothing Foundation. Its purpose is simple: to give people a day to just sit back and do nothing without guilt.
Interestingly, this anti-holiday often sparks philosophical debates about whether doing nothing is still “doing something.” Despite its lighthearted nature, it has become a symbol of rebellion against society’s obsession with productivity.
Timeline
- 1972: Harold Pullman Coffin proposes National Nothing Day.
- 1973: The first official observance takes place.
- 1980s: Philosophical debates about “nothingness” gain traction.
- 2017: Martin Luther King Jr. Day coincides with January 16, highlighting the clash between holidays.
- 2025: The tradition continues to thrive as a guilt-free day of rest.
Dates for National Nothing Day (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 16 | Thursday |
| 2026 | January 16 | Friday |
| 2027 | January 16 | Saturday |
| 2028 | January 16 | Sunday |
| 2029 | January 16 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | January 16 | Wednesday |
Observed
National Nothing Day is unofficially observed in the United States. It’s not a public holiday, so schools and businesses remain open. However, individuals can choose to celebrate by doing absolutely nothing—whether that means staying in bed, skipping chores, or simply taking a mental break.
Fun Facts About National Nothing Day
- The day has never been officially recognized by Congress, making it an unofficial “un-event.”
- It is often compared to other minimalist philosophies like the Dutch concept of Niksen or the Chinese idea of Tang Ping (lying flat).
- The Canadian Realist Society created “There Has Always Been Something Day” (THABS) as a counterpoint to National Nothing Day.
Quiz
- Who founded National Nothing Day?
- A) Harold Pullman Coffin
- B) James W. Morgan
- C) Ephemeral Rift
- What year was National Nothing Day first observed?
- A) 1972
- B) 1973
- C) 1980
- What is the purpose of National Nothing Day?
- A) To celebrate minimalism
- B) To do absolutely nothing
- C) To promote mindfulness
Answers:
- A) Harold Pullman Coffin
- B) 1973
- B) To do absolutely nothing
FAQs
Q: Is National Nothing Day an official holiday?
A: No, it’s an unofficial observance and not recognized by Congress.
Q: How should I celebrate National Nothing Day?
A: By doing absolutely nothing! Relax, unwind, and take a break from your daily responsibilities.
Q: Does doing nothing mean being lazy?
A: Not at all! Taking time to rest can be essential for mental health and productivity.
Q: Is it a federal holiday?
A: No, it requires an act of Congress to become one.
Q: Can you celebrate other holidays on Nothing Day?
A: Technically, that would defeat the purpose.
Importance of Nothing Day
In our hyperactive world, this day serves as a reminder to slow down and embrace idleness. It’s become an ironic form of rebellion against our constantly busy society.
Related
- Buy Nothing Day (anti-consumerism movement)
- International Do-Nothing Day (similar concept in other cultures)
- World Sleep Day (celebrating rest and relaxation)