Category: unofficial holidays

Ways to Celebrate National Sea Serpent Day

Did you know today, August 7th is National Sea Serpent Day? A sea serpent or sea dragon is a fascinating mythological creature. The mention of sea serpents brings up images of enormous legendary creatures of the deep seas. The myths and lore are fascinating.

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Ways to Celebrate Sea Serpent Day

Whether you believe sea serpents existed or not, celebrating the mythological creatures can be a fun activity for you and your entire family. If you need ideas for celebrating National Sea Serpent Day, check out the following.

Host a Family Movie Night

The sea holds marvelous mysteries and tales for every age. Movies use the unknown to entice the watcher.

Of course, there are numerous other movies focusing on creatures from the deep. But the horror-inspired sea serpent movies may not be for all family members.

Sea Inspired Snacks

Yes, you can create an entire dinner based on foods from the sea. Or you make simple snacks to go along with your movie night. For example, the Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers are an ideal treat for sea-themed movie nights. Serving pretzels can easily represent driftwood and green licorice turns into seaweed bunches. Blue Hawaiian Punch (Polar Blast) is the perfect glass of seawater.

Read a Book

Go to your local library or bookstore to find books about sea serpents. The myths and legends are perfect reading material.

Go to the Beach

Even if you are nowhere near the open sea, going to the beach is a great way to celebrate National Sea Serpent Day. Search for shells, sea glass, and other goodies. Remember to follow all the rules of public places.

Host a Craft Day

Gather your craft supplies to host a craft day or afternoon. Use different materials to create sea serpents and their habitant. Check out your local dollar store if you do not have craft supplies. The inexpensive arts and crafts items are great for an impromptu day of creating.

  • Your Pet Sea Serpent: Create a sea serpent out of clay, dry, and paint. Don’t forget to name your new sea serpent.
  • Get Creative: Draw or paint a sea serpent. Use large-size white poster boards. The extra space is perfect for an entire scene centering on your sea serpent.
  • Quick Crafts: Use construction paper, googly eyes, and other materials to create a sea serpent

Sea serpent art is only limited by your imagination.

Write a Your Own Tale

Write your own story about a sea serpent. If you have younger children, ask them to tell a story to you. Write down their imaginary world with a sea serpent. The simple task creates a lasting treasure.

Interesting Facts About Friday the 13th

Did you look at the calendar? Another Friday the 13th is here! Are you superstitious? Do you look at the date and instantly feel a sense of dread? You are not alone. Millions of people worldwide fear Friday the 13th.

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Facts about Friday the 13th

Superstitions always bring curiosity. The problem with Friday the 13th is the origin or the lack of concrete history about the date. No one can pinpoint the exact moment that the fear of the date began. Of course, the unknown brings more fear to the date.

One possible belief of the fear centers around the day of the crucifixion of Jesus, a Friday. The number 13 focuses on The Last Supper in combination with the day. The night before the crucifixion Jesus ate his final meal with his 12 disciples. Together the two events form Friday the 13th.

Others believe the fear derived from a book published in 1907, Friday the Thirteenth by Thomas Lewson. In some cultures, the 13th is not unlucky at all. In Italy, 17 is the unlucky number.

Despite the unclear history, and the fear of Friday the 13th, communities, organizations, and individuals are cautious on the day and avoid using the number. Here are a few other interesting facts about the date and the number:

  • The fear of Friday the 13th is known as friggatriskaidekaphobia or paraskevidekatriaphobia. The fear of the number 13 is triskaidekaphobia. Can you pronounce those?
  • Many long-standing communities do not have a 13th street or 13th Avenue.
  • When building high-rises, hospitals, or other structures, building planners skip the 13th floor.
  • Many hotels do not have room 13.
  • Airplanes do not have a row 13.
  • Every year, the calendar has at least one Friday the 13th but can have up to three.
  • For the month to have a Friday the 13th. The first day must start on a Sunday.
  • Businesses and airlines suffer financial losses on Friday the 13th.
  • The date is the inspiration for a successful movie franchise.  

The question remains, is Friday the 13th unlucky? People who fear Friday the 13th often call into work, avoid going outdoors, and simply wait for the day to pass. The big question is what do you believe?

Ways to Celebrate Star Wars Day

Today, May 4th is Star Wars Day. Celebrating George Lucas’ Star Wars, May 4th is known as May the Fourth Be with You. For diehard fans, the catch slogan is a clever play on words to the catchphrase “May the Force Be With You.” A general wish of good luck or goodwill as a person leaves to go on a mission.

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Beginning in May 1977, Star Wars enticed theater and drive-in movie goers around the globe. Through the years, other installments were released only to further the storyline. Today, fans enjoy movies, animated series, and an ongoing series, The Mandalorian. Later this month, a new weekly series, Obi-Wan Kenobi will debut. The latest installments add to the excitement of being part of the Star Wars fandom.

  • Binge-Watch: From the first Star Wars, the prequels, and the sequels, there is plenty to binge to celebrate May the Fourth Be With You. Not to mention, the series on Disney+, The Mandalorian, centering on The Child, the show provides hours of entertainment.
  • Read: The Star Wars Universe has numerous books and comics. Grab a favorite or buy a new book.
  • Audio Books: If you are cleaning or doing yard work, try listening to Star Wars. The different stories are brought to life in an entertaining way.
  • Play Games: Do you have a Star Wars-themed video game or board game? Today is the perfect day to play. Gather your family together for game night, make snacks, and enjoy the day.
  • Cosplay Photo Shoot: Using a sheet or blanket as a backdrop, set up your own photo session. Wear your Star Wars apparel, act out scenes, and have fun.
  • Make Crafts: Star Wars is full of unique characters and creatures. Use the different species as inspiration for crafts. For example, make homemade modeling clay (the recipe is on Pinterest). Use the clay to make a Star Wars-themed creature of your own.
  • Cook a Meal or Dessert: Ever tried galactic meatballs or out-of-this-world spaghetti? Adding a space name to any food is an excellent way for children to enjoy the day without a lot of added fuss. Use your imagination to prepare an entire meal or snack with different names.
  • Listen to Soundtracks: The Imperial March by John Williams is a recognizable tune for all Star Wars fans. Turn up the music and enjoy.
  • Lego: Grab a new Star Wars-themed Lego set to put together. Legos are a great family project. You can put the Lego set together while watching the movies.

Happy Star Wars Day! And as always, May the Force Be With You!

Ways to Celebrate International Harry Potter Day

Are you a Potterhead? Did you know today, May 2nd is International Harry Potter Day? According to the Wizarding World timeline, the Battle of Hogwarts occurred on this day in 1998. The history of the day is the reason to celebrate Harry Potter. If you are looking for ways to celebrate International Harry Potter Day, check out the following ideas.

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  • Movie Marathon: Gather your friends or family to have a movie night. Make popcorn, order pizza, or bake some goodies.  Pick your favorite Harry Potter movie or two to watch. Yes, you can binge-watch the entire series.
  • Read: Cozy up with your favorite Harry Potter book and revisit the magic of the Wizarding World. Use today to start the series over by reading the first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
  • Listen to the Books: If your schedule is too busy to sit and read. Listen to the audio version of the books.
  • Harry Potter–Themed Food: In J.K. Rowling’s, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Remus Lupin stated, “Eat, you’ll feel better.” Of course, this was after an encounter with a Dementor. Make Harry Potter-related snacks, chocolate frogs, a cake, licorice wands, or bake an entire feast to go with movie night.
  • Host a Harry Potter Craft Day: Create your own wand. Use clay to make a chocolate frog or Wizarding World coins. The possibilities are endless.
  • Play Games: Host a Harry Potter board game night. Or play video games.
  • Listen to a Podcast: Revisit old favorites or find a new podcast focusing on Harry Potter.
  • Play Soundtracks: Listen to the soundtracks from the movies.
  • Lego: Pick up a new Harry Potter-themed Lego set for an impromptu family night creating a piece from the Wizarding World. From the Hogwarts Castle to Hagrid’s Hut, you can find all types of projects to piece together. For added fun, watch the movies while putting the new Lego set together.
  • Online: Find and chat with other fans in your favorite Harry Potter group.

Remember to have fun! Happy International Harry Potter Day!

Harry Potter Drawing Prompts

Today, May 2 is International Harry Potter Day. For die-hard fans, the date also marks the famous Battle of Hogwarts, the final conflict of the Second Wizarding War. Are you spending the day with a Harry Potter movie marathon? If you are searching for a way to keep busy, check out the following Harry Potter drawing prompts.

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Drawing Prompts for International Harry Potter Day

  1. Your Letter
  2. Favorite Store in Diagon Alley
  3. Wand
  4. Hogwarts Express
  5. Castle
  6. Sorting Hat
  7. Your House
  8. Crest
  9. Favorite Teacher
  10. Favorite Course
  11. Broomstick
  12. Troll
  13. Ghosts
  14. Self Portrait in Robes
  15. Favorite Scene
  16. Hippogriff
  17. Giant Spider
  18. Potion Bottle
  19. Ink, Quill, & Parchment
  20. Owl
  21. Portraits
  22. Dormitory/Common Room
  23. Trunk
  24. Pygmy Puff
  25. Favorite Character
  26. Weasley’s Clock
  27. The Burrow
  28. Feast
  29. Quidditch
  30. Triwizard Cup/Maze/Task
  31. Harry Potter

Happy International Harry Potter Day!

It’s National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day

Did you know today, March 29th is National Mom and Pop Business Owner Day? Small businesses play a vital role in the United States economy. Today is set aside to recognize their significance.

Owning a small business requires hard work and dedication. If you are searching for ways to help promote a local restaurant, hair salon, mechanic, contractor, or specialty shop on Mom and Pop Business Owner Day, consider the following ideas.

Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Pexels.com
  1. Know Your Community: Check out new local shops or revisit long-standing independent businesses. Join community groups on social media to learn about new or other small businesses in your neighborhood.
  2. Write a Review: After visiting a local establishment, write a review of your experience. If you made a purchase, describe your product or service. If you did not buy anything, you still can leave a review. Describe the business. How did the employees greet you? Will you return? Provide honest feedback.
  3. Follow On Social Media Platforms: Many stores use social media to promote new items or services being offered. If a local business has a social media presence, follow the page and share posts. Even if you did not find anything for yourself, share posts with your followers or friends.
  4. Subscribe to Newsletters: Small business owners share vital information about sales or upcoming events through weekly or monthly newsletters. Subscribing to a newsletter keeps you informed.
  5. Show Gratitude: A “thank you” to employees or the owner is a great way to show appreciation. Consider buying gift cards or certificates to give away to loved ones. If you are visiting a local restaurant or hair salon, tip well to show your gratitude.

What is the best way to support National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day? Visit one.

15 Ways to Celebrate World Kindness Day

Did you know November 13th is World Kindness Day? Started in 1998, the annual international holiday promotes all acts of kindness, no matter how small. Are you ready to spread kindness in your small area of the world? Here’s a list of ideas for inspiration. Simple acts of kinds create a ripple effect, never underestimate the power of a smile or small gesture.

Photo by Kat Smith on Pexels.com
  1. Hold the Door: When going into the bank, restaurant, or other business, hold the door for the person behind you.
  2. Offer to Help: Is there an elderly person or someone holding a baby standing in line behind you at the checkout? Offer to help unload the grocery cart.
  3. Pay at the Drive Thru: Buy the person’s order behind you in the line at the drive thru.
  4. Pay the Tab: Do you notice a young family with children, a person in uniform, or an elderly person sitting along at a restaurant? Pick up their tab.
  5. Pay for Someone’s Gas: When paying for your gas, pay for another customer’s gas too. This is a great gesture of kindness with the gas prices continuing to rise.
  6. Go to Lunch: Offer to take an elderly neighbor out to lunch or to the grocery store.
  7. Buy Flowers: Pass out flowers to neighbors, co-workers, teachers, friends, or family members.
  8. Volunteer: Offer to be a dog walker at your local pet rescue. Or help at your neighborhood women’s shelter or baby pantry.
  9. Donate Groceries: Buy a bag of groceries to donate at your local food bank.
  10. Start Cooking: Do you know a person or family who could use a home cooked meal? Cook a healthy meal for a neighbor, relative, or a friend.
  11. Bake: Pass out cookies or other treats.
  12. Call: Reach out to a family member or an old friend just to say hello.
  13. Extra Wash: Tape quarters (place in plastic bag first) under a lid at the laundry mat to give someone a free wash.
  14. Be Kind to Yourself: Engage in self-care to focus on your spiritual, physical, and mental well-being.
  15. Write Thank You Notes: Has someone recently made a kind gesture toward you? Write a thank you note to show appreciation.

Just smile! When out in public, a simple smile goes a long way in brightening the world around you. Happy World Kindness Day!

9 Ways to Celebrate Back to Hogwarts Day

Did you get your letter? It’s time to start classes again! Millions of Harry Potter fans recognize September 1st as Back to Hogwarts Day. The beloved series by J.K. Rowling is still going strong after all these years. Are you a fan? Are you looking for ways to celebrate Back to Hogwarts Day? Check out the following ways to celebrate going back to Hogwarts.

9 Ways to Celebrate Back to Hogwarts Day

 Having fun is the best way to celebrate Back to Hogwarts Day. Whether you celebrate alone, online, or with family and friends, spend time enjoying the beloved series.

  1. Read: Cozy up with your favorite Harry Potter book and revisit the Wizarding World. Start over by reading the first book in the series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
  2. Listen: If you have a busy schedule, listening to the audiobooks is a great way to multitask.
  3. Watch: Host a movie night. (Yes, movie night can consist of just you and your cat.) Watch one or go for a complete marathon of all the Harry Potter movies.
  4. Crafts: Let your creative side shine through on Back to Hogwarts Day. From potion bottles to jewelry, making crafts is a great way to celebrate. The best part, you can always watch or listen to Harry Potter while working on your creative project.
  5. Food & Drinks: Butterbeer, chocolate frogs, licorice wands, and much more. Creating the food and beverages from the Harry Potter series is one of the best ways to celebrate. Plus, you can always eat and drink these tasty treats while watching the movies.
  6. Lego: Pick up a new Harry Potter themed Lego set for an improtu family night. From the Hogwarts Castle to Hagrid’s Hut, each themed Lego set represents a different area in the Wizarding World. Who knows maybe you will end up with entire room of Harry Potter Lego sets.
  7. Game Night: Host a Harry Potter themed game night. Order in pizza and play your favorite Wizarding World related video or board game.
  8. Online: Meet and chat with other fans in your favorite Harry Potter group.
  9. Write: Do you like to write? Write fanfiction. Create your own version of the Wizarding World.

Have fun! Enjoy J.K Rowling’s magnificent series about “The Boy Who Lived.”

How to Celebrate National Unicorn Day

Did you know today, April 9th is National Unicorn Day?  A legendary horse-like creature dating back to the 5th century, a unicorn has a single spiraling horn protruding out from the forehead. Are you wondering how to celebrate this incredible magical being? Check out the following ideas for celebrating National Unicorn Day.

Image by SilviaP_Design from Pixabay 
  • Write a Story: Have you been considering writing a book centering around a unicorn. Today is the perfect time to write your unicorn story.
  • Write Your Child’s Story: If you have younger children, ask them to tell a story about a unicorn. Writing down or recording the story is a great keepsake. Who knows, the story may be the building blocks to a future novel.
  • Draw or Paint: Draw or paint a unicorn picture. Create a whole scene around your unicorn. For example, where does your unicorn live? What does your unicorn eat? What magic powers does your unicorn have?
  • Read A Book: Go to your local library or download a story about a unicorn. The story can be for yourself or read to your young children.
  • Do Crafts: Time to get creative. Modeling clay is a great medium to use to create a unicorn. Air dry clay is inexpensive and easy to use. Simply shape the clay into a unicorn, allow to dry, and paint.  If you need additional crafting help, check out Pinterest for unicorn ideas.
  • Watch a Unicorn Movie: Turn National Unicorn Day into family night (yes, your cat counts as family). Do not forget to make your favorite treat or order pizza.

Whatever you decide to do, enjoy National Unicorn Day.  Celebrate the simple unofficial holidays.

National Cherry Pie Day

Did you know February 20th is National Cherry Pie Day? How do you celebrate? Eat some cherry pie, of course.

  • Family Night: Cherry pie for dessert is a great way to celebrate your weekly family night.
  • Guilty Pleasure: Eat a delicious piece of cherry pie while binge-watching your favorite new series.
  • Homemade Cherry Pie: Pull out your favorite recipe and bake a homemade cherry pie.
  • Local Bakery: If you are not a baker, stop at your local bakery and buy a cherry pie. Not only will you get a tasty cherry pie to share with your family (if you want), you are supporting a local business.
  • Give One Away: Whether you bake or buy, consider dropping a second cherry pie off to your neighbor, friend, or family member.

Why celebrate National Cherry Pie Day? Why not? The weather, social distancing, and simple daily routines have a way of making life dull. Celebrate silly holidays with your family, significant other, roommates, or your cat.

 

 

 

 

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