Did you know there’s a whole day dedicated to one of the simplest yet most uplifting gestures? National High Five Day, celebrated every year on the third Thursday of April, falls on April 17, 2025. This quirky and heartfelt holiday is all about spreading joy, positivity, and connection through the universal symbol of encouragement – the high five!
The History Behind National High Five Day
The origins of the high five are as lively as the gesture itself. While the exact moment of its invention is debated, one popular story dates back to 1977 during a baseball game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Houston Astros. Dodgers outfielder Dusty Baker high-fived his teammate Glenn Burke after hitting a home run, creating an iconic moment in sports history. This spontaneous celebration became the foundation for the high five we know and love today.
Fast forward to 2002, and a group of college students at the University of Virginia decided the high five deserved its own holiday. They started National High Five Day as a way to celebrate positivity and human connection. Since then, the day has grown into a nationwide celebration, giving everyone an excuse to spread good vibes.
Why Celebrate National High Five Day?
In a world that often feels disconnected, National High Five Day reminds us of the simple ways we can connect with others. A high five is more than just a gesture; it’s a symbol of encouragement, teamwork, and mutual acknowledgment. Whether you’re congratulating a friend, cheering on a coworker, or simply brightening someone’s day, a high five can make a big impact.
Plus, it’s a great reason to step out of your daily routine and have some fun! This day encourages us to celebrate small victories, share in each other’s successes, and spread a little happiness wherever we go.
How to Observe National High Five Day
- Give High Fives: The simplest way to celebrate is to give out as many high fives as you can! Whether it’s with friends, family, or even strangers (with permission, of course), spread the positivity.
- Host a High Five Contest: Gather your friends or coworkers and see who can give the most creative or impressive high five. Bonus points for style and enthusiasm!
- Donate to Charity: Many people use this day to raise funds for good causes. Consider organizing a fundraiser or donating to a nonprofit that spreads positivity.
- Share Your High Five Moments: Post your high five photos and videos on social media with the hashtag #NationalHighFiveDay to join the celebration online.
Fun Facts About the High Five
- The high five has its own Guinness World Record! In 2015, the most high fives in one minute were achieved by Kaiser Permanente and students in California.
- The low five, a cousin of the high five, dates back to African-American communities in the 1920s.
- There’s even a high five emoji! ️
Join the Celebration!
National High Five Day is the perfect opportunity to spread joy and make someone’s day a little brighter. So, mark your calendar for April 17, 2025, and get ready to high five your way through the day. Whether it’s a quick slap of hands with a friend or a heartfelt gesture to a stranger, let’s all do our part to share positivity and connection.
Go ahead, raise your hand, and give someone a high five today. You never know whose day you might make!
