Date
Saturday
May
31

May 31

National Smile Day

Smile and spread sunshine on National Smile Day - share your smile with friends, family, and strangers to make the world a brighter place!

Yearly Date
May 31
Type
Day
Category
Fun

Introduction

It's time to show off those pearly whites and get ready to celebrate National Smile Day on May 31! National Smile Day was created in 1999 in response to the growing number of people that felt disconnected from one another. The idea behind this day is to spread happiness and positivity by encouraging everyone to smile, no matter what their circumstances may be. On this day, it doesn't matter if you're rich or poor, young or old – all that matters is that you put a smile on someone else's face. So let's make sure we take some time out of our busy lives and show some random acts of kindness and smiles to all those around us!

National Smile Day Timeline

1867
Penny Postcards Craze
The postcard trend in the late 1800s often used smiling faces and positive messages, pre-dating the concept of smiling’s contagiousness.
1928
Smiley Face Creation
Symbolic smiley face was invented as a marketing gimmick, proposed as a cheerful design to increase sales.
1930
"When You're Smiling"
Popular song, "When You're Smiling" performed by Louis Armstrong highlights the power and infectiousness of smiles.
1999
National Smile Day Establishment
National Smile Day was officially established and first celebrated in response to societal loneliness and disconnection.
2017
"Smiling Effect" Studies
Several studies showcased the positive effect of smiling, reinforcing the importance of National Smile Day.

How to Celebrate National Smile Day

1

Send a card

Spread some cheer and send a card with a funny joke or quote to a friend or family member to make them smile.

2

Smile at strangers

Smiling at strangers can be a great way to show them kindness and make them feel appreciated. Just make sure to be mindful of your surroundings and respect social distancing guidelines.

3

Make a funny video

Create a funny video featuring yourself and your friends to share with your social media followers. Anything that makes you laugh is sure to make other people smile too.

4

Buy yourself flowers

Treat yourself with a bouquet of fresh flowers. A colorful bouquet of blooms can instantly brighten up any room and make you smile.

5

Write an encouraging note

Write an encouraging note for yourself or for someone else and leave it in a public place for someone to find. It’s sure to bring a smile to their face.

Why We Love National Smile Day

A

Smiling is contagious

When you smile, your happiness can be contagious and spread to the people around you. A simple smile at someone on the street or in a crowded room can lighten the mood and improve their day! Smiles are also great for bringing people together and fostering more positive energy in your community.

B

Smiling boosts your mood & stress levels

Smiling has been shown to have a variety of mental and physical benefits. By taking time to smile, even if it's just for a few seconds, you can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, and negative self image. And who doesn't want to feel happier and less stressed out?

C

Smiling is free

The best part about smiling is that it doesn't cost anything! You don't need money to flash a brilliant grin - all you need is a little bit of effort. So take some time today to give yourself (and everyone else) an extra dose of sunshine by simply sharing your beautiful smile!

National Smile Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 30
Tuesday
2024
May 30
Thursday
2025
May 30
Friday
2026
May 30
Saturday
2027
May 30
Sunday