Learn more fun facts on the End of the World Video Page.
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- Cultural
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- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every May 21
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End of the World Day commemorates the infamous 2011 prediction by radio host Harold Camping every May 21. This quirky observance invites us to reflect on past prophecies, appreciate the present, and celebrate the world still spinning. Gather friends, share a laugh, and enjoy the day as if it were your last!
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Expected End of the World Deals
While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that brands often lean into the humor of End of the World Day. Expect streaming services like Netflix and Hulu to highlight their apocalyptic movie and TV show catalogs with special viewing guides. Survival gear retailers such as REI or The North Face might offer discounts on camping essentials, perfect for a ‘just in case’ scenario. Food brands like Hostess could promote their famously long-lasting Twinkies. Even local bars and restaurants might offer ‘last call’ themed specials or ‘apocalypse survival kits’ for a fun twist. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 21 approaches.
Platform Guide for End of the World
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #EndOfTheWorldDay. Create a humorous ‘survival guide’ video or a skit about what you’d do if the world ended.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #EndOfTheWorldDay. Share a photo of your ‘apocalypse survival kit’ or a funny meme about the world still being here.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #EndOfTheWorldDay. Join the conversation with witty takes on past predictions or share your favorite apocalyptic movie quotes.
End of the World Hero
Harold Camping
History of End of the World
Harold Camping’s predictions were rejected by most Christian groups. Some churches cited the verse in ‘Matthew 24:36’ where Christ says that “about that day or hour no one knows.” Church officials continued their business and scheduled their church services as usual for Sunday, May 22. To support his arguments for the May 21 doomsday, Camping stated that he had mathematically calculated the prophecies in the Bible for decades.
As a result of his predictions, many of his followers gave up their jobs, stopped investing in their children’s education, sold their properties, and even spent huge amounts promoting his apocalyptic claims. In 2011, around 7000 ethnic Hmong Christians gathered in a desolate town in Vietnam’s Điện Biên province in early May. They had planned to wait for Christ to arrive. The Vietnamese government dispersed the gathering. Many were arrested for extremism, while hundreds were shot dead by the Vietnamese forces. The massacre was linked to false predictions by Camping.
On May 23, Camping refused to apologize for his earlier interpretations. He stated that his predictions had already been fulfilled: on May 21, 1988, the churches were judged; on September 7, 1994, judgment continued on the churches; and on May 21, 2011, the entire world was judged. After the prediction failed, media attention shifted to Camping and his followers for their responses. On May 23, Camping said that May 21 had been the Day of Judgment, and following the physical rapture on October 21, 2011, the whole universe would be destroyed by God. On October 16, however, Camping admitted to an interviewer that he was not sure when the end would come. He declined to comment publicly after October 21, when his predicted apocalypse did not occur.
End of the World timeline
Camping’s book “We Are Almost There!” published by Family Stations Inc., details the timing of the end.
The search term “end of the world May 21st,” becomes the second top search term on Google in the U.S.
In a letter to Family Radio listeners, Camping admits to having been mistaken about the end-of-the-world date.
Camping dies at the age of 92 as a result of complications from a two-week-old fall at home.
How Businesses Can Celebrate End of the World
Local businesses can lean into the lighthearted nature of End of the World Day with creative promotions. Cafes might offer ‘apocalypse survival kits’ featuring coffee and pastries, while bookstores could curate displays of dystopian fiction. Restaurants could host ‘last meal’ themed dinner specials, encouraging patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes. Retailers might run ‘end of season’ sales with a humorous ‘the world is ending, buy now!’ tagline. The key is to embrace the fun and irony of the day, fostering community engagement and a shared laugh.
End of the World FAQs
When is End of the World Day?
In 2027, End of the World Day will be observed on Friday, May 21. This annual observance invites us to appreciate the resilience of humanity and the enduring nature of our planet.
Who predicted the end of the world on May 21?
Harold Camping, a prominent radio evangelist, was the figure behind the widely publicized May 21, 2011, prophecy. His detailed calculations from biblical texts led him to declare the date as the beginning of the end, drawing significant global attention.
How many times has the end of the world been predicted?
The concept of an impending apocalypse has fascinated humanity for millennia, leading to countless predictions across various cultures and eras. While none have come to pass, these prophecies often reflect societal anxieties and hopes.
What is the difference between the 'Rapture' and the 'End of the World'?
While often conflated, the Rapture and the End of the World are distinct concepts within some theological frameworks. The Rapture is a specific event concerning believers, whereas the End of the World describes the final culmination of history and the physical universe.
End of the World Activities
Evaluate your life
If you knew for sure that the world would end tomorrow, what would you want from your life? This day is excellent for reflecting on this point.
Put your affairs in order
People who leave the world without writing a will, create a slew of problems for their families. End of the World Day is a good opportunity to write your will.
Party like never before
The world had been predicted to end at the start of 2000, so some people chose to go out in style — by wild partying. Even though the world might not end this May, it’s still a fitting chance to party!
5 Interesting Facts About Harold Camping And Predictions
Dutch Roots
Camping’s parents were Dutch immigrants who met each other in the United States.
Hiding from the public
After his predictions flopped, Camping remained indoors, drew his curtains, and didn’t answer the door until the following day.
Spectacular failure
“Time” magazine's website listed Camping's end of the world prediction as one of “Time's” ‘Top 10 Failed Predictions.’
The Ig Nobel prize
Camping and several other people who incorrectly predicted the apocalypse were awarded an Ig Nobel Prize in mathematics in 2011, for teaching the world to be cautious when making mathematical assumptions and calculations.
Predictions as old as time
One of the earliest recorded mentions of doomsday goes back to 2800 B.C. on an Assyrian clay tablet with warnings of the end.
Why We Love End of the World
Reminds us to be thoughtful
Camping misled hundreds of people with his absurd warnings and fake predictions about the end times. This day reminds us to be careful about spreading the word on such sensitive issues.
Records a significant event
The End of the World Day keeps a record of the predictions of a preacher who was completely convinced of the certainty of his claims. It also documents the different responses to the prophecy.
Helps us think ahead
For those inclined, this day makes us reflect on what we’d like to achieve by the end of our lives. It keeps us grounded on what’s important.
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