Humbug Day, also known as National Humbug Day, comes up every December 21. It is a holiday that allows you to cast off your frustrations before Christmas. Because the pressures of the festive season can get to us all, it is important that we all get a day to vent out all our frustrations. Created by Thomas and Ruth Roy, Humbug Day affords everyone 12 free humbugs. Things can get chaotic during the holidays, that’s why this day was created to help people cope with the stress and challenges.
History of Humbug Day
Humbug is a word used to underplay the relevance of a person or an event. At first, it was just student slang used as a joke. But it became a catchphrase after Charles Dickens used it in his book titled “A Christmas Carol.” The character of Ebenezer Scrooge is a miser and miserabilist who doesn’t celebrate the Christmas holiday but mocked those who did. Scrooge’s character eventually became very popular, attaining pop culture status. The character has since been in several media, often bordering around the Christmas festivities. Several books and movies have portrayed the character since its first use in Charles Dickens’ book.
The character is most notable for blurting out these words during the festivities: “Bah, Humbug!” He does this to express his frustration and lack of enthusiasm during the holidays. But, Ebenezer Scrooge’s character later developed into a more likable character, finally embracing and enjoying Christmas like every other person.
Likewise, we also may start to feel unsatisfied and frustrated as the pressure of festivities comes upon us. That’s why it is important to blow off some steam before Christmas. Created by Thomas and Ruth Roy, National Humbug Day is the day that we unwind and let go of our worries so we can enjoy Christmas also.
According to the creators, we are allowed 12 humbugs on December 21, which is the date of the holiday. It is a day with so many fun possibilities. You can also binge-watch movies dedicated to Scrooge.
Humbug Day timeline
Humbug is known as student slang.
In his novella “A Christmas Carol,” Charles Dickens writes about Scrooge, who uses humbug.
In “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” the scarecrow refers to the wizard as a humbug.
A movie of the same name, also called “Scrooge,” is released.
Humbug Day FAQs
Is Humbug Day a fun holiday?
Despite the theme of grumpiness that it bears, Humbug Day can be fun and interesting.
What is the meaning of 12 free humbugs?
It is said that we’re allowed 12 free humbugs on this holiday. This simply means that we’re free to be grumpy, even if only on Humbug Day.
Who created National Humbug Day?
It was created by Thomas and Ruth Roy.
How To Observe Humbug Day
Make a list
As the festivities approach, you can write a list of those things that preoccupy your mind. It will help you to pinpoint the things that stress you over the holidays.
Watch a Scrooge movie
There are fun things to do on Humbug Day. Watching a themed movie is one of them. Invite friends and family and share the 12 humbug moments.
Use the hashtag on social media
Help spread the word on social media. Use hashtags and stories that best portray the importance of this holiday.
5 Interesting Facts About Scrooge
Popularized the word humbug
Scrooge was popularly known for saying, “Bah, Humbug!”
He was grumpy and despondent
Scrooge’s character cares very little about others.
An English word for a miser
Scrooge is now synonymous with the word ‘miser.’
Portrayed by several actors
The character of Scrooge is played by popular characters in multiple adaptations.
Scrooge finally repents
In the novel, Scrooge finally becomes a generous individual who embraces the spirit of Christmas.
Why We Love Humbug Day
It reminds us to unwind
As the pressures of the festivities mount, it is important that we take a break. On Humbug Day, we get to do this in a fun way.
A time to spread joy
There are also many grumpy people around us during Christmas. We can bring some fun to them.
Many movies to watch
Because of the popularity of Scrooge’s character, we get to see him portrayed in several movies. We can gather with friends and family to enjoy some of these.
Humbug Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 21 | Saturday |
| 2025 | December 21 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 21 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 21 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 21 | Thursday |
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