- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every December 18
- Holiday emoji:
- 🕵️♀️
National Crime Junkie Day arrives every December 18, inviting true crime enthusiasts to delve into real-life mysteries. It’s a day to embrace your fascination with chilling cases, investigate motives, clues, and theories, and connect with fellow fans. Tune into your favorite podcasts, rewatch documentaries, or discuss unsolved cases with friends.
Want to sponsor National Crime Junkie Day? Learn how
Expected National Crime Junkie Day Deals
As National Crime Junkie Day approaches, expect streaming services and podcast platforms to highlight their true crime catalogs. Last year, Netflix offered curated collections, while Hulu featured exclusive documentaries. Book retailers like Barnes & Noble and Amazon often run promotions on true crime novels and investigative journalism books. Podcast networks such as Audiochuck (home of Crime Junkie) and Wondery may release special episodes or offer premium content discounts. Look for unique merchandise from independent creators on platforms like Etsy, and consider discounts on mystery boxes or escape room experiences. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as December 18 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Crime Junkie Day
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #CrimeJunkieDay. Share your top true crime theories or review a recent documentary.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCrimeJunkieDay. Post a carousel of your favorite true crime books or podcasts.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #CrimeJunkie. Join discussions about cold cases or share breaking true crime news.
National Crime Junkie Day Hero
Ann Rule
History of National Crime Junkie Day
True crime has always fascinated people because it offers a deep dive into the darker side of human nature and taps into our curiosity about what motivates criminals, concerns about the legal system, and uncovering shocking or mysterious events. It captures the complexity of criminal investigations, the psychological profiles of offenders, and the quest for justice—it’s a captivating and thought-provoking form of entertainment.
Since the late 1980s, shows and documentaries centering around real-life crimes have captivated audiences. The rise of true crime podcasts in the 2010s further fueled this fascination and offered listeners a more accessible way to explore the genre.
In 2017, a podcast was created to fill a gap in the true crime genre—one focused on captivating storytelling and making a real impact. With a mission to bring attention to underrepresented cases, the show quickly grew in popularity and in 2022, National Crime Junkie Day was established to celebrate the passion of true crime enthusiasts.
National Crime Junkie Day timeline
The television show "Unsolved Mysteries" airs in 1987 and gains significant traction a few years later.
"Serial," an investigative journalism podcast, first airs and revolutionizes the true crime genre in the digital age.
The documentary ignites a worldwide obsession with the case of Steven Avery, a man convicted and later exonerated of a crime, only to be accused of another.
Another podcast is created to fill a gap in the true crime genre.
The Crime Junkie Podcast sponsors National Crime Junkie Day and the first celebration takes place. Want to be a sponsor: learn how.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Crime Junkie Day
Local bookstores and libraries can host true crime reading groups or display curated collections of popular titles. Coffee shops might offer ‘Mystery Brew’ specials, encouraging patrons to discuss their favorite podcasts. Escape rooms or mystery game venues could promote themed events, while local podcast creators might host live recordings or Q&A sessions. Businesses can also partner with local law enforcement or victim advocacy groups to raise awareness about real-world issues.
National Crime Junkie Day FAQs
When is National Crime Junkie Day?
National Crime Junkie Day 2026 falls on Friday, December 18. It’s the perfect opportunity to kick off a weekend of true crime binge-watching or podcast listening.
How popular is the true crime genre?
The true crime genre continues to be immensely popular, with millions of listeners tuning into podcasts and viewers streaming documentaries. In 2026, it remains a dominant force in entertainment, drawing a dedicated global audience.
What defines a 'crime junkie'?
A ‘crime junkie’ is someone with an intense, often passionate, interest in true crime stories, investigations, and the pursuit of justice. They enjoy analyzing cases, discussing theories, and consuming various forms of true crime media.
What are some popular true crime podcasts?
Beyond the foundational ‘Crime Junkie,’ other highly popular true crime podcasts include ‘My Favorite Murder,’ ‘Serial,’ ‘Casefile True Crime,’ and ‘Morbid.’ These podcasts offer diverse approaches to storytelling and investigation.
National Crime Junkie Day Activities
Watch a true crime documentary
Dive into a gripping true crime documentary or series — there are loads. Whether it's a well-known case or a lesser-known mystery, immerse yourself in some real-life investigations.
Listen to a true crime podcast
Spend some time listening to your favorite true crime podcasts or discover new ones. Podcasts are a great, easy way to get your true crime fix anywhere, anytime.
Support victims' families
Show support by raising awareness about unsolved cases or causes related to victims of crime. Sharing stories, donating to advocacy groups, or volunteering can help bring attention to those still seeking justice.
Why We Love National Crime Junkie Day
It celebrates our natural curiosity
National Crime Junkie Day gives us a chance to indulge our natural curiosity about real-life mysteries. It's an opportunity to explore the unknown and engage with the complexities of crime.
It brings enthusiasts together
Today brings true crime lovers from all over the world together to share their love and passion. True crime fans can share theories, ideas, and insights about their favorite cases.
It honors the investigators and victims
We get to acknowledge those who work hard to pursue justice for victims. It’s a reminder to honor both the investigators who solve cases and the victims whose stories deserve to be heard.
National Crime Junkie Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 18 | Friday |
| 2027 | December 18 | Saturday |
| 2028 | December 18 | Monday |
| 2029 | December 18 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | December 18 | Wednesday |
Social Media Tips for National Crime Junkie Day
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