- Categories:
- Fun
- Tags:
- ActivitiesHobbyLifestyle
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every January
- Holiday emoji:
- 🎨
National Hobby Month invites everyone to explore new interests and deepen existing passions throughout January. This month encourages Americans to step outside their comfort zones, learn new skills, and connect with communities built around shared activities. Dive into a new craft, explore the outdoors, or master a game you’ve always wanted to try.
Want to sponsor National Hobby Month? Learn how
Expected National Hobby Month Deals
Throughout National Hobby Month, retailers often roll out special promotions to encourage new and existing enthusiasts. In 2027, expect major craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby to offer discounts on supplies, while online platforms such as Etsy may highlight independent crafters. Gaming retailers like GameStop and board game shops might feature deals on new releases and classics. Outdoor outfitters like REI could promote gear for hiking, biking, or camping. Even book retailers like Barnes & Noble often have sales on how-to guides and hobby-related literature. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as January approaches.
Platform Guide for National Hobby Month
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalHobbyMonth. Share visually appealing photos or reels of your latest hobby project, from painting to pottery.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalHobbyMonth. Create short, engaging videos showcasing your hobby in action, like a quick DIY tutorial or a time-lapse of a craft.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalHobbyMonth. Join or create local hobby groups to share tips, organize meetups, and celebrate your passions.
National Hobby Month Hero
Ole Kirk Christiansen
History of National Hobby Month
The etymology behind the word hobby can be traced back to the 16th century word “hobyn” meaning “small horse and pony.” The term “hobby horse” was a toy horse purchased in Reading, England in 1557. Originally called a “tourney horse,” this toy horse was made of a straight stick with a small horse’s head made also of wood or stuffed fabric. Hobbies are often referred to as a “pastime,” derived from the use of hobbies to pass the time. From “hobby horse” came the expression “to ride one’s hobby horse” meaning “to follow one’s favorite pastime.” Over several centuries the term “hobby” grew to be associated with recreation and leisure. While in the 17th century it was generally perceived as a childish pursuit, with the growth of the industrial society, hobbies took on greater respectability by the 18th century. Over years, hobbies are now an activity that is a regular practice serving a worthwhile purpose to individuals. Hobbies can be practiced for pure enjoyment or interest, and sometimes even financial reward.
Today hobbies are embraced all over the world and people’s passion for their hobbies has taken them places they never would have thought possible. From reading, writing, and collecting, to art and video games, whatever it is that gets your gears going, this January is your opportunity to kick it into full swing and let your inner hobbler out!
National Hobby Month timeline
Netflix began releasing new episodes of popular TV shows all at the same time — ushering in the era of binge-watching as a hobby.
Odyssey, the first video game home console, went on sale in 1972.
Stamp collecting peaked as a hobby in the mid-20th century.
Knitting, as a hobby, fell out of favor in the late 1980s, but rebounded as the 21st century dawned.
National Hobby Month FAQs
When is National Hobby Month?
For 2027, National Hobby Month will be observed from Friday, January 1, through Sunday, January 31. This annual observance encourages everyone to dedicate time to their favorite pastimes and explore new creative outlets.
How many Americans have hobbies?
A 2023 study indicated that over 75% of U.S. adults actively participate in hobbies, with many reporting multiple interests. This highlights the widespread importance of leisure activities for mental well-being and personal growth.
What are the most popular hobbies?
Looking ahead to 2027, trends suggest a continued rise in outdoor activities such as birdwatching and cycling, alongside digital creative pursuits like graphic design and content creation. Traditional hobbies like knitting and woodworking also maintain strong communities.
What are the benefits of having a hobby?
Beyond personal enjoyment, hobbies contribute to skill development, cognitive stimulation, and can even lead to new career paths or entrepreneurial ventures. They foster a sense of accomplishment and community, enriching overall well-being.
National Hobby Month Activities
Share one of your favorites
Whether it's hiking, tennis, or yoga — find a friend to share your hobby with and teach them something new.
Try out a new one
Get out of your comfort zone by trying out a new hobby. If you're a little scared, bring a friend!
Take a class
Or start a Meetup group. There are probably people nearby who share your passion. It's a great way to find new friends with similar interests.
5 Celebrities And Their Favorite Hobbies
Beyonce
When she's not slaying on stage, Beyonce enjoys reading a good book.
David Beckham
You may have noticed this already, but the celebrity soccer star loves getting new tattoos.
J.K. Rowling
The "Harry Potter" author turned her writing hobby into an empire.
Justin Timberlake
The superstar is really a video game nerd at heart.
Kobe Bryant
The late NBA great enjoyed playing other sports in his free time — including soccer.
Why We Love National Hobby Month
They enrich our lives
We all have hobbies we already love. These activities keep us multi-dimensional and well-rounded. They also bring experiences to our lives that we wouldn't normally get from work or at home.
There are so many
No matter how many hobbies you have, you can always add more. Each one gives you different experiences.
They aren't binding
Hobbies are low maintenance. If you need to take a break, it will still be there for you to enjoy down the road.


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