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- Special Interest
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- AmericanChildrenSports
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- United States
- Date change rule:
- Week starting with May 7
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National Hug Holiday Week, observed annually from May 7 to 13, champions the simple yet profound act of hugging. This special week encourages us to envelop loved ones in warm embraces, fostering intimacy and closeness. Share a hug, send a virtual squeeze, or organize a group hug to spread joy and connection.
Want to sponsor National Hug Holiday Week? Learn how
Expected National Hug Holiday Week Deals
While specific 2027 promotions for National Hug Holiday Week are still emerging, history suggests a focus on gifts that promote comfort, connection, and self-care. Look for deals on cozy blankets from Brooklinen, personalized photo gifts from Shutterfly, or spa kits from Bath & Body Works. Retailers like Target and Amazon may offer discounts on plush toys and comforting apparel. Local flower shops and bakeries could feature special ‘hug-themed’ arrangements or treats. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 7 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Hug Holiday Week
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #HugHolidayWeek. Share photos or reels of heartfelt hugs with friends and family, or create a ‘hug challenge’ video.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #HugHolidayWeek. Film creative ways to hug (safely!), share stories about the best hugs, or start a ‘send a virtual hug’ trend.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #HugHolidayWeek. Post about the benefits of hugging, share heartwarming stories, or organize a community ‘free hugs’ event.
National Hug Holiday Week Hero
Virginia Satir
History of National Hug Holiday Week
National Hug Holiday Week was introduced by Kevin Zaborney. He came up with the idea of this holiday in 1986. National Hug Holiday Week encourages us to hug everyone — family, friends, or strangers, and only if they consent to it.
Hugging is not just good for your soul, it also has many benefits for our health. Research has proven that hugging helps strengthen our immune system and decreases the risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure, and triggers the release of good hormones. The release of oxytocin during hugging makes us feel happy and secure. A hug or just a few minutes of holding hands with a romantic partner can help reduce stress and combat its physical manifestations. This means every time you hug, you add years to your life! It is time to become the new hugging champion.
National Hug Holiday Week encourages consensual hugging as a means to meaningfully connect with one another. The lessons from this week also inculcate global community values of love and kindness where people are encouraged to come together in grace and acceptance. One of the objectives of the week is also to heal from emotional trauma through means of physical contact. Interestingly, some people are better at hugging than others. The record for most hugs given by one person in one hour belongs to Nick Vujicic who hugged 1,749 people in Oregon in 2010. Do you think you could beat his record this National Hug Holiday Week?
National Hug Holiday Week timeline
National Hug Holiday Week is celebrated for the first time.
Jez Alborough’s children’s book is an instant hit.
The emoji first appears in the iOS 9 update.
‘The Hug Song’ is released, which is sung by Colin Ballinger and written by a three-year-old.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Hug Holiday Week
Local businesses can embrace National Hug Holiday Week by creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Cafes might offer ‘buy one, get one free’ on comfort drinks for customers who share a hug, or host a ‘hug-themed’ photo booth. Retailers could feature gift bundles designed to spread cheer and comfort, like self-care kits or cozy apparel. Encourage staff to offer exceptional, friendly service that makes customers feel appreciated and ‘virtually hugged’ through their experience.
National Hug Holiday Week FAQs
When is National Hug Holiday Week?
National Hug Holiday Week 2027 will be observed from Friday, May 7, through Thursday, May 13. This annual observance encourages seven days of warmth and affection.
What are the benefits of hugging?
Beyond emotional comfort, physical touch like hugging can improve sleep, reduce feelings of loneliness, and even boost the immune system. It’s a simple, free way to enhance both mental and physical health for individuals.
How often should people hug?
The optimal frequency of hugs varies by individual and relationship, but consistent physical affection is widely recommended. Making hugging a regular part of daily interactions can foster stronger relationships and a greater sense of security.
Are there different types of hugs?
Beyond the common embrace, specific hugs like the ‘pat on the back’ hug (often platonic) or the ‘long, lingering’ hug (deep affection) communicate nuanced messages. The style of hug often reflects the nature and depth of the relationship between individuals.
National Hug Holiday Week Activities
Hug your friends
Celebrate National Hug Holiday Week by hugging your friends and loved ones. Do the bear hug, the back hug, the side hug. Truly, there are so many different types of hugs to choose from.
Hug a stranger
A nice way to show someone that you care is by hugging them. Make your love felt by hugging a stranger during National Hug Holiday Week — however, don't forget to ask for consent first.
Send virtual hugs
Want to hug a friend or loved one who isn’t physically around? Then send them virtual hugs. Pick from a wide selection of emojis, stickers, and GIFs.
5 Surprising Facts About Hugs
The word has its roots in Scandinavian
It comes from the word ‘hugga’ meaning “to comfort.”
It was a way to ensure safety
Since stabbing requires at least one hand, people would hug to show they mean no harm.
It’s good for babies
Babies should be hugged frequently to reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
It’s good for the heart
Hugging reduces blood pressure and cortisol production.
Hugs for health
Eight hugs a day can significantly improve our health.
Why We Love National Hug Holiday Week
It makes us happy
Hugging is the easiest way to make someone happy. And imagine a week-long celebration of hugging — you will make so many people’s days. This is why we love National Hug Holiday Week.
It’s good for your health
Hugging helps reduce stress and releases healthy hormones in our bloodstream. Hugging strengthens our immune system too. National Hug Holiday Week is good for the soul and body.
It makes the world a better place
Celebrations such as National Hug Holiday Week make the world a better place. It reminds us that with small actions, we can bring love and joy to those around us.
Social Media Tips for National Hug Holiday Week
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