January 29 is National Puzzle Day, the perfect day to do a little brain exercise. Whether it’s a crossword, jigsaw, or Sudoku, puzzles engage our brain in more ways than one. Scientists have discovered that when we work on a jigsaw puzzle, we utilize both sides of the brain, improving memory, cognitive function and problem solving skills in the process. By utilizing puzzles, people can stimulate the brain improve a number of skills.
National Puzzle Day timeline
Before modern puzzles, labyrinth drawing puzzles were popular in Ancient Egypt.
Mapmaker John Spilsbury creates the first jigsaw puzzle.
Puzzles become a full-blown craze in the United States.
During the Great Depression, puzzles sales soared at 10 million per week.
National Puzzle Day - Survey Results
National Puzzle Day Activities
Spend time putting together a jigsaw puzzle
Have an old uncompleted puzzle laying around? Call up a friend and spend time piecing together a puzzle. Extra points for completing your puzzle!
Complete a Sudoku or crossword puzzle
Taking a coffee break? Bust out that handy crossword puzzle or Sudoku booklet.
Use #NationalPuzzleDay on social media
Feeling accomplished after completing your jigsaw, Sudoku, or crossword puzzle? Share it with your online community using #NationalPuzzleDay to encourage people to join in the fun!
Why We Love National Puzzle Day
Happiness
Recent studies have shown that people who participate in collaborative games, such as puzzles have higher levels of happiness, and in some cases relaxation, as a result of their good ol’ fashion fun. A challenging jigsaw puzzle undoubtedly brings out that sense of joy.
Puzzles serve as a sense of accomplishment
Not just in a personal sense, but in a group sense. That feeling of completing the final few pieces of the puzzle with your best friends = priceless.
It’s a way of stimulating the mind.
Puzzles stimulate the brain, improving number and problem solving kills while keeping it active.
National Puzzle Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 29 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | January 29 | Thursday |
| 2027 | January 29 | Friday |
| 2028 | January 29 | Saturday |
| 2029 | January 29 | Monday |
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