- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AwarenessFun
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every June 11
- Holiday emoji:
- 👋
Say Hi Day, observed every June 11, commemorates Joseph Anthony Cinotti and encourages everyone to greet those they meet. A simple ‘hello’ can brighten someone’s day, improve their mood, and foster a chain reaction of positive connections. Join the movement by saying hi to a stranger, reconnecting with an old friend, or simply acknowledging those around you.
Want to sponsor Say Hi Day? Learn how
Expected Say Hi Day Deals
Say Hi Day, a cause-driven observance, focuses on fostering connections rather than commercial deals. However, many organizations and brands align with its spirit by promoting mental wellness and community engagement. Look for initiatives from groups like The Jed Foundation, offering resources for emotional health, or local community centers hosting free social events. Companies like Starbucks or Panera Bread might run campaigns encouraging friendly interactions among customers, or donate a portion of sales to mental health charities. We will update this page with confirmed live initiatives as June 11 approaches, directing you to opportunities to spread kindness and support related causes.
Platform Guide for Say Hi Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #SayHiDay. Share stories of positive interactions or creative ways you’ve connected with others.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #SayHiDay. Create short videos demonstrating the power of a simple greeting or a ‘say hi’ challenge.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #SayHiDay. Post about your experiences spreading kindness and encourage friends to participate.
Say Hi Day Hero
Joseph Anthony Cinotti
History of Say Hi Day
“Hi!” is an interjection used as a greeting exclamation. The earliest known reference to attract attention was in 1862. It became popular as a greeting word in the early 20th century. Joseph Anthony Cinotti, a 15-year-old young man, is the inspiration behind Say Hi Day. Cinotti spent his entire life saying hi to everyone he came across and always expected everyone to be kind, and humane, and to realize that everyone matters in this world. Sadly, he died in 2018. On June 11th, 2021, the first annual Say Hi Day was observed by the Say Hi Foundation.
Say Hi Day is intended to remind individuals that a simple word can improve someone’s day, bring a smile to their face, or change their mood. The National Day Archives officially accepted, recorded, and recognized this day. The Community Safety & Crime Prevention Council of Waterloo Region’s Say Hi Day today program began in 2004 as part of the Get Connected campaign, which aimed to enhance community engagement, particularly among young people.
For many individuals, making eye contact with strangers and greeting them might be scary, but once you get started, it becomes second nature and saying hello becomes a natural response. One of our most successful crime-prevention tactics is to build a strong, loving community. The initiative encourages individuals to say hello to their neighbors and fosters a sense of caring, belonging, and duty in our community.
Say Hi Day timeline
Campaign Say Hi is launched.
In remembrance of Joseph Anthony Cinotti, the Say Hi Foundation Inc. gets established.
Say Hi Foundation observes Say Hi Day for the first time.
Summer Luciani establishes Say Hi Day in May.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Say Hi Day
Local businesses can honor Say Hi Day by fostering a welcoming environment for customers and employees alike. Restaurants might encourage staff to greet every customer with a genuine ‘hello’ and a smile, perhaps even offering a small discount for those who initiate a friendly chat. Retailers could create ‘Say Hi’ themed displays or run social media campaigns asking customers to share stories of positive interactions. Offices can promote internal initiatives that encourage colleagues to connect, such as a ‘coffee break bingo’ where employees aim to say hi to new people, boosting morale and team cohesion.
Say Hi Day FAQs
When is Say Hi Day?
In 2027, Say Hi Day is observed on Friday, June 11, offering a wonderful opportunity to kick off the weekend by fostering connection and brightening someone’s day with a simple greeting.
What is the impact of a simple greeting?
Research indicates that acknowledging others through a greeting can decrease stress and increase feelings of belonging. For many, a ‘hi’ or a smile from a stranger can be a small but powerful act of kindness that makes a tangible difference in their day.
How many people struggle with social isolation?
Millions of people globally experience social isolation, impacting mental and physical health. Initiatives like Say Hi Day highlight the importance of everyday interactions in building a more connected and supportive society, especially in an increasingly digital world.
Who was Joseph Anthony Cinotti?
Joseph Anthony Cinotti is the heartwarming inspiration behind Say Hi Day, a holiday established in his memory. His legacy emphasizes how a friendly ‘hello’ can make a profound difference, embodying kindness and inclusivity in every interaction.
Say Hi Day Activities
Say hi today
We encourage you to say hello to as many people as possible today. This word isn't just for coworkers, colleagues, and family members; you can also say hi to someone you don't know.
Reconnect with old friends
If you haven't spoken to someone in a long time, send a simple Hey text or call. It might just be the key to resolving the conflict. It could also help rekindle the flames of your relationship with such ones.
Show an act of kindness
This day is commemorated to remind people of the importance of being kind. Make a difference in someone else's day, and by doing tiny acts of kindness throughout the day. You never know what someone is going through, and a simple hi could be all that is needed to acknowledge or encourage them positively.
5 Facts About The Word ‘Hello’
Informal hello
‘Hi’ is the same as ‘hello,’ except it has a somewhat more informal tone.
‘Hi’ came before ‘hello’
‘Hi’ was recorded a long time before ‘hello.’
English derivation
‘Hi’ is derived from the Middle English word ‘hy,’ which is similar to the words ‘hey’ and ‘ha.’
The original use
The word ‘hi’ was originally used as a call to attention.
107 ways to say ‘hi’
In English, there are 107 different ways to say ‘hi.’
Why We Love Say Hi Day
It honors Joseph Anthony Cinnoti’s memory
Cinnoti, a 15-year-old, inspired Say Hi Day. Say Hi Day is a means to honor his memory and keep his spirit alive. There is no better way for him to be remembered than by having his own special day.
It promotes bond building
Say Hi Day is a day dedicated to promoting a sense of belonging, inclusiveness, respect, and kindness. It encourages people to get to know one another and build bonds, resulting in a safer neighborhood.
It encourages us to be kind
Say Hi Day encourages people to do good deeds. Saying hi to someone can brighten their day and improve their mood. Assist people who are in need around you and greet them with a friendly remark.
Social Media Tips for Say Hi Day
Individuals
Creators
Brands