Dec

Humbug Day December 21

Humbug Day December 21

In the tapestry of holidays that dot our calendars, some stand out for their historical significance, while others, like Humbug Day, seem to emerge from the folds of popular culture rather than the annals of history. December 21 might not ring bells as a day steeped in tradition, but it's claimed a spot in the hearts of those who resonate with Ebenezer Scrooge's infamous exclamation from Dickens' timeless "A Christmas Carol." "Humbug!"—a word synonymous with skepticism towards the festive season—has somehow carved its niche into modern celebrations. But how did a term dripping with disdain transform into a reason for observance? Is there any real historical footing, or have we simply let the lines between literary disdain and holiday cheer blur?

Key Takeaway

Humbug Day on December 21 is not a historically recognized or celebrated holiday.
The term "humbug" comes from a Dickens' novel "A Christmas Carol," but there is no historical evidence of a Humbug Day being celebrated.

Day Activities

  1. Craft a Scrooge Letter: On Humbug Day, folks channel their inner Ebenezer Scrooge by penning letters or emails expressing their holiday frustrations. It's a therapeutic way to vent, ensuring those holiday blues don't turn you into a real-life Scrooge. Just remember, keep it light-hearted; no need to make the postal service dread their rounds!

  2. Host a 'Bah Humbug' Movie Marathon: What better way to commemorate Humbug Day than with a marathon of holiday movies featuring the grumpiest of characters? From the classic "A Christmas Carol" to more modern takes on the holiday season's cynics, it's a perfect way to unwind and maybe, just maybe, find some humor in the holiday hustle.

  3. Humbug Day Bake-off: Embrace the holiday spirit in a cheeky way by baking up some "humbug" themed treats. Think cookies shaped like Scrooge or cakes decorated with classic 'Bah Humbug' quotes. It's a fun, creative outlet that might just sweeten your view on the holiday season, proving that even the biggest humbugs can find joy in a delicious dessert.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating the Scrooge in all of us: Let's face it, the holiday season can be overwhelming with its endless cheer and sometimes unrealistic expectations. Humbug Day gives everyone a chance to vent a little, embracing our inner Ebenezer Scrooge without guilt. It's a day to acknowledge that it's okay not to be jolly all the time, making room for a more authentic range of emotions during the holidays.

  • A nod to literary genius: Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" is a masterpiece that has left a lasting impact on how we celebrate Christmas today. Celebrating Humbug Day is, in a way, tipping our hats to the enduring legacy of Dickens and his unforgettable character, Ebenezer Scrooge. It's a unique opportunity to reflect on the themes of transformation and redemption that are as relevant today as they were in the 19th century.

  • Breaking up the holiday monotony: With December packed full of festive activities, parties, and shopping, Humbug Day offers a refreshing break. It's a day to do away with all the tinsel and glitter, if only for 24 hours, and maybe enjoy some quiet time or indulge in non-holiday-related activities. This break from the norm can be a breath of fresh air, recharging us to appreciate the joy and warmth of the season with renewed vigor.

Past & Future Dates

MonthDayYear
DECEMBER212022
DECEMBER212023
DECEMBER212024
DECEMBER212025
DECEMBER212026
DECEMBER212027
DECEMBER212028

FAQ

What is National Humbug Day?

Humbug Day, also known as National Humbug Day, comes up every December 21. It is a holiday that allows you to cast off your frustrations before Christmas. Because the pressures of the festive season can get to us all, it is important that we all get a day to vent out all our frustrations.

What is December 21st special day?

National Hamburger Day. National Homeless Person's Remembrance Day. National Look at the Bright Side Day. National Short Story Day - December 21, 2024 (First Day of Winter)

How to celebrate Humbug Day?

Celebrate the day by saying "humbug" or "Bah! Humbug!" whenever something goes wrong. It may make you feel better as Christmas approaches, as you may be rushing to get gifts purchased and wrapped, or your home ready for guests.

What national day is 21st December?

It's National Flashlight Day, National Short Story Day, Look On The Bright Side Day, National Wreaths Across America Day, National Maine Day… and much more!



Also Happens on December 21

On This Day in History — December 21

  • 2012 — 2012 phenomenon: this day was regarded as the end-date of a 5,126-year-long cycle in the Mesoamerican Long Count calendar, leading to widespread expectations of cataclysmic events]] (which failed to happen).
  • 2004 — Iraq War: A suicide bomber killed 22 at the forward operating base next to the main U.S. military airfield at Mosul, Iraq, the single deadliest suicide attack on American soldiers.
  • 1999 — The Spanish Civil Guard intercepts a van loaded with 950 kg of explosives that ETA intended to use to blow up Torre Picasso in Madrid, Spain.
  • 1995 — The city of Bethlehem passes from Israeli to Palestinian control.
  • 1992 — A Dutch DC-10, flight Martinair MP 495, crashes at Faro Airport, killing 56.
  • 1988 — A bomb explodes on board Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, killing 270.

More about history on this day →

Notable Births on December 21

  • 1995 — Bobby, South Korean-American rapper
  • 1992 — Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, American football player
  • 1991 — Riccardo Saponara, Italian footballer
  • 1989 — Mark Ingram Jr., American football player
  • 1988 — Perri Shakes-Drayton, English sprinter and hurdler
  • 1987 — Denis Alekseyev, Russian sprinter

Notable Deaths on December 21

  • 2014 — Udo Jürgens, Austrian-Swiss singer-songwriter and pianist (b. 1934)
  • 2014 — Sitor Situmorang, Indonesian poet and author (b. 1923)
  • 2014 — Billie Whitelaw, English actress (b. 1932)
  • 2013 — Edgar Bronfman, Sr., Canadian-American businessman and philanthropist (b. 1929)
  • 2013 — John Eisenhower, American historian, general, and diplomat, 45th United States Ambassador to Belgium (b. 1922)
  • 2010 — Enzo Bearzot, Italian footballer and manager (b. 1927)