- 12 February
- Day six of Valentine week
- National Hugging Day is 21 January
Where it began
Hugging is one of the oldest ways people show care. Parents hold children, friends hug when they meet, and families hug when they say goodbye.
Researchers have found that warm touch can help people feel calm and close to others.
In 1986 Kevin Zaborney in the United States started National Hugging Day on 21 January. It is part of Valentine week, the seven days from 7 February to 14 February that young people in India and nearby lands keep, one theme a day.
How it grew over time
Always
People in every culture hug to comfort, greet and celebrate.
1986
National Hugging Day begins in the United States on 21 January.
Recent decades
Hug Day joins Valentine week in South Asia.
Today
Free hug events pop up in parks and city squares in many lands.
How it is celebrated in different places
India
Friends and couples share hugs and kind messages on 12 February.
United States
Hugging Day in January is a cheerful reminder in schools and offices.
Around the world
Free hugs groups gather in public squares to share hugs with strangers who want one.
Hug Day moments
Hug Day today
Today it is a day to hug a parent, a friend or a partner, and to send a warm message to those who live far away.
