Let’s be real: Every one of us could use a little more sweetness in our lives.
That’s why we should all embrace Sweetest Day, an annual celebration of joy, love, and kindness.
If you’re unfamiliar with this day, or have just a vague knowledge of it, read on to learn more about this holiday that’s all about spreading cheer and making a positive impact on the lives of others.
When is Sweetest Day?
Sweetest Day is celebrated on the third Saturday in October. This year, it falls on Oct. 19.
The history of Sweetest Day
The origins of Sweetest Day date back to the early 20th century. The holiday was first observed in 1921 in Cleveland, Ohio, and was introduced by a philanthropist named Herbert Birch Kingston. Kingston, an employee at a candy company, wanted to bring happiness to those who were often overlooked, including orphans, shut-ins, and the underprivileged. With the help of friends and fellow candy makers, he distributed boxes of candy and small gifts to these individuals, creating a day of sweetness and kindness.
Initially, Sweetest Day was primarily a regional celebration, observed in the Midwest, particularly in Ohio and surrounding states. However, over time, the day gained popularity and spread to other parts of the United States, becoming a cherished tradition for many.
The purpose of Sweetest Day
Unlike some holidays that focus on romantic love, Sweetest Day is more about general acts of kindness and spreading happiness. It is a day to appreciate and show affection to the people in your life, whether they are friends, family members, colleagues, neighbors, or even strangers. The essence of Sweetest Day lies in its simplicity and the genuine intention to make someone else's day a little brighter.
The purpose of Sweetest Day is to remind us that small gestures of love and kindness can have a significant impact. It encourages us to reach out to those who might need a little extra care and to celebrate the meaningful connections we share with others.
Where Sweetest Day is celebrated
Sweetest Day is predominantly celebrated in the Midwest regions of the U.S., particularly in states like Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois. Cities such as Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit, and Chicago often see widespread observance of the holiday. While Sweetest Day is not as widely recognized nationwide as some other holidays, its influence has been steadily growing, and people from various regions are beginning to embrace the spirit of the day.
6 Ideas for celebrating Sweetest Day
There are countless ways to celebrate Sweetest Day and make it memorable for yourself and others. Here are six ideas to inspire you.
1. Give sweet treats
Embrace the tradition by giving out candies, chocolates, or baked goods to friends, family, or coworkers. A small sweet gesture can go a long way to brightening someone's day.
But you don’t have to give just food! Any kind of thoughtful gift is appropriate to give on Sweetest Day.
2. Write heartfelt notes
Take the time to write personal notes or letters, or send greeting cards, to the people you care about. Expressing your appreciation and love through words can be incredibly meaningful.
3. Acts of kindness
Perform random acts of kindness, such as buying coffee for a stranger, volunteering at a local shelter, or helping a neighbor with their groceries. These small acts can create a ripple effect of positivity.
4. Spend quality time together
Plan a special day with loved ones, whether it's a picnic in the park, movie night, or simple dinner at home. You all are sure to cherish the quality time spent together.
5. Donate to charity
In the spirit of giving, consider making a donation to a charitable organization or cause you support. You can also purchase gifts from businesses that donate a portion of the proceeds to charity. Your contribution can make a difference in someone's life.
6. Share on social media
Spread the word about Sweetest Day on social media. Share stories of kindness, post about your celebrations, and encourage others to join in the spirit of the day.
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