
When It Occurs
Annually Third Thursday of April
Timeline
Days Passed (304)
# Hashtags
#NationalHighFiveDay #ShareJoy
Get ready to raise your hands and share big high fives because National High Five Day is here! Celebrated on the third Thursday of April, this special day honors one of the most widely used gestures across the globe. Initially conceived in 2002 by two college students aiming to spread positivity and joy, it has evolved into an international holiday. Join in the festivities with friends, engaging in fun activities and friendly competitions. Don't miss out on the high-fiving fun as you come together to celebrate this unique and uplifting day!
What is a High Five?
A high five is a gesture where two people raise one hand each and slap them together, typically accompanied by a verbal expression of excitement or congratulations. It is often used to celebrate a shared success, a job well done, or simply to express mutual enthusiasm.
History and Origins of National High Five Day
The origins of National High Five Day trace back to 2002 when a group of college students at the University of Virginia decided to create a day dedicated to the high five as a way to spread positivity and boost morale during a stressful time of the academic year. The idea quickly gained popularity, and the day has since grown into a nationwide celebration.
The exact origins of the high five gesture itself are somewhat debated, but one of the most commonly cited stories involves baseball players Dusty Baker and Glenn Burke of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1977. During a game, Baker hit his 30th home run of the season, and Burke greeted him at home plate with an upraised hand. Baker responded by slapping Burke’s hand, and the high five was born.
Why Celebrate National High Five Day?
- To Spread Positivity: National High Five Day is all about sharing positive energy with others. A high five is a quick and easy way to make someone’s day better and to create a moment of connection.
- To Celebrate Achievements: Whether it’s a small victory or a major accomplishment, a high five is a great way to acknowledge success and celebrate with others.
- To Foster Camaraderie: The high five is a gesture of unity and teamwork, making it a perfect way to strengthen bonds among friends, colleagues, and teammates.
How to Celebrate National High Five Day
- Give Out High Fives: Spend the day giving high fives to friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers (with their consent, of course!). Spread positivity wherever you go.
- Host a High Five Event: Organize a high five-themed event at work, school, or in your community. This could be a contest for the most creative high five, a high five relay race, or simply a gathering to celebrate and share high fives.
- Social Media High Fives: Use the hashtag #NationalHighFiveDay to share photos, videos, and stories of your high five moments throughout the day. Encourage others to join in the fun.
- Donate to Charity: Some National High Five Day celebrations include fundraising for charity. Consider donating to a cause that’s important to you or participating in a high five challenge that raises money for a good cause.
- Learn About the High Five’s History: Take a moment to learn more about the history of the high five and how it has become such a widespread gesture of celebration and connection.
The Impact of a High Five
- Boosts Morale: A high five can instantly lift someone’s spirits, providing a quick boost of encouragement and motivation.
- Builds Team Spirit: In team settings, high fives help build a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, reinforcing bonds and collective effort.
- Universal Gesture: The high five transcends language and cultural barriers, making it a universal way to communicate positivity and support.
Fun Facts About the High Five
- Variations: There are many variations of the high five, including the low five (where hands meet below the waist) and the double high five (using both hands).
- World Record: The Guinness World Record for the most high fives in 24 hours was set in 2016 by Lamont Lee Baldwin, who completed 14,607 high fives.
- Psychological Impact: Studies have shown that high fives and other forms of physical touch can increase feelings of trust and cooperation, making them powerful tools in team environments.
Why People Love National High Five Day
- Simple and Uplifting: The high five is a simple gesture that can have a big impact, making people feel recognized, appreciated, and connected.
- Celebrates Everyday Wins: National High Five Day is a reminder to celebrate not just the big victories, but also the small wins and positive moments in everyday life.
- Encourages Connection: In a fast-paced world, the high five is a quick and effective way to connect with others, whether in person or virtually.
National High Five Day is a fun and lighthearted celebration that encourages people to spread positivity, celebrate achievements, and connect with others through the simple gesture of a high five. Whether you’re high-fiving a friend, a coworker, or a stranger, this day is all about sharing joy and creating moments of connection.