Every year, on the Thursday before Christmas, individuals nationwide take part in National Re-gifting Day. This day recognizes the various office parties and the distinct gift exchanges they organize. This particular Thursday in December seems to be the most popular day for companies to host their annual employee or company holiday gatherings.

History

• Origins: The concept of re-gifting has likely been around as long as gift-giving itself. The term "re-gifting" gained popularity from a 1995 episode of the TV show "Seinfeld."
• Purpose: The day was likely established to provide a lighthearted and practical approach to gift-giving during the holiday season, encouraging people to find new homes for unwanted or unused items.

Significance

National Re-Gifting Day holds significant importance for several reasons:

1. Sustainability: It promotes recycling and reusing items, reducing waste and encouraging a more sustainable approach to holiday gifting.
2. Thoughtful Giving: It encourages people to think carefully about the suitability of gifts, ensuring that items find recipients who will appreciate and use them.
3. Practicality: It offers a solution for dealing with duplicate or unwanted gifts in a socially acceptable manner.

How to Re-Gift Thoughtfully

1. Choose Appropriate Items:

   • Condition: Ensure the item is in good condition, unused, and still in its original packaging.
   • Suitability: Consider whether the recipient will appreciate and use the gift. Avoid re-gifting personalized or custom items.

2. Avoid Common Pitfalls:

   • Original Giver: Ensure that the original giver and the new recipient do not know each other or will not be at the same event where the gift might be recognized.
   • Gift History: If you received the gift from someone within your close circle, be cautious about re-gifting it within the same group to avoid potential awkwardness.

3. Rewrap the Gift:

   • Presentation: Re-wrap the gift in new, attractive wrapping paper and include a new card or tag to give it a fresh and thoughtful presentation.
   • Remove Evidence: Make sure to remove any old gift tags, stickers, or personalized messages from the original wrapping.

4. Add a Personal Touch:

   • Note or Card: Include a note or card explaining why you think the gift is suitable for the recipient. This can add a personal touch and show that you’ve put thought into the re-gift.

5. Consider Charitable Donations:

   • Charity: If you’re unsure about re-gifting within your social circle, consider donating the item to a charity or organization that can make good use of it.

Ways to Celebrate

1. Host a Re-Gifting Party:

   • Office Parties: Organize a re-gifting party at work where employees can exchange re-gifted items in a fun and festive setting.
   • Holiday Gatherings: Host a holiday gathering with friends or family where re-gifting is encouraged, and everyone can participate in the exchange.

2. Promote Sustainability:

   • Eco-Friendly Gifts: Encourage sustainable gift-giving practices, including re-gifting, to reduce waste and promote recycling.
   • Awareness: Use the day to raise awareness about the environmental benefits of re-gifting and thoughtful consumption.

3. Share on Social Media:

   • Stories and Tips: Share your re-gifting experiences and tips on social media using hashtags like #NationalRegiftingDay and #Regifting.
   • Ideas and Inspiration: Post ideas and inspiration for creative and thoughtful re-gifting, encouraging others to participate.

4. Reflect on Gift-Giving Practices:

   • Evaluate: Take time to reflect on your own gift-giving practices and consider how you can make them more thoughtful and sustainable.
   • Plan Ahead: Start planning your gift-giving early to ensure that each gift is meaningful and well-suited to the recipient.

Fun Facts About Re-Gifting

1. Seinfeld Influence: The term "re-gifting" became widely known after the 1995 "Seinfeld" episode titled "The Label Maker," in which the characters discuss the practice of re-gifting.
2. Popular Practice: According to surveys, a significant percentage of people have admitted to re-gifting items at some point, highlighting its commonality.
3. Etiquette: There are etiquette guides and books dedicated to the art of re-gifting, offering advice on how to do it gracefully and thoughtfully.

Inspirational Quotes About Giving and Sustainability

1. "The greatest gift you can give someone is your time." – Rick Warren
2. "To do more for the world than the world does for you – that is success." – Henry Ford
3. "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." – Mahatma Gandhi

Conclusion

National Re-Gifting Day is a practical and lighthearted celebration that encourages thoughtful and sustainable gift-giving practices. Whether hosting a re-gifting party, promoting sustainability, sharing on social media, or reflecting on your own gift-giving habits, there are many ways to observe this day. National Re-Gifting Day reminds us that thoughtful giving can include re-gifting, ensuring that items find new homes where they are appreciated and used.