Festivus Day
About Festivus Day
When is Festivus Day? This holiday is always observed on December 23
Are you feeling a little left out!? You don’t celebrate Christmas or Chanukah. Kwanzaa just isn’t your thing. And, you don’t even know what or when the Ramadan or Dilawi holidays are. Well, you can celebrate this December 23 holiday. Today is Festivus Day. The slogan for today is “Festivus for the Restivus!”
Come and experience the joy and the Miracle of Festivus. One might say that this holiday is a miracle in itself.
Still not sure if today’s holiday is for you? And, you might even be asking “Just what is Festivus”? It is a non-denominational holiday. And, it’s non-commercial. I’m all for that. As a matter of fact, gift-giving is taboo on this holiday. Everyone can partake in this holiday. As the slogan goes: “A Festivus for the rest of us!” And, that means you, too. So, put up an aluminum pole in your living room. Then gather all of your family and friends around it in celebration of this tradition-filled holiday.
The History and Origin of Festivus Day:
The Festivus holiday was created by Daniel O’Keefe, who found a reference to an obscure holiday called Festivus. O’Keefe first celebrated this holiday in 1966. He selected December 23, to celebrate the anniversary of his first date with his future wife Deborah. His son Dan, a television scriptwriter, brought the holiday to life on the Seinfeld show.
Festivus became popular as the direct result of a Jerry Seinfeld television show episode. It first aired on December 18, 1997. On the show, Festivus was created and celebrated by Frank Costanza, George’s father. During George’s childhood, the Costanza family celebrated annually on December 23. On this episode of the show, Cosmos Kramer encouraged George’s father to resurrect Festivus and its traditions.
Thought for Today
You only have to mumble a few words in church to get married, and a few words in your sleep to get divorced.
Festivus Day Traditions
There are just a few traditions to follow as you enjoy Festivus for the Restivus. But, they are very important. Here they are:
- No, there isn’t a Festivus Tree. Rather, an unadorned aluminum pole is the symbol of Festivus.
- The Festivus holiday is celebrated with a dinner. Meatloaf is the suggested main course (I betcha can’t wait for a slice of that!).
- Dinner is followed by a “Feats of Strength”.
- Another popular Festivus tradition is an “Airing of Grievances”. This is where you can tell someone how disappointed you are over what they did or didn’t do during the past year. Doesn’t this sound like fun!?
- Gift-giving is not part of this holiday. Nor, sholud you send Festivus cards.
This Day in History
In addition to Festivus Day, here are some things that happened on this day:
English Astronomer John Flamsteed observes Uranus, without realizing it is undiscovered. (1690)
The first human kidney transplant is performed by Dr. Joseph E. Murray in Boston, MA. (1954)
Susan Lucci, Emmy-winning actress was born on this day in (1948)
More December 23 Holidays
In addition to Festivus for the Restivus, here is another December 23 holiday we are certain you will enjoy:
Roots Day – Who are your ancestors?
More About Today
Recipe of the Day: Pumpkin Roll
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Did You Know? There are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. and many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays regularly. December holidays are no exception. Consequently., at Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.