National Backwards Day
January 31, Wednesday
National Backwards Day is an unusual holiday that is celebrated in the United States every year on January 25. The day is dedicated to playing with opposites, where people are encouraged to say or do the exact opposite of what they would normally say or do. On this day, everyone is encouraged to view ordinary things in an unusual way - as if everything were happening in reverse.How is Backwards Day celebrated?
Saying the opposite. The most common way to celebrate the day is to say something and then declare it to be "Backwards Day", changing the meaning of what was said to the opposite. For example, if someone says "I don't want to go to the movies", it may mean that they actually do.
Wearing clothes backwards. On this day, you can see people putting their clothes on backwards or inside out - this is one of the most popular forms of participation in the holiday.
Altered routines. For example, breakfast can become dinner, or people can try writing with the other hand, doing work in reverse, or doing something in an unusual way.
Games with children. This day is especially popular with children, who enjoy fun games of opposites, such as saying "yes" when they mean "no" or doing things the other way around.
National Backwards Day in other years
- 2021 January 31, Sunday
- 2022 January 31, Monday
- 2023 January 31, Tuesday
- 2025 January 31, Friday