Rapture Party Day
May 21, Wednesday
History of the holiday
Harold Camping, president of the Christian radio network Family Radio, predicted that on May 21, 2011, the Rapture would take place, and on October 21, 2011, the world would end. He based his calculations on his interpretations of biblical texts. After the predictions did not come true, Camping stated that May 21 was a "spiritual" Rapture, and he postponed the physical end of the world to October of the same year. However, this date also passed without incident.
In response to the failed predictions, atheist and secular groups in the U.S. organized "Ascension Parties" on May 21, 2011, mocking the apocalyptic prophecies. Some events included releasing helium balloons shaped like human figures, symbolizing souls ascending to heaven.
How the holiday is celebrated
Ascension Party Day is observed with humor and irony. Here are some ways to celebrate:
* Organizing themed parties with friends to discuss unfulfilled prophecies and laugh about them.
* Watching apocalyptic-themed movies and TV shows.
* Creating playlists with songs about the end of the world, such as "It's the End of the World As We Know It" by R.E.M.
* Discussing critical thinking and the importance of fact-checking information.
This day serves as a reminder to approach apocalyptic predictions with skepticism and to appreciate every day lived.