National Get Funky Day is celebrated every year on October 5th, encouraging everyone to embrace funk music, self-expression, and a little extra groove in everyday life.
History of National Get Funky Day
National Get Funky Day was founded by Funkytown Fitness, a health club in St. Augustine, Florida, in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in 2016. The idea was born out of a desire to help people who had been devastated or discouraged by the storm, offering a lighthearted way to lift spirits and encourage people to step outside their comfort zones. The observance was officially proclaimed to begin annually in 2017.
The day draws on the rich history of funk music, a genre that emerged in the 1960s and 70s through artists like James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, and Parliament-Funkadelic, known for syncopated rhythms, heavy basslines, and an infectious, danceable energy. Funk grew out of earlier African American musical traditions, including jazz and blues, and has continued to influence countless other genres, including disco, hip hop, and electronic music.
How to Celebrate National Get Funky Day
- Build a funk playlist featuring classics from James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Sly and the Family Stone
- Dance, let loose, and step outside your usual routine
- Wear bright, bold, or funky-inspired clothing
- Spread positivity by smiling, laughing, and connecting with people around you
- Share your funky moments on social media using #NationalGetFunkyDay
Fun Facts About National Get Funky Day
- National Get Funky Day was founded by Funkytown Fitness in St. Augustine, Florida, following Hurricane Matthew in 2016.
- The observance was officially proclaimed to begin annually starting in 2017.
- The word “funky” originally referred to a strong odor before evolving into a term of musical approval in early jazz culture.
- James Brown is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of funk music.
- Funk music has heavily influenced numerous other genres, including disco, hip hop, and electronic dance music.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Get Funky Day?
National Get Funky Day is celebrated annually on October 5th.
Who started National Get Funky Day?
Funkytown Fitness, a health club in St. Augustine, Florida, founded the observance in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in 2016.
Where does the word “funky” come from?
The word originally referred to a strong odor before evolving in early jazz culture into a term of musical approval, eventually giving rise to the funk music genre itself.