National Do Something Nice Day is celebrated every year on October 5th, encouraging people to pause their daily routine and perform a simple, genuine act of kindness for someone else.
History of National Do Something Nice Day
The exact origins of National Do Something Nice Day are somewhat unclear, with different sources offering conflicting accounts. Some credit the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation with declaring the observance in 1998, while other researchers note that no single founder or organization has a firmly documented, verifiable claim to creating the day. What is consistent across sources is the date itself, October 5th, and the day’s spirit: unlike observances tied to a cause or product, this one is entirely about intentional, everyday kindness.
The observance fits into a broader wave of kindness-focused holidays that gained real momentum starting in the late 1990s, as organizations increasingly promoted structured, deliberate generosity rather than leaving kindness to chance. Social media has since given the day fresh reach, with people sharing good deeds and encouraging friends to participate each October.
How to Celebrate National Do Something Nice Day
- Pay for the coffee or meal of the person behind you in line
- Write a genuine thank-you note to someone who has done something nice for you
- Volunteer your time at a local organization
- Give a sincere compliment to a friend, family member, or stranger
- Do something kind anonymously, without expecting recognition
Fun Facts About National Do Something Nice Day
- The exact founding origins of the day are disputed, with some crediting the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation in 1998, and others noting no verified founder exists.
- The day is sometimes described as a fall companion to Random Acts of Kindness Day, observed each February.
- Research has suggested that performing acts of kindness can reduce stress and improve mood for both the giver and the recipient.
- The day requires no cost or grand gesture, emphasizing that small, genuine actions matter most.
- Social media has significantly boosted participation in the observance, with kindness-related hashtags trending each October 5th.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Do Something Nice Day?
National Do Something Nice Day is celebrated annually on October 5th.
Who started National Do Something Nice Day?
The exact founder is disputed. Some sources credit the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation with declaring the day in 1998, while others note that no single verified founder or organization has a documented claim to its creation.
What’s a simple way to participate?
Small, genuine gestures, like paying for someone’s coffee, offering a sincere compliment, or writing a thank-you note, are all easy, meaningful ways to participate without needing a grand gesture or cost.