National Hugging Day is celebrated every year on 21 January. It was created in 1986 by American Kevin Zaborney, who noticed that people felt gloomier and showed their feelings less after the winter holidays. Since then the unofficial day has spread around the world. Hugs help us calm down and feel supported, so it is a great reason to hug family, friends and loved ones, as long as they are happy to be hugged. Below are short Hug Day messages, words for loved ones, friends and family, funny lines, poems and gift ideas.

More warm words: Friendship Day wishes, relationship anniversary wishes, good night wishes.

The main rules of Hug Day

Short Hug Day messages

Happy Hug Day! Sending you the warmest hugs.
Today is the official excuse to hug. Do not miss it!
May there always be arms around you that feel warm and safe. Happy Hug Day!
A virtual hug for now and a real one when we meet!

For your loved one

My love, your arms are my favourite place in the world. Happy Hug Day!
I want every morning of yours to begin with my hug and every evening to end with one.

For family and friends

Mum, Dad, I am hugging you tight! Thank you for your arms always being my shelter.
It has been ages, my friend. I owe you a hug the moment we meet!

Funny messages

Attention! Hugs are free today, no queue and no limits. Come and get yours!
I am hugging you the way a cat hugs a warm radiator in winter.

Hugs from afar

There are miles between us, but my hugs will reach you. Hold on to them and know I am with you in my thoughts.
When you feel down, remember there is someone who dreams of hugging you. That is me.

Hug Day poems

A hug's a language without words,
It warms the heart and calms the mind;
May you be held like nesting birds
By someone loving, warm and kind!

May every morning start with a hug
And every evening end the same;
May life feel cosy, warm and snug
And love keep calling out your name!

Gift ideas for Hug Day

The best gift is the hug itself. If you want to add something more, choose a soft teddy that can be hugged in your place, or a fluffy hydrangea bouquet that looks like a floral cloud. For those far away, a flower delivery becomes a hug from a distance.

Pink hydrangea bouquet — Fluffy hydrangeas, like a floral hug

See soft toys and hydrangea bouquets.

Beige teddy bear — A teddy to hug when you are not there

FAQ

When is Hug Day?

Every year on 21 January.

Who came up with the day?

American Kevin Zaborney in 1986.

How can I celebrate with someone far away?

Send warm words and order flowers or a soft toy delivered: a hug from a distance.

And in summer, on 6 July, comes Kissing Day.

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Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

Hug Day Messages