January brings with it all the promises and hopes of the new year. There are plenty of holidays other than New Year's happening this month too -- some of which you've heard of, and some that are likely new to you.
We've rounded up 10 special (and some just silly!) holidays and events that your family will want to celebrate this month:
1. Polar Bear Plunge Day
Shiver your way into the new year with a chilly plunge. Find a polar bear plunge near you -- many are even fundraisers for charitable organizations so you can take a dip for a good cause. Jan. 1 Didn't make it on January 1st? Head to Cranberry Cove for the 2nd Cranberry Cove Polar Plunge on the 26th.
2. Cuddle Up Day
Baby, it's cold outside. Put on your pajamas, throw on a movie, grab a favorite blanket, and cuddle up with your whole family to celebrate. Our favorite way to cuddle up is with a movie and these snowman popcorn cups are perfect for a movie night! Jan. 6
3. Dress Up Your Pet Day
Dress up your dog, goat, guinea pig, or cat. Pets aren't cooperative? Paint your kids' faces as their favorite animal or better yet dress up your stuffed animals. Jan. 14
4. Kid Inventors' Day
What do televisions, water skis, and earmuffs have in common? They were all invented by kids! More than 500,000 children and teens invent gadgets and games each year. Held each year on Benjamin Franklin's birthday (he invented the first swim flippers at age 12). Jan. 17
5. Ditch Your Resolutions Day
If you haven't already, it's time to give up on your New Year's resolutions. What? You're still at it? Good for you! Here are 5 New Year's Resolutions You'll Want to Keep in 2020! Jan. 17
6. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Celebrate the life of the great leader of the Civil Rights movement by doing something to effect positive change in your community today. Jan. 20 Stay tuned for some great local events celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.
7. National Hugging Day
Kevin Zaborney invented this holiday in 1986 to encourage family and friends to hug more often. There are many actual health benefits to hugging, including that it releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness. Feeling extra huggable? Get a jump on your Valentine's Day cards with these mailable hugs. Jan. 21
8. Belly Laugh Day
Yes, this is really a "holiday." Celebrate by telling your kids jokes until they howl with laughter. Jan. 24
9. World Breast Pumping Day
Get pumped for World Breast Pumping Day! Perhaps the newest holiday on our list, World Breast Pumping Day first came into existence just last year. Celebrate mamas who pump by telling them their commitment is amazing! Jan. 27
10. National Puzzle Day
Gather the family 'round and work on a puzzle on National Puzzle Day. Doing puzzles together makes for great family time! Celebrate with a puzzle exchange! Jan. 29
