NATIONAL DAYCOMMUNITY

National High Five Day

National High Five Day is the kind of day that rewards a little intention and a lot of heart.

APR16

Thursday, April 16Third Thursday in April

Roots: First celebrated in 2002 by University of Virginia students
Vibe: Playful, positive, and community-oriented
Also on Apr 16: World Voice Day · Bean Counter Day · Eggs Benedict Day
Hashtag: #NationalHighFiveDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National High Five Day.

Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.
Kids
Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.
Couples
Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.
Office
Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.
School
Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.
Community
Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.
Just me
Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.

Plan ahead

National High Five Day is observed on the third Thursday in April. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Thu, Apr 16this year

2027Thu, Apr 15

2028Thu, Apr 20

2029Thu, Apr 19

2030Thu, Apr 18

2031Thu, Apr 17

2032Thu, Apr 15

2033Thu, Apr 21

2034Thu, Apr 20

2035Thu, Apr 19

2036Thu, Apr 17

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Fast facts

The high five is a widely recognized gesture across the U.S.

Millions of high fives are shared across the country each year

The story

National High Five Day, celebrated on the third Thursday of April, was first established in 2002. Created by a group of University of Virginia students, the day has grown in popularity, inspiring people across the nation to share high fives and spread joy. The gesture, a simple slap of hands, has become a universal symbol of encouragement and camaraderie, transcending age and cultural boundaries.

Read the full story

The high five has an interesting history, believed to have originated in the late 1970s during a baseball game. It quickly evolved from a sports celebration to a widespread form of greeting. Today, high fives are used in various contexts, from congratulating friends to celebrating personal milestones, making them an integral part of American social interactions.

On National High Five Day, people are encouraged to take a moment to celebrate achievements, big or small. Whether it’s a job well done or simply sharing a laugh, the act of giving a high five fosters connection. This day serves as a reminder of how small gestures can create significant impacts in our relationships and communities. A simple high five can convey support, encouragement, and appreciation, qualities that are especially important in our fast-paced lives.

As the day approaches, many schools, offices, and community organizations prepare activities to promote high fives and positivity. From high five challenges to themed parties, there are countless ways to participate. Remember to share your high five moments on social media to inspire others to join the fun and spread positivity. After all, each high five shared can brighten someone's day, creating a ripple effect of kindness throughout our communities.

Did you know?

A High Five's Origin

The high five is widely believed to have originated on October 2, 1977, when Los Angeles Dodgers players Glenn Burke and Dusty Baker exchanged the gesture during a game.

The First National High Five Day

The first National High Five Day was celebrated on April 17, 2002, initiated by University of Virginia students.

High Five Variations

Different cultures have their own versions of the high five, including the 'low five' and 'double high five'.

High Fives in Sports

High fives are common in sports, often used to celebrate touchdowns, goals, and victories.

Impact of High Fives

Studies show that physical gestures like high fives can enhance mood and strengthen social bonds.

Global Recognition

High fives are recognized around the world, transcending language and cultural differences.

A Symbol of Positivity

The high five is often associated with encouragement, support, and camaraderie in various settings.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesHigh Five Day is widely celebrated throughout the U.S., with communities embracing the gesture of positivity.
CACanadaCanadians also participate in National High Five Day, promoting the same spirit of kindness and connection.
GBUnited KingdomWhile not officially recognized, many in the U.K. enjoy sharing high fives as a friendly greeting.
AUAustraliaIn Australia, high fives are a common gesture among friends and are shared during various celebrations.
NZNew ZealandNew Zealanders embrace high fives, especially during sports events and celebrations.
·WorldwideHigh fives have become a global phenomenon, with people everywhere recognizing their ability to foster connection.