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10 January Holidays and Events To Mark With Your Family

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Jan. 18

By Kara Murphy, publisher of Macaroni Kid Erie, Pa. January 1, 2021

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

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. 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. 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 on you! 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. 18


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. 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! Jan. 29