Be Bald and Be Free Day

Be Bald and Be Free Day is observed every October 14. It’s a day to celebrate the beauty, boldness, and freedom of a bare scalp—whether someone is bald by choice, due to genetics, or as a result of medical treatment.

History of Be Bald and Be Free Day

The idea for Be Bald and Be Free Day was introduced by Thomas and Ruth Roy, who are known for creating light-hearted and empowering holidays. They wanted to dedicate a day for bald people to feel proud, unashamed, and completely themselves without hats, wigs, or explanations. While the exact year it started isn’t clearly recorded, it has found a steady place among unique observances that promote self-love and acceptance.

Over time, this day has taken on deeper meaning. It has become more than just a playful nod to being hairless—it now also honors those who lose their hair due to health reasons like cancer treatments or alopecia. It serves as a gentle reminder that baldness doesn’t take away from someone’s identity or beauty. Instead, it can become a part of someone’s strength and character.

Why is Be Bald and Be Free Day important?

This day turns the spotlight on something people often feel self-conscious about and turns it into a symbol of confidence. Hair loss can be emotional and tied to how society views appearance, so a day like this helps ease that pressure. It gently tells people, “You’re fine just as you are.” Being bald doesn’t mean being invisible. On this day, people who might usually feel like hiding can instead feel seen and respected.

It’s also a day that brings people together—those who are bald and those who support them. Whether it’s showing solidarity with a loved one going through chemo, or simply encouraging a friend to feel proud of their natural look, the message is about care and connection. And when people share their stories, they help others feel less alone.

• It affirms that beauty isn’t limited to hair
• It gives confidence to those experiencing hair loss
• It promotes empathy and understanding
• It helps break social taboos around baldness
• It fosters community among those who share this experience

How to Celebrate Be Bald and Be Free Day

If you’re bald, take the day to truly enjoy and own your look. Let go of hats or covers for the day if you feel comfortable. Celebrate your journey, your self-acceptance, and the strength it often takes to go through hair loss—whether it was your decision or not. You could even post a photo or write about what being bald means to you.

And even if you’re not bald, you can take part by showing support. Maybe shave your head, wear a bald cap, or simply reach out to a bald friend with a compliment. You could use the day to educate yourself or others about the realities of living with hair loss and look into ways to help—like donating to medical causes or supporting someone in treatment.

• Post a “bare head” selfie and share your story
• Compliment someone on their bald look
• Shave your head (if you’re up for it) in solidarity
• Wear a bald cap and see how perception shifts
• Donate or volunteer for cancer/alopecia support groups

Be Bald and Be Free Day Dates Table