Festival of Unmentionable Thoughts

Festival of Unmentionable Thoughts is observed annually on December 12. This unique observance invites individuals to explore the hidden corners of their minds, acknowledging the ideas, worries, and curiosities that they typically keep locked away from public conversation.

History of Festival of Unmentionable Thoughts

The origins of this day are relatively modern, tracing back to 2017. It was established by Thomas B. Dowd III, an award-winning author and professional development coach. Dowd created the observance to challenge the social pressure of constant positivity and filtered communication. He recognized that everyone carries a stream of consciousness filled with thoughts that might be considered odd, taboo, or simply “unmentionable” in polite society. Rather than suppressing these thoughts, he suggested that acknowledging them is a healthy part of the human experience.

The philosophy behind the day is rooted in the concept of intellectual freedom and self-awareness. Throughout history, societal norms have dictated what is appropriate to say or think, often leading to shame or isolation when one’s internal monologue deviates from the standard. This festival was designed as a release valve—a designated time to confront the “shadow” side of the psyche without judgment. It emphasizes that having a thought does not necessitate acting on it, but understanding it can lead to greater personal clarity.

Why is Festival of Unmentionable Thoughts important?

This day serves as a powerful exercise in mental health and emotional honesty. In a world curated for social media, where people often present only their best selves, the pressure to conform can be stifling. This holiday validates the complexity of the human mind, reminding us that it is normal to experience envy, doubt, strange curiosities, or unpopular opinions. By facing these unmentionable thoughts, we strip them of their power to cause anxiety, moving from repression to acceptance.

Furthermore, the observance champions the absolute privacy of the mind. It celebrates the one space that remains truly ours: our internal world. It encourages critical thinking by allowing people to entertain ideas that might challenge the status quo, even if they never voice them aloud. This internal freedom is the bedrock of creativity and innovation, as many great breakthroughs began as thoughts that were once considered too radical or strange to mention.

• It reduces the stigma surrounding intrusive or taboo thoughts.
• It encourages journaling as a tool for self-discovery.
• It promotes authentic self-acceptance beyond social masks.
• It relieves the stress of trying to be “perfect” all the time.
• It fosters a deeper understanding of one’s own values and fears.

How to Observe the Festival of Unmentionable Thoughts

The most common way to observe this day is through private journaling. Find a quiet space and write down the thoughts you have been holding back. These could be frustrations with a loved one, fears about the future, or simply bizarre ideas that pop into your head. The act of transferring these thoughts from your mind to paper can be incredibly cathartic. Many people choose to write these on loose paper and then shred or burn them, symbolizing that the thoughts have been acknowledged and released.

For a more social approach, you might choose to share an “unmentionable” thought with a trusted friend or therapist. This requires a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can admit to something meaningful—perhaps a secret ambition or a controversial opinion—without fear of backlash. If you prefer a lighter celebration, engage with art or literature that explores the stream of consciousness, recognizing that even the most celebrated authors and artists grappled with the darker or stranger sides of their imagination.

• Write a “stream of consciousness” entry in a private diary.
• Read a book that deals with psychological complexity or taboo subjects.
• Meditate to observe your thoughts without judging them.
• Shred a piece of paper containing a worry you want to let go of.
• Have a deep, honest conversation with someone you trust implicitly.

Festival of Unmentionable Thoughts Dates Table