National Have A Bad Day Day

Every year in the United States, National Have A Bad Day Day is observed on November 19. The day invites people to acknowledge that bad days happen—and rather than hide or ignore them, it turns them into a light-hearted moment of solidarity, humor, and self-care.

History of National Have a Bad Day Day

The origins of this day trace back to the humor-driven holiday creators Thomas Roy and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays, who designed it as a playful reversal of the usual “Have a nice day!” sentiment. Over time it gained recognition online and in quirky holiday calendars, and although it remains informal, it consistently appears every November 19 as a kind of communal nod to imperfect days.

Why is National Have a Bad Day Day important?

This day offers a reminder that everyone faces challenges, frustrations or setbacks—and that those experiences don’t need to be hidden behind a facade of always feeling fine. Embracing or acknowledging a bad day can help reduce stress, build connection and encourage acceptance of human mood swings.
It also provides a bit of comedic relief: by giving permission to wish someone “Have a bad day!” in a jesting tone, it breaks social expectations and allows people to share a knowing laugh about life’s little mis-adventures.

• It acknowledges that bad days are part of life and not something to shame.
• It encourages authenticity and open expression of feelings.
• It offers humor as a coping mechanism when things go wrong.
• It helps build empathy by recognizing that others have “off” days too.
• It provides a small shared ritual that can lighten a challenging moment.

How to Observe National Have A Bad Day Day

If you’re having a rough day, this holiday gives you permission to own it rather than pretend otherwise. You might allow yourself a little venting, a comforting indulgence, or simply a sigh of relief that you’re not alone. On the flip side, you can lighten someone else’s “bad day” by acknowledging it with humor or kindness.
Here are some simple ways to mark the day:

• Share a funny or honest post about your bad day on social media with #HaveABadDayDay.
• Treat yourself to a comfort-food meal or a relaxing break—you deserve it even if things aren’t perfect.
• Reach out to a friend having a rough time, say you know how they feel, and offer a supportive word.
• Turn the “bad day” into a mini act of rebellion: do a small task you’ve been avoiding or change your surroundings, just to shake things up.
• Write down or reflect on what made your day “bad” and what tiny silver-lining you did find.

National Have A Bad Day Day Dates Table