Every year on October 10, National Hug a Kevin Day encourages people to show affection (especially through hugging) to someone named Kevin. It was first declared in 2017 by ABC in conjunction with the the TV show Kevin (Probably) Saves the World.
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History of National Hug a Kevin Day
This quirky observance was launched by the ABC network in 2017 to coincide with the airing of Kevin (Probably) Saves the World. As part of the promotion, actor Jason Ritter (the show’s lead) embraced the idea by breaking a Guinness World Record for most hugs in one minute, thus giving the day some flair and publicity.
Although its origin is promotional, the day has since been embraced, especially online, as a lighthearted way to spread warmth and recognition to people named Kevin. Over time it has been included in holiday/day-of-observance listings and given life through social media sharing and affectionate gestures.
Why is this day meaningful?
On the surface, National Hug a Kevin Day might seem like just a fun gimmick tied to a TV show. Yet, it also reflects how pop culture can spark small rituals of kindness. By giving attention to a specific name, it gives individuals a moment to feel seen and appreciated—a kind of playful spotlight.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the simple power of physical affection (when welcome) and the idea of celebrating people for who they are—even something as ordinary as a name. That said, the gesture is most meaningful when consent and comfort are respected: not everyone likes hugs, and acknowledging boundaries matters.
- It gives Kevins a special moment of recognition
- It encourages affectionate connection in daily life
- It reminds us of the joy in small, playful celebrations
- It shows how media and culture can shape micro-holidays
- It helps prompt kindness and smiles in ordinary interactions
How to Observe National Hug a Kevin Day
Participation is easy. If you know someone named Kevin, simply ask if they’d like a hug and offer one (only if they consent). You might share a friendly card, message, or social media shout-out with a Kevin you can’t reach in person. For fans of Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, watching an episode or sharing its message is another way to join in.
If you don’t personally know a Kevin, you can still take part symbolically—send an appreciation message or virtual hug to any Kevin you encounter online, or share a fun Kevin related meme or story. Just keep the tone light and respectful.
- ask a Kevin you know if they want a hug
- send a message or card to a Kevin far away
- post a “hug a Kevin” greeting or memory on social media
- watch or share episodes of Kevin (Probably) Saves the World
- celebrate the name “Kevin” with a small gesture or kind word
National Hug a Kevin Day Dates Table
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 10 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 10 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 10 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 10 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 10 | Wednesday |
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