Start a Rumor Day

Every year on November 13, Start a Rumor Day offers a playful nod to the idea of whispers, legends, and little mysteries—inviting people to share harmless, fun rumors in good spirit.

History of Start a Rumor Day

The origins of this observance are unclear; it appears on multiple “national days” lists as a quirky, unofficial nod to the tradition of rumor-making.
The date of November 13 was picked in part because it fits into the “curious holidays” calendar rather than because of a specific historical event.

Why is Start a Rumor Day important?

On the surface it’s light-hearted, but the day also invites reflection on how information spreads, how we repeat stories, and how small statements can grow in impact.
It subtly reminds us to be thoughtful about the rumors we hear and share—even if the day encourages “starting” them, the greater takeaway is awareness about communication, truth, and consequence.

• It shines a light on how rumors travel and change meaning.
• It invites creativity and fun in sharing stories—within limits that keep things harmless.
• It helps groups use “rumor” as a tool for storytelling or event promotion in good humor.
• It reminds individuals to pause before believing or spreading uncertain information.
• It builds awareness of how words and ideas can ripple through social networks.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) Start a Rumor Day

Make it fun: share a quirky, fictional “rumor” among friends or co-workers (something obviously playful so everyone knows it’s in jest). If you’re organizing the day, you could hold a “rumor-seed” game where people invent short rumors and see how they change as they’re passed on.
Also, take a moment to discuss responsible communication: how do you verify a story, how do you check facts, and how do you speak with others about something you heard?

• Invent a funny, harmless “rumor” and pass it to a friend (with the reveal later that it was playful).
• Play the “telephone game” (whispered messages around a circle) and observe how the story changes.
• At work or in a group, ask, “What’s the weirdest thing you ever heard as a rumor?” and discuss it.
• Discuss the difference between fun rumors and harmful misinformation—and why it matters.
• Share a meme or social media post with #StartARumorDay acknowledging the day.

Start a Rumor Day Dates Table