National Handshake Day

National Handshake Day History

National Handshake Day celebrates the traditional greeting gesture of shaking hands. By emphasizing the importance of maintaining interpersonal connections, the day reminds individuals of the value of a handshake as a simple yet powerful means of building relationships, conveying trust and respect, and promoting unity among different peoples and cultures.

The tradition of shaking hands dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used as a gesture of peace and goodwill. The handshake evolved through the centuries and eventually grew into a popular means of greeting across cultures with variations in style and etiquette. National Handshake Day seeks to revive the appreciation for this historic custom, highlighting the significance of personal touch in fostering cordial and meaningful connections with others.

National Handshake Day is observed on the last Thursday of June each year. It provides an opportunity for communities, organizations, and individuals to take part in various events and activities to promote the act of shaking hands and celebrate the power of human connections.

Top 9 Facts for National Handshake Day in 2026

• The tradition of shaking hands is believed to have originated in ancient Greece as a gesture of peace to demonstrate that neither party was concealing a weapon, as the movement was designed to shake loose any daggers hidden up a sleeve.
• Professional development coach Miryam Roddy established the modern observance of National Handshake Day in 2005 to highlight the gesture’s critical role in making a positive first impression and building professional relationships.
• Archaeological evidence of the practice dates back to at least the 9th century BCE, depicted on an ancient Assyrian relief showing two monarchs clasping hands to seal a political alliance.
• Biological studies indicate that the physical contact of a handshake can stimulate the vagus nerve and trigger the release of oxytocin, which helps to lower stress levels and foster a sense of mutual trust between individuals.
• In 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt set a world record for the most handshakes by a head of state by greeting 8,513 people during a single New Year’s Day reception.
• During the 18th century, the Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as the Quakers, popularized the handshake as a more egalitarian alternative to hierarchical customs like bowing or tipping one's hat.
• While a firm grip is highly valued in the United States and the United Kingdom, etiquette in many East Asian countries often favors a much lighter touch and the avoidance of direct eye contact to show respect.
• Some of the earliest literary references to the handshake as a symbol of loyalty and agreement can be found in the ancient Greek epic The Odyssey.
• Modern social etiquette has evolved to include various alternative greetings for those prioritizing hygiene, such as the Shaka sign or the iconic Vulcan salute featured in the television series Star Trek.

In the News and Trending for National Handshake Day

Top things to do for National Handshake Day

• Spread virtual handshakes. Greet and acknowledge friends and strangers virtually to celebrate the day as a way to adhere to Covid-19 guidelines.
• View several handshake alternatives. The World Health Organization advises against physical contact but you can still acknowledge others with these greetings.
• Create your own special handshake, then share it with friends.