International Day of Happiness

International Day of Happiness History

The International Day of Happiness seeks to acknowledge the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. Recognizing happiness as a fundamental human goal, this day is dedicated to promoting and celebrating happiness as a universal aspect of human life and well-being. The main focus of this day is to reflect on the significance of happiness in our lives, to encourage a more holistic approach towards the creation of public policies and social frameworks, and to strengthen interconnectivity and a shared happiness among mankind.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly on the initiative of the Kingdom of Bhutan, the International Day of Happiness was first marked in 2013 and has been celebrated on a global scale annually ever since. Bhutan is known for prioritizing Gross National Happiness over gross national product, which inspired this annual event. The International Day of Happiness has a significant role in American society, promoting the importance of happiness and acknowledging it a part of everyday life. It puts a spotlight on the significance of mental well-being, underlining that happiness shouldn't be an aspiration but rather an integral part of our lives.

In America, the International Day of Happiness is celebrated by individuals, communities, and organizations through various activities, aimed at promoting happiness, spreading positivity, and raising awareness about the significance of well-being. These activities range from community projects and social gatherings to online campaigns and school events, all of which aim to catalyze happiness promoting behaviors. The International Day of Happiness is observed every year on March 20th across the United States, aligning with the global observance as established by the United Nations.

Facts & quotes about International Day of Happiness

• The theme for International Day of Happiness in 2025 was Caring and Sharing, in 2024 was Reconnecting for Happiness: Building Resilient Communities. The theme in 2023 was Be Mindful. Be Grateful. Be Kind..
• According to the BBC, in 2024, Finland was ranked the happiest country in the world for the seven consecutive years.
• According to WalletHub, in 2022, the happiest states in the U.S. are:
  1) Hawaii
  2) Maryland
  3) Minnesota
  4) Utah
  5) New Jersey
• At this time of grave injustices, devastating wars, mass displacement, grinding poverty and other manmade causes of suffering, the International Day of Happiness is a global chance to assert that peace, well-being, and joy deserve primacy - UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon
• Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony - Mahatma Gandhi

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day of Happiness

Top things to do in the US for International Day of Happiness

• Make the effort to cross an item off of your bucket list. We all have dreams and goals and fulfilling them creates happiness and a sense of accomplishment.
• Give to others. Whether it's donating to a charity of your choice, volunteering, or giving a thoughtful gift, studies have found that giving makes us happier.
• Print out and hang up posters of the Ten Keys to Happier Living. Research has proven that these ten keys have a positive impact on happiness and well-being.
• Reduce the stress in your life. According to the American Psychological Association, these are the 5 best ways to manage stress:
  1) Take a break from thing causing stress
  2) Exercise
  3) Smile and laugh
  4) Get social support
  5) Meditate
• Watch a movie about happiness. Here are our suggestions:
  Hector and the Search for Happiness (2014)
  Eat, Pray, Love (2009)
  The Pursuit of Happiness (2008)
  The Bucket List (2007)