Sweetest Day is a local holiday that is celebrated in the United States and parts of Canada on the third Saturday in October. In 2024, this holiday falls on October 19. This day is about showing appreciation for the people in your life who make it sweeter.
Whether it’s your partner, parents, children, or friends, Sweetest Day is the perfect time to let them know how much you care. People exchange cards and gifts, go out for romantic dinners, and participate in other special activities to commemorate the occasion. So mark your calendars for Sweetest Day 2023 and get ready to spread a little sweetness to the people in your life.
Sweetest Day Quick Overview
| Name of the Day | Sweetest Day |
| Type of the day | Local Holiday (Not public holiday) |
| Observed in | Great Lakes Region (USA and Canada) |
| Frequency Annual | Annual |
| Date | Third Saturday in October every year, this year it falls on 19 October 2024 |
| Other Names | Hallmark Holiday / Concocted Promotion |
History of Sweetest Day
Sweetest Day originated in Cleveland, Ohio in the early 20th century when a group of candy makers wanted to do something to show their gratefulness for the city’s residents. They decided to create a special day to give out candy and other small gifts to the less fortunate, as well as to friends, family, and loved ones. The first Sweetest Day was celebrated on October 10, 1921, and it quickly gained popularity throughout the Midwest. Over the years, the holiday has evolved to become a day to show love and gratitude to anyone who has made a positive impact on your life.
In 1927, another group of candy makers in New York attempted to create a new holiday called Sweetest Day in New York City. The goal was to boost sales of candy during a traditionally slow time of year. However, the holiday failed to gain traction and was largely forgotten. This is the reason why this day is generally popular in the Midwest region of the United States only.
Also check US Federal Holidays
Different Ways to Celebrate Sweetest Day
This day is the perfect day to show admiration for the special people in your life. Here are some different ways to celebrate the sweetest day.
- Give a thoughtful gift: Giving a thoughtful gift is a great way to show someone how much you care. Consider giving a personalized gift such as a photo album or a piece of jewellery.
- Plan a romantic date: Plan a romantic date for your significant other. This could include a candlelit dinner or a romantic walk on the beach.
- Write a heartfelt letter: Write a heartfelt letter to someone special in your life. Express your gratitude and respect for all that they do
- Spend time with loved ones: Sweetest Day is not just for couples. Spend time with your friends and family by hosting a game night or a movie marathon.
- Plan a romantic date: Plan a romantic date for your significant other. This could include a candlelit dinner or a romantic walk on the beach.
Sweetest Day Wishes
- “On this Sweetest Day, I want you to know that you’re the sweetest thing in my life. Thank you for filling it with love and happiness.”
- “Sending you a little sweetness on Sweetest Day to brighten your day and remind you how special you are.”
- “May your Sweetest Day be as sweet as you make my every day. You’re truly one of a kind!”
- “Wishing you a day filled with love, laughter, and all the sweet things that life has to offer. Happy Sweetest Day!”
- “Sweetest Day is a reminder of how sweet life is with you in it. Here’s to us and the love we share.”
- “Sending you hugs, kisses, and all the sweetest wishes on this special day. You mean the world to me.”
- “You’re the sugar in my tea, the honey in my life, and the sweetest part of my day. Happy Sweetest Day, my love.”
- “On this Sweetest Day, I want to thank you for being the sweetest friend anyone could ask for. Your friendship is a gift I cherish.”
- “May your Sweetest Day be sprinkled with love and filled with the sweetest moments. You deserve all the happiness in the world.”
- “Here’s to the sweet memories we’ve created and the many more we’ll make. Happy Sweetest Day to someone who makes life sweeter.”
Criticism and Objections
The celebration of Sweetest Day is often criticized by many for being overly commercialized and unnecessary. Some argue that it’s just another opportunity for businesses to make money by promoting chocolate, flowers, and other gifts. Others argue that it’s a made-up holiday that’s based on a marketing campaign from the 1920s and has no real historical significance.
Check other Important days in October
Additionally, Sweetest Day has been criticized for being exclusive and not inclusive of everyone. The holiday is primarily celebrated in the Midwestern United States, which means that people in other parts of the country may not even be aware that it exists. This can make people feel left out or like they’re not part of the celebration.
Difference between Sweetest Day and Valentine’s Day
Here are some of the main differences between Sweetest Day and Valentine’s Day:
| Major Differences | Sweetest Day | Valentine’s Day |
| Origin | Sweetest Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1921 | Valentine’s Day has been celebrated for centuries in various parts of the world. |
| Timing | Sweetest Day is celebrated on the third Saturday in October | Celebrated on February 14th. |
| Focus | Primarily focused on showing love for friends and family members | Focused on romantic love |
| Gifts | Types of gifts given on Sweetest Day are often more practical | More romantic gifts are given |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sweetest Day is primarily celebrated in the Midwestern United States, including Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin. It is also observed in some parts of Canada.
No, giving a gift on Sweetest Day is optional. It is a day to express love and appreciation. So, you can celebrate in whatever way feels right for you.
Yes. It is a day to express admiration to all the important people in your life including your friends and family.
No, Sweetest Day is not a national holiday. It is mostly celebrated in the Midwest and Great Lakes regions of the United States and Canada.
