January brings with it all the promises and hopes of the new year. There are plenty of holidays other than New Year's Day happening this month — some you've probably heard of and some that are likely new to you.
We've rounded up 10 special (and some just silly!) holidays and events that your family will want to celebrate this month:
1. Polar Bear Plunge Day ~ January 1
Shiver your way into the new year with a chilly plunge! Or sign up today for a polar bear plunge near you — we found eight events happening in Colorado in February, March, and April, all benefiting Special Olympics Colorado!
2. Cuddle Up Day ~ January 6
Baby, it's cold outside. Put on your pajamas, throw on a movie, grab a favorite blanket, and cuddle up with your whole family to celebrate.
3. Dress Up Your Pet Day ~ January 14
Dress up your dog, goat, guinea pig, or cat. Pets aren't cooperative? Paint your kids' faces as their favorite animal.
4. Kid Inventors' Day ~ January 17
What do television, water skis, and earmuffs have in common? They were all invented by kids! More than 500,000 children and teens invent gadgets and games each year. This holiday is held each year on Benjamin Franklin's birthday (he invented the first swim flippers at age 12).
5. Ditch Your Resolutions Day ~ January 17
If you haven't already, it's time to give up on your New Year's resolutions. What? You're still at it? Good for you!
6. Martin Luther King Jr. Day ~ January 20
Celebrate the life of the great leader of the Civil Rights movement by doing something to effect positive change in your community today. This special day is recognized as a federal holiday on the third Monday of January. Attend the MLK Marade in Denver, the only event of its kind in the nation!
7. National Hugging Day ~ January 21
Kevin Zaborney invented this holiday in 1986 to encourage family and friends to hug more often. There are many actual health benefits to hugging, including that it releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness.
8. Belly Laugh Day ~ January 24
Yes, this is really a "holiday." Celebrate by telling your kids jokes until they howl with laughter.
9. World Breast Pumping Day ~ January 27
Get pumped for World Breast Pumping Day! Perhaps the newest holiday on our list, World Breast Pumping Day first came into existence just last year. Celebrate mamas who pump by telling them their commitment is amazing!
10. National Puzzle Day ~ January 29
Gather the family 'round and work on a puzzle on National Puzzle Day. Doing puzzles together makes for great family time!
