International Joke Day

Held on : 1st July

International Joke Day is a day meant to spread joy and cheer through jokes and funny activities. It is celebrated to spread laughter in the world. The need for such a day arises because the world is a lot worried now than it was ever before. Stress, hypertension and lack of physical activities have made us dull. We are always working and never give ourselves ‘Time to Play’. Laughter has been scientifically proven to be beneficial for human health. A need for such a day became important so that we could spend time in celebrating the 'Humour in our Lives’. The day also provides a reason to increase socialisation in this isolated world. On this day people share funny jokes, funny e-mails, SMS’s, cards, videos, indulge in light-hearted pranks and any activity which spreads smile and laughter.

The origins of this day are unclear. Certain cultures consider that the practice began in Greece by Palamedes (greek legend) who outwitted Odysseus (greek legend) before the Trojan War. Others cite it with ‘First comedy club formed in 350 BC’. It was known as the ‘Group of Sixty’ who would gather at the temple of Heracles to share jokes, witty comments et al.