What is National Humor Month?

National Humor Month, celebrated throughout April, is dedicated to celebrating the therapeutic value of humor and laughter. Established in 1976 by best-selling humorist Larry Wilde, Director of The Carmel Institute of Humor, it aims to raise awareness about the benefits of laughter and joy in improving health, boosting morale, and enriching the human experience. This observance encourages people to explore and embrace humor in their daily lives, fostering a positive and joyful environment in both personal and professional settings.

History and Origin

The idea behind National Humor Month was inspired by the recognition of humor’s power to enhance one’s quality of life. Larry Wilde initiated this celebration to highlight the positive effects of laughter and joy, such as stress reduction, improved communication, and increased unity among people. Since its inception, National Humor Month has inspired a wide array of events and activities aimed at bringing smiles to faces and promoting a lighter, more humorous approach to life’s challenges.

Who Celebrates National Humor Month?

• Comedians and Entertainers: Professionals in the entertainment industry who use humor as their craft.
• Healthcare Professionals: Especially those who integrate humor therapy into patient care for its health benefits.
• Educators and Students: Schools and universities often incorporate fun and humorous elements into teaching to create an engaging learning environment.
• Businesses and Workplaces: Organizations that recognize the value of a happy, positive work environment for employee satisfaction and productivity.
• Everyone: Ultimately, anyone can celebrate National Humor Month by enjoying and sharing humor in their daily interactions.

Slogans and Themes

National Humor Month is embraced with themes of joy, laughter, and the universal language of humor. Slogans like “Laughter is the Best Medicine,” “Spread Joy, Share Laughter,” and “Brighten the World with Humor” capture the essence of the month, encouraging the spread of cheer and the appreciation of comedy in all its forms.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

• Colors: Bright, cheerful colors like yellow and orange that symbolize happiness and laughter.
• Symbols: The classic smiley face, comedy masks, and anything that represents joy and amusement.
• Patterns: Whimsical patterns that evoke a sense of fun and lightheartedness.

Most Used Hashtags

• #NationalHumorMonth
• #LaughterIsTheBestMedicine
• #SpreadJoy
• #Comedy
• #HumorHeals

How to Celebrate

• Share Jokes and Funny Stories: Brighten someone’s day by sharing humor in conversations, emails, or social media.
• Attend or Host a Comedy Show: Enjoy stand-up comedy, improv, or sketch shows that celebrate the art of making people laugh.
• Incorporate Humor into Your Daily Routine: Find ways to inject humor into everyday activities, whether through playful interactions, funny podcasts, or comedic books.
• Practice Laughter Yoga: Join a laughter yoga session to experience the physical and mental health benefits of laughter.
• Support Comedic Talent: Discover and support emerging comedians and humorists by attending local gigs or following their online content.

National Humor Month is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the power of laughter in creating a happier, healthier, and more connected world. By embracing and sharing humor, we can all contribute to a more joyful and resilient society.