What is National Kissing Day?

National Kissing Day is celebrated every year on June 22 in the United States. This lighthearted day is all about the power of a kiss. Whether romantic, friendly or familial, the kiss is celebrated as a small but meaningful gesture of love and connection.

The purpose of the day is simple: to encourage people to show affection. A kiss can mean different things in different situations, but it almost always carries warmth, emotion and human closeness. On National Kissing Day, people are reminded not to take that for granted.

This day has become popular through social media, with thousands of people posting selfies, memories or spontaneous kisses using themed hashtags. It is also a favorite for couples, but anyone can join in ; from grandparents to pets.

History and Origin

National Kissing Day began in the United Kingdom in the 1990s and was originally known as National Kiss Day. It was created to celebrate the simple joy of kissing and to bring attention to the importance of physical affection in daily life.

The idea caught on and eventually made its way to the United States, where it is now observed on June 22. While not an official holiday, it has been widely adopted across media, online platforms and even in advertising campaigns.

Kissing has existed throughout history and across cultures. From ancient texts to modern films, the kiss remains a powerful and enduring form of expression. National Kissing Day brings that tradition into the present, giving it a playful and celebratory twist.

Who participates in National Kissing Day?

• Couples: Romantic partners often share photos or kisses to mark the occasion and celebrate their bond
• Friends: In some cultures, a quick kiss on the cheek is a way to show friendship and closeness
• Families: Parents, children, siblings and relatives use the day to show love in small affectionate ways
• Celebrities and influencers: Many post themed selfies or nostalgic moments with loved ones
• Brands and companies: Businesses often create marketing content tied to kissing, love or connection

Slogans and Themes

The main themes of National Kissing Day are affection, intimacy and fun. Common slogans include “Pucker Up,” “Kiss and Tell,” “Seal It with a Kiss,” and “Share the Love.” Whether playful or sentimental, the message is about expressing care through the smallest gesture ; a kiss. Some campaigns use the day to promote healthy relationships, while others focus on romance, nostalgia or humor.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Red: The color of passion and romantic love
• Pink: Often used to symbolize sweetness, joy and affection
• White: Represents sincerity and pure emotion

Symbols

• Lips: A universal symbol of kissing, often shown in prints or emojis
• Hearts: Represent love and connection in all forms
• X marks: Commonly used to signify kisses in written form

Patterns

• Lip prints: Seen on cards, clothes and digital graphics
• Heart shapes: Used in decorations, filters and emoji-themed posts
• Cupid motifs: Referencing romance and playful love

Most used hashtags

• #nationalkissingday
• #kissingday
• #puckerup
• #kissandtell
• #sealedwithakiss

How do you celebrate National Kissing Day?

• Share a kiss: Whether with a partner, friend or pet, show your affection with a kiss
• Post a memory: Share an old photo or story that features a special kiss
• Join an online trend: Participate in social media challenges or create your own
• Watch a romantic movie: Enjoy a film with iconic kissing scenes and celebrate with popcorn and cuddles
• Send virtual kisses: If loved ones are far away, send a message or video full of digital affection

Why is National Kissing Day important?

This day reminds us of the emotional power behind one of the simplest human gestures. A kiss can be soft or silly, quiet or intense. It expresses care, desire, safety or joy. In a fast-paced world, National Kissing Day offers a moment to slow down and reconnect.

The kiss is more than tradition. It has real effects on stress, bonding and happiness. By celebrating it, people remember the value of physical closeness in their relationships. It is about presence, emotion and the little things that matter most.