National Alien Abduction Day (March 20)

Every year on March 20th, a peculiar holiday captures the imagination of sci-fi enthusiasts and conspiracy theorists alike—National Alien Abduction Day.
This unofficial observance invites people to explore the mysterious realm of extraterrestrial encounters, whether through storytelling, discussions, or playful activities.
While some view the holiday as a lighthearted nod to science fiction, others see it as an opportunity to delve into the unexplained phenomena of UFO sightings and alleged abductions.
Regardless of one’s perspective, this is one of the most unusual holidays in March sparking curiosity about the possibility of life beyond Earth.
When is the Holiday?
It is observed annually on March 20th. This quirky holiday invites enthusiasts to explore the mysterious world of extraterrestrial encounters, whether for fun, curiosity, or skepticism.
Who Invented It?
The origins of the holiday remain somewhat mysterious. While no single person or group has claimed credit for its creation, it likely emerged from the growing fascination with UFOs and alien encounters in popular culture.
Science fiction, conspiracy theories, and alleged abduction experiences have contributed to the day’s appeal.
The History of the Holiday
The holiday gained traction in the late 20th century, coinciding with increased public interest in UFO sightings and extraterrestrial phenomena.
The choice of March 20th may be linked to the spring equinox, a time historically associated with renewal and celestial events.
The idea of alien abduction has existed for centuries, with early stories of otherworldly encounters appearing in folklore and mythology.
However, the modern concept of alien abductions gained widespread attention in the 1960s, largely due to the famous case of Betty and Barney Hill, a couple who claimed to have been abducted by extraterrestrials.
This, along with subsequent reports and media portrayals, fueled the growing fascination with alien abductions.
By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, UFO conventions and sci-fi communities began recognizing March 20th as a day to celebrate the mystery and intrigue surrounding alien encounters.
Today, while not officially recognized, National Alien Abduction Day is observed by enthusiasts through discussions, documentaries, and themed events.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- The concept of alien abduction predates modern UFO sightings. Ancient civilizations, including the Sumerians and Egyptians, documented tales of celestial beings visiting Earth.
- The Betty and Barney Hill case in 1961 was one of the first widely publicized alien abduction stories. Their account involved missing time, hypnosis-recovered memories, and descriptions of humanoid aliens.
- March 20th was chosen due to its connection to the spring equinox. This time of year has long been associated with astronomical events and cosmic mysteries.
- Several UFO-related festivals coincide with the holiday. Cities across the U.S. host events celebrating alien encounters, including Roswell, New Mexico, and McMinnville, Oregon.
- Psychologists study alien abduction claims for insights into human perception and memory. Some researchers attribute these experiences to sleep paralysis, hypnosis, or psychological conditions rather than actual extraterrestrial encounters.
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Activities to Celebrate
- Host a UFO-themed movie marathon featuring classics like Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The X-Files, or The Fourth Kind.
- Create an alien-themed craft station where kids and adults can make their own alien headband, UFOs, or glow-in-the-dark alien figures.
- Read famous alien abduction stories and discuss their cultural and scientific impact.
- Set up a telescope or visit an observatory to stargaze and discuss the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
- Join an online discussion or UFO forum to share theories and learn about new developments in UFO research.
- Host an alien costume party and encourage guests to dress as their favorite extraterrestrial beings.
- Write and share creative stories about imagined alien encounters.
- Make space-themed sensory activities like space playdough mats.
Related Recipes for the Holiday
- Alien Cupcakes – Decorate cupcakes with green frosting, candy eyes, and edible glitter to give them an extraterrestrial glow.
- Martian Smoothie – Blend green fruits like kiwi, spinach, and grapes for a cosmic, nutrient-packed drink.
- Galaxy Popcorn – Drizzle melted colored chocolate over popcorn to create a cosmic swirl effect.
- Alien Sugar Cookies – Use cookie cutters shaped like aliens and decorate with bright icing.
Links to Resources
- How to Draw a Spaceship. A step-by-step guide to sketching your own intergalactic spaceship.
- Aliens Love Underpants Story Spoons. A fun storytelling craft inspired by the beloved children’s book.
- Paper plate flying saucer craft. A simple and engaging craft activity perfect for young space explorers.
- Top 50 Alien Abductions and UFO Sightings (Aliens, UFOs, and Cryptids: Unraveling the Unknown). A compilation of famous alien abduction cases and UFO sightings.
- The Abduction of Betty & Barney Hill – The Full Story | Documentary. A deep dive into one of the most well-documented alien abduction cases.
- National UFO Reporting Center. A database of UFO sighting reports from across the globe.
- All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO). The U.S. government’s official site for investigating unidentified aerial phenomena.
Related Holidays
- Science Fiction Day (January 2)
- World UFO Day (July 2)
- Space Exploration Day (July 20)
- Pluto Demoted Day (August 24)
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