National Do a Grouch a Favor Day (February 16)
National Do a Grouch a Favor Day on February 16 is all about showing a little extra patience and kindness to the grumpy people in your life.
We all have off days, and this holiday is a lighthearted reminder that small gestures can genuinely shift someone’s mood.
Whether it’s a coworker who needs coffee or a family member who just needs to vent, today is about meeting crankiness with compassion.
It’s one of those weird February holidays that actually feels pretty useful.
When is the Holiday?
It’s celebrated every year on February 16th. It falls right in the middle of winter, when cabin fever and low energy can make even the nicest people a little short-tempered.
Who Invented It?
There’s no official founder tied to this holiday.
It likely grew out of the broader random acts of kindness movement, which encourages everyday compassion without expecting anything in return.
History of the Holiday
While its origins aren’t well documented, the idea behind the day taps into something universal.
Everyone has grouchy moments, and this holiday reframes them as opportunities for empathy instead of frustration.
Social media helped spread awareness, with people sharing small favors they did for coworkers, friends, and family members.
Over time, it’s become a playful reminder that kindness doesn’t have to wait for a special reason.
Top Facts About the Holiday
- The holiday is often linked to famous grumpy characters from books and TV.
- Schools use it to teach empathy and emotional awareness.
- Many workplaces turn it into a team kindness challenge.
- Simple gestures tend to have the biggest impact.
- It promotes emotional intelligence and patience.
Coloring Page
This printable coloring page shows a grouchy character being surprised with a gift, making it a great way for kids to explore kindness and empathy.
Activities to Celebrate
- Surprise them with their favorite drink or snack – Whether it’s a coffee, smoothie, or chocolate bar, a small treat shows you noticed what they like.
- Leave a handwritten note – Slip an encouraging message into their bag, lunchbox, or workspace to give them an unexpected boost.
- Take something off their plate – Help with an errand, finish a chore they’ve been dreading, or offer to proofread an email they’re stressed about.
- Make them laugh – Send a funny video, meme, or inside joke that fits their sense of humor and lightens the mood.
- Listen without fixing – Sometimes people just want to vent. Give them your full attention without jumping in with solutions.
- Plan a mini break together – Suggest a short walk, quick game, or five-minute reset to change their headspace.
- Get kids involved – Have children draw pictures or write kind notes to give to someone who needs cheering up.
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Links to Resources
Motivational kindness cards – Small, thoughtful messages you can hand out or leave anonymously to brighten someone’s day.
Sesame Street’s Oscar the Grouch – A kid-friendly way to talk about emotions and kindness through a familiar character.
Grouch Couch board game – Players work together to clean up and surprise a grumpy character with acts of kindness.
How to Be a Grouch (book) – A humorous read that opens up conversations about feelings and empathy.
Related Holidays
- Random Acts of Kindness Day (February 17th) – Focuses on spreading kindness in everyday situations.
- International Be Kind to Lawyers Day (Second Tuesday in April) – A playful reminder to appreciate unexpected people.
- National Be Humble Day (February 22) – Encourages quiet kindness without seeking attention.
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