World Hello Day

World Hello Day History

World Hello Day is an international observance that promotes the importance of personal communication for fostering peace and understanding between people from different backgrounds. On this day, participants are encouraged to express a simple " Hello " greeting to at least ten people, be they friends, family, colleagues, or even complete strangers. This straightforward act of communication can help break down barriers between cultures, communities, and countries.

World Hello Day was founded by American brothers Brian and Michael McCormack in 1973 to respond to the Yom Kippur War between Israel and Egypt. Though its history is rooted in global conflict, the observance has since evolved into an inclusive event that welcomes the contributions of people from any country, including the United Kingdom. For the British population, World Hello Day is a reminder that even small acts of kindness and communication can contribute to a more peaceful, interconnected world.

World Hello Day is typically celebrated in the United Kingdom on November 21st. While there may not be any large-scale events or formal ceremonies tied to the occasion, individuals are still urged to participate in this global effort through their own personal initiatives. The British population is encouraged to share greetings, extending a spirit of friendship and camaraderie that transcends borders and cultural differences. By embracing the simple yet powerful message of World Hello Day, people across the UK are joining hands with millions of others worldwide to foster peace and understanding through the universal language of communication.

World Hello Day facts

• The McCormack brothers mailed over 1300 letters to government leaders around the world to encourage participation in the first World Hello Day in 1973. Since then, 180 countries have observed the day.
• The first use of 'hello' in print was observed in 1826 in an edition of the Norwich Courier in Norwich, Connecticut.
• According to Merriam-Webster, the use of 'hello' as a telephone greeting is attributed to Thomas Edison. In 1877, Edison wrote to the president of the Central District and Printing Telegraph company of Pittsburgh explaining that hello would serve as a good greeting.
• A standard greeting in a formal or professional setting is a handshake. It is polite to give a firm but not too strong handshake, accompanied by eye contact and a smile.
• In informal settings or when greeting someone familiar, a simple wave, smile, or nod can suffice.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Hello Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Hello Day

• Learn to say hello in another language. There are hundreds of different languages, why not learn a few phrases from one that interests you?
• Communicate with someone you've lost touch with. An argument may have led to things falling out or perhaps time has just gone by. This could be a chance to reconnect.
• Volunteer at local community organizations or charities that promote cultural exchange, understanding, and peace.
• Try out different international cuisine at restaurants or food markets to experience diverse cultures through food.