National Kissing Day

Celebrated on 06/22/2026

Quick Fact

A kiss can burn up to 2-3 calories per minute and involves the coordination of 146 muscles. The longest recorded kiss lasted 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds, achieved by a Thai couple in 2013.

Origins and Establishment of National Kissing Day

National Kissing Day, also known as World Kiss Day or International Kissing Day, was first celebrated in the United Kingdom in 2006. It was initiated by the British government to encourage people to celebrate the simple act of kissing, which had been declining in public due to modern distractions. The day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2007, promoting the health benefits and emotional bonding associated with kissing.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Kissing Day has grown globally, with events ranging from kissing contests to charity fundraisers. In many countries, it is celebrated on July 6, though some regions observe it on different dates. Modern celebrations often include public kissing booths, social media campaigns, and educational events about the history and science of kissing. The day has also become a platform to discuss consent and respect in romantic gestures.

Facts & General Observations

• The average person will spend about 20,160 minutes (336 hours) kissing in their lifetime.
• Kissing reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing oxytocin, the "love hormone."
• A study found that 59% of men and 66% of women have ended a relationship due to a bad first kiss.

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