National Get Gnarly Day

Celebrated on 07/31/2026

Quick Fact

National Get Gnarly Day, celebrated on June 9th, encourages people to embrace adventure and push their limits, inspired by the surfing term 'gnarly' meaning extreme or dangerous. The holiday was founded in 2020 by a group of outdoor enthusiasts who wanted a day to celebrate adrenaline-fueled activities like surfing, skateboarding, and mountain biking.

Origins and Establishment of National Get Gnarly Day National Get Gnarly Day was established in 2020 by a collective of extreme sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventure companies, including the American Adventure Sports Association. The date June 9th was chosen to kick off the summer season, a time when outdoor adventures are most accessible. The holiday's name derives from the surfing slang 'gnarly,' which describes waves that are particularly challenging or dangerous, and was popularized in the 1980s by surf culture.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration Since its inception, National Get Gnarly Day has grown beyond extreme sports to include any activity that involves stepping out of one's comfort zone, such as hiking, rock climbing, or even trying a new recipe. Social media campaigns using #GetGnarlyDay encourage participants to share their adventures. In 2023, over 50,000 people participated in organized events across the United States, including charity runs and skateboarding competitions.

Facts & General Observations - A 2022 survey found that 68% of participants reported increased confidence after trying a new extreme sport on National Get Gnarly Day. - The holiday has been endorsed by several professional skateboarders and surfers, including Tony Hawk and Kelly Slater. - In 2021, a record 1,200 people simultaneously surfed at Huntington Beach, California, to celebrate the day.

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