​National Ding-A-Ling Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about ​National Ding-A-Ling Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. ​National Ding-A-Ling Day is observed on December 12th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of ​National Ding-A-Ling Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you should know about ​National Ding-A-Ling Day.

📅 What day is ​National Ding-A-Ling Day 2024?

In 2024, ​National Ding-A-Ling Day is on Tuesday, December 12th. It is the 2nd Tuesday in December; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the cool details and facts about December 12, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

In the United States, there is a unique holiday called National Ding-A-Ling Day. It’s a special day where you can reach out to friends or family members you may have lost touch with, preferably by phone (hence the playful reference to “ding-a-ling”). On this day, you’re also given permission to embrace your eccentric side and act a little out of the ordinary. National Ding-A-Ling Day typically falls on December 12, but you can think of it as a second Halloween.

📜 ​National Ding-A-Ling Day History

✅ ​National Ding-A-Ling Day Facts

🔖 ​They were ceremonial
In Hinduism and Buddhism, bells were used to call followers to participate in religious ceremonies.

🔖 ​They pealed during funerals
Saint Bede introduced the tradition of bell ringing at funerals in England.

🔖 ​They were flat in early Egypt
Bells were flattened and then hit with a metal gong during the worship of the god Osiris.

👍 Why Is ​National Ding-A-Ling Day Important

According to legend, the concept for National Ding-A-Ling Day arose from a group discussion about people being kinder and remaining connected with loved ones. The phrase “ding-a-ling” arose, which is defined as “one who hears bells in his head.” Millions of people were soon contacting contacts they hadn’t spoken to in a year on December 12 (or “ding-a-linging” because iPhones hadn’t yet been developed).

On National Ding-A-Ling Day, some people exhibit a more odd side of themselves (as if some people need a day to be crazy…just saying). Ding-A-Lings (not to be confused with “dingbats”) may be wearing strange headgear or walking backwards. You get the idea: National Ding-A-Ling Day is your one-day opportunity to be “special.”

The sound of bells is synonymous with National Ding-A-Ling Day. It could be the classic “old phone” sound on your phone, or it could be the sound of an incoming text message, or it could even be the actual sound of a bell. The primary premise is that bells warn us and remind us of critical tasks. Make that something this year: a phone call to someone you haven’t spoken to in a long time.

🙂 How To Observe ​National Ding-A-Ling Day

⚡ Ditch the text and call your family member or friend today.
Texting has become so common that it’s worth considering breaking the trend and calling someone instead. National Ding-A-Ling Day was created not only to honor our loved ones, but also to ensure that people don’t feel isolated. Additionally, hearing someone’s voice on the phone creates a stronger and more intimate connection than just texting.

⚡ Channel your inner ding-a-ling with music
The National Ding-A-Ling Festival is a day dedicated to celebrating music that features the word “ding-a-ling” in the title. One song that is highly recommended to be played during this festival is Chuck Berry’s 1972 version of “My Ding-a-Ling,” which reached the top spot on the Billboard charts. Although the song refers to a toy with silver bells on a string, its interpretation is up to the listener. Another song worth listening to is Bobby Rydell’s 1960 track called “Ding-a-Ling,” which was a popular hit at the time. Lastly, you should also check out ska singer Judge Dread’s unique island-inspired rendition of “My Ding-a-Ling.”

⚡ Put some money in a Salvation Army kettle
Let the sound of bells draw you towards the Salvation Army’s red kettle, where you can make a donation to support those in need. Since it’s the holiday season, remember to embrace the spirit of giving and contribute to a worthy cause.

📅 When is ​National Ding-A-Ling Day?

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