International Free Hugs Day is a heartwarming global initiative that aims to promote kindness and human connection. This day is celebrated every year on the first Saturday of July. International Free Hugs Day reminds us how big an impact small acts of love -like hugging, can make and brighten one’s day. International Free Hugs Day 2025 falls on Saturday, July 5. The Free Hugs Campaign is a social movement involving individuals who offer hugs to strangers in public places. The hugs are meant to be random acts of kindness, to make others feel better. International Free Hugs Day: 5 Health Benefits of Hugging.

International Free Hugs Day 2025 Date

International Free Hugs Day 2025 falls on Saturday, July 5.

International Free Hugs Day History

The Free Hugs campaign was started by Juan Mann on June 30, 2004, when he began giving out hugs in the Pitt Street Mall in central Sydney. In the months prior to this, Mann had been feeling depressed and lonely as a result of numerous personal difficulties. It is said that a random hug from a stranger made an enormous difference, with Mann stating that he felt like a king after a completely random person came up to him and gave him a hug.

It is said that Mann carried the now iconic "Free Hugs" sign from the outset but on his first attempt in his hometown, he had to wait fifteen minutes before an elderly lady came up to him and gave him a hug. This campaign gained popularity and eventually gave way to a gradual increase of people willing to be hugged. This movement gained worldwide popularity after a viral video by the band Sick Puppies captured the emotional impact of these spontaneous hugs, highlighting how even small gestures can uplift strangers.

International Free Hugs Day Significance

International Free Hugs Day celebrates kindness through the simple yet powerful act of giving hugs. This annual event encourages people to go out into public spaces and offer free hugs to those who are open to it. Hugging has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, release oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone’, and promote emotional well-being. The aim is not only to share warmth but also to remind others that they are seen, valued, and not alone.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 05, 2025 07:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).