January brings with it all the promises and hopes of the new year. There are plenty of holidays other than New Year's happening this month too -- some of which you've heard of, and some that are likely new to you.
We've rounded up 10 special (and some just silly!) holidays and events that your family will want to celebrate this month:
1. Polar Bear Plunge Day
What better way to start off the new year than a chilly plunge? Find a polar bear plunge near you -- some are even fundraisers for charitable organizations. Jan. 1
Editor's Note: Here's a local polar bear plunge at Oak Mountain State Park
2. Cuddle Up Day
Baby, it's cold outside. Put on your pajamas, throw on a movie, grab a favorite blanket and cuddle up with your whole family to celebrate. Jan. 6
3. Dress Up Your Pet Day
Dress up your dog, goat, guinea pig, or cat. Pets aren't cooperative? Paint your kids' faces as their favorite animal. Jan. 14
4. Kid Inventors' Day
What do television, water skis, and earmuffs have in common? They were all invented by kids! More than 500,000 children and teens invent gadgets and games each year. Held each year on Benjamin Franklin's birthday (he invented the first swim flippers at age 12). Jan. 17
5. Ditch Your Resolutions Day
If you haven't already, it's time to give up on your New Year's resolutions. What? You're still at it? Good on you! Jan. 17
6. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Celebrate the life of the great leader of the Civil Rights movement by doing something to effect positive change in your community today. Jan. 21
Editor's Note: Great event going on at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute on MLK Day
7. National Hugging Day
Kevin Zaborney invented this holiday in 1986 to encourage family and friends to hug more often. There are many actual health benefits to hugging, including that it releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness. Jan. 21
8. Belly Laugh Day
Yes, this is really a "holiday." Celebrate by telling your kids jokes until they howl with laughter. Jan. 24
9. World Breast Pumping Day
Get pumped for World Breast Pumping Day! Perhaps the newest holiday on our list, World Breast Pumping Day first came into existence just last year. Celebrate mamas who pump by telling them their commitment is amazing! Jan. 27
10. National Puzzle Day
Gather the family 'round and work on a puzzle on National Puzzle Day. Doing puzzles together makes for great family time! Jan. 29
