January's quirky holidays celebrate cats, pancakes and car-free living
January brings a mix of quirky celebrations for both humans and pets. While some mark the month with food-themed days, others focus on playful interactions with their cats. Meanwhile, a long-standing environmental effort encourages drivers to leave their cars behind—at least for a single day each year.
The month kicks off on January 2 with Happy Mew Year, a lighthearted holiday created for cat owners. Later, on January 22, the U.S. observes National Answer Your Cat's Questions Day, where cat enthusiasts joke about responding to their pets' imagined queries—like 'No tuna today?' Both events were invented by a couple promoting dietary supplements.
Food lovers also get their share of fun. January 28 hosts two unusual observances: Daisy Day, dedicated to dandelions, and National Blueberry Pancake Day, a treat for breakfast fans. Book lovers, too, have their moment on the fourth Wednesday of January with National Library Shelfie Day, encouraging people to share photos of their bookshelves.
Beyond playful holidays, environmental efforts have a longer history. In 1973, Germany held four car-free days during the oil crisis to conserve fuel. Decades later, the EU declared September 22 as an annual Car-Free Day, urging drivers to try alternative transport for just one day. While many cities participate, no official count exists of countries adopting the initiative nationwide.
From whimsical pet holidays to serious sustainability drives, these observances offer a mix of fun and reflection. Some encourage small, personal moments—like chatting with a cat—while others push for broader change by reducing car use. Each event, in its own way, shapes how people engage with their communities and the environment.
