National Regifting Day

National Regifting Day, observed on December 18, offers a cheerful reminder that a thoughtful gift does not have to go unused. The day celebrates the practice of passing along a new, unwanted present to someone who will genuinely appreciate it—turning an overlooked item into a meaningful gesture.

Regifting can be a practical and considerate choice, especially during the holiday season. The key is to give with care: make sure the item is in excellent condition, remove any original gift tags or notes, and choose a recipient who will truly enjoy it. On December 18, take a fresh look at your gifts and share a little joy by giving something special a better-matched home.

National Regifting Day is observed on December 18 as an unofficial occasion devoted to the practice of giving a previously received gift to someone else. Its history is not tied to a formal proclamation or a single, well-documented founder. Instead, the observance appears to have developed as part of the broader growth of themed “national days” promoted through calendars, websites, and social media. The date falls shortly before Christmas in the United States, when many people are sorting presents, reviewing household belongings, and considering practical ways to handle unwanted or duplicate gifts.

The practice of regifting itself predates the observance by centuries. Across many cultures, gifts have traditionally circulated beyond their original recipient, particularly when an item was useful, valuable, or better suited to another person. In modern English-speaking culture, however, “regifting” became a familiar term during the late 20th century. The word gained widespread attention through humor, etiquette discussions, advertising, and popular entertainment, which often portrayed regifting as socially awkward or dishonest. Over time, public attitudes became more nuanced, especially as people increasingly emphasized usefulness, sustainability, and freedom from unnecessary consumption.

National Regifting Day helped recast the idea in a more positive and practical way. Rather than treating every unwanted gift as something to hide, the observance encourages people to consider whether an unused item could bring greater pleasure to someone else. It can also draw attention to waste reduction: passing along a suitable gift may prevent an item from sitting unused or being discarded. At the same time, thoughtful regifting requires consideration. A giver should ensure that the item is clean, complete, and appropriate, and should avoid returning a gift to the person who originally gave it or passing along something clearly personalized.

Culturally, the observance reflects changing ideas about generosity and ownership. It suggests that the value of a present may lie less in its original purchaser or occasion than in whether it is meaningful and useful to its recipient. Observed on December 18, National Regifting Day therefore combines holiday humor with practical etiquette and environmental awareness. Although it remains an informal observance rather than a legally recognized holiday, its continuing appeal comes from addressing a common experience in a lighthearted way while encouraging more thoughtful consumption and gift-giving.