National Sock Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Mar 01, 2022
Fact-checked by Mannat Sharma
National Sock Day recognizes the value of this must-have item in our closet.

Where is National Sock Day celebrated?

National Sock Day is celebrated in the USA and sometimes in other neighboring countries. Anyone around the world can create their own celebration on this national day!

Who celebrates National Sock Day?

National Sock Day is celebrated mainly by Americans. It is a fun holiday dedicated to a warm pair of socks, so people across the US and sometimes beyond are also observed to celebrate this day.

When did National Sock Day start?

National Sock Day began in 2016. This makes it a relatively new celebration, but one that is tons of fun nonetheless!

Who started National Sock Day?

The American basic apparel company Pair of Thieves coined this innovative National Sock Day idea.

History And Timeline

As much as we enjoy the warm feel of cotton and wool socks on our feet now, it wasn't always like this. The history of socks started when cave dwellers created socks out of animal skin to protect their feet from rocks and thorns.

So before shoes, technically, socks came into existence, giving more reasons to celebrate this fun day. But history has a few more additions to this day's prominence.

The toe-tapping history of socks saw two significant events. The first revival of the musical 'On Your Toes' ended on December 4. Being one of a kind musical, it garnered great love. Years later, another memorable musical journey came to an end on this day with the last concert of the famous country artists, The Judds.

Invention Of Socks

The first reported pair of socks were found in Ancient Greece.

Eighth Century

Invention Of The Knitting Machine

With the invention of the knitting machine, socks production started a simple production journey.

1589

Broadway Musical Ended

The famous Broadway musical 'On Your Toes' ended, inspiring a love for socks that National Sock Day now celebrates.

December 4, 1954

The Judds Last Concert

The American duo The Judds had their final performance on this day, further inspiring this event.

December 4, 1991

The Founding Of National Sock Day

National Sock Day was founded by the American basic apparel brand Pair Of Thieves.

2016

Traditions And Customs

The tradition surrounding this day doesn't require people to do anything unusual but explore all the ideas one can follow to wear and flaunt their pair of socks. For example, people wear socks of different colors, designs, and pairs to enjoy the day.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Sock Day

You can extend your appreciation to your favorite pair of socks by running them through a thorough wash. Create odd socks, knit them, buy them, or sport unmatched pairs with shoes to enjoy the day. Socks add a fun touch to your clothing choices, so don't fear going funky with your socks selection!

Facts And Stats

Socks protect around 250,000 sweat glands on the feet to prevent sweat odor.

Socks have been used since cave dwellers created them thousands of years ago.

The word 'Sock' comes from the Latin term 'Soccus,' meaning loose sandals worn by Roman actors.

Traditional etiquette guide has a sock color etiquette which requires the sock to carry the same color but is a shade lighter than the shoe and one darker than the trouser.

Why do we celebrate National Sock Day?

The day is observed to celebrate the unity of all matching sock pairs that stayed together through countless washes and wears. It is a truly unique day of the year!

Which countries celebrate National Sock Day?

The day is primarily celebrated in the United States of America but observing the same has led many nations to participate in the fun holiday worldwide.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Friday, December 04, 2020
  • Saturday, December 04, 2021
  • Sunday, December 04, 2022
  • Monday, December 04, 2023
  • Wednesday, December 04, 2024

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

See All

Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Mannat Sharma

Bachelor of Technology specializing in Computers and Communication

Mannat Sharma picture

Mannat SharmaBachelor of Technology specializing in Computers and Communication

As an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computers and Communication Engineering from Manipal University, Jaipur, Mannat is driven to take on challenges outside of her niche. She has previous experience as a senior marketing and sales associate as well as in branding.

Read full bio >