Celebrating Sweetest Day
If you’re near your calendar, turn now to October 16, and pull out a brightly-colored pen. If the date’s not already marked, scribble in “Sweetest Day” along with a reminder to make tasty treats or buy fun trinkets for your loved ones.
If you don’t live in the Great Lakes region of the U.S., Sweetest Day is probably not a holiday you’re familiar with. The occasion is celebrated on the third Saturday of October, and the citizens of Cleveland, Detroit and Buffalo are the most active participants.
I don’t live near any of these cities, so I only recently learned about this holiday from my friend, Kristin, from Michigan. I love the idea of a “second” Valentine’s Day, especially one whose origins stem from a candy shop employee who wanted to spread “sweetness” and good cheer among less fortunate members of his community.
Kristin told me that her favorite thing about Sweetest Day is that everyone doesn’t feel obligated to celebrate it like Valentine’s Day. That way, when a significant other happens to surprise you with flowers or a romantic night out on this holiday, it really makes you feel special.
She also said that her favorite Sweetest Day gift was a stuffed bear that her dad gave her as a little girl. She has kept it over the years, and it’s still sitting on a shelf in her room. Kristin’s Sweetest Day bear makes her smile whenever she’s having a rough day.
This year, I think I’m going to make a few Sweetest Day cards for some good friends. I think it will be especially fun since most of them don’t yet know about the holiday.
Do people in your region or neighborhood celebrate any unique holidays or traditions? I’d love to hear about them; let me know in the comments!
-Lisa
Do you have a comment? We'd love to hear what you think!
Do you have a question that we haven’t answered yet in About SAM-e? If so, please Ask Us a Question.
Comment Policy
We value your comment. Please see our comment policy for more details on our guidelines for commenting.