We made it through 2022, a roller coaster of a year. Hopefully the ride slows down for all of us in 2023.
We are easing into the new year with our families by marking these 10 events and holidays happening in January. We hope some of them give your family reason to celebrate and laugh together too, while others inspire you, and also give room for thoughtful family discussions on things like: How can YOU make a positive difference in our world in 2023?
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1. New Year's Day
We are ringing in 2023 with feelings of gratitude, along with hope for a brighter year ahead. Check out our local calendar for some family friendly New Year's Eve events in the area. Jan. 1
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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
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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
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4. Kid Inventors' Day
What do televisions, 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
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5. Ditch Your Resolutions Day
This is one day we're planning on NOT taking part in! Jan. 17
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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. Check out the weeklong celebrations in the community of Stratham and at Wiggins Memorial Library. Jan. 16
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7. Popcorn Day
We're popping with excitement for Popcorn Day! Check out our list of yummy popcorn seasonings and mix-ins! Or for some convenient flavored popcorn and premade seasonings, head over to Popzup in Dover. Jan. 19
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8. 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
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9. International Holocaust Remembrance Day
On this annual day of commemoration, the United Nations urges all to honor the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and millions of other victims of Nazism. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum offers excellent resources on learning more. Jan. 27
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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! If you are looking for some new puzzles or board games, check out Diversions Puzzles and Games with store locations in Portsmouth and Somersworth. Jan. 29
