Significance of National Flip Flop Day
National Flip Flop Day is an exciting celebration dedicated to the ultimate symbol of comfort and casual style—the flip flop! While it’s typically observed annually on the third Friday of June, this year’s National Flip Flop Day will be held on the Wednesday after Memorial Day, May 31, 2023. National Flip Flop Day is a tribute to the iconic footwear that has become synonymous with relaxation, beach vacations, and warm summer days.
A Brief History of Flip Flops
Flip flops, also known as thongs or sandals, have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with variations of this style of footwear appearing in different cultures around the world.
Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, were known to wear similar open-toed shoes made from natural materials such as papyrus, leaves, and leather. These early versions of flip flops provided basic foot protection while allowing for breathability and ease of movement.
In Japan, traditional straw sandals called “zōri” were worn as early as the 8th century. Zōri were made from rice straw or other plant fibers and featured a distinctive thong design, similar to modern-day flip flops. Over time, different cultures across Asia adopted their own versions of this footwear.
The popularity of flip flops spread globally in the 20th century, particularly after World War II. American soldiers returning from the Pacific theater brought back Japanese zōri sandals, introducing them to a wider audience. The simple design, lightweight construction, and affordability of flip flops made them a hit among Americans, especially during the summer months and beach vacations.
Over time, flip flops evolved and became popular around the world. Crafted from a diverse range of natural and synthetic materials, these versatile footwear options now come in an extensive array of colors, patterns, textures, and designs. Modern flip flops not only offer style, but also include several enhanced features like arch support, cushioning or shock absorption, traction, and quick-dry functions. With these improvements, flip flops have become suitable for a wide range of occasions, providing both fashion and functionality.
Origin of National Flip Flop Day
In 2007, Tropical Smoothie Café, an American restaurant chain created the unofficial holiday called “National Flip Flop Day” to celebrate their 10th year anniversary. On that day, they started a special promotion of giving away free Jetty Punch Smoothies (made with bananas, strawberries, agave syrup, cashew milk, ice, and vanilla yogurt) to everyone who comes in to their stores wearing flip flops. In 2008, they partnered with Camp Sunshine, a retreat based in Casco, Main, offering respite, recreation and support programs for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. Since then, they have maintained the yearly tradition of giving away free smoothies to customers in flip flops and encouraging donations for a good cause. As of 2020, they have successfully donated more than 7.5 million USD to over 2,500 families at Camp Sunshine.
The Popularity of Flip Flops Today
Today, flip flops are immensely popular and have become a staple of casual footwear. They are favored for their stylish designs, durability, comfort, convenience, and versatility. Flip flops are not limited to beachwear but have also found their way into everyday fashion and various lifestyle activities.
Sales figures demonstrate the enduring popularity of flip flops. Data from Statista shows that flip flops market share is at 21 billion USD in 2022 and is projected to increase by 4% annually until 2025. The global demand for flip flops prove that this established footwear has stood the test of time and remains to be the go-to footwear for all generations.
In recent years, various organizations and brands have embraced the concept of National Flip Flop Day as an opportunity to promote the footwear and celebrate its carefree nature. The growing popularity and recognition of this unofficial holiday has prompted many consumers and flip flop enthusiasts to find fun and creative ways to commemorate this special day.
Fun Activities to Enjoy on National Flip Flop Day
1. Beach Day
Pack your beach bag, grab your flip flops, and head out to the nearest shoreline. National Flip Flop Day is the perfect occasion to soak up the sun, take a dip in the ocean, and enjoy various beach activities like building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or going for a leisurely walk along the coast. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can also go surfing, kayaking, jet skiing, and other watersports.
2. Arts and Crafts
National Flip Flop day is a good opportunity to get creative by embellishing or customizing your own flip flops with colorful paint, glitter beads, or ribbons. Flip flops serve as an excellent blank canvas for self-expression and creativity, allowing you to craft personalized designs with unique colors, patterns, and accessories. Strut around in your DIY flip flops and showcase your fabulous creations! You can also organize a friendly flip flop fashion show with friends and family. Encourage participants to craft their most stylish and unique pairs of flip flops.
3. Summer Party
Host a summer party at your backyard or private pool area. Decorate the venue with vibrant colors and floral designs for a tropical theme. Everyone should come in comfortable clothes and of course, their flip flops. Serve delicious food and refreshing drinks and cocktails. In the spirit of National Flip Flop Day, you can also organize limbo contests, dance competitions and hula hoop tournaments to make it more entertaining.
4. Nature Walk or Hike
Spend National Flip Flop Day by reconnecting with nature. Put on your trusty flip flops and embark on a nature walk or hike with friends and family to enjoy the great outdoors. Find a local trail, park, or nature reserve that offers scenic paths and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. Breathe in some fresh air, listen birds chirping, and admire the beauty of the flora and fauna along the way. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and take short breaks to capture memorable photos and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. You can also find a comfortable spot under a tree or by a serene lake to enjoy a picnic amidst nature.
5. Shopping Spree
Explore local shops to search the perfect pair of flip flops. Try on different styles, colors, and patterns to find the ones that reflect your personal style. More importantly, consider those that offer features such as added arch support and cushioning to provide the most comfort for your feet. Be on the lookout for any special promotions, discounts, or sales offered by stores specifically for this special occasion. Get a good deal on a new pair of flip flops and celebrate National Flip Flop Day in style!
Brands Offering Discounts on National Flip Flop Day
1. Havaianas
Renowned for their stylish and comfortable flip flops, Havaianas offers yearly promotions and discounts on National Flip Flop Day and Memorial Day. This year, they’re offering 20% off on select regular priced items and an additional 30% off on select sale items.
2. Reef
Reef is a well-established brand specializing in eco-friendly and sustainable flip flops. Similar to Havaianas, it also offers yearly promotions and discounts on National Flip Flop Day and Memorial Day. Visit their website to get 20% off on all items.
3. Old Navy
This popular clothing retailer is also known for its wide range of affordable flip flops. They hold an annual sale on the last week of May where you can get flip flips for only 1 USD. While this special offer is currently exclusive for membership cardholders only, Old Navy also offers sale items on June for non-cardholders.
4. Sand by Saya
Based in New York, this company makes signature sandals with vibrant tropical stone motifs. Get 30% off on flip flops from their website. This promotion lasts until June 30, 2023.
Take advantage of the discounts offered by these brands to expand your flip flop collection. Whether you prefer classic designs or more vibrant and unique styles, these brands offer a wide variety of options to suit your personal taste and provide the best fit and comfort for your feet.
Enjoy National Flip Flop Day in Style!
National Flip Flop Day is a celebration of the enduring popularity and carefree spirit of these comfortable, durable, and versatile shoes which have made their way from ancient civilizations to modern-day fashion, spanning across different cultures around the world. This unofficial holiday which began with free smoothies and a good cause has evolved into a global event, commemorating everyone’s favorite footwear. Embrace the spirit of summer by indulging in fun and creative activities in your flip flops such as hitting the beach, exploring nature, or going on a shopping spree. Expand your flip flop collection and enjoy a wide range of stylish and comfortable options from different brands offering good deals and promotions on this special occasion. So, slip into your flip flops, relax, and enjoy National Flip Flop Day in style!
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