National Edge Day is a holiday that’s been observed since 1999 and is a holiday designed for people who are living a straight edge lifestyle. Straight edge lifestyles are characterized by avoiding the use of recreational drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. This lifestyle began as a reaction to the excesses of the punk subculture and has slowly but steadily gained support over the past few years. This holiday is observed on October 17th annually and is also known as 10/17 Day. For those people interested in observing this holiday and maybe starting their journey into the straight-edge lifestyle, they can begin by giving up alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.

The History Of National Edge Day

National Edge Day began in 1999. It started out as a straight edge event that was held in Boston and was known as Edge Fest. From those humble beginnings, it became a national holiday and it’s been celebrated ever since. The straight-edge movement took their name from the song “Straight Edge” by Minor Threat-the 80s hardcore punk band.

Some Interesting Facts About Straight Edge Culture

As we researched this holiday, we found out a lot about the straight-edge subculture and we wanted to share some of that information with our readers so they will have it for their straight-edge celebrations. Below are some of the things we’ve found out and would now like to share.

• Some straight-edge participants not only consider living this lifestyle a personal choice but also an ethical choice.
• Straight-edge isn’t just about abstaining from drugs and alcohol, it’s also about showing respect to your body. This includes healthy eating and exercising regularly.
• People living a straight-edge lifestyle also often try to reduce or eliminate their consumption of meat and/or animal products.
• Straight edge practitioners would often place an “X” on the back of their hand or on an article of clothing.
• It’s considered to be rude or insulting to offer drugs, tobacco, or alcohol to someone with an “X” on their hand.
• Straight edge is not only about abstinence but is also about the music.
• Some straight-edge participants won’t use prescription or over-the-counter drugs either.
• We recommend anyone living a straight-edge lifestyle continue to take medications prescribed to them by their doctors.

Observing National Edge Day

People who want to observe this holiday is by abstaining from tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs. Some people take it even further by not consuming caffeine, engaging in promiscuous sex, or eating meat, but not everyone is going to want to do that. Some people use this holiday to push themselves to their limits in other ways—such as mountain climbing, hiking, or engaging in other physical activities. It’s also a good day for people to expand their knowledge and enjoy music or culture.