Shades Day is a holiday observed annually in the United Kingdom. This day is observed on the closest Friday to the International Day of the Family, which falls on the 15th of May. It’s a day that encourages people to put on their sunglasses and perhaps spend some time with friends and family, having fun in the sun.

It was created as a day to help struggling UK families enjoy a much-needed break away from home — something they desperately need. Of course, just because this holiday is observed in the UK doesn’t mean it isn’t also celebrated in other countries by people looking for an excuse to wear a nice pair of sunglasses.

The History of Shades Day

Shades Day is a holiday created by the Family Holiday Association (FHA) in the United Kingdom. The FHA is a charity that provides free day trips and seaside breaks to families who have been struggling with various challenges, including mental health issues, domestic violence, illness, or grief. Families facing any of these challenges are referred to the FHA by other charities, social workers, and teachers.

Observing Shades Day

Regardless of where a person lives, they can take the time to celebrate Shades Day. People can put on a pair of sunglasses and take their family out to a beach, park, or some other outdoor attraction.

Even a walk through a botanical garden is a great way to observe this holiday. Another thing people can do is to put on a pair of sunglasses and take a picture. That picture can then be posted to social media using the hashtag #ShadesDay.

There is one final way for people to celebrate this holiday, and that’s by giving to the Family Holiday Association. It’s estimated that 2.2 million families with dependent children in the UK are unable to afford a one-week holiday. A donation to this organization will allow them to help more of these families get a break from their daily lives that other families get to enjoy.