Transparency Note: We are writing this post... wait, we can't write backwards. But we can help you celebrate! This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy through them, I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love.
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(Just kidding. We won't make you read the whole post like that).
But this Saturday, January 31, is National Backwards Day.
It is the one day of the year where the rules of the universe don't apply. You can wear your shirt inside out, say "Goodbye" when you enter a room, and yes—you have official permission to eat dessert before dinner.
Manny (our resident penguin) is currently walking backwards and trying to wear his bow tie on his back. It’s chaotic, but it’s the kind of silly, low-stakes fun we all need at the end of January.
Here is how to turn your house upside down (metaphorically) this weekend.
Why We Celebrate: A Reverse History
This holiday was created in 1961 by Sarah Nicole Miller and Megan Scott, two friends who wanted to make arts and crafts more fun. They realized that doing things in reverse sparked creativity.
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Fun Fact: Leonardo da Vinci was the original king of "Backwards Day." He wrote all his notes in "Mirror Script" (backwards from right to left) so people couldn't steal his ideas. You had to hold them up to a mirror to read them!
The Big Why: We celebrate because routine is boring. Breaking the "rules" (like eating brownies for breakfast) creates instant core memories for kids.
3 Ways to Make Today Memorable
1. The "Uniform" (The Creative Activity)
To truly celebrate, you have to look the part.
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The Move: The "Backwards Fashion Show."
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The Tradition: Grab one of these Graphic Tees and put it on backwards.
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The Upgrade: To make it an activity, get these Fabric Markers on Amazon. Let the kids draw a "Face" or write their name on the back of an old t-shirt. When they wear it backwards, it looks like they have a face on the back of their head. It’s hilarious and keeps them busy for an hour.
2. The "Impossible" Game (The Viral Hit)
If you want to laugh until your stomach hurts, you need the game that broke the internet.
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The Move: Try to do simple tasks... upside down.
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The Amazon Find: The Upside Down Challenge Game. These goggles literally flip your vision upside down. Try to give a high-five, write your name, or pour water into a cup while wearing them.
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The Verdict: It is impossible and absolutely hysterical to watch Dad try to walk in a straight line. It turns a boring Saturday afternoon into a main event.
3. The "Dinner" Menu (The Food)
The rules of nutrition are suspended for 24 hours.
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The Move: Reverse the courses.
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The Menu: Start with Brownies. End with Salad (if you make it that far).
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The Gear: To make the "First Course" feel special, bake individual brownie bowls using this Brownie Bowl Pan. You can fill the "bowl" with ice cream.
The Perfect Gift for the "Uno" Lover
If you want a low-cost way to celebrate that fits in a pocket, grab the card game that celebrates the "Reverse."
Our Editors' Pick:
Why we love it: It’s like regular UNO, but the cards are double-sided. When you play the "Flip" card, the entire game turns over to the "Dark Side" where the penalties are harder. It fits the theme perfectly and is under $10.
Perfect for: The family that loves game night but is bored of the standard rules.
Join the Conversation
We have to know:
If you could do one thing in your life backwards (age in reverse? eat dinner first?), what would it be?
Tell us your reverse wish in the comments on Instagram or TikTok and tag us @OnManyOccasions!
Don't Miss the Next Celebration
February is knocking on the door! Do you know when Groundhog Day is? (It’s Monday!).
Download our Free 2026 Celebration Calendar and never miss a fun holiday again.
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