Hurray for Buttons Day is celebrated every year on May 9. This quirky holiday honors the humble button—a small yet essential item that fastens our clothes, decorates our crafts, and even sparks joy among collectors. It’s a day to appreciate both the function and charm of buttons, whether they’re holding your shirt together or tucked away in a colorful jar.

History of Hurray for Buttons Day

Buttons have been around for thousands of years. The earliest known button, dating back to around 5000 BCE, was discovered in the Indus Valley and made from a curved shell. Initially, buttons served decorative purposes or acted as seals. It wasn’t until the 13th century in Germany that buttons began to be used as fasteners, a practice that quickly spread across Europe.

In 1938, the National Button Society was established in the United States following a hobby show in Chicago organized by Hobbies magazine. This society brought together button enthusiasts and collectors, promoting the study and appreciation of buttons. Today, the society boasts over 3,000 members across four continents, all dedicated to the educational research, exhibition, and preservation of buttons.

Why is Hurray for Buttons Day important?

At first glance, buttons might seem insignificant, but they play a crucial role in our daily lives. They keep our clothes secure, add flair to our outfits, and serve as tiny canvases for artistic expression. Beyond their practical uses, buttons carry sentimental value—think of the spare buttons in your grandmother’s sewing kit or the unique buttons on a cherished coat.

Celebrating Hurray for Buttons Day encourages us to slow down and appreciate the small details that often go unnoticed. It’s a reminder that even the simplest objects can have rich histories and bring joy. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone who just enjoys a well-made button, this day offers a chance to connect with a community that values craftsmanship and tradition.

They hold our clothes together, quite literally.
They come in endless designs, reflecting different cultures and eras.
They can be repurposed into art, jewelry, and decorations.
They evoke memories of loved ones and past times.
They represent a blend of functionality and creativity.

How to Celebrate Hurray for Buttons Day

Celebrating Hurray for Buttons Day can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Start by wearing your favorite buttoned-up outfit or rummaging through your sewing kit to admire the variety of buttons you’ve collected over the years. If you’re feeling crafty, consider creating button art—glue them onto a canvas to form patterns or pictures, or string them together to make unique jewelry.

For those interested in history, explore online collections from museums like the Victoria & Albert Museum or the Smithsonian, which showcase buttons from different periods and cultures. If you’re near a local button show or museum, such as the Waterbury Button Museum in Connecticut, take the opportunity to visit and learn more. Sharing your button creations or collections on social media with the hashtag #HurrayForButtonsDay can also connect you with fellow enthusiasts.

Wear clothing that features your favorite buttons.
Create art or crafts using spare buttons.
Explore online museum collections of historical buttons.
Visit a local button show or museum.
Share your button stories or creations on social media.