National Be a Dork Day

For those who have felt like an outsider or like they just don’t fit in, National Be a Dork Day is the ideal time to embrace that inner dork and enjoy a day when everyone can be a dork!

History of National Be a Dork Day

Outcasts have probably been around since humans began living in society. But the idea of a “dork” has only been around since the 1960s. The term typically refers to someone who is socially awkward, with synonyms like “nerd” and “geek”.

During the 1980s and 1990s, dorks were depicted on American television as ridiculous and, honestly, rather unrealistic caricatures of people. The over-the-top character “Urkel” from the show Family Matters makes his debut in 1989. That same year brings about the annoying but also beloved dorky character “Screech” on the teen show Saved by the Bell.

Although the term “dork” was originally meant to be derogatory and referred to social rejects, it has progressed and has turned into something that certain people have become very proud of. It may distinguish someone as unique or even smart, particularly in the world of technology. In fact, in recent years the term has been embraced by many famous people such as Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg.

The Dork Diaries is a series of books that began in 2009 and has continued through many years. The books are meant for children aged 8 and older, telling the story of a young girl who is a self-proclaimed dork, giving child readers permission to be themselves.

Founded by Ruth and Thomas Roy of Wellcat, National Be a Dork Day is a tongue-in-cheek celebration that embraces the idea that everyone in the world is unique and different. Embrace the dork in yourself and others in honor of National Be a Dork Day!

How to Celebrate National Be a Dork Day

Enjoy paying heed to National Be a Dork Day by implementing some of these fun and silly ideas:

Dress Like a Dork

Even for those who have to to work for this day, dressing like a dork for National Be a Dork Day can be fun! Channel that inner Urkel by wearing mismatched clothing, donning a pocket protector, or putting some tape on the bridge of those glasses. 

Throw a National Be a Dork Day Party

Gather all of those Dorky friends and enjoy a National Be a Dork Day party! Dress up in dorky clothing, have conversations about dorky subjects and simply be silly and dorky.

For entertainment at a National Be a Dork Day party, watch a ridiculous movie about dorks, like The Secret Lives of Dorks (2013) or Night of the Living Dorks (2004).

Watch a Show with Dorks

In honor of National Be a Dork Day, get started watching one of these television shows that features dorks, geeks and nerds:

• The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019). A group of adorable scientists stumble through life and love together. 
• Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000) A short series with an iconic cast, starring James Franco, Linda Cardellini, Seth Rogan and Martin Starr. 
• Arrested Development (2003-2019). Perhaps more about family dysfunction, this show portrays a number of utter dorks–whether they know it or not.