NATIONAL UMBRELLA DAY 
National
Umbrella Day casts a little shade on February 10th. The day honors one
of the world's most useful inventions, the umbrella!
Not only does the umbrella help keep us dry from the rain, but it also protects us from the heat of the sun. You can also use an umbrella as a fashion accessory. While the umbrella is primarily practical, they also decorate cocktails. These brightly colored paper umbrellas make fun party favors, especially when visiting sunny locations.
Umbrellas have also found their way into the art world. Their color and shape make sharp silhouettes. They also serve as the canvas for art. In movies, umbrellas play a role, too. For example, they played vital parts in Singing in the Rain in 1952 and Mary Poppins in 1964.
Interesting Umbrella TidBits:
The word umbrella comes from the Latin word umbra, meaning shade or shadow. Brolly is a slang word for umbrella, often used in Britain, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Bumbershoot is a fanciful Americanism for an umbrella from the late 19th century.
The basic umbrella was invented over four thousand years ago. There is evidence of umbrellas in the ancient art and artifacts of Egypt, Assyria, Greece, and China.
We can credit the Chinese for being the first to protect us from the rain. Their paper parasols received a layer of wax followed by lacquer that made the umbrella withstand the elements.
One of the first umbrella shops opened in 1830 at 53 New Oxford Street in London, England. The shop, operated by James Smith and Sons, still operates regular hours at the same location today.
In 1928, Hans Haupt's pocket umbrellas appeared. Then, in 1969, Bradford E. Phillips, the owner of Totes Incorporated of Loveland, Ohio, obtained a patent for the first "working folding umbrella."
Umbrellas have also been fashioned into hats as early as 1880 and as recently as 1987.
Photographers use umbrellas with a reflective inside as a diffusion device when employing artificial lighting and as a glare shield and shade, most often in portrait situations.
How to Observe National Umbrella Day
- Spring for a new umbrella and prepare for rainy days ahead.
- Use an umbrella on a sunny day.
- Have an umbrella photoshoot modeling your favorite rain gear and umbrella.
- Order a drink that comes with a paper umbrella.
- Watch movies with iconic umbrella scenes such as Singing in the Rain and Mary Poppins.
National Umbrella Day History
While the origins of the utilitarian holiday remain a mystery, the world has been celebrating it since at least 2004. However, another celebration on the calendar promotes opening umbrellas indoors. The entire month of March recognizes the umbrella, too!
Umbrella FAQ
Q. Is it bad luck to open an umbrella indoors?
A. There is a superstition surrounding
the act of opening an umbrella indoors. Whether it's true or not may
depend on many variables. However, opening an umbrella indoors can be
awkward, especially if it's a tight space or crowded.
Q. Can umbrellas be used in any weather?
A. While we use umbrellas in the rain or sunshine, the wind tends to be
the umbrella's nemesis. Windy days turn umbrellas inside out and can
make them ineffective at keeping out the rain.
Q. Can anyone celebrate National Umbrella Day?
A. Yes. Even if you don't need an umbrella to protect you against the elements, you can celebrate the umbrella in other ways.
Also
Cream Cheese Brownie Day
Clean Out Your Computer Day
Home Warranty Day
Football Hangover Day
Today's Thought
Actions is the foundational key to all success. ~ Pablo Picasso
38 Days Until Spring
In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours. ~ Mark Twain
