National Kilig Day

Young couple holding hands, walking on a beach, wearing matching outfits in trendy street fashion.. — National kilig day illustration

Are you feeling the love in the air? Well, get ready to celebrate National Kilig Day!

When is Kilig Day?

It's national kilig day on the 19th August.

The Origins of National Kilig Day

Love is a wonderful thing, and the Filipino culture has a special word to describe that giddy feeling you get when you're overwhelmed with romantic joy – kilig. This delightful sensation has become so popular that it deserves a special day of celebration. And so, on August 19, National Kilig Day was born!

But where did this delightful word come from? Kilig is actually a Filipino term that has no direct translation in English. It refers to the exhilarating feeling of butterflies in your stomach, blushing cheeks, and an uncontrollable smile when you're in the presence of your crush or loved one. It's the warm fuzzies and the fluttery heart that come with being head over heels.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate all things kilig on this special day!

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Kilig Day

1. Surprise your loved one with a heartfelt love letter or a thoughtful gift. Let them know just how kilig they make you feel!

2. Share your fondest and most kilig-worthy moments with your friends and loved ones on social media using the hashtag #NationalKiligDay. Spread the love and make others feel kilig too!

3. Plan a romantic date night with your significant other. Whether it's a candlelit dinner or a cozy movie night at home, create an atmosphere that's bursting with kilig.

4. Have a kilig movie marathon. Watch all your favorite romantic films and indulge in the kilig factor. Don't forget the popcorn and tissues!

5. Spread random acts of kindness. It's not just about romantic kilig – it's also about sharing love and kindness with everyone around you. Buy someone a coffee, compliment a stranger, or simply smile at someone who looks like they need it.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the term kilig was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016? That's right – kilig gained international recognition as a word that perfectly captures the feeling of romantic excitement!

History behind the term 'Kilig'

1980

The Emergence of 'Kilig'

In the 1980s, the term 'kilig' emerged in Filipino culture. Derived from the Tagalog word, 'kilig' refers to the exhilarating and overwhelming feeling of joy or excitement, often associated with romantic or sentimental experiences. This term gained popularity among Filipinos and became deeply embedded in their cultural vocabulary.

1990

Mainstream Recognition

During the 1990s, 'kilig' gained mainstream recognition in the Philippines. It became a commonly used term in various forms of media, such as movies, television shows, and literature. The portrayal of 'kilig' moments, where characters experience butterflies in their stomachs or giddy emotions, became a staple in Filipino romantic narratives.

2000

Internet and Social Media Influence

With the advent of the internet and the widespread use of social media platforms in the early 2000s, the term 'kilig' found a new platform for expression. People started sharing 'kilig' moments online, effectively spreading the concept beyond the confines of traditional media. Memes, hashtags, and viral content centered around 'kilig' emerged, further solidifying its place in Filipino pop culture.

2010

International Recognition

In the 2010s, 'kilig' began to transcend borders and gained international recognition. As Filipino entertainment, particularly teleseryes (Filipino soap operas), gained popularity in other Southeast Asian countries and even among Filipino diaspora communities worldwide, the term 'kilig' became more widely understood and embraced. It became a unique and distinct expression of the Filipino romantic sensibility.

Present

Permeating Popular Culture

Today, 'kilig' has become an integral part of Filipino popular culture and a defining aspect of Filipino romantic relationships. The term is not only used to describe the excitement and happiness experienced in romantic situations, but it has also evolved to encompass the warm and fuzzy feeling derived from different sources, such as cute moments, surprises, or even achievements. 'Kilig' continues to resonate with Filipinos, serving as a constant reminder of the power of love and happiness in their lives.