National Flip Flop Day

National Flip Flop Day History

National Flip Flop Day is designed to kick off the summer season and to embrace the casual, laid-back vibe often associated with wearing flip flops. This event showcases the iconic summer footwear, encouraging everyone to don their favorite pair and partake in fun, beach-themed activities.

The inception of National Flip Flop Day was in 2007 by Tropical Smoothie Cafe, a fast-casual cafe concept specializing in sandwiches, flatbreads, wraps, and smoothies. The special day was established as a rewarding gesture for customers, and over time, it became a nationwide fundraising opportunity to support Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The cafe offers a free smoothie for each customer wearing flip flops, and in return, encourages donations to fund these children’s camp experiences.

National Flip Flop Day is synonymous with warm weather, colorful footwear, and the commencement of a blissful summer, all while providing a means to support a benevolent cause. The take-home message is not only about embracing the footloose spirit but also about celebrating the power of giving. National Flip Flop Day falls on the third Friday in June each year.

National Flip Flop Day facts

• It is believed that flip-flops were first used around 4,000 B.C based on Ancient Egyptian murals.
• According to historydaily.org, flip-flops became popular in the US when soldiers came home from World War II with Japanese zori (Japanese straw sandals). By the 1950s, they had become quite popular and had started to be mass-produced throughout the US.
• According to Grand View Research, the global flip flop market value is expected to reach $23.8 billion by 2025

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Top things to do for National Flip Flop Day

• Wear your flip-flops. If you don't own a pair, today is the perfect day to find someone that fit you.
• Take a trip to the beach. Flip-flops are perfect casualwear for the beach. Some would say they're an iconic piece of footwear made for the sandy coasts.
• Visit a Tropical Smoothie Café near you. Be sure to wear your flip-flops so you can get a free smoothie.