Friday the 13th is upon us and with it comes a day of superstition and fear. But what is this day really all about? Is it really as bad luck as people make it out to be? Or is there something more to this day? Read on to find out!

History of Friday the 13th

The unlucky nature of the number "13" originated with a Norse myth about 12 gods having a dinner party at Valhalla, their heaven. Loki, the god of mischief, was not invited but crashed the party anyway and arranged for Höðr, the blind god, to shoot Baldr, the god of innocence and joy, with a mistletoe-tipped arrow. Baldr died and his death caused great mourning among all the gods. Thirteen became unlucky because it symbolized bad things happening to good people

For Christians, the roots of superstition can be found in the Bible. Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus Christ, was the 13th guest at the Last Supper. And on Good Friday, Jesus was crucified — some say at 3 p.m., which is considered an unlucky time

Whether you believe in the power of Friday the 13th or not, it's a day that has been steeped in superstition and fear for centuries. If you're feeling a little extra unlucky today, you're not alone! Just remember, it's only a day and it will be over before you know it.

Facts About Friday the 13th

Did you know that Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day in many cultures? Here are some fun facts about this infamous date:

• The number 13 has been considered unlucky for centuries. There are even buildings that don't have a 13th floor!

• One of the most famous examples of bad luck on Friday the 13th occurred in October of 1307 when hundreds of Knights Templar were arrested and tortured by King Philip IV of France.
• In some cultures, such as Italy, Friday the 17th is considered an unlucky day instead of Friday the 13th. This is because the number 17 can be rearranged to spell "VIXI", which means "I have lived" in Latin. This is interpreted as a death omen.
• One of the earliest references to Friday the 13th as an unlucky day can be found in H.S. Edward’s biography of Gioachino Rossini.
• There have been a number of theories proposed as to why 13 is considered an unlucky number, including the fact that there are 13 lunar cycles in a year and that there are 13 steps leading up to the gallows.
• Some airlines have been known to omit the 13th row from their planes out of superstition.
• There have even been a few studies conducted on the effects of Friday the 13th, with some finding that there is an increase in accidents and hospital admissions on this day.
• The word "triskaidekaphobia" (meaning the fear of the number 13) was actually coined in 1910 by Isador Coriat in Abnormal Psychology. While the fear of Friday the 13th is called “paraskavedekatriaphobia”.
• The movie Friday the 13th is one of the most successful movie franchises named after this infamous date. On July 13th, 1979, a group of counselors were murdered by an unknown assailant.  One year later, the murderer was revealed to be Jason Voorhees, and the movie franchise was born.

• The Thirteen Club of New York City was founded on Friday, October 13, 1881, by William Fowler. The club's purpose was to defy the superstition that thirteen is an unlucky number. Membership was limited to thirteen people – new members were initiated into the club by having a cake with thirteen candles placed on the table, while someone walked under a ladder and broke a mirror.

Things To Do On Friday the 13th

If you're superstitious, then you'll probably want to stay in bed on Friday the 13th. But if you're not afraid of a little bad luck, then there are plenty of fun things to do. Here are some ideas:

Make your own luck

If you're superstitious, then Friday the 13th might be a day that you're extra careful. But why not take the opportunity to make your own luck? Do something that makes you feel good, and forget about the unlucky vibes. Go for a walk in nature, treat yourself to a new book or article of clothing, or plan a fun night with your friends. Whatever you do, make sure it's something that makes YOU happy.

Adopt a black cat

Take this opportunity to adopt a black cat! They are often overlooked in shelters, and they make great companions. Besides, they might just bring you some good luck.

Watch a horror movie

What’s more appropriate for Friday the 13th than a horror movie marathon? Make some popcorn, invite some friends over, and settle in for a night of scares. Just don’t forget to keep the lights on…

Have a picnic in a graveyard

This one is for the truly adventurous. If you’re not superstitious, then a picnic in a graveyard might be the perfect way to spend Friday the 13th. Bring some food and drinks, and enjoy the peace and quiet of your surroundings. Just be respectful of the dead, of course.

Make a voodoo doll

If you’re feeling crafty, why not make your own voodoo doll? You can use it to curse your enemies or give them a little Pin the Tail on the Donkey-style revenge. Just don’t take it too seriously – it’s all in good fun.

Tell scary stories around a campfire

Gather some friends, some marshmallows, and plenty of firewood, and head out into the woods for a night of scary stories. This is the perfect activity for an evening. Make sure you have a way to light your fire and be careful not to wander off into the darkness.

Visit a haunted house

If you’re looking for a truly spine-tingling experience, then look no further than your local haunted house. These attractions are usually open year-round, but they’re especially popular around Halloween – and Friday the 13th. Be prepared for a few jump scares!

Make a good luck charm

Whether you believe in luck or not, there’s no harm in making your own good luck charm. Just find an object that has personal significance to you, and carry it with you on Friday the 13th. It might just bring you some extra good fortune.

Help others

One surefire way to bad luck is to ignore the needs of others. This Friday the 13th, make an effort to help someone in need. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter, or simply hold the door open for someone. It's the little things that can make a big difference.

Have fun!

At the end of the day, Friday the 13th is just another day. Don't let the superstitions and fears get to you. Instead, focus on the positive and enjoy your day. Do something that you love and make some great memories. Friday the 13th doesn't have to be unlucky – it can be whatever YOU make of it.

Conclusion

Friday the 13th can be really creepy and superstitious for some people, but it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of things you can do to make the most of the day, and even bring yourself some good luck. So go out and enjoy yourself, and don't let bad luck get to you!