Dyngus Day & Other Daffy Holidays

The month of April has many daffy holidays. Whether you prefer to write romance or action, mysteries or thrillers, fantasy or science fiction, I'm sure you can find at least one that will inspire you.

Who will you hose down with water on Dyngus Day? Do you have an antique to cherish on National Cherish an Antique Day? Will your name be mentioned hundreds of years from now in the history books? If so, why?

Dyngus Day - Dyngus Day is always celebrated on the first Monday after Easter. So, what exactly is this holiday that is popular in Poland and in Polish-American communities? This fun way for boys to meet girls, and girls to meet boys actually takes place over two days. The first day is for the boys. Guys get to chase after gals with water hoses, buckets of water, or any container holding water. Their purpose? Dowse the female with water. No fair you say?

Gals, the next day is yours. On this day, you get to throw dishes or crockery back at the guys. Seems to me you should get to spray them with water, too. It might also be a bit safer. Now it is becoming common on the first day of this event for the girls to turn around and dowse the guys.

You could write an historical fiction novel about this holiday. Or you could create a character that is taking part in the festivities. Whatever you choose to write, I think that this one would make a great humorous story.

National Cherish an Antique Day - For a piece of furniture, decorative item, or similar object to be considered an antique, it must be at least 100 years old. For a car to be considered an antique, it only has to be 25 years old. Do you own any antiques? If so, this is the day to cherish your antique and take extra-special care of it.

Have you ever wondered if your piece of antique furniture has feelings? Does your antique desk become angry if someone sets a wet drink on it? Maybe your antique doll has a mind of her own and comes to life when you aren't around. Possibly an antique, first-edition book you own has a mysterious message written inside – one that was written specifically for you. Choose one of the above scenarios and write a story around it.

Jenkins Ear Day - Robert Jenkins has a unique claim to fame – his ear was cut off by Spanish guardacosta when the Spaniards boarded his British ship. I think I would rather find another way for history to remember me. As a result to the actions of the Spanish, Britain declared war on Spain and this war, fondly remembered as the 'War of Jenkins' Ear', lasted about four years.

This event would make a really interesting historical fiction novel. You could create a character who was on board Jenkins' British ship when the Spanish guardacosta boarded. Relate the events leading up to when Jenkins had his ear cut off and tell what happened afterward.