Friday the 13th is a date filled with mystery, superstition, and a whole lot of fear for some people. While many consider it just another day, others go out of their way to avoid bad luck. But how much do you really know about Friday the 13th? From quirky global traditions to surprising statistics, here are 13 fun facts about this infamous day that might just make you look at it a little differently.
1. Fear of Friday the 13th Has a Name
The fear of Friday the 13th is called paraskevidekatriaphobia. It’s a mouthful, but for those who are truly afraid of this day, it’s a serious condition. People with this fear often avoid travel, important events, or even leaving the house on Friday the 13th!
2. Friday the 13th Can Happen Up to 3 Times a Year
Depending on how the calendar falls, Friday the 13th can occur between once and three times in a single year. The next time it happens three times will be in 2026. But don’t worry, most years only have one or two.
3. The Stock Market Crash of 1989 Happened on Friday the 13th
On October 13, 1989—yes, a Friday—the stock market experienced a significant crash. This event added fuel to the fire for those who already believed Friday the 13th was bad luck, especially in the financial world.
4. More Than 80% of High-Rise Buildings Skip the 13th Floor
Many buildings, especially in the U.S., skip labeling the 13th floor entirely. This is because of the superstition surrounding the number 13, which leads building designers to opt for the 12th or 14th floors instead.
5. Famous People Born on Friday the 13th
Despite the superstition, many famous figures were born on this day, including actress Mary-Kate Olsen, guitarist Peter Tork of The Monkees, and even horror writer Alfred Hitchcock! Turns out, the day might not be so unlucky after all.
6. $800-900 Million in Business Losses Occur on Friday the 13th
According to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute, an estimated $800-900 million in business is lost every Friday the 13th due to people avoiding travel, work, and major purchases on that day.
7. Italy Doesn’t Fear Friday the 13th
In Italy, the number 13 is considered lucky! Italians are more superstitious about Friday the 17th. In fact, many Italian airlines and hotels skip the 17th floor or row 17, similar to how other countries treat the number 13.
8. There’s a Friday the 13th Club
Founded in the 1880s by Captain William Fowler, the Friday the 13th Club was created to debunk superstitions surrounding the day. Members would gather for dinner on Friday the 13th and deliberately engage in activities thought to bring bad luck, like walking under ladders or breaking mirrors. And guess what? They all survived!
9. It’s Considered a Bad Day for Travel
Research has shown that flight bookings drop significantly on Friday the 13th. Many people prefer not to fly on this day, whether because of superstition or simply out of caution. So, if you’re looking for cheaper flights, Friday the 13th might be your day!
10. The Origins of the Fear Might Go Back to the Knights Templar
One theory suggests that the fear of Friday the 13th originated in the 14th century when King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of hundreds of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13, 1307. Many of them were executed, and this event is thought to have contributed to the day’s association with bad luck.
11. The Day Inspired a Hit Horror Franchise
The Friday the 13th movie series, which introduced the world to the iconic character Jason Voorhees, solidified the day’s reputation as one filled with terror. The original 1980 film sparked a long-running franchise with sequels, TV shows, and reboots that continue to scare fans to this day.
12. Some Cultures Consider 13 a Good Omen
In certain cultures, the number 13 is actually lucky! For example, in Judaism, 13 is the age of a boy’s bar mitzvah, marking his transition to adulthood. Similarly, in ancient Egypt, 13 was associated with the afterlife, a step toward eternal happiness.
13. Friday the 13th Birthdays Are Considered Extra Special
If you were born on a Friday the 13th, you’re in good company! Many people believe that being born on this day brings good fortune and unique energy. Plus, you get to celebrate your birthday on a date with its own special mystery!
In Conclusion:
Whether you believe Friday the 13th is a day of doom or just another Friday, it’s clear that the number 13 holds a powerful place in human culture and history. While some may hide indoors, others embrace the day and even see it as lucky. So, the next time Friday the 13th rolls around, maybe take the opportunity to challenge your fears—just avoid any black cats and broken mirrors!
What are your thoughts about the 13 Fun Facts About Friday the 13th You Didn’t Know Please share in the comments below. I really would love to know.
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
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I enjoy reading this article. I am glad to know why other people fear about Friday the 13th and other’s considered this date as a luck. But of course, whether you are a believer or not it is better to be careful in everything that we do to avoid any unnecessary incident.
What neat trivia! I didn’t realize that there was an actual phobia associated with this day either.