“And just celebrate with the people that have been a part of this whole thing for my entire career.”
Keep calm and comfy on because Feb. 20 is National Comfy Day — and everyone’s invited!
National Comfy Day is a 24-hour celebration created by brothers Brian and Michael Speciale, who invented The Comfy, a modern take on the ever-so-popular Snuggie, on Feb. 20, 2017.
Four years later, they teamed up with the National Day Calendar to make National Comfy Day official.
RELATED: Celebrity Babies 2025: Meet All the Tiny Stars Who Are Stealing the Spotlight This Year
Of course, many of you might remember The Comfy from a 2017 episode of ABC’s “Shark Tank.” The Speciale brothers struck a deal with Barbara Cochran before watching their product go viral.
National Comfy Day is a reminder to act on that desire.
So, sit back, kick your feet up, order some comfort food, cater to your guilty pleasures and treat yourself to something nice — because today’s all about getting (and staying) comfy.
Continue reading for some cozy hacks on how to make this day extra special (and relaxing).
Setting the Mood for National Comfy Day
Here are five other ways you can set the mood for a relaxing and tranquilizing day ahead.
15. Change Into Your Comfy Clothes
We all have a preference when it comes to comfy clothing.
Some people feel most comfortable in silk pajamas or a fluffy robe, while others prefer leggings and a long hoodie. Slippers, joggers, sweatpants, birthday suits — we all have our preference.
What’s important is that you wear whatever puts a smile on your face, which seems to be a popular trend today.
@thecomfy What's your favorite part of #ComfySeason? We'll go first: everything. ( : @laylajade345) #TheComfy #TheComfyLife #WearableBlanket #FeelTheHappy #TheComfyOriginal #dancing #fyp ♬ original sound - The Comfy
According to a 2022 study by lifestyle marketplace Unbound, 81% of respondents make comfort their top priority (over style and cost) when getting dressed or buying new clothes.
“Comfort is the new luxury. We are becoming loungewear connoisseurs and are appreciating the joy in comfort,” says Sarah Davies, Chief Product Officer of Unbound.
14. Burn Some Candles or Scents
Candles — and scents, in general — can play an essential role in our mood, stress and comfort.
For example, some scents bring back warm memories from your past, while others trigger certain hormones that soothe and relax your mind, body and soul.
“The smell of scented candles stimulates our limbic system, the part of the brain that is home to our memory and emotions,” says psychotherapist Chryssa Chalkia, per Travel + Leisure.
“Therefore, our emotional state is influenced by the relationship that exists between scents, memories, and emotions,” she continues.
Some calming scents that promote comfortability include white tea, peony, roses, fresh linen, vanilla, rosemary and mint, orange citrus, eucalyptus, chamomile, sandalwood and lavender.
13. Dim the Lighting In Your Home
The difference between warm and cool lighting could be the reason you find it so hard to relax at home.
Cool lighting, which appears white with a hint of blue, makes you feel more awake, alert and productive, while warm lighting, which appears yellow, promotes a more relaxed, cozy, and comforting atmosphere.
That’s why many people recommend keeping both types of light bulbs in the house, that way you can change the mood of each room whenever needed.
@_bennelson_ This is EXACTLY how to creat a cozy vibe in your space. - #cozyathome #cozylighting #interiordecor #homedecor #education ♬ Moonlite Love - Abir’yah
For example, warm lights would be perfect for a day like National Comfy Day, while cool lights can be saved for those days when your to-do list never seems to end.
That’s why you never see any windows inside a movie theater. The darker it is, the more comfortable guests will be.
12. Turn Your Fireplace On
It’s no coincidence that National Comfy Day is celebrated in February, when most of us are freezing.
If you don’t already use your fireplace regularly, Feb. 20 would be the perfect time to light it up — not just for the heat it provides, but the overall vibe it creates.
@blackcatbruja Making this house a HOME. #fyp #fireplace #cozyreadingnook #cozyreadingaesthetic ♬ original sound - 🖤🖤BlackcatBruja🖤🖤
Plus, it gives you an opportunity to set your pajamas or socks by the fire and warm them up before getting cozy. It’s like they just came out of the dryer, but better!
And if you don’t have a fireplace, you can always turn your TV into a makeshift one using YouTube. It might not provide heat, but it’ll definitely help set the mood.
They also have electric fireplaces that allow you to turn the aesthetics on without needing to turn the heat on!
11. Cuddle Up In Your Favorite Blanket
Last but not least, don’t forget to grab your favorite blanket to cuddle up with.
If you don’t already have a favorite blanket or if you’re in the market for a new one, The Comfy is a great place to start — especially in honor of National Comfy Day.
In true wearable fashion, their blanket is worn like a hoodie and allows you to stay comfy all day long, no matter what you’re doing or where you’re going.
@sincerely.sarahandharry The most gorgeous plush double sided blanket! So thick and cozy! #blanket #throwblanket #cozyhome #homedecor #christmasgiftideas #tiktokshopblackfriday #tiktokshopcybermonday #holidayhaul ♬ original sound - sincerely.sarahandharry
I would also recommend a weighted blanket for those binge-watching sessions or a heated blanket for those shivering cold nights.
The blanket will pair well with your comfy clothing, fireplace, warm lights and scented candles!
Kick Back, Relax and Get Your Chill On
Now that you have the environment for it, let’s find some calm and relaxing activities to enjoy.
First and foremost, let’s ditch that alarm clock and wake up when your body feels ready for it. If that means 5 a.m., then so be it. If you feel like sleeping in, then that works too.
But even once you’re up, try not to rush yourself through a morning routine. Instead, take your time, move slow and tackle the day as it comes.
And if you get to a point where you need a break, then take a nap — this is the perfect day for it!
Whether you feel like staying in or going out, here are some cozy ways to sit back, relax and get your chill on for National Comfy Day.
10. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
I can’t think of anything more relaxing than a spa day.
Whether that means going to a local spa and treating yourself to a day in the life of luxury or bringing your spa experience to the comfort of your own home with some DIY procedures is completely up to you.
Facials, coconut milk baths, manicures and pedicures, massages, saunas, cryotherapy chambers, body scrubs, mud baths — everything is fair game on National Comfy Day.
And if you don’t feel like doing it alone, invite your friends or significant other. We can all use a spa day every once in a while!
As Elizabeth Jane Howard once said, “A massage is just like a movie, really relaxing and a total escape, except in a massage you’re the star. And you don’t miss anything by falling asleep!”
9. Binge Watch a New Series
With so many good shows currently streaming, how could you say no?
“Matlock” is a good one with 11 episodes to sift through. And since the 12th episode drops on Feb. 20, you’ll be all caught up (and hooked) by the end of National Comfy Day.
“Severance” is another one that has everyone talking. The first season has nine episodes and we’re already five episodes into the second season with new episodes airing on Fridays.
But if you log in to your Apple+ TV account at 6 p.m. PT (9 p.m. ET) on Feb. 20, you’ll get to watch the new episode of “Severance” early — perfect for National Comfy Day!
Other shows to consider are “The White Lotus,” which premiered its third season on Feb. 16, and “Yellowjackets,” which debuted its third season on Feb. 14.
8. Make a Soothing Playlist
Some people need a movie or show to wind down — but others just need music.
If you like to tap into your musical side, why not spend your National Comfy Day making a playlist of cozy songs that make you happy?
After all, it’s the gift that keeps on giving and something you can always fall back on when you need to relax or calm down. And it’ll even bode well for you in the long run.
According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, released in August 2023, 98% of older adults stated they get some health-related benefit from music.
The most common benefits included stress relief, relaxation, joy, improved mood, motivation, energy, sparking memories and feeling connected to others.
7. Read a Book or Journal
We don’t all like to read, but those that do know how wonderful and healthy of an escape it can be.
That’s because opening a book invites you into a literary world that distracts you from the everyday stressors that tend to take control of your life.
According to the University of Minnesota, reading can relax your body by lowering your heart rate and easing the tension in your muscles, while also reducing stress levels by 68%.
Some studies have found that reading works better than other relaxation methods, such as listening to music or drinking a hot cup of tea.
And if you don’t feel like reading, then writing can be just as beneficial — whether it’s a journal entry, a thoughtful social media post or a short story you create out of thin air.
6. Start a Cozy Gift Exchange
You can treat National Comfy Day like Christmas and do a “white elephant” gift exchange with friends, family members and loved ones.
The only catch is that the gifts need to be related to comfort.
Weighted blankets, fluffy onesies, temperature-controlled mug, aromatherapy candles, diffusers, anything spa-related, handheld massagers — anything like that would work.
Gift baskets would also be a big hit. You can do a movie-themed one with Blu-Rays and popcorn, or a Bath & Body Works one filled with aromatherapy products.
Of course, the best gift for National Comfy Day would be The Comfy wearable blanket!
Filling Up On Your Favorite Comfort Foods
What would National Comfy Day be without treating yourself to some of your favorite comfort foods?
That might look a little different for everyone, but think about the foods that put a smile on your face. The foods that make you feel warm and cozy inside — especially on a cold February day.
I don’t know about you, but soup and anything homemade from my childhood are the first foods that come to mind when I think of comfort.
If you agree, then make some homemade soup ahead of time or contact your parents (or grandparents) for one of their famous recipes that you haven’t had in a while.
Then again, I also consider Taco Bell and Tropical Smoothie as comfort foods, so don’t be afraid to put in a to-go order for your favorite restaurant or fast food chain.
Here are five other ideas if you plan on cooking yourself a hearty, yet easy comfort meal on Feb. 20.
5. Beef Stew
Beef stew is the ultimate comfort meal — warm, hearty and packed with rich flavors.
The slow-cooked beef, tender vegetables, and savory broth make it perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a cozy, satisfying dish, especially if normal soup won’t cut it.
And don’t worry, it’s easy and can be made in a slow cooker.
You’ll need seasoned beef chunks, onions, carrots, celery, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, diced potatoes, bay leaves and any other seasonings you like.
The process is simple. Brown the beef, soften the veggies, pour in the broth, bring everything to a boil and then let it simmer for a few hours. When you’re done, you’ll have beef stew for the entire week!
4. Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort meal — warm, hearty, and full of creamy, savory goodness.
The flaky crust, tender chicken and rich filling make it a go-to dish for cozy nights or when you need a little extra comfort in your life.
Better yet, you can have the entire meal done in about an hour.
You’ll need butter, chopped onion, flour, chicken broth, milk, shredded chicken, your favorite veggies and a pie crust.
The filling can be made in a large skillet. Let the butter, chopped onion, flour, chicken broth and milk simmer until thickened and then add the cooked chicken and vegetables.
Once the filling is ready, pour it into a pie crust-lined dish and top it with another pie crust — like you would with any other type of pie.
Back it until golden brown and enjoy!
3. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and filled with carbs — which is perfect for when you need something warm and satisfying.
Plus, there are so many ways to customize this dish to your liking.
To make homemade mac and cheese, start by boiling your elbow macaroni until al dente and then drain it and set it to the side.
In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for a minute. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
Lower the heat, stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth, and add the cooked pasta.
To take your mac and cheese to the next level, use a variety of different cheeses and don’t be afraid to add crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or jalapeños.
2. Meatloaf
Nothing brings me back to my childhood like meatloaf — it’s hearty, nostalgic and delicious!
To make a simple meatloaf, preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix 1 pound of ground beef with ½ cup of breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, ¼ cup of milk, ½ cup of ketchup, salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and chopped onion for extra flavor.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the baking dish. Spread a little extra ketchup on top for a glaze. Bake for about 45–50 minutes or until fully cooked.
Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and don’t forget the side dishes — cue in the mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, and that homemade mac and cheese we already talked about.
And when it’s done, yell “Hey, Ma! Can we get some meatloaf?!” — a classic Will Ferrell quote from the 2005 film “Wedding Crashers.”
Side note: a Will Ferrell movie marathon would be a perfect way to enjoy your National Comfy Day.
1. Baked Treats
Nothing brings joy and comfort to one’s home like the smell (and taste) of baked goods.
Things like cookies, cakes, pies, and muffins are often associated with warmth, nostalgia, and a little indulgence, but don’t stop there.
Soft cinnamon rolls with icing, fluffy cornbread, freshly-baked sourdough bread, decadent brownies, banana bread and soft, buttery scones round out my list of comforting baked treats.
And it’s not just the eating part of it that makes you feel warm and cozy.
“Baking for others can increase a feeling of wellbeing, contribute to stress relief and make you feel like you’ve done something good for the world,” says Donna Pincus of Boston University.
So, bake some treats for yourself — and bake some more for those you love — for National Comfy Day!
National Comfy Day is a reminder to sit back, relax and enjoy the comforting things in life. Whether you’re celebrating alone or with loved ones, hopefully these ideas help you get the most out of this mini holiday!
