Today is Friday, the 13th of June 2025, a date that continues to evoke a mix of superstition, intrigue, and commercial opportunity worldwide. While many dismiss the day as a relic of ancient fears, for others it remains a day to tread with caution. This year's lone Friday the 13th is being marked by a variety of events, from spooky-themed gatherings to community celebrations.
The origins of the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th are multifaceted, with roots in both Christian and Norse mythology. In Christian tradition, the unease is often linked to the Last Supper, where there were 13 guests, the 13th being Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus. The crucifixion of Jesus is also believed to have occurred on a Friday. Norse mythology tells of a banquet of 12 gods that was disrupted by the arrival of a 13th, mischievous god, Loki, leading to chaos and death.
In modern times, the apprehension surrounding Friday the 13th has been amplified by popular culture, most notably the "Friday the 13th" horror movie franchise. This has cemented the date in the collective consciousness as a day of bad omens and hockey-masked villains.
Despite its ominous reputation, for many, Friday the 13th has become a day for playful engagement with the supernatural. Across the globe, tattoo parlors are famously offering discounted "13" tattoos, a tradition that has gained significant popularity in recent years.
Locally, while there are no large-scale official events in Nigeria to mark the day, discussions on social media and in online forums show that the superstition is a familiar topic. Many are sharing memes and personal anecdotes related to the date.
Beyond the superstitions, today also coincides with a number of other observances. It is International Albinism Awareness Day, a UN observance to raise awareness and promote the rights and well-being of people with albinism. Additionally, some communities are holding early Juneteenth celebrations, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. In the US, events such as the Windy City Paranormal Festival in Chicago are capitalizing on the date's spooky associations.
Whether you're avoiding black cats and broken mirrors or embracing the thrill of the supernatural, Friday the 13th continues to be a noteworthy date on the calendar, demonstrating the enduring power of folklore in our modern world.
