World Smile Day, celebrated yearly, has its roots in Worcester

WORCESTER, Mass. — Did you know the universal symbol for good will and good cheer came from Worcester?

The smiley face, conceptualized in 1963 by Harvey Ball, quickly became one of the most well-known symbols across the world.

Throughout the years, however, Ball became increasingly worried about the over-commercialization of his symbol and how its original meaning and intent had become lost in the constant repetition of the marketplace.

The smiley face knows no politics, no geography and no religion. Ball's idea was that, for at least once a year, neither should we.

Therefore, he declared that the first Friday in October each year would be recognized as World Smile Day.

Ever since the first World Smile Day was held in 1999, it's been celebrated every year in Ball's hometown of Worcester and around the world.

After his death in 2001, the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation was created to honor his name and legacy. The foundation continues as the official sponsor of World Smile Day every year.

Now, every time World Smile Day rolls around, we can all "Do an act of kindness [and] help one person smile!"

Cox Media Group