Hi, How Are You Day is going virtual this year.
The coronavirus pandemic has caused a halt to many live events, and due to public health and safety measures, the annual celebration is transforming to a HAPPY HABIT-A-THON. Although it’s a shift in plans, the non-profit organization’s mission remains the same: offer a place of support all while overcoming the stigma of mental health.
Commemorating the late artist and musician Daniel Johnston, Hi, How Are You Day takes place on his birthday, January 22. Founders Tom Gimbel and Courtney Blanton were influenced by Johnston’s artwork, particularly the iconic frog mural on the corner of Guadalupe and 21st Street. Johnston was also recognized for his transparency in mental health.
The online fun centers on engaging activities that will allow people from all over the world to connect with one another through valuable and healthy exercises. It will be available to the public for the entire week.
Tomorrow is the day! Our #HiHowAreYouDay Happy Habit-a-thon kicks off. Register to get your #happyhabits BINGO card and all the details (+ get entered to win some rad merch!) Link in bio to register and help us reach our goal of getting friends from every continent to join us! 💚 pic.twitter.com/S2PkEOa7Nn
— Hi How Are You Project (@hihowareyouproj) January 21, 2021
“Music and art is healthy for our mind,” said Co-Executive Director Tom Gimbel. In an interview with Chris Mosser, Gimbel highlights the healthy activities planned for the free event and how it can help start a “Hi, How Are You” conversation.
“Today is a day for people to check in on one another.” With the pandemic impacting mental health, Gimbel says the HAPPY HABIT-A-THON will offer participants the ability to ignite a discussion about how they’re feeling and coping with these life-changing adjustments.
“That’s really the first step to health, it’s talking about it and being okay to talk about it. When we have a “Hi, How Are You” conversation today, what we’re asking is don’t just say “Hi, How Are You” in the usual way… ask them another question,” said Gimbel.
Those who plan on attending the virtual festivities will have the option to select from three different tiers. Ranging from a free registration that comes with a bingo card to a $100 family 4-pack that includes commemorative Hi, How Are You Day t-shirts. All registrants will be entered to win a “super deluxe” Hi, How Are You Project merchandise basket and more. Donations are also welcomed.
Chris Mosser chats with Tom Gimbel about Hi, How Are You Day | Austin City Limits Radio
Photo: Hi, How Are You Day 2021: HAPPY HABIT-A-THON Artwork
