15 Random Facts About Wednesday That Will Surprise You
Looking for random facts about Wednesday that’ll blow your mind? Whether you’re a trivia buff, calendar nerd, or just waiting for the weekend to arrive, Wednesday has more going on than you think. From mythology to memes, hump day is full of surprises.
Here are 15 fascinating, quirky, and unexpected Wednesday facts you probably didn’t know.
1. Wednesday Is Named After a Norse God
The name Wednesday comes from Woden’s Day—Woden being the Anglo-Saxon version of Odin, the Norse god of wisdom, war, and poetry. That’s right: the midweek slump is tied to one of the most powerful mythological figures of all time.
In Romance languages like French (mercredi) or Spanish (miércoles), Wednesday is named after Mercury.
2. It’s the True Middle of the Week
While Sunday is technically the first day of the week, many people consider Wednesday the true midpoint—especially in work culture. It’s even earned the nickname Hump Day, as it represents climbing over the metaphorical hill toward the weekend.
3. It’s Considered the Most Productive Day
According to multiple productivity studies, Wednesday is when employees get the most done. Energy is often higher mid-week, and it’s far enough from both Monday stress and Friday distraction.
Need help staying productive through the week? Try unplugging one day a week to reset your mind.
4. The Color of Wednesday in Thai Culture Is Green
In Thai tradition, each day has a color, and Wednesday’s is green. This cultural symbolism is still used in calendars, temples, and clothing—especially during festivals and royal events.
5. There’s a Soccer Team Named “Wednesday”
Sheffield Wednesday F.C. is one of the oldest professional football clubs in England. Its name comes from the day the club’s founding members used to meet: Wednesdays!
6. Spy Wednesday Is an Actual Holiday
The Wednesday before Easter is known as Spy Wednesday, referencing the day Judas Iscariot conspired to betray Jesus. It’s still observed in some Christian traditions, particularly in Ireland and Eastern Europe.
7. People Feel the Oldest at 3:30 PM on Wednesdays
According to a British study, 3:30 PM on Wednesday is when people feel most fatigued and unattractive during the week. It’s when work stress peaks and energy dips—explaining why so many people turn to caffeine or comfort food.
8. Mercury Rules Wednesday in Astrology
In astrology, Wednesday is governed by Mercury, the planet of communication and intellect. That’s why it’s considered a great day for writing, learning, and strategic planning.
Into dream interpretations or spiritual meaning? You’ll love this guide to dream catchers and their effects.
9. In Some Cultures, It’s Bad Luck to Start a Journey on Wednesday
In certain Eastern European and South Indian traditions, starting a trip on a Wednesday is considered inauspicious. The belief is tied to astrology and historical superstition.
10. The Word “Wednesday” Is One of the Hardest to Spell
“Wednesday” often appears on lists of commonly misspelled words in English. Pro tip: say it phonetically—Wed-nes-day—to remember the correct spelling.
11. It’s a Great Day for Deals and Discounts
Brands often offer midweek promotions on Wednesdays to combat the sales slump between Monday and Friday. So if you’re shopping online, check for hump day deals.
12. The Moon Landing Happened on a Wednesday
July 16, 1969, the day Apollo 11 launched toward the moon, was a Wednesday. Just a few days later, Neil Armstrong walked on the lunar surface—on a Sunday.
13. The Word “Wednesday” Appears in Countless Songs and Books
From Simon & Garfunkel’s Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M. to Lana Del Rey’s lyrics, this day of the week pops up in music and literature as a symbol of transition, reflection, and longing.
14. Savannah’s Midweek Festivals Fall on Wednesdays
The city of Savannah, Georgia, hosts several small-scale festivals and cultural events every Wednesday—great for visitors looking to avoid the weekend crowds.
Planning a trip? Check out fun facts about Savannah to deepen your appreciation.
15. Wednesday Is an Ideal Day for Self-Care Rituals
Since it’s midweek, Wednesday is perfect for a quick reset. Whether it’s lighting lavender incense, practicing grounding affirmations, or simply taking a walk—your mind and body will thank you.
Speaking of self-care, see why lavender incense has surprising spiritual benefits.
From Norse gods to tired afternoons, Wednesdays are richer in meaning than most people realize. The next time hump day rolls around, you’ll know there’s plenty of trivia to share at lunch—or reflect on while sipping your midweek coffee.
For more quirky facts and cultural insights, browse our full list of unusual facts across topics.
FAQ
Because it marks the midpoint of the workweek. It’s the ‘hump’ you get over before sliding into the weekend.
It’s named after Woden (or Odin), a Norse god. The name comes from Old English: “Wōdnesdæg.”
In some cultures, yes. For example, in parts of India and Eastern Europe, it’s seen as an inauspicious day to start a journey.
