International Scented Candle Day Date in the current year: November 1, 2024

Candles have been used as a source of light in many places around the world since antiquity. Romans began making dipped candles from tallow around 1000 BCE. In China, candles made from whale fat were common during the Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE). Indians made temple candles from cinnamon wax, and Tibetans used yak butter for candles.

Candles became commonplace throughout Europe in the Middle Ages because the collapse of the Roman empire disrupted trade, and olive oil, the most common fuel used in oil lamps, became unavailable in many parts of Europe. For many centuries, candles were a major light source, and candle makers continued to discover new materials and techniques to improve their products.

Everything changed in the second half of the 19th century, when superior light sources (first kerosene lamps, and then the incandescent light bulb patented by American inventor and businessman Thomas Edison in 1879) became widely available. The candle industry declined rapidly, and candle makers started to market their products as decorative items, putting an emphasis on their aesthetic value and scent. By the mid-1980s, the scented candle market was firmly established.

Scented candles are made by mixing liquid wax with essential oils or other aromatic compounds. The mixture is then poured into jars with one or more wicks. Candle manufacturers and individual candle makers typically use special fragrance essences that may take years to develop. Scented candles may vary by fragrance strength: some emit a strong, persistent odor, while others have a mild scent.

Just like regular candles, scented candles come in various shapes and colors. They are typically used as part of home décor. Their fragrances can evoke different moods and fond memories, create festive spirit, help to relax or, on the contrary, give an energy boost. Scented candles may also be used to cover up unpleasant smells.

International Scented Candle Day was launched in 2019 in the United Kingdom. Sadly, its social media accounts have been inactive since the inaugural celebration and its website has gone defunct, but scented candle lovers around the globe still celebrate the holiday. Join them in celebrating this year’s International Scented Candle Day and encourage your friends to discover the wonderful world of scented candles.

There are many ways to celebrate this amazing holiday. You can light a scented candle you already own, buy a new scented candle, give someone a scented candle as a gift (of course only if you’re sure that such a gift will be appreciated), learn more about the psychological effects of different scents, and even try making your own scented candles. And don’t forget to spread the word about the holiday on social media with the hashtags #InternationalScentedCandleDay and #ScentedCandleDay.