Friday the 13th: Unlucky Day or Tattoo Tradition?

2026 promises a triple dose of superstition with three Friday the 13th dates! The first graced us on February 13th, just before Valentine’s Day, and the second falls tomorrow, Friday, March 13th. Whether you’re a believer in bad luck or a seasoned enthusiast who marks the occasion with new ink, let’s explore the history and modern-day celebrations surrounding this infamous day.

A Calendar Anomaly

In 2025, we experienced only one Friday the 13th in June. However, 2026 is an outlier, boasting not one, not two, but three occurrences of this date. Here’s a look at the 2026 Friday the 13th dates:

• February 13th
• March 13th
• December 13th

The Roots of Superstition

The association of Friday the 13th with misfortune has deep roots in Western culture. It’s a confluence of two separate anxieties: a general unease surrounding the number 13 (known as triskaidekaphobia) and a historical aversion to Friday. Some estimate that as much as 10% of the U.S. population experiences a fear of the number 13.

But why 13? According to Barry Markovsky, Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the University of South Carolina, the explanation isn’t entirely clear. It may stem from the perceived perfection of 12 – the months in a year, the Olympian gods, the zodiac signs, and the apostles of Jesus. The number 13 disrupts this harmony.

Mythology also plays a role. In Norse lore, Loki, the 13th god to arrive at a feast in Valhalla, instigated the death of Baldur. In Christian tradition, Judas, the apostle who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th guest at the Last Supper. However, Markovsky suggests that the number’s negative reputation is largely fueled by rumors and urban legends.

The Friday Factor

Friday itself has historically been considered an unlucky day. This may be linked to its association with the crucifixion of Jesus. Regardless of the origins, the combination of Friday and the number 13 creates a potent symbol of bad luck for many.

From Superstition to Skin Art: The Friday the 13th Tattoo Tradition

Despite the lack of evidence supporting negative effects, many still alter their behavior on Friday the 13th. Interestingly, this day has become a boon for tattoo artists. Tattoo shops across the country offer significant discounts, often as low as $13, for small, pre-designed tattoos – known as “flash sheets.”

Originally, these flash sheets featured designs incorporating the number 13. While many shops still maintain this theme, others simply offer a selection of cool tattoos at discounted prices. The tradition is often credited to American Traditional tattoo artist Oliver Peck, co-owner of Elm Street Tattoo in Dallas, Texas.

Peck didn’t invent the practice, but he popularized it. He began hosting Friday the 13th tattoo marathons in 1996, turning it into a highly anticipated event. However, the practice of getting tattoos on Friday the 13th predates Peck’s events. Historically, sailors, known for their superstitions, would get tattoos of the number 13 as a way to ward off bad luck.

How to Celebrate (or Survive) Friday the 13th

Whether you choose to embrace the superstition, indulge in a discounted tattoo, or simply enjoy a “Friday the 13th” movie marathon, there are plenty of ways to acknowledge this unique day. From seeking out deals on baked goods to testing out your own superstitions, Friday the 13th offers a fun and quirky opportunity for celebration.

This article is based on reporting by Lianna Norman of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida.