Great American Smokeout

What is Great American Smokeout?

The American Cancer Society sponsors the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November (November 21), challenging smokers to give up cigarettes for 24 hours. If you or a loved one smokes cigarettes, consider joining the movement and take the first step toward quitting cigarettes forever!

History of Great American Smokeout

The inception of the Great American Smokeout stems from a 1970 event in Randolph, Massachusetts. High school guidance counselor Arthur P. Mullaney asked people to give up cigarettes for one day and donate the money they would have spent on buying cigarettes to a high school scholarship fund. A few years later, in 1974, newspaper editor Lynn R. Smith led Minnesota’s first Don’t Smoke Day. The two efforts caught on, and on November 18, 1976, the California Division of the American Cancer Society got 1 million people to quit smoking for the day. This marked the first official Smokeout before the American Cancer Society took it nationwide in 1977. As a result, there was a dramatic change in the public view of tobacco advertising and use. Many public establishments and workplaces are now smoke-free to protect non-smokers and support people trying to quit.

Let's Celebrate Progress
Please share your story of quitting or supporting someone in their journey. Use #GreatAmericanSmokeOut to connect with others and inspire change.

Remember, Every Step Counts
If you're trying to quit, reach out for support—you're not alone. Together, we can build a healthier, smoke-free community! Thank you for being part of this important day. Let’s make it count!