Friday 13th takes place between one and three times every year, when the 13th day of the month falls on a Friday. In 2012 Friday 13th occurred in January, April and July; this year it takes place in September and December; next year it occurs just once in June; and in 2015 it falls in February, March and November.
People who are superstitious tend to look forward to the date of Friday 13th with no small amount of apprehension. Friday 13th is regarded as being a day of great bad luck for everybody, when unpleasant things can happen. Whatever you do, stay away from black cats and do not walk under ladders on Friday 13th!
The number 13 has been viewed throughout history as being unlucky. People who are genuinely afraid of the number 13 suffer from triskaidekaphobia. Friday has also often been seen in history and even today as being an unlucky day, which might seem odd to those who cannot wait for the weekend; however Friday 13th is seen as being a double whammy when it comes to bad luck.
On the other hand, there are an increasing number of people who are challenging the old superstitions and embracing the number 13 as being lucky instead. These people refuse to be afraid of the number and instead purchase lottery tickets featuring the number 13, believing it will help them to win!
Bill Barkulis
