Quirkyalone is a neologism referring to someone who enjoys being single (but is not opposed to being in a relationship) and generally prefers to be alone rather than dating for the sake of being in a couple.
Magazine publisher Sasha Cagen came up with the term "quirkyalone" on a Brooklyn subway platform on New Year's Eve, 1999.[1] She expanded the concept into an essay in the first issue of her magazine To-Do List.[2] When the article was republished in the Utne Reader in 2000, Cagen was surprised by the fervor of responses from readers who felt their lives had been validated by her work.[2] As a result of these responses, Cagen opted to expand her essay into a 2004 book, titled Quirkyalone: A Manifesto for Uncompromising Romantics.[3]
International Quirkyalone Day is February 14[4] and was chosen as an alternative to "the marketing barrage" of Valentine's Day.[5] It started in 2003 as a "celebration of romance, freedom and individuality". Celebrations of the holiday have been noted in the United States, Australia, Canada,[6] and the United Kingdom.[2]
The Quirkys are annual awards similar to the Oscars in such categories as Best Quirkyalone Movie of 2004, Best Quirkyalone TV Show of 2004, Best Quirkyalone Book of 2004, Lifetime Quirkyalone Achievement Award, and others.