Friday 13th Superstition Cuts 2026 Bookings as Home Sales Run 5.2% Below Median

2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Nov 13

The third Friday 13th of 2026 — the only year this decade with three such dates — is depressing demand for weddings, travel and some property transactions as people avoid major commitments.
£275,000 was the median price for homes completing on Friday 13th in 2026, 5.2% below the wider annual median of £290,000, according to Homebuyer.Agency research.
31% of respondents in a 2015 survey said they would avoid marrying on Friday 13th, and one UK hotel said it has zero weddings booked on any Friday 13th through 2029.
16% cheaper flights on average were recorded for departures on Friday 13 June last year versus the rest of June, showing how weaker demand can create bargains for less superstitious travelers.
Psychologists say the pattern reflects anxiety reduction and confirmation bias rather than clear danger; one aviation analysis found Friday 13th was slightly safer than other dates.