Nothing quite matches the eerie feeling we get on Friday the 13th, but what really makes this day so peculiar? Perhaps it’s the wacky superstitions we’ve been told growing up. Whether you believe them or not, this day can actually be considered lucky…as well as unlucky.

The fear of the number 13, triskaidekaphobia, dates back to medieval times and likely contributes to the apprehensive feeling regarding Friday the 13th. You might even have paraskevidekatriaphobia, the fear of the infamous day and all the superstitions that come with it. Some link Friday the 13th back to the Bible, when Judas Iscariot was the 13th person at the table who betrayed Jesus at the Last Supper. To instill more fear upon people, Jesus was said to have died on a Friday. Others link the day to when Gioachino Rossini, a famous Italian composer in the early 1800s, died on Friday, November 13, 1868. So whatever the reason, it might just be a coincidence that these events all happened on this “unlucky” day.

To some people, this day can actually be considered lucky! In Italy, the number 13 is considered to be lucky. Friday the 17th is known to be the unlucky day there. In Port Dover, Ontario, Canada, people celebrate Friday the 13th. Hundreds to thousands of motorcyclists come to show off their smooth rides. Pedestrians line the streets to watch the bikes go by, as well as visit the countless food and memorabilia vendors. Popular bands provide entertainment as people enjoy the day.

For some people Friday the 13th is good luck and others bad luck. However you view this day, just remember to watch your back and stay clear of black cats and broken mirrors!