Some 70% of people surveyed by Research Now on behalf of Oxfam said supporting a charity was the thing that had boosted their spirits most in 2013.
This was far higher than the first decent British summer in years (62%), and Andy Murray's Wimbledon triumph (60%).
It also outdid Mo Farah's double gold win at the Athletics World Championships (52%).
The research was commissioned to mark the launch of Oxfam's new fundraising campaign; 'Lift Lives for Good', and respondents were not told that the research was being carried out on behalf of a charity.
The birth of the royal baby trailed by comparison, lifting the spirits of 46% of respondents, while Daft Punk's catchy "Get Lucky" was voted the most uplifting song of 2013.
Charitable giving featured again when people were asked what their most uplifting TV programme of 2013 was, with the most popular choice being Children in Need, chosen by 35% of respondents.
The Great British Bake Off and Strictly Come Dancing came a close second and third.
Putting our feet up may be nice every now and then but only 25% of respondents felt a well-earned holiday would give them a boost.
Predictions for uplifting events this year are the World Cup, although that may depend on England's performance.
Oxfam's Chief Executive Mark Goldring said: "This has been a big year for charitable giving especially with the unbelievable generosity of the British public in response to the recent typhoon in the Philippines. We are extremely heartened by the results of this survey, at a time when money is tight it's wonderful to see that people are getting a boost from helping others. We hope that our new fundraising campaign Lift Lives for Good with support of the adverts will show the public the far reaching effects which every donation to Oxfam can have."