National Shakespeare Day

When did the National Shakespeare Day start?

The first recorded date of National Shakespeare Day being celebrated on April 23 was in the year 1864.

About National Shakespeare Day Holiday

National Shakespeare Day is a day to honor one of the most famous writers of all time, William Shakespeare. Observed on April 23 each year, the day celebrates the works of the Bard, to commemorate his birth and, in some cases, death. Shakespeare's works are widely considered to be some of the greatest pieces of literature of all time and continue to be studied and admired even centuries after his death.

On National Shakespeare Day, people around the world celebrate his work and contribution to the art of theater. This day is also an occasion to recognize the impact of his plays and sonnets on literature, language and culture as a whole. From schools celebrating the Bard with productions and retellings of his beloved stories, to universities hosting seminars and classes to analyze and explore his writings, the day is sure to be a memorable and informative one.

Moreover, people can come together to remember the legacy of one of the world’s greatest writers. National Shakespeare Day is an excellent opportunity to explore the world of the Bard with family, friends and loved ones or take the opportunity to experience his works firsthand in a play. No matter how you decide to celebrate, this April 23 take the day to indulge in understanding the past and appreciate the impressive works of William Shakespeare.

National Shakespeare Day, April 23rd

National Shakespeare Day is a day of commemoration and celebration of one of the most influential figures in the world of literature: William Shakespeare. Held annually on April 23rd, the day is marked with parties, readings of the bard’s plays, and other activities that honor his legacy.

“National Shakespeare Day” specifically refers to the celebration of the life and works of the famed English playwright William Shakespeare. This day is observed on April 23rd, believed to be the date of his birth in 1564 (and also the date of his death in 1616). Here are some regions where the day is especially noted:

  • United Kingdom: As the birthplace of Shakespeare, England holds the most significant celebrations for National Shakespeare Day. Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, becomes a focal point of celebrations, with parades, performances, and other events. There’s also Shakespeare’s Globe in London and other theatres across the country that may host special performances or events.

However, it’s essential to differentiate between National Shakespeare Day and the global recognition of Shakespeare’s impact on literature and drama. While the term “National Shakespeare Day” is specific to the UK, many countries around the world celebrate or recognize Shakespeare’s contributions on or around April 23rd, often in conjunction with World Book and Copyright Day.

For example:

  • Spain: On April 23rd, Spain celebrates “La Diada de Sant Jordi” (St. George’s Day), where it’s customary to give books as gifts, often alongside roses. With the connection to World Book and Copyright Day, Shakespeare’s works are often highlighted, given that both Shakespeare and Cervantes (a giant of Spanish literature) died on April 23rd.
  • United States: Many schools, universities, and theaters across the country might hold special events or performances to honor Shakespeare’s legacy around this date.
  • Various Countries: Many nations, especially those where English literature is studied extensively, will have events at educational institutions or cultural centers to honor Shakespeare’s works. This includes countries like Canada, Australia, India, South Africa, and many others.

While not every country has a “National Shakespeare Day,” the Bard’s influence is undeniably global. His plays are performed worldwide, his writings are studied in countless curricula, and his impact on drama and literature continues to be celebrated in various ways across the globe.

History and Origin

National Shakespeare Day was first established in 2016 with the intent to celebrate the life and works of William Shakespeare and to recognize his monumental impact on the English language and beyond. The date of April 23rd is particularly significant as it is the traditional date of the Bard’s birth and death. It is also the same day as Saint George’s Day, the patron saint of England.

Significance and Meaning

National Shakespeare Day is an opportunity to celebrate one of the most prolific and influential writers in the world. William Shakespeare wrote over 38 plays and 154 sonnets, and his writing has been translated into more than 80 languages. His words are familiar to people of all ages around the globe, with quotes like “To be or not to be,” “Parting is such sweet sorrow,” and “All the world’s a stage,” becoming part of the English language.

For many, National Shakespeare Day is a chance to deepen their appreciation and understanding of the Bard’s writing. Throughout the world, theatres, schools, and universities host performances, lectures, readings, and festivals to honour the life and works of William Shakespeare.

Traditions and Celebrations

National Shakespeare Day is celebrated in many ways throughout the world. Festivals and plays are put on to showcase the works of the Bard and celebrate his influence. Schools host readings of his works and organized activities to honour his memory. Libraries often host events to promote reading and engage in conversations about his famed works.

In addition to public events, National Shakespeare Day is a chance for individuals and families to host their own celebrations. People may gather with their friends and family to hold readings, discussions, and debates about the Bard’s works. People may also choose to watch popular film and television adaptations of his work.

Geographic Spread

National Shakespeare Day is celebrated in dozens of countries around the world. The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, China, and many other countries have their own dedicated celebrations.

In the United Kingdom, National Shakespeare Day is celebrated deeply. National theatres, schools, and libraries all host events to honour the Bard, with Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon leading the way with a week-long series of celebratory activities.

Modern Day Observations

In the modern era, National Shakespeare Day remains an important celebration of the Bard’s life and works. Events range from performances of some of his best-loved plays, to lively debates on his enigmatic works, to interactive activities for both adults and children.

The Royal Shakespeare Company offers online classes and workshops to students and teachers, so that everyone can access quality educational programming. As well, many local or public libraries offer their own events. Most include some combination of performances, activities, or readings to honour William Shakespeare.

Interesting Facts or Trivia

  • In 2012, a statue of William Shakespeare was unveiled in London, England to commemorate the 400th anniversary of his death.
  • A publishing company once printed a complete set of all of the Bard’s works, bound in human skin.
  • William Shakespeare has his own namesake flower, called the “forget-me-not.”
  • The United Nations chose National Shakespeare Day (April 23rd) as the International Day of the Book in 2018.
  • William Shakespeare was a renowned actor in his own right, as well as a playwright.

Summary

National Shakespeare Day is an annual day of celebration and commemoration of one of the world’s most revered writers: William Shakespeare. Held on April 23rd, the day marks the traditional dates of his birth and death. On this day, people around the world commemorate the legacy of William Shakespeare by hosting performances and readings of his works, interactive activities, and more. In addition, fascinating facts and trivia about the Bard continue to intrigue people of all ages, creating a global appreciation of the life and works of the great William Shakespeare.

How to Say "National Shakespeare Day" In Different Languages?

Bulgarian
Национален ден на Шекспир (bg-BG)
Finnish
Shakespearen Kansallispäivä (fi-FI)
French
Journée nationale de Shakespeare (fr-FR)
German
Nationaler Shakespeare-Tag (de-DE)
Greek
Εθνική ημέρα του Σαίξπηρ (el-GR)
Hebrew
יום שייקספיר (he-IL)
Italian
Giornata nazionale di Shakespeare (it-IT)
Polish
Narodowy Dzień Szekspira (pl-PL)
Portuguese
Dia Nacional de Shakespeare (pt-PT)
Romanian
Paste (ro-RO)
Russian
Национальный день Шекспира (ru-RU)
Spanish
Día Nacional de Shakespeare (es-ES)
Turkish
Şekspir Ulusal Günü (tr-TR)
National Shakespeare Day Also Called
Shakespeare's Birthday.
Countries where "National Shakespeare Day" is celebrated:

FUN FACT:
In year 1864, National Shakespeare Day is celebrated on April 23 for the first time.

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Holidays Similar to National Shakespeare Day

World Book and Copyright Day

World Book and Copyright Day is an international holiday to celebrate the publication of books and to recognize the importance of copyright protection for authors.