National Day on Writing
Join us in honoring the beauty of the written word with a special focus on creativity and self-expression.
- Roots
- Established by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) in 2009.
- Vibe
- A day to appreciate the diverse forms of writing.
- Also on Oct 20
- World Osteoporosis Day · Pharmacy Technician Day · Youth Confidence Day
- Hashtag
- #NationalDayOnWriting
3 ways to celebrate
Start a journal
Write one page about your day. No rules, just words.
Swap writing prompts
Trade prompts with friends and share what you wrote.
Write thank-you notes
Handwrite notes to people who deserve your gratitude.
Plan ahead
National Day on Writing is observed on October 20 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.
Fast facts
The story
National Day on Writing is more than just a date on the calendar; it serves as a reminder of the vital role that writing plays in our lives. Established by the National Council of Teachers of English in 2009, this day highlights the importance of writing as a tool for communication and creativity. Individuals are encouraged to embrace writing in various forms, be it poetry, prose, or journaling, fostering a culture that values expression and literacy.
Read the full story
In schools and communities across America, educators and writing enthusiasts celebrate through workshops, contests, and collaborative writing activities. The day not only promotes literacy but also recognizes the diversity of voices and experiences that writing can convey. From personal reflections to societal critiques, writing offers a platform for individuals to share their unique perspectives, making it an essential part of the human experience.
The act of writing is transformative; it allows us to explore our thoughts and feelings, pushing the boundaries of our imagination. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting, this day encourages everyone to pick up a pen or open a laptop and create. Writing can be therapeutic, a way to process emotions and connect with others. Remember, the key is to express freely without fear of judgment, your voice matters.
As we celebrate National Day on Writing, take a moment to reflect on your own writing journey. Perhaps you could start a blog, write letters to loved ones, or simply jot down your thoughts. The possibilities are endless, and every word contributes to the rich tapestry of storytelling. Embrace this opportunity to celebrate not just what you write, but the act of writing itself, a powerful tool for change and connection.
Did you know?
First Known Author
The first known author in history is Enheduanna, a Sumerian priestess who lived around 2285-2250 BC.
Longest Novel
The longest novel ever written is 'In Search of Lost Time' by Marcel Proust, consisting of over 1.2 million words.
Writing Systems
There are over 7,000 languages in the world, but only a fraction of them have a widely used written form.
National Novel Writing Month
November is National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), where writers aim to complete a 50,000-word novel in just 30 days.
Famous Literary Prizes
The Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded annually to authors whose work has significantly impacted literature.
Writing in History
Writing has been a crucial tool for recording history, with ancient texts providing insights into past civilizations.
Impact of Social Media
Social media has transformed writing, enabling instant sharing and engagement with audiences worldwide.
Around the world
Every culture celebrates a little differently.
- USUnited StatesNational Day on Writing originated in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of writing in education and personal expression.
- GBUnited KingdomBritish writers also celebrate this day, focusing on the literary traditions that have shaped English literature.
- CACanadaIn Canada, writers come together to promote literacy and share diverse stories from their multicultural landscape.
- AUAustraliaAustralian authors participate in writing workshops and events, showcasing the unique narratives that emerge from their vast land.
- INIndiaIn India, writers reflect on their rich literary heritage while promoting contemporary voices in the writing community.
- JPJapanJapanese authors and poets observe this day by sharing their works, highlighting the beauty of language and artistry.
Keep the party going
See the calendar
Celebrate every day, all year
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