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NATIONAL DAYWRITING & MEDIA

Crossword Puzzle Day

Crossword Puzzle Day is a chance to engage your mind and enjoy a timeless pastime.

DEC21

Monday, December 21Every year on December 21

days to go

Roots: First published in 1913 in the New York World
Vibe: A mix of challenge and fun, inviting collaboration
Also on Dec 21: First Day of Winter · Flashlight Day · Winter Begins/Winter Solstice
Hashtag: #CrosswordPuzzleDay

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Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Solve one

Work through a crossword puzzle over coffee.

WITH FRIENDS

Race a friend

See who finishes the puzzle first.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Puzzle break

Post a crossword in the break room.

Plan ahead

Crossword Puzzle Day is observed on December 21 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Dec 21this year

2027Tue, Dec 21

2028Thu, Dec 21

2029Fri, Dec 21

2030Sat, Dec 21

2031Sun, Dec 21

2032Tue, Dec 21

2033Wed, Dec 21

2034Thu, Dec 21

2035Fri, Dec 21

2036Sun, Dec 21

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Crosswords became a craze in 1924

The New York Times first published a crossword in 1942

The story

Crossword puzzles have evolved from their humble beginnings in the early 20th century to become a staple of daily newspapers and a favorite pastime for millions. The first modern crossword was created by Arthur Wynne and published in the New York World on December 21, 1913. This innovative word game quickly gained popularity, leading to the creation of dedicated puzzle books and magazines, establishing a vibrant community of enthusiasts.

Read the full story

The charm of crossword puzzles lies in their ability to challenge the mind while providing a sense of accomplishment. They often incorporate clever wordplay, cultural references, and trivia, making each puzzle a unique experience. Many puzzle creators draw inspiration from current events, literature, and history, which adds layers of depth to the solutions. As you work through clues, you may even uncover new knowledge along the way.

As a timeless tradition, Crossword Puzzle Day encourages people of all ages to engage with language and enhance their problem-solving skills. Whether you are a novice or an experienced solver, there is a crossword puzzle for everyone. This day serves as a reminder of the joy that comes from piecing together words and finding connections.

To celebrate Crossword Puzzle Day, gather your family, friends, or colleagues for a fun-filled puzzle-solving session. Challenge each other with themed puzzles or explore new ones together. You can also dive into the rich history of crosswords by reading books or joining online communities dedicated to this unique form of entertainment. Embrace the challenge and celebrate the joy of words.

Did you know?

First Crossword Puzzle

The first crossword was published on December 21, 1913, in the New York World.

Popular in Newspapers

Crossword puzzles became a staple in newspapers across America in the 1920s.

The New York Times

The New York Times began publishing its own crossword puzzles in 1942, further popularizing the genre.

World's Largest Crossword

Arthur Wynne, the journalist credited with inventing the crossword, was from Liverpool.

International Competitions

World championships for crossword solving are held in various countries, attracting top solvers.

Digital Age

With the rise of the internet, online crossword puzzles have surged in popularity, offering convenience and variety.

Educational Tool

Crossword puzzles are used in classrooms to teach vocabulary and improve language skills.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesHome to the first crossword puzzle, the U.S. has a rich tradition of daily puzzles in newspapers.
GBUnited KingdomCrosswords in the UK often feature cryptic clues, adding an extra layer of challenge.
CACanadaCanadian crossword puzzles often include regional slang and cultural references.
AUAustraliaAustralian crosswords frequently feature local landmarks and wildlife in their clues.
NZNew ZealandKiwis enjoy crosswords that reflect their unique culture, including Māori language clues.
INIndiaCrosswords in India blend English with local languages and cultural references, creating a distinctive puzzle experience.