INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Town Criers Day

Join in the festivities to honor the unique role town criers have played in community communication.

JUL13

Monday, July 13Second Monday in July

Roots: Dating back to the 15th century
Vibe: A mix of history, community, and performance
Also on Jul 13: Barbershop Music Appreciation Day · Beans ‘N’ Franks Day · Delaware Day
Hashtag: #InternationalTownCriersDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Announce dinner loudly

Ring a bell and proclaim tonight's menu in your best voice.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a proclamation contest

Everyone writes and shouts a silly announcement, loudest wins.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Make the announcements fun

Deliver today's news in your best town crier style.

Fast facts

Town criers compete in championships around the world.

The tradition of town crying dates back to medieval Europe.

The story

Town criers have been an integral part of public life since the 15th century, serving as the primary means of communication before the advent of modern media. They announced news, proclamations, and events in a theatrical manner, often wearing distinctive clothing and carrying bells. In America, the tradition has persisted, with town criers becoming a symbol of local heritage and community spirit.

Read the full story

International Town Criers Day, observed on the second Monday of July, invites communities to honor this unique tradition. Town criers often engage in friendly competitions, showcasing their vocal skills and creative flair. Events may include performances, parades, and storytelling sessions, all designed to celebrate the art of town crying. Communities from coast to coast participate, highlighting their unique histories and local news.

Celebrations take place not only in the United States but also around the world, countries such as Canada, the UK, and Australia all recognize this day. The cultural significance of town criers is evident in the way they engage the public, making announcements an event in themselves. From the ringing of bells to the artful delivery of news, town criers bring stories to life.

As you celebrate International Town Criers Day, consider what role communication plays in your community. The essence of town criers lies not just in the messages they share but also in the connections they foster. Whether through events, performances, or personal stories, this day encourages all to reflect on the importance of keeping communities informed and engaged.

Did you know?

Fun Fact

The first recorded use of a town crier dates back to 1270.

Crier's Costume

Town criers often wear distinctive costumes that reflect their community's heritage.

Heraldry

Many town criers are also skilled in heraldry, often incorporating it into their announcements.

Crier's Bell

The bell carried by a town crier signifies the start of their announcement.

Competitions

Town criers often compete in events showcasing their vocal talent and presentation skills.

Cultural Events

Town criers are featured in various cultural events, emphasizing local traditions.

Public Announcement

Before modern media, town criers were the primary source of public announcements.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesMany towns across the U.S. celebrate with local events, parades, and community gatherings.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK has a rich history of town criers, with competitions and festivals honoring their legacy.
AUAustraliaIn Australia, town criers participate in events that highlight local culture and community news.
CACanadaCanadian towns often feature town criers in parades and community events, celebrating their unique contributions.
NZNew ZealandIn New Zealand, town criers are recognized for their role in maintaining local traditions and storytelling.
DEGermanyGermany has a long-standing tradition of town criers, celebrating their contributions in various festivals.