National Streaming Day
On National Streaming Day, the arts get their due — not as extras, but as the heart of what makes a community a community.
Why it matters
CELEBRATE STREAMING!
May 20 marks a day to honor the streaming revolution that has reshaped entertainment.
THE STORY
National Streaming Day was established in 2020 as a recognition of the evolving landscape of entertainment consumption. As more Americans turn to streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, this day serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come from traditional cable television. With the rise of on-demand content, audiences now have access to an unparalleled array of movies, series, and documentaries at their fingertips.
Streaming services have also allowed for diverse storytelling, giving rise to new voices and perspectives that may have been overlooked in mainstream media. This democratization of content creation fosters creativity and innovation, making it an exciting time for both viewers and creators alike. National Streaming Day invites everyone to reflect on the shows and films that have shaped their viewing habits and cultural touchstones.
As we celebrate this day, it’s important to also consider the global impact of streaming services. Platforms have expanded beyond American borders, allowing international content to reach audiences across the globe. From Korean dramas to Indian films, streaming services have become a bridge connecting different cultures, transforming how stories are shared and appreciated worldwide.
On May 20, gather with friends and family to indulge in your favorite streaming content, explore new genres, and celebrate the vast landscape of entertainment now available. Whether you prefer binge-watching an entire season or discovering hidden gems, National Streaming Day is a chance to appreciate the convenience and creativity that streaming platforms have brought to our lives.
Streaming has changed the way we connect with stories and each other.
WORTH KNOWING
Watch Together
Use streaming platforms to host virtual movie nights.
Explore Genres
Try out new genres you haven’t watched before.
Snack Time
Prepare favorite snacks for your streaming sessions.
Discuss & Share
Engage with friends about what you’re watching.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
The First Streaming Service
Netflix began as a DVD rental service in 1997.
Popular Streaming Shows
Shows like ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘The Crown’ have gained global acclaim.
Streaming Subscribers
Netflix boasts over 230 million subscribers worldwide.
Impact on Cinema
Streaming has influenced how films are released and marketed.
Binge-Watching Phenomenon
Binge-watching became a common practice with the rise of streaming.
Global Reach
Streaming services have expanded into over 190 countries.
Emmy Awards
Streaming platforms have dominated Emmy nominations in recent years.
READ MORE
Streaming, Sharing, Stealing
By Michael D. Smith
Explores the impact of streaming services on the media landscape.
The Last Movie Star
By Adam Barrow
A nostalgic look at Hollywood and the changing times.
The Big Switch
By Nicholas Carr
Discusses the shift from traditional media to digital.
Content is King
By David B. Nieborg
Analyzes the cultural impact of streaming platforms.
PAIR IT WITH
Gather friends for a film fest.
Watch your favorites on the go.
Discover films from different cultures.
Enjoy watching from your couch.
Celebrate Streaming Day
Join the conversation on National Streaming Day and share your favorite shows and movies with friends and family.
How to celebrate
Small, doable ways to celebrate National Streaming Day.
- Listen to a full album from start to finish.
- Go to a local live show, gallery, or reading.
- Buy a print, book, or recording directly from the artist.
- Share a recommendation with a friend who'd love it.
- Make something yourself — even if you're out of practice.
Celebration ideas by audience
For families
Make something together — paint, draw, play, sing, write.
For kids
Give them real materials, not just kid stuff. Let them make a mess.
For couples
Go to a live show, gallery, or reading together.
At the office
Highlight an employee's creative work or hobby — let people be seen.
At school
Feature a student or local artist's work in a public space for the day.
In your community
Support a local arts organization — ticket, membership, share.
On your own
Practice the craft you used to love. Doesn't have to be good.
More to celebrate
National Teflon Day
On National Teflon Day, we make a little room on the calendar for the thing that makes us who we are.