World Book Day: A Celebration of Reading and Creativity

World Book Day, also known as World Book and Copyright Day, is an annual celebration organized by UNESCO to promote reading, publishing, and copyright. It serves as a global tribute to books and authors, encouraging people of all ages to discover the joys of reading. First celebrated in 1995, this day emphasizes the importance of books as cultural bridges connecting generations and societies.

Quick Facts

• When is it?: April 23 annually.
• Tagged as: International Day of the Book, World Book and Copyright Day.
• What’s the hashtag?: #WorldBookDay.
• When was it founded?: 1995.
• Who founded it?: UNESCO.

History of World Book Day

The idea for World Book Day originated in Spain in 1922 when Vicente Clavel Andrés proposed a day to honor Miguel de Cervantes, the famous author of Don Quixote. Initially celebrated on Cervantes’ birthday (October 7), it was later moved to April 23 to commemorate his death. UNESCO officially established April 23 as World Book and Copyright Day in 1995, recognizing its literary significance—it is also the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega.

Timeline

• 1922: Vicente Clavel Andrés proposes a book celebration day.
• 1926: First celebration on October 7 in Spain.
• 1930: Date moved to April 23.
• 1995: UNESCO declares April 23 as World Book and Copyright Day.
• 2001: Madrid becomes the first UNESCO World Book Capital.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 23	Wednesday
2026	April 23	Thursday
2027	April 23	Friday
2028	April 23	Sunday
2029	April 23	Monday
2030	April 23	Tuesday

Observed

World Book Day is celebrated in over 100 countries with various activities such as book fairs, public readings, storytelling events, and book donations. In some regions like the UK and Ireland, it is observed on a different date to avoid conflicts with Easter holidays.

Fun Facts About World Book Day

• The first official celebration took place on April 23, 1995.
• The UK celebrates it on the first Thursday of March due to scheduling conflicts.
• Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare both died on April 23, though in different years and calendars.
• Over 100 countries participate in this global event annually.

Quiz

1. Who proposed the idea for World Book Day?
2. Which famous authors died on April 23?
3. What is the hashtag for World Book Day?
4. When was the first official celebration held?
5. Why does the UK celebrate it in March?

(Answers:)

1. Vicente Clavel Andrés
2. Miguel de Cervantes, William Shakespeare
3. #WorldBookDay
4. 1995
5. To avoid conflicts with Easter holidays.

FAQs

1. Why is World Book Day important?
   It promotes reading for pleasure and highlights the cultural significance of books.
2. What is the UNESCO World Book Capital?
   A city designated annually to foster a year-long celebration of books and reading.
3. Can I participate virtually?
   Yes! Many events are held online, including virtual readings and book clubs.
4. Is there a specific theme each year?
   Unlike some international days, World Book Day does not follow an annual theme but focuses broadly on celebrating books and reading.

Related

• International Literacy Day
• National Reading Month
• Library Week Celebrations

Celebrate this special day by picking up a book, sharing your favorite story online, or participating in local events!