International Louie Louie Day celebrates one of rock and roll’s most iconic songs, “Louie Louie.” This unique holiday honors both the song and its creator, Richard Berry, turning April 11th into a global celebration of music, fun, and rock history.
Quick Facts
When is it?: April 11th annually
Tagged as: Music celebration, Rock and Roll holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #LouieLouieDay #InternationalLouieLouieDay
When was it founded?: 2003
Who founded it?: A group of enthusiastic online fans
History of Louie Louie Day
The holiday began as a tribute to Richard Berry, coinciding with his birthday on April 11th. In 2007, the celebration gained momentum when fans worldwide formed the Louie Louie Advocacy and Music Appreciation Society (LLAMAS). The day is now officially registered with the National Special Events Registry and Chase’s Calendar of Events.
Timeline
- 1955: Richard Berry writes “Louie Louie”
- 1957: The Pharaohs record and release the original version
- 1963: The Kingsmen release their famous rendition
- 1964: FBI launches investigation into alleged “dirty lyrics”
- 2003: International Louie Louie Day established
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 11 | Friday |
| 2026 | April 11 | Saturday |
| 2027 | April 11 | Sunday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by singing the song, hosting “Louie Louie” parties, recording their versions, and sharing them on social media. Radio stations play various versions throughout the day, and some communities organize special music events and marathons.
Fun Facts About Louie Louie
- It’s one of the most recorded songs in rock and roll history
- The FBI spent 30 months investigating the supposedly obscene lyrics
- The Kingsmen’s version was declared “incomprehensible at all speeds” by the FBI
- The song has been covered by countless artists, from The Beach Boys to Bruce Springsteen
Quiz
- Who wrote “Louie Louie”?
- In what year was the song written?
- Which band made the song famous?
-(Answers: 1. Richard Berry, 2. 1955, 3. The Kingsmen)
FAQs
Q: Why April 11th?
A: It’s Richard Berry’s birthday
Q: What’s the song about?
A: A sailor telling a bartender named Louie about his journey to see his love in Jamaica
Related
- National Rock and Roll Day
- World Music Day
- Record Store Day
- International Jazz Day