National Ampersand Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the iconic “&” symbol, also known as the ampersand. This versatile character, derived from the Latin word et meaning “and,” has been a staple in writing and design for centuries. It’s not just a functional symbol but also a creative and artistic element used in typography, branding, and literature.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 8th every year.
- Tagged as: Typography, Design, Writing.
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalAmpersandDay
- When was it founded?: 2015.
- Who founded it?: Chaz DeSimone, a designer and typographer.
History of National Ampersand Day
The ampersand traces its origins to ancient Rome, where scribes combined the Latin letters “E” and “T” (from et) into a single ligature for efficiency. Over time, it evolved into the stylish symbol we recognize today. In 2015, Chaz DeSimone established National Ampersand Day to honor this unique character’s blend of practicality and artistry.
Timeline
- 1st Century AD: The ampersand originates as a ligature in Roman cursive writing.
- 19th Century: It is included as the 27th letter of the English alphabet.
- 2015: Chaz DeSimone founds National Ampersand Day.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 8 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 8 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 8 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 8 | Friday |
| 2029 | September 8 | Saturday |
| 2030 | September 8 | Sunday |
Observed
National Ampersand Day is celebrated by writers, designers, and enthusiasts who appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Activities include creating ampersand-inspired art, exploring its history, and sharing its creative uses on social media.
Fun Facts About the Ampersand
- The ampersand dates back over 2,000 years.
- It was once part of the English alphabet.
- Its name comes from “and per se and,” which means “& by itself is ‘and.’”
- The symbol is widely used in branding (e.g., AT&T) and design.
Quiz
- What does the ampersand symbolize?
- Who founded National Ampersand Day?
- What is the origin of the symbol “&”?
(Answers: 1. “And”; 2. Chaz DeSimone; 3. Latin word “et.”)
FAQs
Why is it called an ampersand?
The name comes from “and per se and,” referring to its use as a standalone word for “and.”
When should you use an ampersand?
It’s best used in formal names (e.g., AT&T) or when space is limited in design.
Is an ampersand considered a word?
No, it’s a symbol representing the conjunction “and.”
Importance of National Ampersand Day
This day highlights the significance of typography in communication and design. It encourages creativity while honoring a symbol that connects ideas seamlessly.
Related
- Typography Day
- World Handwriting Day
- International Literacy Day