National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day is an annual observance dedicated to honoring the hardworking individuals who ensure that radio and television broadcasts run smoothly. These professionals manage complex schedules, coordinate programming, and ensure that advertisements air at the right times, all while working behind the scenes.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: November 2
- Tagged as: National Broadcast Traffic Professional’s Day, National Traffic Directors Day, National Traffic Professional’s Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #TrafficProfessionalsDay
- When was it founded?: The exact founding date is unclear, but it coincides with the first scheduled commercial radio broadcast in the U.S. on November 2, 1920.
- Who founded it?: The specific founder is unknown, but it is supported by the Traffic Directors Guild of America.
History of National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day
The day commemorates a significant milestone in broadcasting history—the first scheduled commercial radio broadcast by KDKA in Pittsburgh on November 2, 1920. This broadcast announced the presidential election results between James Cox and Warren G. Harding, marking the beginning of a new era in media.
Timeline
- 1906: Reginald Aubrey Fessenden broadcasts the first known radio program in the U.S.
- 1920: KDKA airs the first scheduled commercial radio broadcast.
- 1922: By this date, 564 broadcasting stations are licensed in the U.S.
- 1927: Congress passes the Radio Act, establishing regulatory frameworks for broadcasting.
- 2000: National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day is officially recognized.
- Present: The day continues to be celebrated annually.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 2 | Sunday |
| 2026 | November 2 | Monday |
| 2027 | November 2 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | November 2 | Thursday |
| 2029 | November 2 | Friday |
Observed
National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day is observed every year on November 2, unless it falls on a weekend, in which case it is celebrated on the following Monday.
Fun Facts About National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day
- The term “broadcasting” originally referred to agriculture, meaning to scatter seeds broadly across a field.
- The first radio jingle was created for Wheaties cereal.
- Super Bowl commercials can cost millions for just a few seconds of airtime.
Quiz
- What year did KDKA air its first commercial broadcast?
- Answer: 1920
- What is the hashtag used to celebrate this day?
- Answer: #TrafficProfessionalsDay
- Who supports National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day?
- Answer: The Traffic Directors Guild of America
FAQs
What do broadcast traffic professionals do?
They manage scheduling and logistics for radio and television broadcasts to ensure programs and advertisements air as planned.
Why is November 2 significant?
It marks the anniversary of the first scheduled commercial radio broadcast in the United States.
How can I celebrate this day?
You can thank a traffic director or use social media to share appreciation using the day’s hashtag.
Related
- National Radio Day
- National Television Day
- National Advertising Week