National Guitar Day celebrates the beloved six-stringed instrument that has shaped music across genres and cultures. This annual observance honors the guitar’s legacy, impact, and the musicians who have made it an iconic part of musical history.
Quick Facts
- When is it: February 11th annually
- Tagged as: Get Out Your Guitar Day
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalGuitarDay
- When was it founded: Unknown
- Who founded it: Origins unclear
History of National Guitar Day
The guitar’s journey spans thousands of years, evolving from ancient stringed instruments to the modern six-string design. The celebration emerged as a way to honor this versatile instrument that has influenced countless musical genres, from classical to rock, jazz to blues.
Timeline
- 1500 BC: First guitar-like instrument appears in Iran
- 13th Century: First literary mentions of ‘guitars’
- 15th Century: Spanish ‘guitarra Latina’ emerges
- 17th Century: Six-string classical guitar development
- 1930s: Electric guitar invention
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Feb 11 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | Feb 11 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | Feb 11 | Thursday |
Observed
National Guitar Day is celebrated worldwide through concerts, workshops, jam sessions, and social media sharing. Musicians and enthusiasts alike participate by playing music, sharing their skills, or simply enjoying guitar-based performances.
Fun Facts About Guitars
- The name “guitar” comes from the Ancient Greek word “kithára”
- Jimi Hendrix played his guitar upside down due to being left-handed
- The first guitar-like instrument had only four strings
- Les Paul had his broken arm set at a specific angle to continue playing
Quiz
- How many strings does a typical modern guitar have?
- What type of strings are used in classical guitars?
- Who perfected the modern classical guitar?
(Answers: 1. Six strings 2. Nylon strings 3. Antonio de Torres Jurado)
FAQs
Q: What types of guitars exist?
A: Acoustic, electric, and classical are the main types.
Q: Do I need experience to celebrate?
A: No, everyone can participate by playing, listening, or learning.
Importance of National Guitar Day
This celebration promotes music education, cultural preservation, and artistic expression. It encourages new generations to explore music while honoring the instrument’s rich heritage.
Related
- World Music Day
- International Jazz Day
- Record Store Day
- Make Music Day
- International Musicians Day