National Knock-Knock Jokes Day: A Celebration of Laughter
National Knock-Knock Jokes Day is a lighthearted celebration dedicated to one of the simplest yet most beloved forms of humor: the knock-knock joke. These call-and-response jokes are easy to share and bring smiles to people of all ages. Observed annually on October 31, it’s a perfect way to spread joy and laughter while knocking on doors during Halloween festivities.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 31
- Tagged as: Fun & Games
- What’s the hashtag?: #KnockKnockJokeDay
- When was it founded?: At least by 2006
- Who founded it?: Unknown
History of National Knock-Knock Jokes Day
The origins of knock-knock jokes can be traced back to call-and-answer routines from the Middle Ages, where castle guards would engage in humorous exchanges. William Shakespeare’s Macbeth also features a dialogue resembling this format. By the early 20th century, knock-knock jokes evolved into their modern form, gaining widespread popularity in the 1930s during the Great Depression. Their enduring charm has since made them a staple of humor for children and adults alike.
Timeline
- 1900s: Early variations of knock-knock jokes emerge.
- 1929: First written form appears in a book titled The Games of Children.
- 1930s: Modern knock-knock jokes gain popularity in the U.S.
- 1960s–70s: Featured on TV shows like Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
- 2006: National Knock-Knock Jokes Day is officially recognized.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 31 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 31 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 31 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 31 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 31 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 31 | Wednesday |
Observed
National Knock-Knock Jokes Day is celebrated by sharing your favorite knock-knock jokes with friends, family, or even strangers. Many people enjoy crafting new jokes or revisiting classics. It’s also a fun activity for kids during Halloween trick-or-treating.
Fun Facts About Knock-Knock Jokes
- The first knock-knock joke craze started in the U.S. during the Great Depression.
- They are often one of the first types of jokes children learn to tell.
- The format has been adapted into songs, TV shows, and even contests over the years.
Quiz
- What year did knock-knock jokes first appear in written form?
- Which Shakespeare play features a dialogue similar to a knock-knock joke?
- What hashtag is used for National Knock-Knock Jokes Day?
(Answers: 1. 1929, 2. Macbeth, 3. #KnockKnockJokeDay)
FAQs
Q: Why is National Knock-Knock Jokes Day celebrated on October 31?
A: It coincides with Halloween, making it perfect for sharing jokes while trick-or-treating.
Q: Who invented knock-knock jokes?
A: The exact origin is unclear, but they likely evolved from medieval call-and-answer routines.
Related
- International Joke Day
- World Laughter Day
- National Tell a Joke Day