National Writing Day is an annual celebration dedicated to promoting and celebrating the power of creative writing, inspiring people of all ages and abilities to express themselves through the written word. It’s a day that emphasizes the importance of writing both as a crucial skill and an art form.
Quick Facts
When is it: June 25, 2025 (UK) and October 20, 2025 (US)
Tagged as: A celebration of creative writing and self-expression
What’s the hashtag: #WhyIWrite, #WriteDay
When was it founded: 2009 (US) / 2017 (UK)
Who founded it: National Council of Teachers of English (US) / First Story (UK)
History
The day emerged from two distinct initiatives. In the US, it began as National Journalism Day, later evolving into the National Day on Writing. The UK version was established by First Story to promote writing for pleasure and self-expression, particularly among young people.
Timeline
- 2008: NCTE proposes the concept
- 2009: US Senate officially recognizes October 20
- 2010: First public celebration across schools and libraries
- 2012: #WhyIWrite campaign launches
- 2017: UK launches separate National Writing Day
2025 Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June | 25 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | June | 25 | Thursday |
| 2029 | June | 25 | Friday |
| 2031 | June | 24 | Saturday |
| 2033 | June | 24 | Sunday |
| 2035 | June | 24 | Monday |
How It’s Observed
The day features writing workshops, creative challenges, social media campaigns, and community events. Schools organize special writing activities, while libraries host writing marathons and author talks.
Fun Facts About Writing
- Office workers write the equivalent of a novel annually in emails alone
- Writing helps with cognitive development and memory retention
- Two in five children enjoy writing in their free time
- Writing serves as a form of meditation and stress relief
Quiz
- When was the UK National Writing Day founded?
- What organization established the US celebration?
- What’s the main hashtag used for the celebration?
(Answers: 2017, National Council of Teachers of English, #WhyIWrite)
FAQs
- Can anyone participate? Yes, it’s open to all ages and abilities
- Do I need special skills? No, the day celebrates all forms of writing
- Is it only for creative writing? No, it celebrates all forms of written expression