National Storytelling Week

National Storytelling Week for the year 2023 is celebrated/observed on Sunday, January 30th. There are until the next observance.

During National Storytelling Week, which runs from January 30 to February 6 this year, we celebrate storytelling in all its forms. This exciting event is held at schools, clubs, museums, spoken word venues, and a variety of other locations. As the name suggests, National Storytelling Week encourages people of all ages, genders, and cultures to listen to and tell stories. This form of entertainment has been around for hundreds of years.

→ Learn all January holidays, including Arts & Entertainment and other Activities holidays.

📆 When is National Storytelling Week?

This year, National Storytelling Week falls on the 5th Sunday in January; in 2023, it is on Monday.

→ Did you know: “The Bible” is believed to have sold over five billion copies.

📜 History of National Storytelling Week

Scientists think storytelling has existed in some form or another since the birth of languages, and the earliest proof we have is in the shape of these cave paintings. Then, as the world (and man) changed, so did our ability to create stories. Oral stories were passed down from ancient societies such as the Greeks, Sumerians, and Egyptians. Then there was Aesop, who was most likely an oral storyteller as well. Epic poetry like the “Iliad” and “Odyssey” was originally passed down orally and was only afterwards written down.

Similarly, nations and individuals such as Native Americans handed down stories verbally, a custom that certain communities continue to do today. Stories evolve over time to incorporate current technology. Photographs, videotapes, and television became new mediums for telling stories.

People in the twenty-first century may discover and appreciate stories in any manner they wish.

☑️ National Storytelling Week facts

✅ Paperback or hardback?
Traditionally, paperback editions of novels are released after hardcover editions have sold out.

✅ President Roosevelt loved reading
Every day before breakfast, President Roosevelt was said to have read a book.

✅ Authors’ names weren’t on the cover
The first printed books were regarded as works of art, with paintings, leather, or even gold on the covers, but no author’s name.

✅ The most expensive book in the world
“Metro,” a free newspaper for commuters, was launched in 1999.

✨ Things to do on National Storytelling Week

Visit a storytelling event
Every year, different places hold unique activities in honor of National Storytelling Week. Look for National Storytelling Week activities in your area and go if you can. If you can’t locate one, why not host your own storytelling event for friends and family?

Live your story
Fulfill your desire to be an actor by selecting a favorite story (or creating one) and performing it for your friends and family. You may also create a themed gathering to commemorate legendary storytellers or literary topics. Bring to life space themes, horror, or even a murder mystery.

See stories come alive
Play or watch cinematic adaptations of your favorite novels. Visit live retellings (and even author readings) to enhance your storytelling experience.

📅 National Storytelling Week Observances

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about National Storytelling Week. So be sure to check back soon.