A cultural observance on March 20 celebrating the art of oral storytelling, encouraging people worldwide to tell and listen to stories in as many languages and places as possible.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
The observance originated from a Swedish national storytelling event around 1991-1992 organized for March 20. It spread through the Ratatosk Scandinavian network around 2001-2002 and became an international event by 2003, with storyteller Ulf Arnstrom credited by some sources with proposing the global version during a 2001 festival.
Mark your calendar for World Storytelling Day on March 20th, a day dedicated to the power of stories! For centuries, people have used storytelling as a way to connect with one another and share their experiences. Stories can be about anything—from personal anecdotes to fantastical tales of faraway lands. They can evoke emotions like laughter or tears, inspire imagination, and transport us to different times and places. So don’t miss out on this special day where we celebrate the timeless art of storytelling!
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
By listening to stories from different cultures, we gain insight into their beliefs, customs and values. This helps us cultivate empathy for those who may come from different backgrounds than our own, bridging divides and creating a more compassionate and connected global community.
Storytelling is a powerful way to preserve cultural values, wisdom and traditions. By celebrating World Storytelling Day, we are acknowledging the importance of these narratives and encouraging communities around the world to pass on their stories for generations to come.
The timeless art of storytelling encourages creativity, imagination and expression. Listening to stories - whether they're from another culture or your own - can spark ideas and help us look at the world in new ways.
Bring your stories to life and celebrate National Tell A Story Day! Share tales with friends and family, or go on a magical adventure of your own.
Unleash your imagination this National Storytelling Week as you delve into enchanting worlds and riveting tales!
Share a story, ignite imagination and connect with others this National Share a Story Month - because every story deserves to be heard!
A fun observance on March 14 encouraging everyone to write and share their personal life stories to celebrate individual journeys and promote self-reflection, healing, and empowerment through storytelling.
