114 saved#1,990 of 6,224

World Television Day

Celebrate World Television Day with your favorite shows and movies - get your popcorn ready for a night of entertainment!

Saturday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATENovember 21

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYMovies & TV

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to celebrate World Television Day on November 21! This special day was created in 1996 by the United Nations to recognize the power of television as a tool for entertainment, education and information. It's an opportunity to appreciate how far television has come since its invention over 100 years ago and reflect on its impact throughout history. We can also use this day to look ahead at where TV is going in the future.

TIMELINE

World Television Day Timeline

First Electronic Television

Inventor Philo T. Farnsworth successfully demonstrates the world’s first electronic television, sparking a new era of technology.

Color Television

CBS broadcasts the first commercial color television program, with an adapted version of a show called "Premiere".

Moon Landing Broadcast

The Apollo 11 moon landing becomes one of the most-watched television broadcasts in history, marking an important moment for television in global communication.

First Home Video Recorder

The Philips Company introduces the first home video cassette recorder, allowing television shows and movies to be recorded and watched at home.

World Television Day

The United Nations General Assembly proclaims November 21 as World Television Day, recognizing the role television plays in presenting different issues affecting people.

Netflix Streaming

Netflix, originally a DVD rental-by-mail service, begins streaming television shows and movies, significantly transforming the landscape of television broadcasting.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Television Day

Watch your favorite TV show

Take a break from work or school and get comfy on the couch. Catch up on that show you’ve been wanting to watch all week.

HOST

Host a movie marathon

Invite your friends over for a movie marathon of all your favorite films, or choose a theme to make it more interesting. Don’t forget the popcorn!

ORGANIZE

Organize a TV trivia night

Gather some friends together for an evening of fun, competitive trivia about all things television. Print out some questions in advance, or make it up as you go along.

VISIT

Visit a TV museum

Visit a museum dedicated to television, like the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago. Learn about the history of television and its impact on our culture.

MAKE

Make fan art

Channel your inner artist and create some fan art featuring your favorite characters from TV shows or movies. Share it with friends or post it online.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World Television Day is Important

Television tells us stories from all over the globe

Television often gives us access to stories from all over the world. It allows us to peek into the lives of others in faraway countries or hear their unique perspectives on various current events. This insight helps us form deeper connections by learning more about our global community.

Television provides entertainment and enrichment

Television is more than a source of entertainment - it can also provide knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the world around us. By watching informative shows, we learn about different cultures, places and topics that can broaden our perspectives and enrich our lives.

Television brings us closer with friends & family

Watching television together is a great way to bond with friends and family. We can share our reactions to what's happening onscreen in real time, creating meaningful conversations that bring us closer together. Plus, modern streaming services make it easier than ever for distant family members to stay connected by also watching the same show!

Related holidays

THU

May 2026

Tech

National Streaming Day

Get ready to binge-watch your favorite shows and movies because it's National Streaming Day! Don't forget the popcorn and snacks for the ultimate viewing experience.

92Read

TUE

Oct 2026