national-scrabble-day-april-13

National Scrabble Day April 13

Imagine a world where words wield power, where strategy and vocabulary collide in a battle of wits on a simple board. This is the realm of Scrabble, a game that has not only stood the test of time but has become a cornerstone of family game nights and competitive gatherings alike. Celebrated every April 13, National Scrabble Day pays homage to this iconic game, marking the birthday of its creator, Alfred Mosher Butts. Born out of the Great Depression's shadow, Scrabble's journey from a living room novelty to global sensation is a testament to the enduring love for wordplay and intellectual challenge. As players across the globe dust off their boards and tile bags, this day serves as a vibrant reminder of the joy and camaraderie that can be found in the scramble of letters. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual player, National Scrabble Day is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the rich history and joyous moments that Scrabble brings into our lives.

Key Takeaway

National Scrabble Day is celebrated on April 13 every year, honoring the classic word game and its rich history.
Scrabble, introduced in the United States in 1948, involves creating words on a board using letter tiles and has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring spin-offs and adaptations for different age groups and languages.

Timeline

1938
Alfred Mosher Butts invents Criss-Crosswords
Alfred Mosher Butts, an American architect, invents a game he calls Criss-Crosswords, which would later evolve into Scrabble.
1948
James Brunot purchases rights to Criss-Crosswords
James Brunot buys the rights to Criss-Crosswords from Alfred Mosher Butts and renames it Scrabble.
1949
First Scrabble game produced
The first Scrabble games are produced by James Brunot in his home in Newtown, Connecticut.
1952
Sales of Scrabble begin to increase
Sales of Scrabble begin to increase dramatically after a marketing executive’s wife and her friends in Connecticut become enthusiastic about the game.
1953
Sales of Scrabble skyrocket
The Selchow and Righter Company begins to manufacture Scrabble, and sales skyrocket to over 4 million sets in 1954.
1971
Hasbro acquires Selchow and Righter
Hasbro, a multinational toy and game company, acquires Selchow and Righter, the manufacturer of Scrabble.
1984
First World Scrabble Championship
The first World Scrabble Championship is held in London, England.
1993
Scrabble goes digital
Mattel releases Scrabble for the Apple Macintosh, making it the first official Scrabble game for personal computers.
2009
National Scrabble Day established
Hasbro establishes April 13 as National Scrabble Day in the United States to honor the birthday of Alfred Mosher Butts.

Day Activities

  1. National Scrabble Day kicks off with enthusiasts gathering for friendly matches, turning living rooms and local cafes into battlegrounds of words. Imagine the clatter of tiles and the buzz as players challenge each other, their brains ticking over each possible word combination. It's not just about winning; it's the camaraderie and the thrill of the play that count.

  2. Across the globe, libraries and community centers throw open their doors, inviting folks of all ages to partake in Scrabble tournaments. These events often feature beginner and advanced levels, ensuring everyone gets a shot. Picture the intense focus, the hushed whispers as spectators lean in, and the sudden bursts of applause when someone lays down a high-scoring word.

  3. Beyond the board, National Scrabble Day shines a spotlight on the joy of learning and the power of language. Schools seize the opportunity to host vocabulary-building activities, weaving the game into lessons to make learning fun. It's a day when words are celebrated, not just for their points value but for their ability to connect and inspire us.

Interesting Facts

1. Scrabble's Birth Year

Scrabble was first introduced in 1948, quickly becoming a classic word game.

2. National Scrabble Day Date

Celebrated on April 13, this day honors the beloved game.

3. A Cultural Phenomenon

Millions worldwide play Scrabble, making it a cultural phenomenon.

4. Literacy and Vocabulary Building

Scrabble boosts literacy and vocabulary, requiring strong language skills.

5. Unofficial Holiday Origins

Believed to have started in the late '90s or early 2000s, its origins aren't well-documented.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebration of Words and Wit

Who doesn't love a good challenge, especially when it involves flexing our vocabulary muscles? National Scrabble Day, celebrated every April 13, is all about celebrating the joy and challenge of creating words from seemingly random letters. It's a day when word enthusiasts, from rookies to seasoned pros, can revel in the beauty of language and the strategic depth of Scrabble. This day reminds us that language isn't just about communication; it's a playground for the mind.

  • Bringing People Together

There's something special about gathering around a Scrabble board, whether with family or friends, that brings people closer. On National Scrabble Day, the focus is on the communal joy and friendly competition that Scrabble sparks. It's not just about who can come up with the most obscure words but about sharing laughs, strategies, and sometimes, the frustration of being stuck with too many vowels. This day celebrates the connections formed over the game board, making it a cherished occasion for many.

  • Highlighting the Importance of Literacy

At its core, Scrabble is more than just a game; it's a tool for education and literacy. National Scrabble Day shines a spotlight on the importance of having a rich vocabulary and the role games like Scrabble play in enhancing language skills. For kids and adults alike, it's a fun and engaging way to learn new words and appreciate the intricacies of different languages. This day serves as a reminder that learning can be both enjoyable and rewarding, encouraging players to dive deeper into the wonders of words.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
APRIL 13 2022
APRIL 13 2023
APRIL 13 2024
APRIL 13 2025
APRIL 13 2026
APRIL 13 2027
APRIL 13 2028

FAQ

Why is National Scrabble Day celebrated on April 13th?

National Scrabble Day commemorates the birth of Alfred Mosher Butts, born on April 13, 1899.

What day is National Scrabble Day?

Each year on National Scrabble Day April 13th recognizes a game played around the world. Originally named Lexiko and then Criss-Cross Words, Alfred Mosher Butts eventually settled on the name Scrabble.

What national day is on April 13?

It's Grand National, National Catch and Release Day, National Peach Cobbler Day, National Make Lunch Count Day, National Scrabble Day… and much more!

When was Scrabble invented?

American architect Alfred Mosher Butts invented the game in 1938. Scrabble is produced in the United States and Canada by Hasbro, under the brands of both of its subsidiaries, Milton Bradley and Parker Brothers. Mattel owns the rights to manufacture Scrabble outside the U.S. and Canada.