international-talk-like-a-pirate-day-september-19

International Talk Like A Pirate Day September 19

Imagine setting sail on the high seas, where the language is as colorful as the characters who speak it. International Talk Like a Pirate Day does just that, transforming folks from landlubbers to seasoned pirates with a simple "Arrr!" every September 19th. Born from the whimsy of two friends, John Baur and Mark Summers, this day plunges us into the swashbuckling world of pirates, far beyond the reach of ordinary life. But what's the real treasure behind this day of jest and jargon? It's not just about the playful banter or the "shiver me timbers" that roll off the tongue; it's a nod to a bygone era that has fascinated people for centuries. Pirates, with their lawless life on the high seas, have captured our imaginations, painting a picture of freedom, adventure, and sometimes, noble rebellion. This annual tradition isn't just for kicks; it's a plank leading us to explore the rich tapestry of maritime history, the golden age of piracy, and the real-life characters who've inspired countless tales. So, grab your compass and map; we're charting a course through the history and heart of piracy, where every "matey" and "avast" is a step back in time.

Key Takeaway

International Talk Like a Pirate Day is celebrated on September 19 and was popularized by John Baur and Mark Summers in 1995.
The holiday raises awareness about the history and culture of piracy, which was a significant part of maritime history during the Golden Age of Piracy from the late 16th to the late 18th century.

Timeline

2002
Talk Like a Pirate Day goes International
American radio station KISS-FM switches its program to an all-pirate format for the day in response to the request from Talk Like a Pirate Day founders John Baur and Mark Summers.
2003
Chase’s Calendar of Events
Talk Like a Pirate Day is first included in Chase’s Calendar of Events, an extensive guide to special events, holidays, and festivals.
2006
Microsoft joins the celebration
Microsoft acknowledges Talk Like a Pirate Day by releasing a pirate-themed update for its MSN Messenger service.
2008
Google celebrates Talk Like a Pirate Day
Google introduces a pirate-themed version of its logo on its homepage for the day.
2011
Disney Parks celebrates
Disney Parks celebrates Talk Like a Pirate Day at its theme parks with special events and activities.
2012
Pirate Day in the UK
The UK Parliament’s official website features a pirate-themed layout for the day.

Day Activities

  1. Dress Like a Pirate: Kick off the day by donning your best pirate attire. Think eyepatches, striped shirts, and maybe even a parrot on your shoulder. Schools and offices alike get into the spirit, transforming ordinary folks into swashbuckling pirates. It's all about letting your inner buccaneer shine through, so don't hold back on the accessories!

  2. Pirate Speak 101: Mastering the lingo is crucial for any aspiring pirate. Throughout the day, enthusiasts immerse themselves in phrases like "Ahoy, matey!" and "Yo-ho-ho." Language apps and social media are abuzz with tutorials and challenges, encouraging everyone to perfect their pirate dialect. It's a fantastic way to connect with fellow pirates across the globe, sharing laughs and a hearty "Arrr!"

  3. Treasure Hunts and Pirate Games: Communities and families often organize treasure hunts, adding an adventurous twist to the day. Maps marked with "X"s lead to hidden treasures, while pirate-themed games keep the excitement sailing high. Whether it's a backyard quest for gold or a digital scavenger hunt, these activities bring out the adventurous spirit in participants, making for an unforgettable celebration of piracy's lore.

Interesting Facts

1. Pirate Lingo Day

International Talk Like a Pirate Day turns everyday chat into pirate banter on September 19.

2. A Birthday Bash

Chosen for pirate Samuel Bellamy's birthday, September 19 sparks pirate speak worldwide.

3. From Idea to Tradition

John Baur and Mark Summers transformed a fun concept into a global event with "The Pirate's Dictionary."

4. More Than Just Talk

The day isn't only about fun; it's a nod to the rich history and culture of piracy.

5. Pirates: Villains or Heroes?

Pirates were complex figures, not just criminals but skilled sailors with sometimes honorable motives.

Why We Love This Day

Why we love International Talk Like a Pirate Day on September 19

  • Brings out our inner pirate: Let's face it, who hasn't dreamed of sailing the high seas in search of treasure and adventure? This day gives everyone, young and old, an excuse to channel their inner pirate, complete with all the "arrs" and "mateys" you can muster. It's a blast to see friends, family, and even strangers getting into the spirit, talking like pirates, and having a jolly good time.

  • A nod to maritime history: While pirates might have been the bad guys of the high seas, there's no denying their significant impact on maritime history and culture. Celebrating this day is a fun, quirky way to acknowledge the fascinating era of the Golden Age of Piracy. It's not just about the swashbuckling and treasure hunting; it's a chance to remember the skilled sailors and navigators who lived thrilling lives outside the bounds of society.

  • Encourages creativity and playfulness: In a world that often takes itself too seriously, International Talk Like a Pirate Day is a welcome break. It encourages people to let loose, have fun, and engage in some harmless play-acting. Schools, workplaces, and communities come alive with pirate-themed activities, costumes, and parties, proving that sometimes, all you need for a good time is a little imagination and a willingness to play along.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
SEPTEMBER 19 2022
SEPTEMBER 19 2023
SEPTEMBER 19 2024
SEPTEMBER 19 2025
SEPTEMBER 19 2026
SEPTEMBER 19 2027
SEPTEMBER 19 2028

FAQ

Why is September 19 Talk Like a Pirate Day?

Back in the day, precisely in 1995, two pals, Jack Baur and Mark Summers, sparked the idea during a racquetball match. After a bout of pirate speak unleashed in sheer frustration, they found the idea so amusing that they declared it should become an annual event. Thus, September 19 was chosen as the day to celebrate all things piratical, encouraging everyone to channel their inner pirate.

Who invented National Talk Like a Pirate Day?

The brains behind National Talk Like a Pirate Day are none other than John Baur and Mark Summers, affectionately known to pirate enthusiasts and casual fans alike as Ol' Chumbucket and Cap'n Slappy. This dynamic duo brought the quirky holiday into existence in 1995.

Is today International Talk Like a Pirate Day?

If today happens to be September 19th, then, matey, you're in luck! It's International Talk Like A Pirate Day, a sensational day when folks from all corners of the globe let their pirate flags fly high and their pirate lingo flow freely. This day holds the honor of being championed by its original creators, the legendary Pirate Guys – Ol' Chumbucket and Cap'n Slappy.

How to celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day?

Celebrating Talk Like a Pirate Day is as fun as finding treasure on a deserted island! Start by perfecting your pirate lingo — throw in plenty 'o “Arrrs!” and “Me hearties!” in your conversations. Dressing up as a pirate adds to the fun, complete with a hat, eye patch, or even a parrot on your shoulder. Watch pirate-themed movies or read pirate tales to get in the spirit. Don't forget, sharing pirate jokes or attending or hosting pirate-themed parties can make the day even more memorable. It's all about letting loose and having a good time, pirate style!