World Storytelling Day

20 March is World Storytelling Day. Image: Pixabay

It’s World Storytelling Day

Cultures all over the world have revered and celebrated storytellers, and World Storytelling Day has grown to become a global event

World Storytelling Day

20 March is World Storytelling Day. Image: Pixabay

This day started back in 1991, when Sweden held a Storytelling Day, inspiring the global celebration of World Storytelling Day.

Gather loved ones, get comfortable, and immerse in story magic.

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History of World Storytelling Day

Humankind has been practicing storytelling for almost as long as it has existed.

The power of storytelling is essential for us to make sense of the world and function in it.

Our brains are wired to comprehend and pass on stories.

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Cultures around the world have always revered and celebrated storytellers, who were often viewed as leaders, teachers, and entertainers.

In the Middle Ages, minstrels or troubadours would travel and captivate people with their tales.

While oral storytelling allows each teller to make the stories their own, it is also useful to have techniques to remember them.

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Cave drawings

Aboriginal people in Australia used cave drawings, and storytellers often used songs, chants, and dance to aid in recollection.

Common storytelling techniques like set phrases, typical plot structures, and archetypal characters help storytellers master their craft.

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World Storytelling Day has grown and spread globally, much like how stories are shared and take on a life of their own.

It began in Sweden in 1991 as “Alla berättares dag” (All Storytellers Day) during the March equinox, and soon became celebrated worldwide.

By 1997, the occasion had reached Australia and Latin America, and by 2002, it had spread throughout Scandinavia.

In 2009, World Storytelling Day was celebrated across all six continents (excluding Antarctica).

Every year, the event revolves around a different theme such as dreams, trees, and voyages.

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The goal of World Storytelling Day is to celebrate the art of oral storytelling by having as many people as possible around the world tell and listen to stories in their own languages on the same day.

Participants can connect with others worldwide who are also contributing, creating new friendships, and promoting a positive understanding of cultures around the world.

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