International Talk Like a Pirate Day
This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.
Overview
International Talk Like a Pirate Day is an annual observance held on September 19th where people worldwide are encouraged to speak and act like pirates for the entire day. Conceived in 1995 by John Baur (Ol' Chumbucket) and Mark Summers (Cap'n Slappy), it started as an inside joke among friends and gained international recognition after they sent a letter about it to humor columnist Dave Barry in 2002. The day is celebrated by using pirate slang like "Arrr!" and "Ahoy, matey!", sometimes dressing in pirate attire, and engaging in lighthearted activities related to pirate culture, often for charitable causes or just for fun.
Observed each year on September 19, International Talk Like a Pirate Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.
Origin and story
The holiday was conceived in 1995 by John Baur ("Ol' Chumbucket") and Mark Summers ("Cap'n Slappy") in Albany, Oregon.
They chose September 19th as the date because it was the birthday of one of their ex-wives, making it a date they wouldn't forget.
Quick facts
- DateSeptember 19
- TypeKindness / Community
- Great forCommunity groups, Friends, Coworkers
Also on this date
Ways to celebrate
- Bring International Talk Like a Pirate Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
- Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.
- Do one small favor quietly for a friend or coworker.
- International Talk Like a Pirate Day lands on September 19 — host a quick nod with Community groups, Friends and snap a photo.
- Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the kindness / community vibe and make it a mini tradition.
Fun facts
- The holiday was conceived in 1995 by John Baur ("Ol' Chumbucket") and Mark Summers ("Cap'n Slappy") in Albany, Oregon.
- They chose September 19th as the date because it was the birthday of one of their ex-wives, making it a date they wouldn't forget.
- The observance gained widespread international recognition after syndicated humor columnist Dave Barry wrote about it in his column in 2002.
Sources and attribution
Source not provided.
Continue to
FAQ
- When is International Talk Like a Pirate Day?
- It is observed on September 19 each year.
- What is International Talk Like a Pirate Day?
- International Talk Like a Pirate Day is an annual observance held on September 19th where people worldwide are encouraged to speak and act like pirates for the entire day. Conceived in 1995 by John Baur (Ol' Chumbucket) and Mark Summers (Cap'n Slappy), it started as an inside joke among friends and gained international recognition after they sent a letter about it to humor columnist Dave Barry in 2002. The day is celebrated by using pirate slang like "Arrr!" and "Ahoy, matey!", sometimes dressing in pirate attire, and engaging in lighthearted activities related to pirate culture, often for charitable causes or just for fun.
- How do people celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day?
- Bring International Talk Like a Pirate Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
Get the app
Thousands of obscure holidays, daily widgets, reminders, and fun facts—free on iOS and Android.