National Caps Lock Day 🔠

Overview

National Caps Lock Day, observed annually on October 22nd, is an unofficial, humorous holiday dedicated to the "Caps Lock" key on computer keyboards. It encourages people to type in all capital letters for a day, often playfully mimicking the online etiquette of "shouting" or expressing strong emotions. While it's largely a lighthearted jest, it serves as a quirky reminder of a keyboard function that is sometimes overused or accidentally engaged.

Observed each year on October 22, National Caps Lock Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

The holiday was reportedly created in 2000 by a programmer named Derek Arnold, who found humor in the key's perceived misuse.

The Caps Lock key originated from the 'Shift Lock' key on typewriters, designed to type entire sections in uppercase without continuously holding down the Shift key.

Quick facts

• DateOctober 22
• TypeGeek / Tech
• Great forTech teams, STEM clubs, Developers

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

• Host a mini show-and-tell: a gadget, code snippet, or STEM story.
• Post a story with #national-caps-lock-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
• National Caps Lock Day lands on October 22 — host a quick nod with Tech teams, STEM clubs and snap a photo.
• Bring National Caps Lock Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
• Write a note or journal entry on why National Caps Lock Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.

Fun facts

• The holiday was reportedly created in 2000 by a programmer named Derek Arnold, who found humor in the key's perceived misuse.
• The Caps Lock key originated from the 'Shift Lock' key on typewriters, designed to type entire sections in uppercase without continuously holding down the Shift key.
• There is a second, unofficial National Caps Lock Day observed on June 28th, often associated with the birthday of infomercial pitchman Billy Mays, known for his enthusiastic, loud delivery.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is National Caps Lock Day?

It is observed on October 22 each year.

What is National Caps Lock Day?

National Caps Lock Day, observed annually on October 22nd, is an unofficial, humorous holiday dedicated to the "Caps Lock" key on computer keyboards. It encourages people to type in all capital letters for a day, often playfully mimicking the online etiquette of "shouting" or expressing strong emotions. While it's largely a lighthearted jest, it serves as a quirky reminder of a keyboard function that is sometimes overused or accidentally engaged.

How do people celebrate National Caps Lock Day?

Host a mini show-and-tell: a gadget, code snippet, or STEM story.

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