Annual observance

National Tell a Joke Day

August 16 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-18

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

National Tell a Joke Day, observed annually on August 16th, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to the sharing of humor and the simple joy of laughter. It encourages people to lighten the mood, engage in playful banter, and spread cheer by telling jokes, whether they be silly puns, classic knock-knocks, or clever one-liners, highlighting the universal appeal and positive impact of comedy.

Observed each year on August 16, National Tell a Joke Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Tell a Joke Day, celebrated on August 16, emphasizes the importance of humor in fostering connections and uplifting spirits within communities. By sharing jokes, individuals can create a lighthearted atmosphere that promotes joy and strengthens relationships among friends and family.

Origin and story

National Tell a Joke Day is celebrated every year on August 16th.

Laughter has been scientifically shown to reduce stress hormones, boost the immune system, and improve overall mood.

Quick facts

  • DateAugust 16
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Plan something small on August 16: a quick nod to National Tell a Joke Day with friends, family, or coworkers.
  • Bring National Tell a Joke Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Share the story of National Tell a Joke Day on social and tag it with #nationaltellajokeday so others can join in.
  • Add National Tell a Joke Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
  • National Tell a Joke Day lands on August 16 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.

Fun facts

  • National Tell a Joke Day is celebrated every year on August 16th.
  • Laughter has been scientifically shown to reduce stress hormones, boost the immune system, and improve overall mood.
  • The oldest known joke, dating back to 1900 BC from Sumeria, involves flatulence, showcasing humor's ancient origins.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Tell a Joke Day?
It is observed on August 16 each year.
What is National Tell a Joke Day?
National Tell a Joke Day, observed annually on August 16th, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to the sharing of humor and the simple joy of laughter. It encourages people to lighten the mood, engage in playful banter, and spread cheer by telling jokes, whether they be silly puns, classic knock-knocks, or clever one-liners, highlighting the universal appeal and positive impact of comedy.
How do people celebrate National Tell a Joke Day?
Plan something small on August 16: a quick nod to National Tell a Joke Day with friends, family, or coworkers.

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