International Town Criers Day

Akshita Dakh
Dec 22, 2023 By Akshita Dakh
Originally Published on Feb 05, 2022
Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj
People celebrate International Town Criers Day by wearing the traditional town crier's costume.

Where is International Town Criers Day celebrated?

This day is celebrated in parts of Europe, Australia, and North America.

Who is International Town Criers Day celebrated by?

 People of all age groups celebrate town Criers Day by learning the history of town criers.

When did International Town Criers Day first start?

The first International Town Criers Day was held in the '80s in Waterloo, Ontario. Since then, the day has been observed annually on the second Monday in July.

Who started International Town Criers Day?

Scott Fraser, a Waterloo town crier, founded this day after discovering that there was no official day to acknowledge the importance of his profession.

History And Timeline

Town criers have existed in almost all parts of the world since time immemorial. Here are a few significant events in their history.  

First-Known Town Criers

The first mention of a town crier was found in Britain when they were employed to inform people of William of Normandy's invasion.

1000s

'Don't Shoot The Messenger.'

Shakespeare expressed the sentiment that messengers of bad news must not be shot in his play, Henry IV.

1598

Town Crier Competitions

The first competition of town criers was hosted in the West.

1900s

Revival Of Town Crier

The British government officially revived the position of Town Crier.

'70s

Founding Of The Day

Scott Fraser established International Town Criers Day in Waterloo, Ontario.

1997

Traditions And Customs

The significance of the ancient job of town criers dwindled over time because of developments in mass media and others forms of communication, with most people being ignorant of such a profession.

International Town Criers Day attempts to educate younger generations about the historical role of town criers. People honor them by listening to their tales and hosting charity events on this day.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate International Town Criers Day

Dress as a Town Crier, wearing a red coat, white breeches, a tricorne hat, and black boots, and make announcements on the streets in a firm and loud voice.

Learn about the history of town criers and share your findings with your peers.

Participate in or attend a Town Crier Championship.

Facts And Stats

  • International Town Criers Day celebrates the coveted post of a town crier. It highlights how insecure their lives were as it was common for the ruling classes to execute town criers who delivered unpleasant news.
  • Several championships for town criers are held on International Town Criers Day, especially in Australia, North America, and Europe.
  • On International Town Criers Day, town criers revive the ancient tradition by grabbing public attention by saying 'Oyez, oyez, oyez' which is actually a French word meaning 'listen.' They would then fix the royal notice with the latest news on the door or window of a local inn after finishing reading it.

Why was the town crier important?

Town criers were the only link between the royal courts and the common people. They were among the few literate people in town who could read and deliver government proclamations to the general public.

What are some reasons for celebrating International Town Criers Day?

We must celebrate Town Criers Day to honor the fearless messengers who ensured that the public received reliable and accurate news even though the task could have dangerous repercussions.

Who celebrates International Town Criers Day?

Children, teens, and adults can celebrate Town Crier Day by engaging in fun activities throughout the day. 

What are some events related to this day?

Back to the Future Day (October 21), Embrace Your Geekness Day (July 13), National Simplicity Day (July 12), and National Journalism Day (November 12) are all events you may enjoy if you like International Town Criers Day. 

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Monday, July 13, 2020
  • Monday, July 12, 2021
  • Monday, July 11, 2022
  • Monday, July 10, 2023
  • Monday, July 08, 2024

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Sources

https://nationaltoday.com/international-town-criers-day/

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/international-town-criers-day-second-monday-in-july/

https://www.checkiday.com/908b08231653b0cba77d0343e4b096c3/international-town-criers-day

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Written by Akshita Dakh

Bachelor of Commerce, Masters in Business Administration

Akshita Dakh picture

Akshita DakhBachelor of Commerce, Masters in Business Administration

Akshita Dakh has worked in different roles for example she has worked as a Relationship Manager at Reliance Securities, where she successfully acquired and onboarded HNI clients. Additionally, she has interned in various roles such as E-commerce specialist & Content Writer at Tanpri E-commerce, Social Media Manager & Content Writer at Kamaleya Organics, and in retail liabilities and branch banking at Kotak Mahindra Bank. Akshita holds a Master's in Business Administration from AMSOM, Ahmedabad, and a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Asia Pacific College. 

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Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj

Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

Vikhaash Sundararaj picture

Vikhaash SundararajBachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

With a background in International Business Management, having completed his degree at the University of Hull. Vikhaash has volunteered with 'Teach For India' to help students create a monthly newsletter. In his free time, he enjoys sports and was the assistant captain of his school's hockey team. He has also gained marketing experience through an internship at Decathlon Sports India.

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