
Why is World Book Day different in the UK? Though there's an explanation as to why it's celebrated on a different day in England and Ireland. This alternative date was chosen as it marks the same date a number of famous authors died: William Shakespeare and Spanish writers Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra and El Inca Garcilaso de la Vega.įor this reason, the rest of the world celebrates on 23rd April. In other parts of the world, the event takes place on April 23. However, not everyone celebrates it on the same day. Why are there 2 dates for World Book Day?Īs the name suggests, World Book Day is something honoured globally - in over 100 countries. It's often encouraged for them to bring along the accompanying book, so people know which literary icon they've dressed as. To mark the occasion, schoolchildren usually dress up as a character from their favourite children's book. The day is dedicated to celebrating reading and all things books. In the UK, the literary event always falls on the first Thursday in March. World Book Day 2023 takes place on Thursday 2 March. The most important thing is that it gets the children talking about their favourite books and characters, and reminds them why reading should be fun!” If it hasn’t quite turned out the way you planned, don’t worry. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, and remember that it’s only one day. Year 6 teacher Chris McDonald says: “World Book Day should be all about the books! Costumes are wonderful, and my favourite ones are usually homemade and simple. We know that not all children love to dress up, and this change from the norm can throw them. Winner! Oh and also, get that eyeliner out - it can be used for so many things!" Last year, I sent my son in to nursery in his skeleton Halloween costume, holding a copy of the book Funnybones. Family Editor, Stephanie Lowe (opens in new tab) says: "Don't be afraid to recycle whatever you have available. While kids tend to love dressing up it can be 'just another thing to do' for parents among the chaos that is family survival life. And, be sure to take inspiration from some of the best children's books as well as these classic children's book quotes (opens in new tab). Or go with one of these easy and last-minute homemade ideas below.

You can either chose one of these best World Book Day costumes to buy online (opens in new tab). World Book Day is on Thursday 2nd March 2023, in the UK, the literary event always falls on the first Thursday in March.

