National Storytelling Week

National Storytelling Week is a lively celebration of the magic and power of stories. It brings people together to share tales that ignite the imagination and foster a love for reading.

This special week shines a spotlight on the importance of storytelling in our daily lives, highlighting its ability to entertain, educate, and connect us with others. It is celebrated to recognize the value of stories in various forms, from traditional oral tales to modern digital narratives.

Storytelling helps develop essential literacy skills, encouraging a love for reading and writing in both children and adults. It’s a time for communities to gather, listen, and share stories that reflect diverse cultures and experiences, promoting empathy and understanding​.

How to Celebrate National Storytelling Week

During this week, various events, including school activities and public storytelling sessions, encourage people of all ages to enjoy and share stories in different forms.

Through shared stories, people of all ages can explore different perspectives and emotions. Storytelling also serves as a powerful educational tool, enhancing cognitive and emotional development in children.

By engaging with stories, individuals can improve their language skills and emotional intelligence, making storytelling an invaluable part of learning and personal growth​.

Host a Storytelling Circle

Invite friends and family to a cozy storytelling circle. Everyone gets a turn to share a favorite tale, whether it’s a classic fairy tale, a funny anecdote, or a personal adventure. Add some hot cocoa and comfy blankets for a warm, intimate atmosphere. This simple yet engaging activity can create lasting memories and spark laughter and joy.

Create a Story Jar

Get creative by making a story jar filled with prompts. Write different scenarios, characters, and settings on slips of paper, then let participants draw a few to create their own unique stories. This can be fun for both kids and adults, encouraging everyone to think on their feet and weave together imaginative tales.

Visit a Local Library

Libraries often host events during National Storytelling Week. Check out your local library’s schedule for storytelling sessions, author visits, or puppet shows.

These events can introduce you to new stories and storytellers, providing a delightful way to celebrate the week. Plus, exploring the library’s collection can inspire your storytelling adventures​.

Make a Story Book

Transform storytelling into a craft project by making a homemade storybook. Use paper, markers, and stickers to create illustrations and write a short story.

This project is perfect for children, helping them develop their creativity and writing skills. They can also share their finished books with friends and family, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

Host a Storytelling Movie Night

Gather friends and family for a movie night featuring films with strong storytelling elements. Choose movies based on books, like “Harry Potter” or “The Chronicles of Narnia,” and discuss how the story was adapted for the screen. This activity not only entertains but also highlights the art of storytelling in different media.

History of National Storytelling Week

National Storytelling Week began in the year 2000 when the Society for Storytelling in the UK initiated this event to promote the oral tradition of storytelling. This annual celebration highlights the importance of storytelling in connecting people and sharing cultural and personal stories.

The Society for Storytelling aims to revive the tradition of oral storytelling, which has been a fundamental way humans have communicated and preserved history across generations.

National Storytelling Week emphasizes the value of storytelling as an educational tool. It supports the development of literacy skills and fosters imagination and creativity. The event also aims to create a sense of community by bringing people together through shared narratives, making it a significant cultural celebration each year​.