National Streaming Day
Gone are the days of missing out on, or even having to record and re-watch, a favorite television show because it was on at an inconvenient time. Today’s world allows almost anything to be accessed through streaming, almost instantly, and often at just the touch of a button.
National Streaming Day celebrates the amazing privilege (and sometimes overwhelm!) that comes from having the world on video right at your fingertips!
How to Celebrate National Streaming Day
Consider Switching Streaming Services
The world used to be a place where it was complicated to change cable companies and even some streaming services came with an annual subscription.
But, in today’s competitive world, it can be much easier to ‘play the field’ when it comes to streaming services.
Those who have had one for a while, like Netflix, might be interested in putting that subscription on hold for a while to see what Hulu or Apple TV has to offer.
National Streaming Day is just the time to get a deal and check out something new in the world of streaming!
Stream with a Public Library Card
Why not get free access to thousands of movies, documentaries, shows, and more that can be streamed through services offered by the local public library?
While not every library may have the movie that’s wanted on DVD, many libraries are part of a larger network of streaming services. Some of the most popular services are Kanopy, cloudLibrary, and Hoopla, so be sure to ask at the library or check out the library website for more information!
History of National Streaming Day
In existence for at least a decade, National Streaming Day first got its start in May of 2014 when it was founded by the streaming platform, Roku.
The event was started as a way to encourage individuals, families, and groups of friends to show appreciation for and celebrate the freedom that comes from being able to stream movies and shows.
The inaugural celebration of National Streaming Day was scheduled to take place on the anniversary of the release of Roku’s first streaming device, which took place on May 20, 2008.
While the original event was more about encouraging people to use their streaming devices, that landscape has been completely transformed – so much so that most people do it on a regular if not daily basis.
What this event has evolved into, however, is an opportunity for streaming services and platforms to celebrate through the announcement of new releases, exclusive news, or sneak peeks into streaming media that is coming soon.
Some companies give deals for new customers who sign up for their services or start a new bundle, or discounts may be available for those who purchase new streaming hardware.
ESPN, Disney, Hulu, Roku, and other platforms have all gotten involved with making National Streaming Day into an exciting event.
Even some public libraries have gotten on board because they offer free streaming services to those who hold a library card. Now that’s a great deal!
National Streaming Day FAQs
Did you know the first live-streamed event was a baseball game in 1995?
On September 5, 1995, ESPN streamed a live radio broadcast of a baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Seattle Mariners.
This event marked the beginning of live sports streaming, paving the way for today’s digital broadcasts.
Why is National Streaming Day celebrated on May 20?
Roku established National Streaming Day on May 20 to commemorate the anniversary of their first streaming device launch, The Netflix Player, on May 20, 2008.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact streaming habits?
During the 2020 pandemic, streaming services saw a significant surge in usage.
With people staying at home, platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video experienced a tremendous increase in viewership, making streaming a primary source of entertainment and connection during challenging times.
What was the first streaming film to win an Oscar for Best Picture?
“CODA,” available on Apple TV+, became the first streaming film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. This milestone highlighted the growing influence of streaming platforms in the film industry.
What’s the strangest thing ever live-streamed?
One of the strangest live streams was “Slow TV” from Norway, which included hours-long broadcasts of mundane events like knitting or a train ride through scenic landscapes.
A 134-hour live stream of a coastal ferry journey became a massive hit, attracting millions of viewers.
This phenomenon highlights the unexpected appeal of immersive, relaxing experiences in the streaming world.
Are there any myths about streaming quality compared to traditional media?
A common misconception is that streaming quality is inferior to traditional media formats.
However, with advancements in technology, many streaming services now offer high-definition and even 4K content, rivaling or surpassing traditional broadcast quality.
How do different cultures celebrate National Streaming Day?
While primarily observed in the United States, the influence of streaming is global.
In various countries, people celebrate by hosting virtual watch parties, exploring international films, or engaging in online discussions about favorite shows, reflecting the universal appeal of streaming media.
What role did YouTube play in the evolution of streaming?
Founded in 2005, YouTube allowed users to upload and share videos easily, becoming one of the most visited websites worldwide. This platform paved the way for user-generated content and influenced the development of other streaming services.
How have streaming services influenced the production of original content?
Streaming platforms like Netflix began producing original content in 2013, with shows like “House of Cards” and “Orange Is the New Black.”
This shift allowed for more creative freedom and diverse storytelling, changing the landscape of television and film production.
How has live streaming changed political and social movements?
Live streaming has become a vital tool for activism. Platforms like Facebook Live and Periscope enabled individuals to broadcast events in real-time, fostering global awareness.
For example, during the 2010s, live streams of protests like the Arab Spring and Black Lives Matter demonstrations brought immediate attention to social issues, bypassing traditional media.
This direct approach empowered grassroots movements to share unfiltered content and reach a worldwide audience.
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