National Ukulele Day is a special day to celebrate and honor the stringed instrument that has brought joy to millions around the world. Celebrated annually on February 2nd, this day is dedicated to promoting the love of ukuleles and encouraging people of all ages, to play, learn, teach and appreciate this wonderful and versatile instrument.
Regardless of being an experienced musician, an amateur player, or an admirer of its rhythm, this day presents a wonderful opportunity for all to appreciate the ukulele’s contribution to the world of music.
History of National Ukulele Day
The ukulele traces its origins back to Portugal in the 19th century, where similar small, guitar-like instruments such as the “machete” were popular. In 1879, Portuguese immigrants brought these instruments to Hawaii, where they were fascinated and adopted by locals. The instrument was quickly adapted and evolved into what we now know as the ukulele.
The name “ukulele” in Hawaii can be translated to ‘jumping flea,’ a description likely relating to the dexterous movement of the player’s fingers. It was highly popularized during the reign of King David Kalakaua, a monarch who had a great interest in the arts and often included ukulele performances in royal gatherings.
In the early 20th century, the ukulele gained popularity in the mainland United States through various world fairs and expos, particularly the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco. It maintained its popularity through the Jazz Age of the 1920s and again surged in the mid-20th century through television and music such as “Tiptoe Through The Tulips” by Tiny Tim.
In recent years, the ukulele continues to be a globally loved instrument. Its appeal lies in its affordable price, portable size, and relative simplicity to learn. Many popular songs and front-line musicians often include the ukulele in performances furthering its continued prominence in the music industry.
National Ukulele Day Timeline
Introduction of Ukulele
The ukulele was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands by Portuguese immigrants from Madeira.
Hawaii Annexation
Ukulele gained popularity in the United States when Hawaii was annexed by the US.
Panama-Pacific International Exposition
The Panama-Pacific International Exposition helped to popularize the ukulele in the mainland US as Hawaiians showcased the instrument.
Ukulele Golden Age
Ukulele experienced its first popularity boom, known as the 'Ukulele Golden Age', making its way into the Jazz music scene.
Another Popularity Boom
The ukulele had another surge in popularity due to the television era and musicians such as Elvis Presley.
Renewed Popularity
Famous musicians such as George Harrison of the Beatles and Jim Beloff played key roles in this revival.
Worldwide Popularity
The ukulele is recognized as a popular instrument around the world.
Ideas to Celebrate National Ukulele Day
Learn to Play
Seek out a beginner's guide to playing the ukulele online or enroll in a local class that offers lessons. Aim to conquer a song of your choice by the day's end.
Ukulele Jam Session
Put together a gathering - either virtually or in person depending on what's safe. You could start a fun jamming session with those who also play the ukulele. Sing, strum, and enjoy together.
Ukulele Picnic
Destination: your nearby park! Bring along your ukulele to accompany a pleasant picnic. Practice your chords, play your favorite songs, and serenade the birds.
Support Ukulele Artisans
Show your support for talented craftsmen who pour their skills into producing handcrafted ukuleles. What better way to celebrate National Ukulele Day than getting yourself a unique, handmade instrument?
Dedicate a Song
Commit your day to mastering a soulful song to dedicate to a loved one. Catch them completely off guard with your melodious surprise.
Movie Night
Take in a movie or documentary that focuses on ukuleles or features ukulele music heavily. This would deepen your understanding and admiration for this wonderful instrument.
6 Interesting Facts About Ukulele
Origin of the Ukulele
Contrary to popular belief, the ukulele isn't originally from Hawaii. It was, in fact, the Portuguese who brought their native stringed instruments, the machete and the cavaquinho, to Hawaii in the 1800s, creating the foundation for what we now call the ukulele.
Word Origin
'Ukulele', in the Hawaiian language, can be loosely translated to 'jumping flea'. The movement of the fingers while strumming the instrument supposedly reminded the Hawaiians of a flea hopping around.
Smallest Uke
Believe it or not, the smallest in the ukulele family is the Soprano, barely coming in at 20 inches long. The sound it produces is regarded as the liveliest and most upbeat when compared with other ukuleles.
Popularity of Ukelele
Social media platforms, notably YouTube, sparked a renewed interest in the ukulele in the early 2000s. Individuals earned their fame by posting covers and original compositions performed on the ukulele.
The Beatles Connection
George Harrison of the legendary band The Beatles was known for his love for ukuleles. He was said to have a collection of hundreds and enjoyed gifting them to acquaintances.
Easiest Stringed Instrument
Many argue that the ukulele is the most user-friendly stringed instrument to learn. The reason being the strings are made from a soft nylon material which is easy on the fingers and the fact that there are only four strings, which makes mastering chord shapes simpler.
National Ukulele Day FAQs
Next National Ukulele Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | February 2nd | Thursday |
| 2024 | February 2nd | Friday |
| 2025 | February 2nd | Sunday |
| 2026 | February 2nd | Monday |
| 2027 | February 2nd | Tuesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every February 2nd | |
National Ukulele Day Word Search
- Ukulele
- Hawaii
- Melody
- Chords
- Music
- Strings