D.E.A.R. Day

Today is D.E.A.R. Day, so grab a book and start reading! D.E.A.R. stands for "Drop Everything and Read," and it's celebrated every year on April 12. This special day encourages both kids and adults to take time out and enjoy reading. It’s a favorite for book lovers everywhere. Let’s take a closer look at what D.E.A.R. Day is all about.

Key Takeaways:

D.E.A.R. Day is celebrated every year on April 12.
D.E.A.R. stands for “Drop Everything and Read”.
It promotes daily reading and helps build a love for books in both kids and adults.
D.E.A.R. Day was inspired by author Beverly Cleary and her book Ramona Quimby, Age 8.
The event became official in 1981, but schools were celebrating reading this way even earlier.

What is D.E.A.R. Day?

D.E.A.R. is an initiative aimed at promoting children's literacy by encouraging them to read independently and with adults. It’s a great time for teachers and parents to help children build a love for books. Reading together can also bring families closer and make kids feel safe and supported.

Children reading books under the blanket fort. — Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev from Pexels

Did you know April 12th is also author Beverly Cleary’s birthday? She’s one of America’s most loved children’s writers and the person who came up with the idea of D.E.A.R. Day.

History of D.E.A.R Day

D.E.A.R. Day, which stands for “Drop Everything and Read,” has been celebrated since at least 1981. Even before it became official, schools held similar reading events as early as the 1960s. These early gatherings inspired author Beverly Cleary to include the idea in her book Ramona Quimby, Age 8. In her story, families are encouraged to stop what they’re doing and read for 30 minutes.

Every year on April 12th, people in the United States and around the world celebrate D.E.A.R. Day. This special day was created by HarperCollins Children’s Books and the National Education Association to honor Beverly Cleary on her 90th birthday. The goal is to encourage people of all ages to enjoy reading and make it a regular habit.

Father, mother, and child reading a book together. — Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Many schools, libraries, and bookstores join in by hosting fun reading activities. D.E.A.R. Day reminds us to make reading a fun and important part of life. Whether at home or in public spaces, this day inspires everyone to pick up a book and enjoy reading together.

When is D.E.A.R Day?

D.E.A.R. Day is celebrated each year on April 12. This day is also the birthday of the author Beverly Cleary. Over time, the focus of D.E.A.R. Day has shifted to being a fun educational movement for kids and adults. Let's find out the dates of the next celebrations now.

Future Date of D.E.A.R. Day

Year	Day	Date
2025	Saturday	April 12
2026	Sunday	April 12
2027	Monday	April 12
2028	Wednesday	April 12
2029	Thursday	April 12
2030	Friday	April 12

How to Celebrate D.E.A.R Day?

D.E.A.R. Day was created to honor author Beverly Cleary and her love for children's books. It also encourages quiet reading as part of a school tradition.

Person reading book in the park. Brown leaves hides their face. — Photo by anotherxlife from Unsplash

One easy way to celebrate is by setting aside time to read on your own, with family, or in a group. But there are also some fun and unique ways to celebrate D.E.A.R. Day. Here are some of them:

1. Participate By Hosting a Reading Party

If you’re a school, library, bookstore, or organization, you can join the fun by hosting a “Drop Everything and Read” event at your location or somewhere else on April 12. It’s a great way to celebrate D.E.A.R. Day.

2. Dedicate a Time for Reading

Reading is the main way to celebrate this day. It encourages families and friends to enjoy books together. You can take part by going to a local reading event or simply reading at home with your kids, relatives, or friends.

3. Visiting a Local Library

Book lovers often visit libraries to enjoy reading. You can celebrate D.E.A.R. Day by going to your favorite local library or bookstore. Many of them also host special events for the day. You might even find a new favorite book to buy and take home!

Conclusion

In the end, D.E.A.R. Day is all about encouraging people to make reading a regular habit. So don’t wait! Join millions of families, schools, bookstores, and communities celebrating today. Invite a few friends too, it’s always more fun together!