Crossword Puzzle Day / Short Story Day
December 21
National Crossword Puzzle Day
This day commemorates the precise birth of the modern crossword puzzle. [1]
- The History: On December 21, 1913, journalist Arthur Wynne published a diamond-shaped “Word-Cross” puzzle in the New York World newspaper to entertain readers for their Christmas edition. It lacked the black squares we see today, but it was an instant hit and birthed a global phenomenon.
- How to Celebrate: Solve a digital or printed puzzle, learn a few cryptic rules, or download a daily crossword!
National Short Story Day
Also known as Celebrate Short Fiction Day, this holiday is brilliantly synced up with the shortest day of the year.
- The History: Established by author Nancy Christie in 2013, the day honors the diversity and impact of short narratives—from fables and folk tales to modern flash fiction and novellas. The idea is that on a day with the least amount of daylight, you can easily read a masterful piece of fiction in a single sitting
- How to Celebrate: Pick up a classic collection by masters of the craft (like Shirley Jackson, Roald Dahl, or Edgar Allan Poe), or discover contemporary collections from independent bookstores. If you are a writer, use the day to break through writer’s block and pen a piece of flash fiction.