National Writing Day
June 24
About National Writing Day
National Writing Day takes place on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, the UK’s annual celebration of the power and pleasure of creative writing. Run by the charity First Story, the day invites people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to pick up a pen, pencil, or laptop and put words on the page. Schools, libraries, writers, and workplaces across the country take part with workshops, prompts, and shared writing experiences.
What is National Writing Day?
National Writing Day is a UK awareness day dedicated to creative writing and the joy of telling stories. It is run by First Story, a charity that places writers in residence in state secondary schools serving low-income communities. The day’s central message is simple: everyone has a story to tell. National Writing Day encourages people to write for fun, for self-expression, for connection, or simply for the satisfaction of putting one word in front of another.
When is National Writing Day?
National Writing Day in 2026 falls on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. The date moves slightly each year as it is set on the fourth Wednesday of June by First Story, allowing schools to plan classroom activities during summer term.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Wednesday, 24 June |
| 2027 | Wednesday, 23 June |
| 2028 | Wednesday, 28 June |
| 2029 | Wednesday, 27 June |
| 2030 | Wednesday, 26 June |
Why National Writing Day Matters
Writing is one of the most powerful tools we have for thinking, learning, and connecting with others. Yet research from the National Literacy Trust consistently shows that fewer than three in ten children and young people enjoy writing in their free time. National Writing Day exists to change that, by putting writing into the hands of young people in joyful, low-pressure ways. The day also celebrates writing as a lifelong skill that supports careers, mental health, and creative expression for adults too.
How to Get Involved in National Writing Day
There are many ways to take part, whether you are a teacher, parent, writer, or office worker:
- Write for ten minutes – Set a timer, choose a prompt from the First Story website, and write whatever comes to mind. No editing, no judgment.
- Run a writing workshop – Schools, libraries, and community groups can use First Story’s free resources to host workshops on poetry, short fiction, memoir, or letter writing.
- Take part in #WriteHere – First Story runs annual social media campaigns inviting writers to share short pieces using set prompts. Look out for the year’s hashtags on the official website.
- Write a letter – Send a real letter to a friend, relative, or someone you admire. Handwritten letters have rare power in a digital age.
- Start a journal – Use the day to begin a daily or weekly journaling habit. Even five minutes a day builds reflection and resilience.
- Submit to a competition – Many writing competitions for young people and adults open or close around National Writing Day, including the First Story Young Writers’ Festival.
- Donate to First Story – The charity places professional writers in schools serving low-income communities. Donations help fund residencies, anthologies, and writing festivals.
History of National Writing Day
National Writing Day was launched in 2017 by First Story, a UK charity founded in 2008 by Katie Waldegrave and writer William Fiennes. First Story was set up to bring professional writers into state secondary schools in challenging circumstances, to inspire students who might not otherwise see themselves as writers. The charity has grown into one of the UK’s most respected literary education organisations, working with hundreds of schools and producing thousands of student-written books each year.
The first National Writing Day saw thousands of people take part, with schools, libraries, and individuals sharing writing online and in person. Each year the campaign has expanded, with celebrity authors, public figures, and major UK institutions endorsing it. The British Library, the National Literacy Trust, and the Royal Society of Literature have all supported National Writing Day, alongside high-profile authors who share writing prompts and pieces.
Past themes and prompts have ranged from “Writing about home” to “Writing the future” and “Stories from where you are”. The day has become a fixed point in the literary calendar, and many schools now use it as a launchpad for end-of-year creative writing showcases.
Noteworthy Facts About National Writing Day
- National Writing Day was launched in 2017 by First Story, a UK literary education charity.
- First Story was founded in 2008 by Katie Waldegrave and the writer William Fiennes.
- The day falls on the fourth Wednesday of June each year.
- The campaign’s central message is “Everyone has a story to tell”.
- National Writing Day is supported by leading authors, publishers, and the National Literacy Trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Writing Day?
It is the UK’s annual celebration of creative writing, run by the charity First Story, encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to write for pleasure.
When is National Writing Day in 2026?
National Writing Day takes place on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.
Who organises National Writing Day?
The day is organised by First Story, a UK charity that places professional writers in residence in state secondary schools.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing National Writing Day with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #NationalWritingDay and #WriteDay2026 on social media. Every story shared, every poem posted, and every prompt picked up adds to a national celebration of writing.
Related Awareness Days
- Children’s Book Week – A natural partner observance for those who love stories.
- International Literacy Day – The UN’s global day for reading and writing.
- National Teacher Day in the USA – Honours educators, including those who introduce students to writing.
Links
- Visit the official National Writing Day page at First Story
- Explore more awareness days at AwarenessDays.com
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