National Tell an Old Joke Day

National Tell an Old Joke Day is celebrated every year on July 24 to keep classic humor alive. Old jokes, like any tradition that brings joy and laughter, deserve to be shared and revived from time to time.

History

According to one theory, the first jokes originated in ancient Greece. Another legend credits Palamedes, a mythical Greek figure, with inventing not only jokes but also numbers, the alphabet, dice, lighthouses, and the foundations of healthy eating. While this sounds like a tall tale, it is documented that the Greeks had a great sense of humor. In Athens, a group of comedians gathered at the Temple of Hercules to exchange jokes and entertain each other.

During the Middle Ages, short humorous stories were preserved mainly in Arab cultures and later made their way back to Europe. In the Early Renaissance, humorist communities emerged in Europe, and by the 19th century, printed joke collections reached peak popularity.

Interesting Facts

• The ancient Greek group of comedians was known as the Group of Sixty. A collection of jokes from this group was reportedly found in the library of Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great.
• The first known joke book, titled A Lover of Laughter, was published in ancient Greece and included 264 humorous stories, some told in multiple variations.
• The Romans also compiled humorous works, often used as source material for comedic plays.
• Roman Emperor Augustus is said to have collected over 100 jokes for his personal amusement.

How to Take Part

Spend the evening with friends sharing your favorite classic jokes. Watch stand-up comedy or a favorite comedy film. Laughter is good for the soul—and this day is all about celebrating that timeless joy.

When is National Tell an Old Joke Day in 2025?

National Tell an Old Joke Day is observed annually on July 24.

Observations