National Ukulele Day

National Ukulele Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to the ukulele. This small instrument, also called the ukulele, gives a gentle sound that fascinates from the first seconds. The holiday is on February 2.

History

The ukulele is one of the traditional Hawaiian instruments. It is a small 4-string guitar believed to have been brought to Hawaii by Portuguese navigators in the second half of the 19th century. Due to its small size and sophisticated sound, it received the local name “Jumping Flea.” This instrument was most often used as an accompaniment to Hawaiian compositions.

The popularization of the ukulele began in 1915 when it was presented at the Panama-Pacific Exhibition. The further spread of the small ukulele to all countries was unstoppable. It is known that the youth volunteer organization YMCA supplied the instrument to the soldiers of the First World War to brighten up their loneliness a little and cheer them up.

Interesting facts

• The ukulele is an important instrument for creating the musical compositions that accompany the Hawaiian hula dance.
• Rock star Eddie Vedder has written and released several tracks exclusively on the ukulele.
• Vintage ukulele strings were made from sheep intestines. Nylon is used for modern instruments.

How to celebrate

Listen to songs created with the ukulele on National Ukulele Day. You can visit Hawaii to enjoy the traditional ukulele sound from local players. Celebrating National Ukulele Day is a great way to expand your skills and learn how to play a new instrument.

Share the holiday on social networks. Ask other users how they felt when they listened to ukulele songs for the first time.

When is National Ukulele Day in 2025?

National Ukulele Day is observed on February 2 each year.

Observations