Plan Your Epitaph Day is an American holiday dedicated to writing your own epitaph. While it may seem like a rather gloomy day, it offers an opportunity for self-reflection, allowing you to consider your achievements and what you still hope to accomplish in life. The holiday is observed annually on April 6.
History
Death has been a central theme in philosophy for centuries, and people perceive the end of life in various ways. Given the significant influence of religion on this question, there is no definitive answer to the question “What happens after death?” Some believe in an afterlife, while others believe in nothingness. Along with the body, the brain also ceases to function. Humans, some argue, are like living machines—just as any technical device eventually stops working, so too do we. It is a natural process from which no one can escape.
The idea for Plan Your Epitaph Day was conceived by Lance Hardy. The holiday was established in 1995. The idea behind this day is for individuals to write a few lines about themselves that could be engraved on their tombstone. Through the epitaph, others can get a glimpse of what the person was like and what they achieved in life.
Interesting Facts
- It is believed that the first epitaphs were created by the Ancient Greeks and were exclusively written in verse.
- The tombstone of the scientist Ludolph van Ceulen features the first 35 digits of the number pi, symbolizing his significant contribution to mathematics.
- On the tombstone of Billy Wilder, the director of “Some Like It Hot,” there is a line from that film.
How to Celebrate
Write your own epitaph in verse form. You can also ask friends and acquaintances what they would say about you in a few words.
Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Share your epitaphs with others.
When is Plan Your Epitaph Day in 2025?
Plan Your Epitaph Day is observed on April 6 each year.
Observations
Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
Sunday | April | 6 | 2025 |
Monday | April | 6 | 2026 |
Tuesday | April | 6 | 2027 |
Thursday | April | 6 | 2028 |
Friday | April | 6 | 2029 |