Spanish Language Day

Spanish Language Day is an international celebration observed every year on April 23. This day highlights the rich history and global significance of the Spanish language, uniting millions of speakers across continents.

History

Spanish Language Day was officially established by the United Nations in 2010. The date, April 23, was chosen to honor the memory of Miguel de Cervantes, one of the greatest writers in the Spanish language, who passed away on this day in 1616. The initiative aims to celebrate linguistic diversity, promote multilingualism, and draw attention to the cultural legacy of Spanish—one of the six official UN languages.

Over the centuries, Spanish has evolved from its Latin roots in the Iberian Peninsula to become one of the most widely spoken languages worldwide. Today, it is the official language in 21 countries and a key means of communication for communities in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and beyond.

Interesting Facts

• Spanish is the world’s second most spoken language by native speakers, with over 480 million people using it as their mother tongue.
• The language contains many words borrowed from Arabic due to centuries of Moorish influence in Spain.
• There are significant regional differences in pronunciation and vocabulary—compare Castilian Spanish in Spain with Latin American varieties.
• Famous literary works in Spanish include Don Quixote by Cervantes, considered one of the greatest novels of all time.
• Spanish is the third most used language on the internet, after English and Chinese.

How to Take Part

To celebrate Spanish Language Day:

• Take a Spanish lesson online or with a local group to learn new words or phrases.
• Read a book, poem, or article in Spanish—even if you’re just starting out.
• Explore Hispanic music, cinema, and art to immerse yourself in the culture.
• Share your favorite Spanish quotes or idioms on social media using the official hashtags.
• Connect with Spanish-speaking friends and practice conversational skills together.

No matter your level, everyone can join in and appreciate the beauty and richness of the Spanish language!

When is Spanish Language Day in 2025?

Spanish Language Day is observed on April 23 each year.

Observations