Celebrating English Language Day: Honoring a Global Lingua Franca

Every year on April 23rd, the world observes English Language Day, a celebration established by the United Nations in 2010 to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity. This date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of William Shakespeare, one of the most influential writers in the English language.

But there’s more to this day than just Shakespeare’s legacy. So, why do we celebrate English Language Day—and what’s the story behind the language itself?

Why Do We Celebrate English Language Day?

April 23rd wasn’t chosen randomly. It’s recognized as the birth and death day of William Shakespeare, whose works have shaped English in countless ways. He introduced over 1,700 new words and phrases—many still in use today!

But this day is also part of the United Nations’ effort to recognize each of its six official languages with a dedicated celebration. English, being one of them, plays a critical role in international diplomacy, culture, science, and education.

English Language Day is a reminder of:

• The importance of linguistic diversity.

• The power of language in global communication.

• The cultural richness is embedded in the English language.

The Origins of the English Language

Before celebrating English Language Day, we need to understand where english came from. English has evolved over more than 1,400 years, with influences from many cultures and regions.

Old English (c. 450–1150 AD)

English began when Germanic tribes—the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes—migrated to England. The term English comes from "Angle-ish," meaning the language of the Angles.

Middle English (c. 1150–1500)

After the Norman Conquest in 1066, French became dominant in courts and education, heavily influencing English vocabulary. This is why English today contains so many words of French origin.

Early Modern English (c. 1500–1700)

This period includes Shakespeare’s time. The printing press helped standardize spelling and grammar, and literature began to flourish.

Modern English (1700–Present)

With the expansion of the British Empire, English spread globally. In recent centuries, it has become the dominant language of business, science, technology, and popular culture.

The Global Impact of the English Language

Today, English is spoken by over 1.5 billion people, making it one of the most widely used languages in the world. It is the main language of:

• International business and trade

• Science and research

• Aviation and diplomacy

• Education and entertainment

Its role as a lingua franca allows people from different backgrounds to communicate, collaborate, and innovate together.

How People Celebrate English Language Day

Across the globe, English Language Day is marked by fun and educational events:

• Language workshops and literature readings

•  Shakespeare's plays and creative performances

•  Cultural exhibitions that highlight English-speaking communities

• Online challenges to test vocabulary, grammar, or writing skills

These celebrations remind us that language is more than a tool—it’s a bridge between cultures and ideas.

English Language Day is more than just a nod to William Shakespeare or a celebration of a global language. It’s about recognizing English's rich history, cultural depth, and global relevance. As we celebrate, we honor the journey of a language that connects billions, breaks barriers, and shapes how we share knowledge, tell stories, and understand one another.

So, whether you're learning English, teaching it, or simply using it to explore the world

Happy English Language Day!