Spanish Language Day

Spanish Language Day History

Spanish Language Day, officially known as the UN Spanish Language Day, aims to promote and celebrate the Spanish language and its profound cultural significance. This day highlights the importance of multilingualism and cultural diversity. Spanish, one of the six official languages of the United Nations, is the second most widely spoken language in the world, with an estimated 460 million native speakers. The day serves to foster greater understanding of the history, culture and contribution of the Spanish language around the globe.

Spanish Language Day was established by the United Nations in 2010, as part of an initiative to pay tribute to the organisation's six working languages. The focus on Spanish is especially relevant for the United Kingdom considering the increasing number of Spanish speakers, the influence of Spanish culture, and the strong economic ties between Britain and Spanish-speaking countries. Additionally, Spanish is one of the most popular languages for people in the UK to learn, making Spanish Language Day an interesting opportunity to immerse oneself in the language and culture.

In the United Kingdom, Spanish Language Day is observed with an array of cultural events brimming with Hispanic and Latino flair. Institutions such as schools, universities and cultural centres host activities that range from lectures, debates, exhibitions to language challenges and workshops. Spanish film screenings, book discussions and food tastings often form part of the celebrations, allowing participants to savour the rich cultural tapestry of the Spanish-speaking world. Spanish Language Day is observed on 23rd April each year, encouraging everyone to engage and appreciate the beauty and depth of the Spanish language and culture.

Facts about Spanish Language Day

• According to Rosetta Stone, Spanish is the second most spoken language around the world with over 500 million speakers.
• One of the most well-known and important works of the Spanish language is Miguel de Cervantes’ El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha (The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha).
• Spanish Language Day may also highlight the historical connections between the UK and Spain, which includes periods of both conflict (like the Spanish Armada in 1588) and alliance (during the Peninsular War against Napoleon in the early 19th century).
• Spanish is spoken by a significant number of people in the UK, estimated to be over 120,000, making Spanish language Day important in celebrating the diversity and multiculturalism of the UK.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Spanish Language Day

Top things to do in the UK for Spanish Language Day

• Watch the UN's webinar celebrating Spanish Language Day. The webinar focuses on raising awareness about gender-inclusive Spanish.
• Learn Spanish, enjoy Spanish food and culture, or read Spanish works of literature.
• Attend the Spanish Film Festival: To celebrate Spanish Language Day, spanish film festivals are organized in London and other parts of the United Kingdom. It's an opportunity to watch award-winning Spanish films and understand the depth of the language.
• Read a book to learn more about the Spanish Language in United Kingdom:
  1) From Spanish to English: A Handbook for Learners - by Maurie N. Taylor
  2) The Spanish Language Today - by Miranda Stewart