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- Arts & Entertainment
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- AppreciationCrazyFunny
- Where:
- International
- Date change rule:
- Every August 1 to 7
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- 🤡
International Clown Week runs from August 1 to 7 each year, recognizing the incredible talent and dedication of clowns worldwide. Take this week to appreciate the history, artistry, and joy that clowns bring to audiences of all ages. Support local performers, learn about the different clowning traditions, and share a laugh with friends and family.
Want to sponsor International Clown Week? Learn how
Expected International Clown Week Deals
International Clown Week is a time for appreciation, and while major sales events are uncommon, you can expect special offers and events from entertainment companies and related businesses. Look for discounted tickets to circus performances from companies like Cirque du Soleil or Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. Costume and prop retailers such as Rubie’s Costume Company or specialty shops like Gagworks may offer promotions on clowning supplies. Additionally, clown schools or workshops, like the Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp, might provide introductory discounts or free online resources. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as August 1 approaches.
Platform Guide for International Clown Week
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #InternationalClownWeek. Share photos or reels of your favorite clown performances, classic clown looks, or even your own attempts at clowning around.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #InternationalClownWeek. Film short skits, tutorials on clown makeup, or behind-the-scenes glimpses of clown training and preparation.
YouTube
Subscribe to @NationalToday for holiday video content. Create longer-form content featuring interviews with professional clowns, historical documentaries on clowning, or compilations of iconic clown acts.
International Clown Week Hero
Joseph Grimaldi
History of International Clown Week
Clowns are performers who use different forms of humor to entertain the audience. While being a clown seems easy, the fact is, it takes an innovative kind of genius to be able to tickle someone’s funny bone. A clown has to be witty, creative, and full of energy, regardless of his or her personal circumstances. Since being a clown requires extra effort, International Clown Week is celebrated every year to honor the profession that lightens up lives.
Clown Week started sometime in the 1950s where it was initially celebrated on a limited scale. It is said to have been conceived by a man called Walt Savage. In 1966, the President of the Clown Club of America, appointed Frank “Kelly the Clown” Kelly, as the first International Clown Week chairman. The first American chairman of National Clown Week, on the other hand, was Bill “Boom-Boom” Baily. He was also an original member of Clowns of America when it was founded in 1967. It was Bill who later insisted that National Clown Week be publicized and also be scheduled as an annual event. In his efforts to ensure this became a reality, he visited Washington, D.C. with other clowns and lobbied the U.S. Congress. In 1970, President Nixon proclaimed the first official National Clown Week. This later became an international event and in 1988, Ray Bickford was appointed as the first International Clown Week chairman. Today, International Clown Week is celebrated across the world with numerous fun activities, including clown performances.
International Clown Week timeline
The first known clowns make an appearance.
An Italian theatre introduces masked clown characters such as Harlequin and Pirouette.
Clowns become famous as a part of the circus.
Men dress up as clowns and harass school children in Boston.
How Businesses Can Celebrate International Clown Week
Local businesses can celebrate International Clown Week by hosting clown performances or offering themed discounts. Restaurants might feature a ‘Clown’s Combo’ meal, while toy stores could highlight clown-related merchandise. Consider inviting local clowns to perform for customers, offering a unique and memorable experience. Businesses can also partner with local charities to bring the joy of clowning to children’s hospitals or community centers, fostering goodwill and celebrating the art form.
International Clown Week FAQs
When is International Clown Week?
International Clown Week in 2026 runs from Saturday, August 1, through Friday, August 7. It’s a full week dedicated to appreciating the art of clowning.
What is the history of clowning?
Clowning has ancient roots, with jesters and fools appearing in various cultures for thousands of years, from ancient Egypt to imperial China. Modern clowning largely evolved from European theatrical traditions, particularly pantomime, gaining significant popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries.
How many professional clowns are there worldwide?
Estimating the exact number of professional clowns is challenging, as many operate independently or as part-time performers. However, organizations like the World Clown Association and Clowns of America International boast thousands of members globally, indicating a vibrant and active community.
What are the different types of clowns?
There are three main types of clowns: Whiteface, Auguste, and Character. Whiteface clowns are elegant and authoritative, Auguste clowns are mischievous and clumsy, and Character clowns portray specific roles like hobos or doctors, each with distinct makeup and costumes.
How to Celebrate International Clown Week
Watch a clown perform
Head out to the circus or any other place where a clown is performing in order to see why the profession has managed to win our hearts for centuries.
Post photos with clown
Celebrate the week by posting photos of clowns or sharing some fun experiences on social media. The aim is to make sure clowns never go out of fashion.
Invite a clown to a party
Host a party for the neighborhood kids and invite a clown so they can have the time of their lives. We are sure you will be left in fits of laughter too.
5 Fun Facts You Need To Know About Clowns
The origin of the word
The word ‘clown’ comes from the Icelandic word ‘klunni,’ which means a ‘clumsy person.’
The first U.S. circus clown
Matthew Sully was the first circus clown in America.
The clown code
Clowns have their own set of rules known as the ‘Clown Code of Ethics’.
The boss
A Boss Clown is responsible for leading the other clowns.
Scared of clowns
Coulrophobia is the fear of clowns.
Why International Clown Week is Important
It honors the profession
The week honors the profession and lets clowns across the globe know that their efforts to keep others smiling are recognized.
Clowns are given jobs
Due to the vast number of activities held throughout the week, numerous clowns are provided with well-paid jobs that help them earn a little extra.
It’s a fun-filled week
The week is special since it also gives others the opportunity to relax, have some fun, and watch a few hilarious clown routines.
International Clown Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | August 1–7 | Saturday–Friday |
| 2027 | August 1–7 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2028 | August 1–7 | Tuesday–Monday |
| 2029 | August 1–7 | Wednesday–Tuesday |
| 2030 | August 1–7 | Thursday–Wednesday |
Social Media Tips for International Clown Week
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