National Knock Knock Joke Day is on October 31, every year, and it celebrates one of the most popular joke cycles. Perfectly suitable for all age groups, knock-knock jokes are told in many English-speaking countries. Knock-knock is a call-and-response joke that involves an interesting play with words.
History of National Knock Knock Joke Day
We know how it goes… Someone begins the joke by saying, “Knock knock,” followed by “Who’s there?” After they mention a name, the person can reply by asking for a surname or end the joke with a pun that involves an interplay between the words.
The earliest variation of the knock-knock joke can be traced back to the 1900s. According to Merely McEvoy, the joke began around 1900, and it started with the question, “Do you know Arthur?” to which one would naturally ask, “Arthur who?”. The person telling the joke would then reply, “Arthurmometer!”
In 1929, a book called “The Games of Children: Their Origin and History” featured the earliest written form of the knock-knock joke. After the initial “Knock knock. Who’s there?” the joke-teller would reply, “Buff.” Then the audience would typically ask, “What says Buff?” And the final punchline would go, “Buff says Buff to all his men, and I say Buff to you again.” It was popular among children back then, and they enjoyed it very much.
The modern form of the joke was developed in the 1930s. It was introduced into popular culture with the relatable pun that we’re used to today. It goes, “Knock knock. Who’s there? Rufus. Rufus who? Rufus the most important part of your house.” Since humans have been knocking on doors for ages, knock-knock jokes may have a longer history. Nowadays, the joke has become a staple for humor across the world.
National Knock Knock Joke Day timeline
The famous book of William Shakespeare, “Macbeth,” has a monologue delivered by the porter, in which he uses the famous lines, “Knock, knock! Who's there?” in a humorous manner.
A newspaper column uses the modern format of the joke.
On February 21, Inventgenuity Festival attendees set a record for getting in a line and telling knock-knock jokes after each other.
Alex and Andrea Rose from Texas break the world record for the most knock-knock jokes told in one minute — they tell 24.
National Knock Knock Joke Day FAQs
How do you tell a knock-knock joke?
It’s just like knocking on a door in real life. Only this time, you play with words to make your audience laugh.
Where can you observe this holiday?
You can observe it at home, work, school, on the playground — everywhere really.
Who can tell a knock-knock joke?
Everyone can tell a knock-knock joke, and all it takes is some imagination.
National Knock Knock Joke Day Activities
Make up original knock-knock jokes
There are thousands of knock-knock jokes out there, but you can always come up with an original.
Tell jokes with friends
On National Knock Knock Joke Day, you can gather with friends and family to tell jokes. Take turns and have some fun with it.
Organize a comedy contest
You can organize a comedy contest amongst friends or co-workers. It is always fun to win a prize for your jokes.
5 Interesting Facts About Knock-knock Jokes
They’re used as songs
There are some popular children’s songs that follow the format of the knock-knock joke.
Popular world-wide
The joke is very popular among English-speakers, but the joke is also told in European, Asian, and African countries.
Suitable for all ages
The joke cycle can accommodate everyone, regardless of their age.
Safe in any setting
Knock-knock jokes are adequate to tell in almost all settings.
The first line in “Hamlet”
The first line in “Hamlet” is “Who's there?”
Why We Love National Knock Knock Joke Day
Knock-knock jokes are easy
We love knock-knock jokes because you do not have to be a comedian to tell a good joke.
You can play practical jokes
On National Knock Knock Joke Day, you can knock on your friend's door. When they ask who's there, deliver your punchline.
You get a whole day of laughter
Imagine a whole day dedicated to telling jokes. We love that idea very much.
National Knock Knock Joke Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 31 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 31 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 31 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 31 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 31 | Tuesday |
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