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National Play Monopoly Day
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TueNov 19

National Play Monopoly Day – November 19, 2024

National Play Monopoly Day is on November 19 every year. The game of Monopoly was invented about 118 years ago, and National Play Monopoly Day recognizes Monopoly as a favorite pastime of millions of Americans. Although it has caused many friendships to crumble, the board game is known as one of the most popular worldwide.

History of National Play Monopoly Day

In 1903, Lizzie Magie from the United States created “The Landlord’s Game.” The idea behind the invention was to demonstrate that an economy that appreciates wealth creation is better than where monopolists have few restrictions. Monopoly is said to have derived from this game. In 1935, Parker Brothers released Monopoly, excluding the capitalistic taxation rule.

During World War II, the British Secret Service asked the manufacturer of Monopoly, Jack Waddington Ltd, to create a special edition of Monopoly for the prisoners of war held by Nazi Germany. They hid objects like maps, currencies, and compasses in the game. The British Secret Service formed fake charity organizations to send this version of Monopoly to the prisoners of war.

Initially, when Parker Brothers released the game, it had only two versions; regular and deluxe. In 1991, when Hasbro overtook Parker Brothers, they developed many new versions of the game. In 2003, Hasbro organized a championship tournament of Monopoly on a chartered train going from Chicago to Atlantic City. Within a few years, Monopoly became a favorite among millions of people around the world, and it became their favorite pastime during get-togethers and long trips by train. In the U.S., National Play Monopoly Day was created as a dedication to this board game which brings joy to many families and friends.

National Play Monopoly Day timeline

1903
The Landlord’s Game is Created

Lizzie Magie from the U.S. creates “The Landlord’s Game.”

1935
Monopoly is Born

Parker Brothers release the game Monopoly, which is derived from “The Landlord’s Game.”

1991
The First-Ever Monopoly Championship

Hasbro, which took over Parker Brothers, organizes a national Monopoly tournament on a train from Chicago to Atlantic City.

2000s
National Play Monopoly Day

National Play Monopoly Day is created to recognize Monopoly as one of the most loved board games.

National Play Monopoly Day FAQs

Is it possible to cheat in Monopoly?

There’s a special edition of Monopoly, “Monopoly: Cheater’s Edition,” where you are allowed to borrow money from the bank and avoid rent payments. 

Can I play Monopoly online?

Yes. The first-ever mobile edition of Monopoly was released in 2008 for the iPhone. Since then, many mobile- and P.C. versions of the game have come out.

Are there any films or documentaries on Monopoly?

Yes. “Under The Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story,” released in 2010, is one of the most well-known documentaries on Monopoly. It won four regional Emmy Awards in the Pacific Southwest Chapter of NATAS (National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences).

How To Celebrate National Play Monopoly Day

  1. Play Monopoly

    What better way to celebrate this day than play the game? Call your friends or family members for a game of Monopoly and let the fun begin!

  2. Post on social media

    Many people love Monopoly but don’t know that there’s a day dedicated to it. Share blogs or social media posts and let everyone know that National Play Monopoly Day is to celebrate with as many people as possible.

  3. Organize championships

    If you really want to take the celebrations to the next level, you can team up with your friends and organize a Monopoly Championship Tournament inviting people from your neighborhood to participate in this event. Distribute prizes for the winners and make this day remarkable for everyone.

5 Facts About Monopoly That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. It is extremely popular

    With a local license in over 130 countries and printed in more than 37 languages, Monopoly is one of the most popular board games ever.

  2. It was made with household materials

    When Charles Darrow first created the game, it was made using household objects like oilcloth and molding scraps.

  3. Darrow’s nieces inspired its pieces

    Charles Darrow’s nieces recommended the iron, purse, lantern, race car, and many other pieces of Monopoly.

  4. It was once played for 70 days

    The longest game of Monopoly to ever be played was for 70 straight days.

  5. It has over 300 versions

    Monopoly, sold by Hasbro, has over 300 versions of the game, including a Braille version.

Why We Love National Play Monopoly Day

  1. It celebrates an incredible game

    Monopoly is one the most recognizable board games globally, and National Play Monopoly Day is a fitting tribute to this wonderful game. The day provides the perfect opportunity to play the game with our friends and family and have a delightful time.

  2. Playing Monopoly can improve your thinking ability

    Playing Monopoly substantially improves your math and analytical thinking skills. It not only puts your cognitive ability to the test but also your decision-making skills.

  3. It is the perfect companion for parties and journeys

    Monopoly is one of the best games you can play at a get-together or when you’re traveling for many hours.

National Play Monopoly Day dates

YearDateDay
2024November 19Tuesday
2025November 19Wednesday
2026November 19Thursday
2027November 19Friday
2028November 19Sunday

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