Roald Dahl Day – Sep. 13, 2026

Roald Dahl Day
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Roald Dahl Day, observed every September 13, honors the birthday of one of the world’s most imaginative children’s authors. Dive into his fantastical tales, from ‘Matilda’ to ‘James and the Giant Peach,’ and rediscover the magic. Read a beloved book, watch a film adaptation, or host a themed party with friends and family.

Want to sponsor Roald Dahl Day? Learn how

Expected Roald Dahl Day Deals

While we await official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that bookstores, publishers, and streaming services often roll out special deals and events for Roald Dahl Day. Look for discounts on classic titles from publishers like Penguin Random House and Scholastic, alongside special bundles. Streaming platforms such as Netflix, home to several Dahl adaptations, may feature his films and series prominently. Retailers like Barnes & Noble and independent bookstores frequently host story times and themed activities. Keep an eye out for special merchandise from The Roald Dahl Story Company and film-related promotions from Warner Bros. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September 13 approaches.

Platform Guide for Roald Dahl Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #RoaldDahlDay. Share photos of your favorite Dahl books, character costumes, or themed treats.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #RoaldDahlDay. Create short videos reviewing a Dahl book, recreating a scene, or sharing fun facts about the author.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #RoaldDahlDay. Join discussions about favorite Dahl characters, memorable quotes, or the impact of his stories on your childhood.

Social Media Tips for Roald Dahl Day

Individuals

Host a Roald Dahl movie marathon featuring adaptations like 'Matilda,' 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' or 'The BFG.' Prepare themed snacks like 'snozzcumbers' or 'scrumdiddlyumptious' treats.

Creators

Produce a video or blog post reviewing a lesser-known Roald Dahl book, or create a 'choose your own adventure' style story inspired by his unique narrative voice and imaginative settings.

Brands

Bookstores can organize a 'Dahl's Delights' reading challenge, encouraging customers to read a different book each week leading up to the day. Offer discounts on his entire collection and host a costume contest.

Top Brands for Roald Dahl Day

  1. Penguin Random House

    As a major publisher of Roald Dahl's works, Penguin Random House brings his beloved stories to readers worldwide. They are responsible for many editions, including special anniversary releases and educational versions.

  2. Netflix

    Netflix has invested heavily in adapting Roald Dahl's stories, producing new animated series and films based on his iconic characters and worlds, ensuring his legacy reaches new generations through modern media.

  3. Scholastic

    A global children's publishing, education, and media company, Scholastic is instrumental in bringing Roald Dahl's books into schools and homes through book clubs and school book fairs, fostering a love of reading.

  4. Barnes & Noble

    Founded in 1886, Barnes & Noble is one of the largest retail booksellers in the United States. They prominently feature Roald Dahl's collection, often hosting events and displays to celebrate his literary contributions.

  5. The Roald Dahl Story Company

    This company manages the literary estate and intellectual property rights for Roald Dahl's works. They ensure his stories are cherished and adapted faithfully, collaborating on new projects and merchandise.

  6. Warner Bros.

    Warner Bros. has produced several iconic film adaptations of Roald Dahl's books, including 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' (2005) and 'The Witches' (1990), bringing his fantastical worlds to the big screen.

  7. Cadbury

    Founded in 1824 in Birmingham, England, Cadbury is a global confectionery company. While not directly tied to Dahl, its association with chocolate makes it a natural partner for 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' themed celebrations.

Roald Dahl Day Hero

Roald Dahl

Born on September 13, 1916, Roald Dahl was a British novelist, short story writer, poet, and screenwriter. He served in the Royal Air Force during World War II before becoming one of the most celebrated children's authors of all time. His distinctive writing style, characterized by dark humor, vivid imagination, and often rebellious child protagonists, captivated millions. Dahl's legacy includes timeless classics like 'Matilda,' 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' and 'The BFG,' which continue to enchant readers and inspire numerous adaptations.

History of Roald Dahl Day

Born in Wales in 1916, Roald Dahl led a full and fascinating life before becoming one of the best-known and best-selling authors of the 20th century.

Named after Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, Dahl exhibited an adventurous spirit from an early age. After he finished school, he worked for Shell Petroleum in present-day Tanzania, then became an aircraftman for the Royal Air Force in 1939, when World War II loomed on the horizon. Narrowly surviving a desert crash landing and the Battle of Athens, Dahl then received an appointment as assistant air attache at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C. During this time, he supplied intelligence to Winston Churchill, helping to smooth the relationship between the British Prime Minister and American President Franklin Roosevelt.

Dahl’s military career inspired much of his early writing. His first published story recounts his crash landing, while his first children’s book, “The Gremlins,” features mischievous creatures that sabotage RAF aircraft. He continued to draw inspiration from his immediate surroundings, basing many of his settings and scenes on true aspects of Great Missenden, the Buckinghamshire village he and his family called home. He went on to write more than 30 novels, creating iconic characters including Willy Wonka, Matilda, and Mr. Fox, and dozens of screenplays for shows including “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.”

His writing style is known for its unique, often original vocabulary, humorous poems, and ability to write from a child’s perspective. His books, though full of dark undercurrents and macabre settings, ultimately show good and kind children triumphing over evil, greedy adults.

Roald Dahl Day timeline

1916
Roald Dahl Is Born

Dahl is born to Norwegian parents in Llandaff, Cardiff, Wales.

1940
Crash Landing

During a mission over Egypt, Dahl was forced to attempt a crash landing in the desert that resulted in a fractured skull, broken nose, and temporary blindness. He would later write about this experience in his first published piece, "A Piece of Cake."

1943
First Children's Book

Dahl's first children's book, “The Gremlins”, draws on Royal Air Force folklore about mischievous creatures that pilots blame for aircraft problems.

1990
Roald Dahl Dies

Dahl dies at age 74 in Oxford. He is buried with his snooker cues, chocolates, some "very good" burgundy, HB pencils, and a power saw.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Roald Dahl Day

Local businesses can embrace Roald Dahl Day by creating themed experiences. Bookstores can host read-alouds, offer discounts on Dahl’s books, or organize a ‘golden ticket’ giveaway. Cafes might introduce special ‘Wonka-inspired’ treats or drinks, encouraging customers to share their favorite Dahl quotes for a discount. Schools and libraries can arrange creative writing workshops or costume contests, fostering a love for literature. Even local theaters could screen film adaptations or host dramatic readings, engaging the community in his whimsical worlds.

Roald Dahl Day FAQs

When is Roald Dahl Day?

Roald Dahl Day 2026 falls on a Sunday, September 13. It’s the perfect day to dive into his whimsical worlds and revisit your favorite characters.

How many books did Roald Dahl write?

Roald Dahl wrote over 40 books, including 19 children’s novels and numerous short story collections for adults. His prolific career spanned several decades, producing a vast and imaginative body of work.

How many copies of Roald Dahl's books have been sold?

Globally, over 300 million copies of Roald Dahl’s books have been sold, making him one of the best-selling authors of all time. His stories resonate with readers across generations and cultures.

Why is Roald Dahl Day celebrated on September 13?

Roald Dahl Day is celebrated on September 13 each year to commemorate the author’s birthday. This date was chosen to honor his life and incredible contributions to literature.

How to Celebrate Roald Dahl Day

  1. Reread your favorite book

    Has it been a while since you read your favorite Dahl novel? Dust it off and immerse yourself in one of his fantasy worlds — or find a new favorite you haven’t read before!

  2. Watch your favorite movie adaptation

    Dahl’s books have been adapted into dozens of popular movies. Find your favorite adaptation of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “The Fantastic Mr. Fox,” “Matilda,” or other Dahl novels and have a movie night with the whole family.

  3. Donate some books to your local library

    If you’re a Roald Dahl fan, help spread the love by donating a few of his books to your local library to make sure others have a chance to experience them.

5 Interesting Facts About Roald Dahl

  1. He invented more than 500 new words and names

    Calling his invented language Gobblefunk, Dahl created hundreds of new words ("frobscottle") and names (Oompa Loompas) to embellish his vividly original worlds.

  2. The Chocolate Factory is inspired by Cadbury's

    When he was a child, Cadbury's chocolate company would taste-test their treats at Dahl's school. The young Dahl dreamed of creating his own chocolate recipe that would impress Mr. Cadbury himself.

  3. He worked alongside James Bond's creator

    During his time as a British intelligence officer in WWII, Dahl worked with another spy named Ian Fleming. Fleming later wrote the James Bond books as well as “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”, which Dahl adapted for the big screen.

  4. Dahl wrote for Playboy

    Though best known as a children's author, Dahl wrote many short stories for adults. His R-rated work was published in a variety of magazines including Playboy.

  5. Dahl contributed to neurosurgery research

    After his four-month-old son was struck by a cab and left suffering from hydrocephalus, Dahl poured his time and energy into helping to develop a device to treat the condition.

Why We Love Roald Dahl Day

  1. It reminds us of some favorite stories

    Roald Dahl created some of literature and film’s most iconic characters. Which of his books inspired you the most?

  2. It celebrates reading

    More than a crucial life skill, reading can also take us to fantastic worlds and broaden our horizons. Take some time to read to yourself or to a child in your life today.

  3. It’s an excuse to host fun events

    Roald Dahl Day events include live readings, movie screenings, themed museum events, and more. Check out your local libraries and educational institutions to find Roald Dahl Day events near you.

Roald Dahl Day dates

Year Date Day
2026 September 13 Sunday
2027 September 13 Monday
2028 September 13 Wednesday
2029 September 13 Thursday
2030 September 13 Friday