Town Crier Day
International Town Criers Day 2025 will be observed on Monday, July 14. Celebrated annually on the second Monday of July, this day honors the historic role of the town crier, also known as a bellman, who once served as the voice of public announcements before the age of mass literacy and modern media. Town criers were responsible for delivering news, proclamations, and public notices in town squares, often beginning their announcements with the iconic phrase, “Oyez, oyez!” (meaning “hear ye”). The tradition dates back to ancient times, with roots in medieval Europe and even ancient Greece. The modern observance was founded in 1997 by Scott Fraser, a town crier from Waterloo, Ontario, to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the role. Today, the day is celebrated with reenactments, costume events, and even town crier competitions in parts of Europe, North America, and Australia. It’s a fun and educational way to connect with history and appreciate the art of public speaking.
