National Ukulele Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Ukulele Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Ukulele Day is observed on February 2nd.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Ukulele Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about National Ukulele Day.

📅 What day is National Ukulele Day 2024?

In 2024, National Ukulele Day is on Thursday, February 2nd. It is the 1st Thursday in February; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the cool details and facts about February 2, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The ukulele is a musical instrument with four strings that first came from Portugal, but it gained popularity in Hawaii during the 19th century. Its size can differ, and the larger ones produce lower tones. King Kalkaua played a significant role in introducing the ukulele into formal state meetings, leading to its widespread popularity in Hawaii. Famous musicians like Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley also used the ukulele in their recordings. Every February 2nd, people all over the country celebrate National Ukulele Day by playing their favorite tunes on this instrument.

📜 National Ukulele Day History

✅ National Ukulele Day Facts

🔖 “Riptide”
The chords used in Vance Joy’s song are simple and straightforward, making them accessible for beginners to learn.

🔖 “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”
This well-known song from “The Wizard of Oz” has an easy-to-learn tune that is perfect for beginners.

🔖 “Tears in Heaven”
Eric Clapton’s heartfelt dedication to his son, played on the ukulele, is a fantastic choice for beginners looking to learn their first tune.

👍 Why Is National Ukulele Day Important

From Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters’ “Mele Kalikimaka” to Elvis Presley’s “Blue Hawaii” and Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s widely acclaimed medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” the ukulele has helped shape the pop music landscape.

In 1880, Hawaiians were introduced to the ukulele by Portuguese immigrants from Madeira and Cape Verde. The immigrants performed weekly street performances for locals, and the ukulele quickly became a cornerstone of Hawaiian music. It was initially performed on the mainland by George E. K. Awai and his Royal Hawaiian Quartet in 1915.

The ukulele is one of the simplest instruments to learn. Simply learning a few chords can have you well on your way to performing a few easy pop songs. It’s an excellent instrument for teaching younger children to play music.

🙂 How To Observe National Ukulele Day

⚡ Go to Hawaii

⚡ Listen to some ukulele music
Buy some ukulele music sets or albums that showcase the instrument. “Blue Hawaii” by Elvis Presley and the more recent “Ukulele Songs” by Eddie Vedder are great choices to begin with. Additionally, you can check out the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, a group that performs using ukuleles of different sizes. Just hit play and enjoy the music!

⚡ Learn to play
The ukulele has a long and illustrious history in Hawaii, not just in Hawaiian music but also in Hawaiian culture. A journey to Hawaii does not have to consist just of a beach and surf. There will very certainly be live music involving the ukulele, as well as several opportunities to learn more about the instrument’s importance in local culture.

📅 When is National Ukulele Day?

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