Hobbit Day

Since:
🥂 1978

Because someone has to save Middle-earth between meals. 👩‍🌾🥪👣📖

What on Middle-earth is Hobbit Day?

Greetings, my fellow adventurers!
Hobbit Day is a celebration of hobbits, those pint-sized folks who love second breakfasts and cozy homes. This day, September 22, we raise our tankards and toast to the birthdays of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, two legendary hobbits from Tolkien’s masterpieces, “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.”
In the Shire calendar, Bilbo was born in 2890, and Frodo followed suit in 2968 of the Third Age. For us Gregorian calendar devotees, that translates to somewhere between September 12 and 14.
But who cares about specifics when we can party like hobbits, right?

Where “second breakfast” is a dietary must,
and adventure is an unexpected guest!

Once Upon a Time in the Shire

Hobbits are small, unassuming folk, standing about three feet tall, with furry feet, who live in the Shire, a peaceful region of Middle-earth.
The word “hobbit” itself has a whimsical origin—it’s a blend of “holbytla” cobbled together from Old English words, meaning “hole-builder”. And thus, hobbits dwell in snug underground homes called hobbit holes. They possess an undying affection for food, gardening, coziness and are the undisputed masters of the art of relaxation.
They are also known for their courage and determination, as evidenced by the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo.

A Stroll Through Hobbit Folklore in Pop Culture

Hobbits have journeyed far beyond the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien’s books and into the heart of pop culture.
These pint-sized folks first sprang from J.R.R. Tolkien’s brilliant mind in his iconic books, “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” Since then, they’ve become household names, featuring in movies, games, and even inspiring other fantastical races like halflings (or in some cases “havlins”). From their origins as literary treasures to their appearances in films, video games, and even board games, hobbits have become iconic figures known for their love of comfort and epic adventures.

Hobbits vs. Halflings: Spot the Difference

Are hobbits and halflings one and the same?
The terms “hobbit” and “halfling” are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two.
Hobbits are the brainchildren of Tolkien, residing in the Shire and boasting a unique culture. Halflings, on the other hand, are a broader fantasy trope, appearing in various worlds, and they aren’t always carbon copies of hobbits. Many types of halflings (or havlins) have their own historical background and even different features. Some even wear shoes!
It’s like comparing apples with a trademark to apples from a different orchard.

Why Hobbits are Cooler Than a Frosty Pint of Ale

Hobbits are cool for a number of reasons.
Here’s a list that will make even the elves envious:

Courage in Small Packages:
Hobbits prove that bravery comes in all sizes. Frodo and Sam’s journey to Mount Doom? Need we say more?
Simple Joys:
In a world obsessed with grandeur, hobbits revel in life’s simple pleasures. Their humility is a breath of fresh air.
Loyal Companions:
Samwise Gamgee’s unwavering loyalty to Frodo reminds us of the power of friendship.
Gardeners Extraordinaire:
These earthy folks have a deep connection to nature. Gardening is practically a sport in the Shire!
Foodie Paradise:
Second breakfasts, elevenses, and supper – need I say more? Their love for food is legendary.
Epic Feasts:
Hobbits know how to throw a party! Their culinary skills are legendary, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better host.
Humble Heroes:
They don’t seek glory but often find themselves in the midst of epic adventures.

Hobbit Myths, Busted!

Some common misconceptions about hobbits include:

Myth: “Hobbits are just kids’ stuff.”
Fact: Hobbits’ tales of courage and camaraderie are for all ages.

Myth: “Hobbits are lazy.”
Fact: They may enjoy a leisurely lifestyle, but when duty calls, hobbits rise to the occasion. They are also quite industrious, and many hobbits are skilled farmers, craftsmen, and traders.

Myth: “All hobbits are fat”
Fact: Some hobbits are on the slimmer side, like Frodo and Merry. It’s probably all the running around and dancing that burns off those extra meals.

Myth: “Hobbits fear adventure”
Fact: Tell that to Frodo, Sam, and the Fellowship. They’re adventure magnets!

The Origin of Hobbit Day

The American Tolkien Society first proclaimed Hobbit Day and Tolkien Week in 1978, a time when the world was hungry for more Middle-earth magic. They officially proclaimed September 22nd as Hobbit Day, aligning with the birthdays of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. The society acknowledges that Hobbit Day pre-dates their designation, but this was the year it was made official on a set date.
Today, Hobbit Day is a cherished occasion to revel in hobbit-like festivities, from multiple meals to barefoot strolls, and continues to unite fans worldwide in a joyful embrace of fantasy and camaraderie.
Cheers to Hobbit Day, a celebration that proves even the smallest of events can have a huge impact!

How to Celebrate Like a Hobbit

Now, here’s the fun part – celebrating Hobbit Day in style!

Elevenses, Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner, Supper:
Channel your inner hobbit and indulge in multiple meals throughout the day. Think mushrooms, potatoes, and plenty of pies. Who cares if it’s not the Shire? Food is life!
Library Quest:
Head to your local library or bookstore, get lost in Tolkien’s enchanting tales and let the magic sweep you away.
Go Barefoot:
Hobbits aren’t fans of shoes, so kick off yours and feel the earth beneath your feet.
Host a Hobbit Party:
Gather your fellow Tolkien enthusiasts, deck out your place with all things Middle-earth, and throw a Hobbit-style bash complete with a hearty meal, dancing, fireworks, and merriment galore.
Cosplay Adventure:
Dress up as your favorite hobbit character and take a whimsical journey through your neighborhood.
Garden Galore:
Spend some quality time in nature, tend to your garden, or simply relax in your own version of a hobbit hole.
Read Tolkien: Dive into Tolkien’s masterpieces, “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” Lose yourself in the enchanting world he created.
Social Magic:
When you’re ready to share your Hobbit Day adventures with the world, don’t forget to use these hashtags: #HobbitDay and #TolkienWeek.

No matter how you celebrate Hobbit Day, have fun and enjoy yourself!

Happy Hobbit Day!

Now go out there and celebrate like a true hobbit!
And if anyone questions why you’re celebrating by, let’s say, having elevenses followed by a second breakfast, just tell them that Wild Calendar gave you full permission to do so. Invite them to the festivities and spread the joy!
So, raise your mugs, enjoy a feast fit for a hobbit, and may your meals be plentiful, your laughter endless, and your adventures grand.
Happy Hobbit Day, my fellow adventurers!

The Shire: Where adventures are just an elevenses away.