Pinocchio Day
February 23, 2027
Pinocchio Day is celebrated on 23 February each year, marking the anniversary of the first publication of Carlo Collodi’s beloved tale The Adventures of Pinocchio in an Italian newspaper in 1881. The day honours the wooden puppet whose nose grows when he tells a lie — one of the most recognisable characters in world literature.
The Story Behind Pinocchio Day
On 7 July 1881, the first chapter of Le Avventure di Pinocchio (The Adventures of Pinocchio) appeared in the Italian children’s newspaper Il Giornale per i Bambini. Written by Carlo Collodi, the pen name of Florentine journalist Carlo Lorenzini, the story was originally serialised over two years. However, it is the date of 23 February that has become associated with Pinocchio Day, linked to the story’s broader cultural impact and the character’s enduring presence in Italian heritage.
Collodi’s original tale is considerably darker than the Disney adaptation most people know. In the serialised version, Pinocchio is hanged for his misdeeds, and Collodi initially intended this to be the ending. It was only at the insistence of his editor and young readers that Collodi continued the story, eventually having the puppet transformed into a real boy as a reward for his reformed character.
The character of Pinocchio has become a universal symbol of childhood, honesty, and the consequences of deception. The growing nose — Collodi’s invention to make lying visually apparent — has entered everyday language as a metaphor for dishonesty. In the Italian town of Collodi (from which the author took his pen name), a Pinocchio Park was established in 1956, featuring sculptures and attractions dedicated to the character.
When and Where is Pinocchio Day Celebrated?
Pinocchio Day falls on Tuesday, 23 February 2027. It is a fixed-date observance. The day is celebrated internationally, with particular enthusiasm in Italy, where Pinocchio holds a special place in the national cultural identity. Schools, libraries, and cultural organisations worldwide use the day to promote reading and discuss themes of honesty and personal growth.
Traditions and Customs
- Reading the original story — Schools and libraries host readings of Collodi’s original tale, often discussing how it differs from later adaptations.
- Puppet shows and theatre performances — The story lends itself perfectly to puppet theatre, and many venues stage Pinocchio performances around this date.
- Discussions about honesty — Teachers use the day as a springboard for conversations about truthfulness, integrity, and the consequences of lying.
- Visiting Pinocchio Park — The Parco di Pinocchio in Collodi, Tuscany, draws visitors year-round but sees increased interest around 23 February.
- Creative activities — Children make Pinocchio puppets, draw illustrations, and write their own versions of the story.
Ways to Celebrate Pinocchio Day
- Read The Adventures of Pinocchio — Track down a translation of the original Italian text and discover how different it is from the Disney version.
- Watch a Pinocchio film — From Disney’s 1940 animated classic to Guillermo del Toro’s acclaimed 2022 stop-motion adaptation and the Italian 2019 live-action film, there are many versions to choose from.
- Make a Pinocchio puppet — Craft a simple wooden or paper puppet with a movable nose. This is a wonderful activity for children.
- Visit an Italian restaurant — Celebrate the story’s Italian origins with a meal of Italian cuisine.
- Discuss honesty with children — Use Pinocchio’s story as a conversation starter about why telling the truth matters.
- Explore Collodi’s other works — Carlo Collodi wrote several other children’s stories and journalistic pieces that offer insight into 19th-century Italian culture.
Facts and Figures
- The Adventures of Pinocchio was first serialised in 1881 in the Italian newspaper Il Giornale per i Bambini.
- Disney’s 1940 animated film Pinocchio was the studio’s second feature film, following Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
- The story has been translated into over 260 languages, making it one of the most translated non-religious books in the world.
- Pinocchio Park in Collodi, Tuscany, has been open since 1956 and features over 20 sculptures and mosaics depicting scenes from the story.
- Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022) won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pinocchio Day?
Pinocchio Day, celebrated on 23 February, honours the beloved fictional character created by Carlo Collodi in 1881, promoting reading, honesty, and Italian cultural heritage.
When is Pinocchio Day in 2027?
Pinocchio Day falls on Tuesday, 23 February 2027.
Why does Pinocchio’s nose grow?
In Collodi’s story, Pinocchio’s nose grows whenever he tells a lie. This has become one of the most famous literary devices in children’s literature and a universal symbol of dishonesty.
Spread the Word
Share Pinocchio Day with your community using #PinocchioDay and #PinocchioDay2027. Whether you read the original story, craft a puppet, or simply reflect on the value of honesty, every celebration keeps this timeless tale alive.
Related Awareness Days
- Tell a Fairy Tale Day — Celebrated on 26 February, this day promotes storytelling and classic tales.
- International Book Giving Day — Observed on 14 February, this day encourages people to gift books to children.
- Winnie the Pooh Day — Falling on 18 January, this day celebrates another beloved children’s literary character.
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