It’s our opinion that most people don’t know someone who swallows swords for either fun or profit. If a person does, however, they should thank them on World Sword Swallowers Day—a holiday that celebrates this ancient art and the people who practice it.

Of course, if a person doesn’t know someone who swallows swords, they can still observe this holiday by giving sword swallowers a shoutout on social media or by learning more about the profession. Although many people think sword swallowing is some kind of trick or illusion, the truth is that it’s a real skill that takes time and practice to master.

The History of World Sword Swallowers Day

This holiday was created shortly after the World Sword Swallowers Association International was founded in 2001. This organization was established to preserve the art of sword swallowing and to spread general information about sword swallowing to the public. The holiday was created to allow sword swallowers from all around the world to organize events that spread the word about this art form.

Interesting Facts About Sword Swallowing

Let’s take a few moments to learn a little bit more about sword swallowing by examining the following interesting facts:

• Sword swallowing dates back over 4,000 years to ancient India.
• Learning sword swallowing can take up to seven years.
• The longest sword ever swallowed was 33 inches long, achieved by George the Giant.
• Every year, there are approximately six sword swallowing injuries worldwide.
• The average person swallows about 600 times per day.
• Sword swallowing involves passing a solid blade or sword of at least 16 inches in length through the mouth and into the stomach.

Observing World Sword Swallowers Day

On this holiday, there are usually events featuring sword swallowers of all types. If a person doesn’t live near one of these events, they can always learn more about sword swallowing from the World Sword Swallowers Association International’s website. People can also use the hashtag #WorldSwordSwallowersDay on social media to spread the word about this holiday.