Most of us have read the books or seen the movies, but the J.R.R. Tolkien fanatics amongst us will have already pencilled this one into the calendar. The date is September 22, also known as “Hobbit Day” – the birthday of both Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, popular characters from Tolkien’s famous fantasies The Hobbit, and Lord of the Rings.
There is however, some debate in deep Tolkien fandom, about September 22 as the actual birth date. Purists argue that the dates mentioned in Tolkien’s stories refer to the Shire Calendar, which differs significantly from the Gregorian Calendar which many fans observe. An alternative date of September 14 has been suggested.
Whichever day you choose to observe Hobbit Day, many suggestions are available for how to celebrate:
- Go barefoot all day (not in the Library though please :))
- Organise a big feast emulating a typical Hobbit party that includes sausages, cider, cake and many dishes featuring mushrooms, a hobbit’s favourite food (as a child, Frodo was caught stealing a farmer’s mushrooms)
- Wear a costume and in true hobbit tradition, give out gifts (toys, trinkets and small musical instruments apparently make good authentic gifts) – http://www.wikihow.com/Celebrate-Hobbit-Day
Want to read or watch some Tolkien? Borrow the books and films from the Library!
The Hobbit at QUT Library
The Lord of the Rings at QUT Library
Hobbit Day also falls within the middle of Tolkien Week. Find out more about both these events from the American Tolkien Society.
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