National Limerick Day

Next Tuesday, 12 May 2026
Airene Guha
Airene Guha
Content Creator

National Limerick Day is observed on May 12 annually on the birth anniversary of Edward Lear, the famous English poet, author, and artist. 

His whimsical humor and playful poetry played a significant role in his popularity, where limericks were brought to life and normalized by him. 

Although National Limerick Day celebrates the birthday of Edward Lear, he did not invent limericks but helped make them popular through his work. 

The term “limerick” comes from the Irish city of Limerick, though the exact origins of the poem style are unknown. Limericks may date back 500 years.

What Is a Limerick?

A funny and short poem often consisting of absolute nonsense and sarcasm is called a limerick. Every limerick has five lines, and lines 1, 2, and 5 rhyme, and lines 3 and 4 rhyme with each other. 

They follow the anapestic trimeter, which is a special rhythm that gives them their sing-song sound. Limericks are great for silly stories, playful scribbling, or jokes and are loved by a lot of people for their simplicity and humor.  

How to Celebrate National Limerick Day

To celebrate National Limerick Day, spend time by learning about poetry and limericks and read Edward Lear’s notable work to understand the humor behind it. 

To truly scratch the creative itch, try writing your own limericks by curating something silly and absurd. 

Share your limericks on social media or with friends and family. Celebrate the day by spreading laughter and humor.

Limericks are a great way to introduce the world of poetry to kids and help their development too. So, on National Limerick Day, give it all and have some fun with words. 

National Limerick Day
National Limerick Day

National Limerick Day - Next years

Wednesday, 12 May 2027

Friday, 12 May 2028

Saturday, 12 May 2029

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