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National ASL Day

Get ready to celebrate National ASL Day and honor the beauty and importance of American Sign Language with events, workshops, and more!

Thursday

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEApril 15

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYDisability

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National American Sign Language (ASL) Day on April 15! This special day honors the language and culture of the Deaf community, as well as raises awareness for the importance of accessibility and inclusion. ASL has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century when it was first recognized as a legitimate language. Today, it is used by millions of people around the world and continues to evolve and adapt with modern technology. So let's celebrate this beautiful and meaningful language that connects individuals from all walks of life!

TIMELINE

National ASL Day Timeline

Inception of ASL

American School for the Deaf was founded in Hartford, Connecticut. Here, a unique sign language organically developed among students, forming the basis of what we now know as ASL.

Recognition of ASL

William Stokoe, a scholar and hearing professor at Gallaudet University, published a dissertation proving that ASL is a bona fide language with its own grammar and syntax.

Deaf President Now

The successful Deaf President Now protest at Gallaudet University highlighted the importance of ASL and Deaf culture, leading to the appointment of the first deaf president of the university.

ASL in High Schools

The College Board announced that ASL could fulfill high school foreign language requirements for college admission, a significant recognition for ASL.

First National ASL Day

The first National ASL Day was celebrated on April 15, launched to honor ASL, those who use it, and their contributions to culture and society.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National ASL Day

Learn basic ASL signs

Take some time to learn basic American Sign Language (ASL) signs. You can find online tutorials or attend a local workshop to learn common phrases and the alphabet in ASL.

ATTEND

Attend an ASL event

Check your local community events for any ASL celebrations or gatherings. Attend these events to learn more about ASL, meet people in the deaf community, and celebrate this important day.

WATCH

Watch ASL performances

Search for ASL performances online or in your area. These performances can include storytelling, poetry, music, and more, all expressed through ASL. It's a beautiful and creative way to celebrate National ASL Day.

HOST

Host an ASL game night

Gather friends and family for an ASL game night. Choose games that involve signing or create your own using ASL signs. This is a fun and interactive way to celebrate National ASL Day.

SUPPORT

Support organizations for the deaf community

Use National ASL Day as an opportunity to support organizations that advocate for the rights and needs of the deaf community. You can donate to these organizations or volunteer your time to support their cause.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National ASL Day

ASL connects us to Deaf culture

In addition to being a language, ASL is also deeply rooted in Deaf culture. By learning ASL or participating in National ASL Day, we can connect with this vibrant and diverse community, learn about their history, experiences, traditions, and unique perspectives.

ASL is a beautiful and important language

American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual language that uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to communicate. It's not just a tool for the deaf and hard of hearing - it's a distinct language with its own grammar, structure, and artistic elements that make it unique and beautiful.

It promotes inclusivity and accessibility

ASL enables people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate effectively, breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity. By celebrating National ASL Day, we are also celebrating the value of inclusivity and spreading awareness about the importance of accessibility for all individuals.