Happy Hobbit Day!

by Kris Swank on September 18, 2012

“Hobbit Day” — Saturday, September 22nd — celebrates the birthdays of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, the  fictional heroes of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Friday, September 21, 2012 is also the 75th anniversary of the publication of The Hobbit book. And don’t forget the upcoming Peter Jackson film, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Across the world, individuals, groups and organizations are preparing to celebrate in style. Here’s a round-up of links to help you enjoy this most festive occasion.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Tolkien’s publisher in the US, has tips on throwing your own Hobbit Day party, as well as lists of events around the country, reader’s and teacher’s Guides. Wikihow also has step-by-step directions on throwing a party, what food to serve and which games to play in their article “How to Celebrate Hobbit Day”. Get the children involved with Wired.com’s “Seven Geeky Ways to Celebrate Frodo and Bilbo’s Birthday With Your Kids”.

Don’t want the hassle of throwing your own party? Attend someone else’s! Malaprop’s Bookstore and Cafe in North Carolina will be a hosting a party and photo costume contest.   “Tolkien Professor” Corey Olsen will attend via Skype. Or win a chance to enjoy Second Breakfast in London with HarperCollins! Or, celebrate online with the Middle-earth Network, who are planning a party of special magnificence (they’re also selling commemorative t-shirts). (See here for more events around the country.)

Speaking of “Tolkien Professor” Corey Olsen, he’ll be presenting and signing his new book, Exploring J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” (Houghton Mifflin) at the 2012 National Book Festival on the Mall in Washington D.C. on Sunday, September 23rd. His presentation will be from 3:40-4:25pm, with the book signing following from 4:45-5:45pm.

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