What is Tall People Day?
Tall People Day is held every year on June 21 and is observed in the Netherlands. The day celebrates individuals who are above average height and shines a light on both the joys and difficulties that come with standing tall. The timing aligns with the summer solstice, symbolically chosen as the longest day of the year to honour the tallest among us.
The celebration is a reminder that physical diversity matters. In the Netherlands, where the average height is already among the tallest globally, Tall People Day has a strong cultural base. Communities take part through awareness campaigns, public discussions, and initiatives aimed at promoting comfort, inclusion, and style for tall individuals in everyday life.
History and Origin
Tall People Day began in 2016, created by a group of Dutch advocates including Jan Pieter Oudshoorn of Langzijn.nl, Rob Bruintjes from Stichting Lange Mensen Nederland, and Inez Scheper from Pretty Tall. The aim was to establish a day of recognition and empowerment for tall people, focusing on visibility, accessibility, and pride.
The date was not randomly chosen. June 21 marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The founders wanted to playfully link this with the idea of physical length. Since then, the day has grown in reach, with online campaigns, fashion promotions, and dedicated meetups taking place across the country.
Who participates in Tall People Day?
- Tall individuals: Share their stories, photos, and everyday experiences to bring visibility to height-related issues.
- Clothing brands: Promote tall-friendly clothing lines or collections designed for longer proportions.
- Advocacy organisations: Host events and discussions focused on accessibility and comfort for taller people.
- Media outlets: Feature interviews, background stories, and style tips centred on tall life.
- Supporters: Participate in raising awareness or simply appreciate the challenges faced by tall friends, family or colleagues.
Slogans and Themes
Tall People Day focuses on themes such as pride, inclusion and physical diversity. Common slogans include “Stand tall together” and “Long and proud.” The message is one of body positivity and recognition. It encourages awareness about the practical issues taller individuals face, such as finding suitable seating, clothing, or sleeping arrangements, while also celebrating their presence and strength.
Colors, Symbols and Patterns
Colors
- Blue: Represents openness and calm confidence.
- Green: Symbolises growth and the natural aspect of height.
- Orange: Adds energy and a Dutch cultural touch.
Symbols
- Measuring tape: A symbol of height and fitting needs.
- Sun: Chosen for its connection to the solstice and visibility.
- Silhouette of a tall figure: Used in posters and social media visuals to represent the day.
Patterns
- Vertical lines: Emphasise height and movement upward.
- Height charts: Used playfully in promotional materials or events.
- Footprints: Represent the confident steps of tall individuals through life.
Most used hashtags
- #TallPeopleDay
- #StandTall
- #ProudToBeTall
- #HeightMatters
- #DagVanLangeMensen
How do you celebrate Tall People Day?
- Wear tall-friendly fashion: Choose outfits from brands that support taller frames.
- Join an event: Participate in gatherings, panels or casual meetups dedicated to tall people.
- Post your story: Share photos or experiences about life as a tall person on social media.
- Support advocacy: Follow and promote initiatives working toward more inclusive design and public planning.
- Engage in discussion: Start conversations about body diversity and the needs of tall individuals in workspaces, travel, and everyday life.
Why is Tall People Day important?
Tall People Day is important because it promotes visibility and inclusion for a group that is often overlooked in conversations about accessibility. While being tall may seem advantageous, it can come with challenges that affect comfort, health and everyday ease. The day brings attention to practical issues such as legroom in public transport, low ceilings, poorly designed clothing, and even social perceptions.
It is also a moment of pride and community. Many tall individuals experience a sense of isolation or frustration when spaces are not made with them in mind. This day invites them to connect, be visible and take ownership of their unique perspective. It also nudges companies, designers and policymakers to consider a wider range of body types when creating products or spaces.