What is Annie M.G. Schmidt Day?

Annie M.G. Schmidt Day is celebrated every year on May 20 in the Netherlands to honor the life and work of Annie M.G. Schmidt (1911–1995), one of the most beloved Dutch authors. Known as the queen of Dutch children’s literature, Schmidt wrote timeless stories, poems, songs, and plays that continue to inspire generations.

Her books, including Jip and Janneke, Pluk van de Petteflet, and Minoes, remain some of the most popular children’s stories in Dutch literature. Her work is characterized by humor, imagination, and strong-willed characters, often challenging traditional authority and societal norms. Annie M.G. Schmidt Day celebrates her creativity, influence, and enduring impact on Dutch culture.

History and Origin

Annie M.G. Schmidt was born on May 20, 1911, in Kapelle, Netherlands. She worked as a librarian and journalist before becoming a full-time writer. Her first major success came in the 1950s with Jip and Janneke, a series of short stories about two adventurous children. Over the years, she expanded into poetry, musicals, radio plays, and television scripts, shaping Dutch children’s entertainment.

After her passing in 1995, May 20 was designated as a day to honor her legacy. Libraries, schools, and theaters across the Netherlands celebrate her contributions with storytelling events, book readings, and performances of her work.

Who Participates in Annie M.G. Schmidt Day?

• Schools and libraries: Organize storytelling sessions, writing workshops, and themed activities for children.
• Theater groups: Perform adaptations of her famous books, songs, and musicals.
• Bookstores and publishers: Promote her works through special events and discounts.
• Parents and children: Read her stories together, keeping her playful and witty writing alive.
• Cultural institutions: Host exhibitions and discussions about her influence on Dutch literature and media.

Slogans and Themes

Annie M.G. Schmidt Day celebrates creativity, imagination, and the joy of storytelling. The themes often highlight the importance of children’s literature, humor, and independence in storytelling.

Slogans such as “Celebrate Imagination with Annie,” “Step into the World of Jip and Janneke,” and “Stories that Last a Lifetime” capture the spirit of her work and its lasting impact.

Colors

• Red and white: Represent the classic illustrations of Jip and Janneke.
• Yellow: Symbolizes joy, creativity, and the warmth of her stories.
• Blue: Reflects the whimsical and adventurous nature of her characters.

Symbols

• Books: Represent her vast literary contributions.
• Pen and paper: Symbolize her creativity and love for storytelling.
• Silhouettes of children: Refer to the iconic Jip and Janneke characters.

Patterns

• Silhouettes: Inspired by the black-and-white artwork of Jip and Janneke.
• Playful illustrations: Reflect the charm and humor of her writing style.
• Musical notes: Represent her work in songwriting and theater productions.

Most Used Hashtags

• #AnnieMGSchmidtDay
• #JipAndJanneke
• #PlukVanDePetteflet
• #DutchLiterature
• #CelebrateStorytelling

How to Celebrate Annie M.G. Schmidt Day

• Read her books: Enjoy classics like Jip and Janneke, Pluk van de Petteflet, or Minoes.
• Attend a performance: Watch a play, musical, or film adaptation of her work.
• Write a poem or story: Get creative and write something inspired by her witty and imaginative style.
• Share on social media: Post about your favorite Annie M.G. Schmidt book using event hashtags.
• Visit a library or bookstore: Explore special displays and events dedicated to her work.

Why is Annie M.G. Schmidt Day Important?

Annie M.G. Schmidt Day celebrates one of the most influential figures in Dutch literature. Her stories have shaped childhoods, entertained generations, and challenged conventional thinking with humor and creativity. Her work continues to inspire new readers, proving that great storytelling stands the test of time.

This day also highlights the importance of children’s literature in shaping young minds, encouraging reading habits, and fostering imagination. By celebrating her legacy, people keep her stories alive for future generations.