What is Tolkien Reading Day?

March 25th is known by fans as Tolkien Reading Day. Tolkien Reading Day invites readers across the world to spend time with their favorite Tolkien passages, to share Middle-earth with those they hold dear, and to host or attend Tolkien-inspired community events online or locally.

Tolkien Reading Day is held on the 25th ofMarch because of two events that occur inTolkien’s legendarium: primarily, the downfall of Sauron with the destruction of the One Ring in T.A. 3019; but also, the birth of Elanor the Fair, daughter of Samwise Gamgee, in T.A. 3021.

On this day, we celebrate the passing of the Shadow and the returning of new life to Middle-earth.

While The Lord of the Rings is not an allegory, Christian Tolkien fans may appreciate the way March 25th connects Middle-earth to Tolkien’s lived, liturgical experience.

Within the Christian Tradition, the events attributed to March 25th are manifold: from Adam’s Creation, to Abraham’s Sacrifice, to the Annunciation, and ultimately to the Crucifixion.

Every year the Tolkien Society chooses a theme for Tolkien Reading Day and this year’s theme is: Fellowship and Community.