International Clown Week

 This year I am posting about the fun National Weeks throughout the year.  This week it's International Clown Week.

This week is set aside to celebrate these performers and their contribution to entertainment.  Members of the group Clowns of America International celebrate the week by hosting events and activities.  

The word clown comes from the Icelandic word, "klunni," meaning, clumsy person.   Other words connected to clown are: clod, klutz, clumsy and clump.  The word is still used today to describe someone that trips over their own feet.

Some interesting facts about International Clown Week:

The holiday was created by Weary Willie, also known as Emmet Kelly, Sr.*

During the week, clowns across the world perform acts of kindness to spread happiness and laughter

Clowns use this week to raise money for charities

Clowns International, founded by Joey Grimaldi is the worlds oldest clown society was founded in 1947.  Grimaldi was the first clown to use white face paint, instead of a mask.

Most clowns are named Joey (after Joey Grimaldi)

Coulrophobia is the fear of clowns

*Kelly was a famous clown who performed with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus for over 20 years.

How to celebrate this week?

Attend a street performance.

You can put on your own show by putting on a costume and juggling or performing magic tricks.

Host a party and dress up as famous clowns (Emmett Kelly, Krusty the Clown, Bozo) 

Use #InternationalClownWeek on social media to show off your talent.