World Goth Day

World Goth Day History

World Goth Day seeks to celebrate the goth style and subculture. Goth originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1980s as a culture of gothic rock. It is categorized as part of the 19th-century gothic genre of literature. The typical gothic aesthetic is black attire, dark makeup, and black hair. Themes revolve around horror, death, romance, and general melancholy or sadness. This day aims to celebrate the goth culture by allowing goths the chance to express themselves. It encourages goths everywhere to make themselves known.

World Goth Day was created in 2009 by Goth DJs Cruel Britannia and Martin Oldgoth. It is observed annually on May 22nd.

World Goth Day facts

• According to the Goth Subculture Guide, goth accessories and apparel usually consist of bulky metallic jewelry and black clothing. Jewelry can include rings, metallic bracelets, metallic necklaces, and chains. Most are made of silver which is an important element of the Goth subculture.
• The term goth rock was first used in 1967 when rock critic John Stickney used it to describe The Doors. The term re-emerged 10 years later when writers were describing the post-punk scene in the UK. This included groups like The Cure, Siouxsie Sioux, the Banshees, and Bauhaus. Today, the term has evolved and can be applied to multiple genres of music from electronic to metal.
• We’re hard-core romantics, dreamy realists and cynical idealists. We find beauty in the macabre, while seeking fairness and tenderness in our daily lives. We love all things ancient, while being modern and liberal in our social outlook. We’re intelligent and creative without being cutthroat and competitive. We’re angry yet peaceful. We’re sure of ourselves but wary of strangers. We’re funny but bitter … but mostly very shy - Rebecca Scharffenberger, Goth: Undead Subculture

In the News and Trending in the US for World Goth Day

Top things to do in the US for World Goth Day

• Browse upcoming events near you. World Goth Day hosts vritual events around the world.
• Learn more about the history of goth.
• Listen to a World Goth Day video round-up. The mix features several pioneers of the Goth genre as well as those continuing to keep it alive.