Day of Listening

The Day of Listening, observed on the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States, is a meaningful day set aside for people to pause, engage in thoughtful conversation and — above all — listen to the stories of family members, friends or others whose voices may often go unheard.

History of Day of Listening

The initiative was launched in 2008 by StoryCorps — a nonprofit organisation dedicated to recording and preserving oral histories — as an alternative to the busy shopping frenzy of the day after Thanksgiving.
On its inaugural day, thousands participated, including public figures, and the stories collected were archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

Why is Day of Listening important?

This day matters because it shifts focus from consumption and bustle to connection and remembrance. It invites people to truly listen — one of the rarer gifts we give each other — and to capture stories that might otherwise fade.
In doing so, the Day of Listening helps strengthen relationships, preserve family and community memory, and honour the simple but profound act of being heard.

• It encourages one-on-one conversations that matter.
• It reminds us that every person has a story worth listening to.
• It fosters inter-generational connection through storytelling.
• It offers a meaningful alternative to commercial-focused festivities.
• It contributes to archiving personal histories for future generations.

How to Observe Day of Listening

Observing this day means setting aside distractions and dedicating time to ask questions, give attention and listen — without rushing. It can be as simple as recording a conversation with a grandparent, friend or neighbour about an experience they remember. If possible, using a smartphone or audio recorder adds permanence to the moment. Choose a quiet place, ask open-ended questions and allow the speaker to lead.
You might also frame the day by sharing your own story, thereby inviting mutual listening. Informally, you could invite family members to gather after the big meal and take turns sharing memories or favourite stories while others listen.

• Turn off or set aside screens and distractions before you begin.
• Ask someone: “What’s a memory you haven’t told me yet?” and then listen.
• Use an audio or video recorder if the person is comfortable, to preserve the story.
• Share your own story to encourage reciprocity in the listening.
• At dinner or in the hours after Thanksgiving, invite a group conversation: one speaks, others listen.