L. Ron Hubbard Day

L. Ron Hubbard Day is celebrated annually on March 13. This day commemorates the birth of Lafayette Ronald Hubbard, the prolific American author and the founder of the Scientology religion. It is an occasion for followers and admirers of his work to reflect on his contributions to literature, particularly in the science fiction and fantasy genres, and to acknowledge his role in establishing the philosophical and religious systems of Dianetics and Scientology.

History of L. Ron Hubbard Day

The history of this day is inextricably linked to the life of the man born on March 13, 1911, in Tilden, Nebraska. Hubbard began his professional career as a writer during the “Golden Age” of pulp fiction, contributing over a thousand works across various genres, including adventure, mystery, and westerns. However, his legacy shifted significantly in 1950 with the publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. This book introduced his theories regarding the human mind and served as the precursor to the formal establishment of the Church of Scientology in 1954.

The observance of his birthday as a specific holiday gained more formalized recognition in 2011, during the centennial celebration of his birth. On that occasion, the city of Inglewood, California, officially declared March 13 as L. Ron Hubbard Day in honor of his humanitarian influence and literary output. Since then, the day has evolved into an international event within the Scientology community, often marked by a large-scale “Birthday Gala” at the church’s headquarters in Clearwater, Florida, where leadership presents updates on the organization’s growth and social initiatives.

Why is L. Ron Hubbard Day important?

This day is important because it honors the individual who pioneered a unique intersection between science fiction, philosophy, and modern religion. For his followers, Hubbard is viewed as a groundbreaking researcher who provided tools for improving human condition and achieving spiritual freedom. The holiday highlights his transition from a successful pulp novelist to a spiritual leader, emphasizing his belief that the human self, or “thetan,” is an immortal entity capable of rehabilitating its original potential through specific mental and spiritual exercises.

The observance also emphasizes Hubbard’s influence on humanitarian programs, such as those focusing on drug rehabilitation and literacy. By celebrating his birthday, proponents of his work bring attention to his “Common Sense Moral Code” and the various social betterment organizations derived from his writings. It serves as an annual rally point for the global congregation to review their progress and reaffirm their commitment to the goals and teachings established by their founder over seventy years ago.

• It marks the anniversary of the birth of the founder of Scientology.
• The day recognizes Hubbard’s achievement as a Guinness World Record holder for most published works.
• It promotes the study of Dianetics and its application to mental health.
• The holiday celebrates the expansion of Scientology as a worldwide organization.
• It highlights the humanitarian programs inspired by Hubbard’s social philosophies.

How to Celebrate L. Ron Hubbard Day

The primary way to celebrate is by attending international events organized by the Church of Scientology, which feature cinematic presentations and musical performances. These gatherings are used to share success stories and announce the opening of new “Ideal Orgs” or specialized facilities. For those outside the church, the day is often observed by reading one of Hubbard’s many novels, such as Battlefield Earth or Fear, to appreciate his impact on mid-century speculative fiction.

Many people also use the day to visit a Church of Scientology for the first time to learn about the religion’s basic tenets through introductory films and displays. Sharing quotes from Hubbard’s writings on social media or participating in community service projects in his honor are other common activities. For fans of literary history, the day provides an opportunity to explore the evolution of pulp magazines and the specific role Hubbard played in shaping the narratives of the 1930s and 40s.

• Read a science fiction novel or professional biography written by Hubbard.
• Attend a birthday gala or commemorative event at a local Scientology center.
• Explore the history of the pulp fiction era and Hubbard’s contributions to it.
• Participate in a social service activity, such as a community cleanup or food drive.
• Learn about the “Bridge to Total Freedom” and its stages of spiritual development.

L. Ron Hubbard Day Dates Table