World Goth Day

World Goth Day History

World Goth Day is an annual event that unites the global goth community in celebration of their dark and distinctive subculture, allowing members and enthusiasts alike to embrace their unique identity. This observance aims to promote the goth culture by encouraging participants to partake in various events, wear gothic attire, and share their passion for the music and aesthetic of the subculture. The day serves to foster a sense of unity and raise awareness of the goth community, reducing stereotypes and showcasing the rich diversity of the subculture.

Originating in the United Kingdom in 2009, World Goth Day was founded by two DJs, Cruel Britannia and Martin Oldgoth, who initially organised a goth music event to connect and celebrate the culture. The event gained international recognition, with people all around the globe commemorating the day. Given its British origin, the United Kingdom plays a pivotal role in the celebration, as the goth subculture significantly contributed to the nation's fashion, music, and arts scene throughout the 1980s and 90s.

Typically, the celebrations in the United Kingdom include concerts, club nights, and gatherings amongst the goth community. Participants often dress in dark, elaborate clothing, expressing themselves through various facets of gothic fashion. Notable British musicians and bands associated with the goth scene may perform, further emphasising the significance of the UK's involvement in the genre's birth and development. World Goth Day is observed annually on the 22nd of May, dedicated to uniting and celebrating the vibrant goth subculture that has left an indelible mark on society, particularly within the United Kingdom.

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.
• Some of the most famous and influential Goth bands of all time come from the UK, including The Cure, The Sisters of Mercy, and Fields of the Nephilim.
• The United Kingdom is the birthplace of the Goth subculture, which originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s in the music scene of cities like London, Manchester, and Leeds.

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

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Watch a documentary about goth culture in the United Kingdom. Here are our top picks:
  1. The City Of Dark (2014): This documentary provides an in-depth look at the goth culture in Manchester. It features interviews with key figures like Wayne Hussey (The Mission) and explores the city's legendary clubs, fashion, and music.
  2. The Story of Goth (2005): This BBC-produced documentary looks at the origins of goth and its development over the years. The film features interviews with musicians such as Bauhaus, Siouxsie Sioux, and members of The Sisters of Mercy.
  3. Goth: A Documentary (1992): Produced by British TV channel ITV, this documentary provides a historical overview of the goth subculture in the UK. It features interviews with musicians, fans, and fashion designers, along with footage of goth clubs and festivals.
• Visit a famous gothic landmark such as the Gothic-style Whitby Abbey, Highgate Cemetery in London, or the York Minster. These landmarks are the perfect setting for celebrating World Goth Day.