National Table Top Day

A diverse group of friends sitting around a table, playing board games, with colorful board game pieces and cards scattered on the table.. — National table top day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Tabletop Day! Get ready to gather 'round the table with your loved ones for a day filled with fun and games. Whether you're a seasoned board game enthusiast or a newbie looking to explore this exciting realm, National Tabletop Day is the perfect opportunity to roll the dice and immerse yourself in a world of strategy, creativity, and laughter. So grab your snacks, shuffle those cards, and let the tabletop adventures begin!

When is Table Top Day?

It's national table top day on the 1st June.

What is National Tabletop Day?

National Tabletop Day, observed on various dates around the world, celebrates the joy and camaraderie that tabletop games bring. From traditional board games like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern favorites like Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride, this special day encourages people to come together and share the magic of tabletop gaming.

With the rise of video games and online entertainment, tabletop gaming has faced some stiff competition. However, it has managed to stand the test of time, proving that there's something truly special about gathering around a table, disconnecting from screens, and engaging in face-to-face interaction.

The Internet History of National Tabletop Day

The origins of National Tabletop Day can be traced back to the online gaming community. In 2013, the creators of the hit web series 'TableTop,' Wil Wheaton and Felicia Day, spearheaded a campaign to raise awareness about the joys of tabletop gaming. They encouraged fans to host gaming events in their communities and share their experiences on social media. The response was overwhelming, and it gave birth to what is now known as National Tabletop Day.

Since then, National Tabletop Day has gained momentum, with numerous gaming groups, retailers, and enthusiasts organizing events to celebrate this special day. From local game stores hosting tournaments to friends gathering at homes for board game marathons, the world truly comes alive with people bonding over dice rolls, epic battles, and intense strategy sessions.

How to Celebrate National Tabletop Day

Celebrating National Tabletop Day is as easy as rolling a natural 20. Here are a few ideas to inspire your gaming adventures:

Organize a game night with friends and family. Dust off those old board games or try out a new tabletop game you've been eyeing.
Visit your local game store or board game cafe and join in on the festivities they have planned for the day. It's a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts and discover new games.
Attend a gaming convention or event in your area. Immerse yourself in the world of tabletop gaming, try out demos of upcoming releases, and meet game designers.
Host a virtual tabletop gaming session with friends who can't be physically present. There are various online platforms that allow you to play tabletop games remotely.
Support your favorite game creators by purchasing new games or backing exciting Kickstarter projects.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, National Tabletop Day is all about fostering connection, cultivating creativity, and creating cherished memories. So gather your friends, roll those dice, and let the adventure unfold!

History behind the term 'Table Top'

1765

The Invention of the Card Table

In the year 1765, the term 'table top' found its roots with the invention of the card table. The card table, which featured a foldable top, became popular during this time and set the stage for the phrase to emerge.

1850

Widespread Use in Furniture Industry

During the mid-19th century, the term 'table top' gained more prominence as it became commonly used in the furniture industry. Furniture makers started using the expression to refer to the flat surface of a table that could be detached or replaced, allowing for easy customization and maintenance.

1920

Adoption in Tabletop Gaming

By the early 20th century, 'table top' began to take on a new dimension with the rise of tabletop gaming. The phrase became associated with games played on a table's flat surface, such as board games, miniatures, and role-playing games. This usage added a new layer of meaning to the term.

1950

Modern Usage and Variations

In the 1950s, 'table top' became a standard term used to describe the flat surface area of a table across various contexts. It was commonly used in fields like architecture, design, and carpentry to refer to the upper surface of a table. Over time, variations like 'tabletop' and 'table-top' also emerged, but the essence of the term remained the same.

Present

Diverse Interpretations

In the present day, the term 'table top' continues to evolve and adapt to different interpretations. It is not only associated with card tables, furniture, and gaming but also extends to other domains like culinary arts, where it refers to the surface on which food is presented. The term has truly become a versatile descriptor in our everyday language.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world's largest board game was created in 2011? 'The Campaign for North Africa' holds the record with an estimated playtime of 1,500 hours! Imagine the epic memories created during that marathon gaming session!