Born on February 7
Charles Dickens's Birthday
Great expectations, happy returns.
Next: February 7, 2027
Where it comes from
Charles Dickens was born in Portsmouth, England, on 7 February 1812, and this Story marks his birthday. When he was 12 his father was jailed for debt and the boy was sent to work in a factory, an experience that shaped the lost and struggling children of his novels.
How it's celebrated
There is no formal observance, but readers mark his birthday by opening one of his books, perhaps a chapter of A Christmas Carol read aloud, or by watching one of the many film and stage versions of his stories. Schools and libraries use the day to introduce his characters, from Scrooge to Oliver, to a new generation.
Did you know
A Christmas Carol was written in a few weeks in late 1843, and its first printing of 6,000 copies sold out by Christmas Eve.
Read the full story of Charles Dickens's Birthday
Star sign
Aquarius · January 20 – February 18 · Air sign
Original and independent, a little ahead of their time.