National Limerick Day is a celebration of the famous English poet best known for writing nonsensical limericks making them more widespread than ever before-Edward Lear.

National Limerick Day is observed every year on the 12th of May.

The origin of the poem’s name is a bit disputed, but most people believe it comes from the Irish city of Limerick. With just fine lines, the first two rhyming with the fifth line, and third and fourth lines rhyming together, limericks are quick, funny poems. Although they were popularized by Lear, limericks were actually already around by the 18th century. Nowadays, limerick writing contests are not uncommon and we can all appreciate a good limerick every once in a while. That's why every year on May 12th, Edward Lear's birthday, National Limerick Day is celebrated all over the US.