day · fixed · day 72 of 365

L. Ron Hubbard Day

L. Ron Hubbard Day lights up every March 13, celebrating the birth of a man known for his vast writings and the founding of Scientology.

Books & Literature Famous People Reading & Writing Religion & Belief28

Marketing angleinferred

Celebrate literary creativity and science fiction fandom on L. Ron Hubbard Day by promoting themed reading events, creative writing contests, and community gatherings for fans of speculative fiction and philosophical exploration.

Relevance 28medium intent

Sci-fi book club spotlight: Host a virtual or in-person reading discussion of Hubbard's science fiction classics
Creative challenge: Invite followers to write fan fiction or create fan art inspired by Hubbard's universes and share on social media
Author appreciation: Highlight Hubbard's 1,084+ published works across multiple genres to celebrate prolific storytelling
Community open house: Partner with bookstores or libraries to host themed events celebrating science fiction literature and imaginative writing

History

Every March 13th, L. Ron Hubbard Day celebrates the birth of L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology and a renowned science fiction writer.

This day came to honor Hubbard’s centennial birth, particularly noted in 2011 by Inglewood, California, where city council member Ralph Franklin presented a special tribute to the Church of Scientology.

Hubbard, born in Tilden, Nebraska, was a prolific author, having written 1,084 fiction and non-fiction works. His contributions span genres, including science fiction, fantasy, adventure fiction, aviation, mysteries, and romance.

Despite his diverse literary contributions, Hubbard is best known for founding the Church of Scientology in the early 1950s, following his book “Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health.”

This book laid the groundwork for Scientology, a movement Hubbard developed based on the idea that humans are essentially immortal spiritual beings (“thetans”) that have forgotten their true nature.

L. Ron Hubbard Day is observed across the U.S., offering an opportunity for Scientology followers and fans of Hubbard’s literary work to celebrate his life and achievements.

Activities recommended for the day include visiting the Church of Scientology to learn more about the faith, participating in international celebrations organized by the Church, and reading Hubbard’s works, starting perhaps with “Buckskin Brigades,” his first published novel.

Scientology, which its adherents describe as a scientific religion, features a structured path of spiritual progression through levels such as pre-clear, clear, and operating thetan.

It also holds unique beliefs, including the idea that human souls have lived on other planets before Earth. Recognized as a tax-exempt religion in several countries, Scientology continues to be a topic of interest and debate worldwide.

People love L. Ron Hubbard Day for various reasons. Still, key reasons include celebrating Hubbard’s contributions to literature and religion, his imaginative exploration of future possibilities through science fiction, and his legacy as a significant figure in both fields.

How to celebrate

Dive Into the Stories

Why not kick off L. Ron Hubbard Day with a literary journey? Grab one of his science fiction classics or dive headfirst into Dianetics. Imagine yourself exploring distant galaxies or unraveling the mysteries of the mind. It’s like a treasure hunt on paper!

A Visit to Another Universe

Have you ever considered visiting the Church of Scientology? L. Ron Hubbard Day is the perfect excuse. Wander in with an open mind and a spirit of curiosity. Who knows? You might find yourself on an unexpected adventure or making new friends with stories to tell.

Share the Adventure

Feeling social? Throw a themed party celebrating Hubbard’s vast universe. Invite guests to dress as their favorite characters from his novels or as explorers of the mind. Share stories, play trivia, or even reenact a scene or two. It’s storytelling brought to life!

Create and Share

Unleash your inner artist by creating something inspired by Hubbard’s works. Write a story, paint a picture, or compose a song. Then, share your masterpiece with the world. It’s a way to honor his legacy and spark your creativity. Celebrating L. Ron Hubbard Day can be as boundless as the imagination. Whether you’re reading, exploring, sharing, or creating, make it a day of discovery and fun!

FAQ

What inspired L. Ron Hubbard to explore human potential through his writings?

Ron Hubbard had a keen interest in travel and exploration, often visiting remote, diverse places. His encounters with various cultures, spiritual practices, and philosophies inspired him to explore the human mind and spirit deeply. From the Caribbean to Asia, he absorbed ideas that influenced his work in Scientology and Dianetics. His adventures included unusual jobs and situations, all of which informed his views on consciousness and self-improvement.

Did L. Ron Hubbard invent any unique words or terms that are still used today?

Yes, Hubbard coined terms like “engram” and “auditing,” which are specific to Scientology and Dianetics. “Engram” refers to a supposed mental recording of painful experiences that impact present-day behavior. “Auditing” describes a counseling process designed to help people overcome these engrams. Over time, these words have become central to Scientology vocabulary.

Are there any unusual ways people celebrate L. Ron Hubbard Day around the world?

In Japan, some Scientology centers organize book readings and seminars focusing on Hubbard’s lesser-known science fiction. These events draw sci-fi fans who are interested in his fictional worlds. In Eastern Europe, certain Scientology groups combine the day with charity events, distributing food to the needy to embody Hubbard’s ideas of social betterment.

What’s a fun fact about L. Ron Hubbard’s early life that shaped his career?

Hubbard was one of the youngest Eagle Scouts in the United States, earning the rank at just 13. His Scouting experiences fostered his interest in exploration, independence, and leadership, which later translated into his work as an author and founder of Scientology.

What’s a common misconception about L. Ron Hubbard Day?

Many people assume the day celebrates only Scientology. In reality, some fans honor his literary contributions, particularly his science fiction novels. Known for his space operas, Hubbard’s works like “Battlefield Earth” have earned their own cult following.

How did Hubbard’s sci-fi novels impact popular culture?

His sci-fi work, notably “Battlefield Earth,” influenced modern space operas and inspired film adaptations. Though the 2000 movie wasn’t critically acclaimed, the book still resonates with sci-fi fans. The expansive world-building and themes of survival and freedom have inspired other writers in the genre.

Are there myths or legends associated with Hubbard’s life story?

Some tales about Hubbard’s naval career border on legend, like the story that he sank a Japanese submarine during World War II. Historians dispute this claim, noting that official records do not support it. However, these stories still add to his larger-than-life persona.

Did Hubbard have any unconventional influences on his writing?

Hubbard’s interest in hypnotism influenced his work in Dianetics. He believed hypnotism could uncover suppressed memories, an idea central to his theories on engrams. This early fascination led him to develop unique ideas about memory and consciousness in both his fiction and self-help books.

How does L. Ron Hubbard Day fit into other “Founder’s Days” globally?

Ron Hubbard Day shares similarities with Founder’s Days like Gandhi Jayanti in India and Founders’ Day in Scouting. Each of these days celebrates individuals who promoted distinct ideologies, from peace to personal improvement, and their lasting global impacts. Hubbard Day, however, uniquely combines philosophy with science fiction fandom.

Are there any unusual museums or sites dedicated to L. Ron Hubbard?

The L. Ron Hubbard House in Washington, D.C., serves as a museum that offers insight into his life and works. The house, preserved to appear as it did in the 1950s, includes his personal effects, first editions of his books, and early Scientology materials. It’s a rare stop for those interested in his influence on both literature and Scientology.