National Jukebox Day

Celebrated on 11/25/2026

Quick Fact

National Jukebox Day, celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, honors the iconic jukebox that revolutionized music access in the early 20th century. The first coin-operated phonograph, the 'Nickel-in-the-Slot,' debuted in 1889, but the jukebox as we know it emerged in the 1930s with the Wurlitzer 1015, known for its distinctive bubble tubes and art deco design.

Origins and Establishment of National Jukebox Day

National Jukebox Day was established in 2014 by the Jukebox License Office (JLO), a organization that provides licensing for jukeboxes in the United States. The date was chosen as the Saturday after Thanksgiving to capitalize on the holiday shopping weekend and to encourage people to visit local establishments featuring jukeboxes. The day aims to celebrate the cultural impact of jukeboxes, which have been a staple of bars, diners, and social venues since the 1930s.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially, jukeboxes were large, wooden cabinets that played 78 RPM records. By the 1950s, they became smaller, more colorful, and played 45 RPM singles, becoming synonymous with rock 'n' roll and teenage culture. The rise of digital music in the 2000s led to the decline of physical jukeboxes, but modern versions now stream music via the internet, offering millions of songs. Today, National Jukebox Day is celebrated by jukebox enthusiasts, collectors, and venues that host special events, playlists, and promotions to honor the machine's legacy.

Facts & General Observations

• The Wurlitzer 1015, introduced in 1946, is the most iconic jukebox model, with over 56,000 units sold.
• At the peak of jukebox popularity in the 1950s, there were approximately 750,000 jukeboxes in operation across the United States.
• The term "jukebox" derives from the African-American slang "juke" meaning to dance or have a good time, and the word "juke joint" for a roadside bar with music.

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