Ripley’s Believe It or Not to celebrate World Sword Swallower’s Day on Saturday

At 2:23 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013, more than 20 sword swallowers will be “dropping swords” in a worldwide event at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditoriums around the world in celebration of World Sword Swallower’s Day.

World Sword Swallower’s Day was founded by the Sword Swallower’s Association International (SSAI) and is co-sponsored by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! It was established to honor the ancient art and raise awareness of the contributions that sword swallowing has made to the medical field including raising money for esophageal cancer research.

In Orlando, performances will start around 1:30 p.m. and culminate with an official “swallow” that will take place at 2:23:13 p.m. to coincide with the 2/23/13 date.

People can also try swallowing a sword on their own, virtually, thanks to the new Ripley’s Believe It or Not! app which features iSword. This technology allows users to test their reactions and nerves of steel to score points and impress their friends, all on an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Instructions on how to use the app will be provided at each World Swallower’s Day event.

The Odditorium is located at 8201 International Drive and more information can be found on their website here.