History: Happy Birthday was composed in 1893 by Mildred J. Hill, who was a kindergarten teacher in Louisville, Kentucky. The song was originally called “Good Morning to All” and was used as a greeting song for Hill’s students. In 1924, the song was adapted and published as “Happy Birthday to You.”

Background: Happy Birthday is the most popular birthday song in the world. It is sung at birthday celebrations of all ages and cultures.

Occasions: Happy Birthday was first performed in 1893 by Mildred J. Hill’s kindergarten students in Louisville, Kentucky. Happy Birthday is sung at birthday celebrations of all ages and cultures. It is often sung with a cake and candles.