J.R.R. Tolkein fans marked the occasion with a birthday toast for author of the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Tolkein was born on Jan. 3. 1892 in South Africa. According to The Tolkien Society’s website, each participant was to stand, raise a drink and say “The Professor” before downing the drink. Hundreds had already signed up to take part, the website said earlier in the week.

“To the Professor! The man who has opened our minds and hearts!” posted Marcin ‘Tarbrethil’ Bednarkiewicz of Poland, who toasted with Guinness.

Branwyn from the United States said she would sip cider and toast “Hail the architect of Middle Earth!” she posted.

The Tolkein Society says it promotes interest in the life and works of the late author, according to the website.

It is officially registered in the U.K.