NATIONAL DAYSPORTS

National Mascot Day

Today we honor the whimsical world of mascots, bringing communities together in a joyful celebration.

JUN17

Thursday, June 17Every year on June 17

days to go

Roots: No record of the observance's origin
Vibe: Fun, spirited, and engaging
Also on Jun 17: Global Garbage Man Day · Apple Strudel Day · Cherry Tart Day
Hashtag: #NationalMascotDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Dress like one

Dig out team gear, paint your face, and cheer for your favorite squad from the couch.

WITH FRIENDS

Mascot trivia night

Quiz the group on the weirdest mascots in sports. Losers do the mascot dance.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Office mascot vote

Have the team pick an unofficial office mascot. Bonus points for costumes.

Fast facts

Mascots bring joy to fans of all ages

Popular among 73% of sports fans

The story

National Mascot Day, observed on June 17, honors the characters that bring joy and excitement to sports and events across the United States. From college teams to professional sports leagues, mascots have become integral to the fan experience, often serving as a bridge between players and supporters.

Read the full story

The tradition of mascots dates back to the late 19th century, when they were introduced to boost team morale. Today, mascots like the Philadelphia Phillies' Phillie Phanatic and the Chicago Bulls' Benny the Bull are as iconic as the teams they represent, often becoming local celebrities in their own right.

Celebrations on this day can include mascot appearances at games, schools, and community events. Fans are encouraged to share their mascot stories and photos on social media, creating a sense of nostalgia and unity among supporters. The day also highlights the significance of mascots in promoting school spirit and camaraderie.

While National Mascot Day is primarily celebrated in the U.S., the concept of mascots is recognized globally. Various countries have their own versions of mascots that embody national pride, culture, and humor, proving that the love for mascots transcends borders.