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
Hashtag
#NationalMascotDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

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.

Did you know?

01

First College Mascot

The University of California adopted a bear in 1895.

02

Most Popular Mascot

The Phillie Phanatic is a fan favorite.

03

Mascots in Movies

Films like 'Space Jam' feature famous mascots.

04

Animal Mascots

Animals are often chosen for their symbolism.

05

Mascot Competitions

Some teams hold mascot talent shows.

06

Cultural Significance

Mascots often represent regional identities.

07

Mascots and Marketing

Many brands use mascots for advertising.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesHome to thousands of unique mascots.
  • CACanadaCelebrated in sports and schools alike.
  • AUAustraliaFeatures mascots in major sporting events.
  • GBUnited KingdomSporting events often have their own mascots.
  • JPJapanFamous for cute and quirky mascots.
  • BRBrazilMascots play a role in festive gatherings.

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