National Cartoonists Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Cartoonists Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Cartoonists Day is celebrated on May 5th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Cartoonists Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you should know about National Cartoonists Day.

📅 What day is National Cartoonists Day 2024?

In 2024, National Cartoonists Day is on Friday, May 5th. It is the 1st Friday in May; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all the exciting details and facts about May 5, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Cartoonist Day is celebrated annually on May 5th. This special day is dedicated to those who enjoy reading comic strips in newspapers rather than the news. It honors the first-ever publication of a comic strip in a newspaper and recognizes the talented cartoonists, both historical and contemporary, for their remarkable contributions to the world of cartoons.

📜 National Cartoonists Day History

In 1999, National Cartoonists Day was established as a holiday to honor and appreciate cartoonists and their creative work. This idea was put forward by Polly Keener and Ken Alvine, who were part of the National Cartoonists Day Committee and mentioned in news articles. The inspiration for this special day came from the first color newspaper cartoon called “Hogan’s Alley”, which was published on May 5, 1895. The cartoon, created by Richard Outcault, featured a mischievous child with big ears and no shoes, later known as “The Yellow Kid”. This cartoon gained immense popularity and became the first successful commercial animation. The term “The Yellow Kid” is said to have influenced the phrase “yellow journalism”, although there is limited evidence to support this claim. Cartoons became a prominent feature in newspapers after the “The Yellow Kid” series ended in 1898, leading to an increased demand for skilled cartoonists and illustrators.

✅ National Cartoonists Day Facts

🔖 “Peanuts” (1950 – 2000)
Who doesn’t love the timeless creations of Charles M. Schulz, Snoopy and his friends, that are still cherished and enjoyed through reruns even today?

🔖 “Garfield” (1978)
This long-standing American cartoon, which was created by Jim Davis, initially appeared with the name “Jon.” We can’t speak for everyone, but we certainly wouldn’t mind having a self-centered, witty orange cat like Garfield, and maybe even an Odie too.

🔖 “Calvin and Hobbes” (1985 – 1995)
For a decade, a young child and his pet tiger, brought to life by artist Bill Watterson, captivated the comic strip world with their immense popularity and influence.

👍 Why Is National Cartoonists Day Important

They are a terrific stress reliever since they transport us back to our youth and make us giggle. The inventive and creative storytelling leaps off the page to inspire and distract us from reality. What else is there to say?

Cartoonists have improved our lives. Their drawings are a never-ending source of amusement and encourage discussion and debate.

There is a cartoon for everyone, regardless of color, culture, or gender. We adore a day that allows us to recognize people who came up with such creative ideas and then shared them with us.

🙂 How To Observe National Cartoonists Day

⚡ Enjoy your favorite cartoon

⚡ Share your work with the world

⚡ Celebrate your favorite cartoonist
Grab a bowl of popcorn and sit down to watch your favorite cartoon(s). Explore new episodes, watch old favorites again, and even look at shows that aren’t your favorites.

📅 When is National Cartoonists Day?

Discover all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Arts & Entertainment and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about National Cartoonists Day. So be sure to check back soon.