This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Donald Duck Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Donald Duck Day is observed on June 9th.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Donald Duck Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about National Donald Duck Day.
📅 What day is National Donald Duck Day 2024?
In 2024, National Donald Duck Day is on Friday, June 9th. It is the 2nd Friday in June; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all fascinating details and facts about June 9, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
Donald Duck made his first appearance in a cartoon called “The Wise Little Hen” during the summer of 1934. However, it wasn’t until later that year, in his second appearance in “Orphan’s Benefit,” that he met Mickey Mouse. Daisy Duck and his nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie were introduced soon after. Despite their better way of speaking, they couldn’t grab Donald’s attention. His grumpy and hard-to-understand charm cannot be replicated, which is why Donald has starred in over 200 films, more than any other Disney character. Let’s celebrate National Donald Duck Day on June 9th!
📜 National Donald Duck Day History
Walt Disney created Donald Duck as a contrast to the cheerful Mickey Mouse, aiming for a grittier character. During the character development stage, Disney came across an article about Australian cricketer Donald Bradman, who became famous for being dismissed for a duck in a game. This inspired the name for the character.
One unique aspect of Donald Duck is his distinctive voice. Clarence Nash, the voice actor for Donald, used a technique called “buccal speech” to create Donald’s voice, which involves using the inner cheek instead of the larynx. Nash discovered this technique while trying to imitate his pet goat.
In the 1940s, Donald Duck surpassed Mickey Mouse in popularity with over 128 independent short cartoons. This decade became known as the “decade of the Donald” due to his rapid rise to fame. Despite the production halt during the war, Disney utilized Donald Duck in American propaganda films. One of these animations even won Disney an Academy Award for “Best Short Film.”
In addition to his film success, Donald Duck had his own comic book series in the 1940s, which remains popular among both children and adults. The comic version of Donald is more polite and expressive than the original character. He resides in Duckburg and is a caring uncle to Huey, Dewey, and Louie.
After Walt Disney’s death, Donald Duck did not appear in another film until 1983. However, he continues to be a legendary character and appears in cartoons, TV shows, and comics. Donald often finds himself in various problems and uses his wit and limited resources to overcome them, making him relatable and entertaining. His ability to take jabs at opponents also made him a prominent figure in political campaigns worldwide, due to his politicized persona during World War II.
✅ National Donald Duck Day Facts
🔖 Donald’s breakout role
After his first appearance in a movie, a short film called “Don Donald” played a significant role in making Donald popular among the audience.
🔖 Daisy wasn’t Donald’s first love!
In the animated short “Don Donald,” Donald Duck makes efforts to win the heart of his love interest, Donna Duck.
🔖 Donald Duck has a sister
In numerous adaptations, there is a character named Thelma, Dumbella, or Della who is Donald’s twin sister and eventually becomes an astronaut.
👍 Why Is National Donald Duck Day Important
Donald Duck has one of Hollywood’s most recognizable voices, and it’s ripe for imitation. Have you ever tried to imitate the voice of a cartoon character? It’s a lot of fun, and unlike Donald Duck, you don’t have to make any sense. To be honest, the fewer people who understand you, the better. That’s how you know you’ve nailed your Donald Duck impersonation on National Donald Duck Day.
Donald isn’t just an ordinary duck; he’s a Peking duck from America. As the name implies, this duck was mostly bred in China. They did not become popular in the United States until 1873. The Peking duck had its American premiere on Long Island, but Donald’s accent doesn’t reflect that. This just serves to highlight his acting prowess.
Without Donald Duck, we wouldn’t have some of our favorite cartoons from the 1990s, such as “Duck Tales.” Who can forget the scene in which Scrooge McDuck swims through piles of money? Every kid has fantasized about doing that at some point in their lives, and it’s sad to think where we’d be without it. An even darker prospect is a world without Darkwing Duck.
🙂 How To Observe National Donald Duck Day
⚡ Go to Disneyland or Walt Disney World
If you happen to be nearby, make sure to visit Donald and say hi. Mascots are amazing because they bring joy to everyone in the family. Kids get to see their favorite cartoon character in real life, while adults can feel a bit nostalgic for a while. However, be aware that Donald the Duck is extremely popular. While waiting in line, it can be entertaining to practice your Donald Duck voice.
⚡ Indulge in Donald
Celebrate! There is a vast selection of more than 225 Donald Duck movies available for you to choose from. While the sheer number may seem overwhelming, having numerous good options is actually beneficial. If you’re in the mood for something fun and filled with adventure, I recommend watching “Mickey, Donald, and Goofy: The Three Musketeers.” However, if reading is more your preference, there are plenty of comic books to explore. Carl Barks’ illustrations are truly a masterpiece.
⚡ Throw a Donald Duck theme party
You don’t have to dress up extravagantly (though we suggest wearing slacks), but wearing a red tie and sailor hat will create a festive atmosphere. You could also suggest to your guests to wear a duck nose for an extra touch of fun. And if dressing up in costumes isn’t your thing, you can always opt for T-shirts. To add some excitement, why not have a competition for the best Donald Duck-themed T-shirt? Whether they’re custom-made or bought from a store, there will likely be some amusing surprises.
📅 When is National Donald Duck Day?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | June 9 | Sunday |
| 2025 | June 9 | Monday |
| 2026 | June 9 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | June 9 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | June 9 | Friday |
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