Dalek Remembrance Day, also known as International Dalek Remembrance Day, comes up every December 21. It is a holiday that commemorates the exploits of the Daleks, who were impeccable villains in the popular time travel show “Doctor Who.” The Daleks made their appearance in the show in 1963, becoming one of the most iconic and formidable foes faced by the time-traveling doctor. The show became a fan favorite in 1988, when “Remembrance of the Daleks” was aired as a four-episode series.
History of International Dalek Remembrance Day
The Daleks made their first appearance in the second episode of the “Doctor Who” show in December 1963. This serial was titled “The Daleks,” after the popular robots. Created by Terry Nation and designed by Raymond Cusick, the Daleks turned out to be the most famous villain of the long-running show.
The Daleks were inspired by the Nazis as they are emotionless robots determined to exterminate all other creatures across the universe. Shaped like salt and pepper shakers, the Daleks were immensely powerful and nearly indestructible.
They immediately entered popular culture after their first portrayal in 1963. They were so well crafted that people came to regard them as one of the most formidable foes in the science fiction genre. Also, the word ‘Dalek’ was added to the English dictionary. As an extension, it is a metaphor to describe someone who is dogmatic and unfeeling.
From October 5 to 26, 1988, “Remembrance of the Daleks” was released as a tribute to the 25 seasons of the “Doctor Who” show. These episodes are considered to be the best in the history of the show according to fans and science-fiction enthusiasts. The Daleks have gone on to be portrayed in several other science fiction television and films, music, and video games.
Thus, December 21, was chosen to celebrate these iconic characters. It gives you ample time to binge-watch Doctor Who shows before Christmas, especially those that feature the Daleks. It is also a celebration of the show in its entirety, being one of the longest-running shows on English television.
International Dalek Remembrance Day timeline
The Daleks are first introduced in the television series.
‘I’m Gonna Spend My Christmas with a Dalek’ by the Go-Go’s is the first Dalek music reference.
The Daleks are reimagined in season 25 of the show.
Readers of science fiction “SFX Magazine” vote Dalek the greatest monster.
International Dalek Remembrance Day FAQs
When were the Daleks first introduced?
The Daleks were first introduced in December 1963.
Who created the Daleks for TV?
They were launched by Terry Nation.
What do the Daleks look like?
The Daleks are like salt and pepper shakers.
How To Celebrate Dalek Remembrance Day
Throw a “Doctor Who” themed party
“Doctor Who” is one of the most popular TV shows. Throwing a themed party on Dalek Remembrance Day will be very fitting.
Watch as many episodes as you like
“Doctor Who” is also one of the longest-running shows, which gives you a wide range of episodes to choose from. You can have a fun time watching with family and friends.
Build a Dalek replica
Daleks are shaped like salt and pepper shakers. If you have the time, you can make your own Dalek. Just don’t bring it to life.
5 Interesting Facts About The Daleks
They are extraterrestrial
The Daleks are robot aliens from the fictional planet Skaro.
They’re a fan favorite
The Daleks are regarded as some of the most well-crafted villains in science fiction.
Used as an English word
“Dalek” is used to refer to someone who is unfeeling and negatively determined.
Portrayed in other media
Outside “Doctor Who,” the Daleks are also popular in games, music, magazines, and other media.
They originally couldn’t climb stairs
The original Daleks were unable to move up the stairs; it later changed when they got levitation powers.
Why We Love Dalek Remembrance Day
It celebrates a good show
“Doctor Who” is a great show. Dalek Remembrance Day reminds us how great the long-running show has been.
It is a science-fiction holiday
Dalek Remembrance Day comes along with all the fun of a science fiction-themed holiday. Costumes are very much on the menu.
It is fun and exciting
On this holiday, we can gather around friends and enjoy our favorite sci-fi shows. We can even throw a party to celebrate the show.
International Dalek Remembrance Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 21 | Saturday |
| 2025 | December 21 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 21 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 21 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 21 | Thursday |
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