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International Dalek Remembrance Day arrives every December 21, commemorating the infamous Daleks from the beloved series “Doctor Who.” These iconic villains first appeared in 1963, becoming formidable foes for the Doctor. Join fellow Whovians in celebrating their enduring legacy and cultural impact by rewatching classic episodes or sharing fan art.
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Expected International Dalek Remembrance Day Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that International Dalek Remembrance Day often inspires retailers to offer special deals on Doctor Who merchandise. Look for discounts on action figures, apparel, and home decor from major online stores like Forbidden Planet, BBC Shop, and Hot Topic. Independent comic shops and sci-fi specialty stores such as Midtown Comics and Things From Another World may also feature sales on Dalek-themed collectibles and graphic novels. Video game platforms like Steam or console stores might run promotions on Doctor Who games. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as December 21 approaches.
Platform Guide for International Dalek Remembrance Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #DalekRemembranceDay. Share your Dalek collection, cosplay, or fan art with the Whovian community.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #DalekRemembranceDay. Create short skits, unboxing videos of Dalek merch, or reactions to iconic Dalek moments.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #DalekRemembranceDay. Discuss your favorite Dalek episodes, quotes, or theories with fellow Doctor Who fans.
International Dalek Remembrance Day Hero
Terry Nation
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.
How Businesses Can Celebrate International Dalek Remembrance Day
Local comic book stores and sci-fi merchandise retailers can celebrate International Dalek Remembrance Day by hosting themed sales on Doctor Who comics, graphic novels, and collectibles. Cafes might offer special ‘Exterminate!’ themed drinks or snacks, while local theaters could screen classic Dalek episodes or fan-made films. Businesses can also encourage customers to share their favorite Dalek memories on social media, tagging their establishment and using #DalekRemembranceDay to foster community engagement.
International Dalek Remembrance Day FAQs
When is International Dalek Remembrance Day?
International Dalek Remembrance Day 2026 falls on Monday, December 21, inviting fans worldwide to celebrate the iconic villains. It’s the perfect opportunity to revisit classic episodes featuring the Daleks.
How many times have the Daleks appeared in Doctor Who?
The Daleks have made numerous appearances across the six decades of Doctor Who, featuring in over 100 episodes and stories since their debut in 1963. Their menacing presence has spanned nearly every Doctor’s era.
Who created the Daleks?
The Daleks were created by screenwriter Terry Nation and designed by Raymond Cusick for the second Doctor Who serial in 1963. Their unique design and terrifying catchphrases quickly made them a global phenomenon.
What is the Daleks' famous catchphrase?
The Daleks are most famously known for their chilling command, ‘Exterminate!’ uttered in their distinctive metallic voices. This single word has become synonymous with their genocidal intent and iconic status.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 21 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 21 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 21 | Thursday |
| 2029 | December 21 | Friday |
| 2030 | December 21 | Saturday |
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