National Mascot Day

History of National Mascot Day

Mascots have been around for over 130 years. The term was popularized in the 18th century when French composer Edmond Audran wrote the opera “La Mascotte.” The work became so popular that it was translated into English as “The Mascot,” meaning any animal, person, or object which brings good luck. On November 11, 1882, according to a sports article in the London newspaper “The Era,” a football match between Middlesbrough Association and a newly formed team named La Mascotte took place in which one player dressed up in a costume. This was most likely the first mascot in the sports world.

In the United States, the first mention of a sports mascot for baseball was in 1883, when a boy working for the team named Chic earned the reputation of bringing good luck to the players. Mascots can take the form of a person, animal, or anything which represents good luck. Costumed mascots appeared in the mid-20th century, which allowed teams to choose any creature to become their ambassador. Nowadays, mascots stir up the fan base, entertain and also educate. They have filled all American landscapes. Mascots are also commonly used to represent consumer products, one example being Ronald McDonald for the fast-food chain McDonald’s.

Music bands also use band mascots to promote their music who show up at live shows or on the album covers. Think Eddie, the Head of the famous English heavy metal band Iron Maiden.

National Mascot Day timeline

18th Century

The Term Mascot is Used

The term mascot becomes popular after Edmond Audran writes the opera, “La Mascotte.”

1882

First Mention in Sports

In a football match between Middlesbrough Association and La Mascotte, a player dresses up in a costume.

1883

First Mascot in the United States

In the United States, the first mention of a sports mascot is associated with baseball.

Mid-20th Century

Costumed Mascots Appear

Costumed mascots start appearing in the mid-20th century, which allows teams to choose any character or object to become their ambassador.

National Mascot Day FAQs

When is National Mascot Day?

National Mascot Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, June 17, a perfect mid-week opportunity to celebrate the spirited characters who bring so much joy to our lives.

What is the origin of the word 'mascot'?

The word ‘mascot’ originates from the French term ‘mascotte,’ which was used to describe anything that brought good luck. This concept evolved to refer to a person, animal, or object believed to bring good fortune, particularly to a team or organization.

How many professional sports mascots are there?

Across major professional sports leagues in the U.S. and Canada, there are over 100 official team mascots. Each brings a unique personality and energy to their respective teams, from the NBA to the MLB and NFL.

What makes a good mascot?

A good mascot embodies the spirit of its team or organization, possessing a distinct personality, engaging design, and the ability to interact effectively with fans. They should be memorable, energetic, and capable of conveying emotion without words.

National Mascot Day Activities

Cheer for your favorite mascot

Attend any of your favorite events and cheer for the mascot you liked best. It not only makes the event fun but generates enthusiasm and team spirit.

Buy merchandize

Buy merchandise of your mascot. Support your mascot and build your collection.

Read the history

Research the history of mascots and sports. The two are intertwined in a fascinating history.

5 Interesting Facts About Mascots

Snoopy is NASA’s mascot

In 1968, NASA uses the “Peanuts” comic character Snoopy as its safety mascot.

Triceratops is the Colorado Rockies mascot

Triceratops became the team mascot as a dinosaur rib was found during the construction of the stadium.

Domino’s Pizza had a mascot

Domino’s had a mascot named The Noid but stopped using it after a mentally challenged man with the name Noid thought that the character was based on him and killed himself.