Cartoonists Day
Cartoonists Day is observed next on Monday, May 5th, 2025 (142 days from today).
It is an annual celebration on May 5th in order to honor all creative ink-stained artists in the past and present with the fascinating pieces they have created.
If the articles are for you less news and more about the manga, then National Cartoonists Day is your day. Friend! National Cartoonists Day is celebrated in memory of the first manga to be published in a newspaper (more on that later). It also celebrates all of the animators, past and present, and their amazing creations.
History of Cartoonists Day
In 1943, a series of animators—Gus Edson, Otto Soglow, Clarence D.Russell, Bob Dunn, and others—made small hospital animations to entertain troops during the second War. The group has expanded and performed throughout various hospitals and military bases. Later, while flying to one of the military bases, Clarence D.Russell suggested that the group form a club so that they could continue to meet even after World War II ended. Therefore, the National Cartoonists Society (N.C.S.) was created in 1946.
They held a celebration in 1999 and called it National Cartoonists Day. It's a tribute to all the animators and animators they've created. The articles credited two co-chairs of the National Animators' Day Committee, Polly Keener and Ken Alvine, for the idea. This special event was inspired by the first color leopard cartoon called “Hogan’s Alley”.
On May 5th, 1895, the Sunday Morning newspaper organized a small surprise for its readers. New York World readers discovered a full-color, striped drawing of a barefoot, big-eared boy with a mischievous grin. Created by American writer and illustrator Richard Outcault, the comic book series (known as “Hogan's Alley” and later “The Yellow Kid”) became the first commercially successful animated feature. This popular character soon appeared on postcards, billboards, cigarette packs, and other product advertisements.
The name "The Yellow Kid" itself is said to have inspired the phrase "yellow journalism", although there is little evidence to back this up. Side note: "Yellow Press" refers to newspapers that are not based on facts but instead sell newspapers through catchy and exaggerated headlines.
By the end of the 1898 "The Yellow Kid" series, the cartoon had become a popular newspaper. As a result, the demand for talented cartoonists and illustrators also increased.
Some facts about the greatest cartoons of all time and their creators
- "Calvin and Hobbes" (1985 - 1995)
Billed as 'the last great newspaper comic', this boy and his stuffed tiger - created by animator Bill Watterson - dominated the comics’ scene for 10 years, gaining popularity and widespread influence.
- "Peanuts" (1950 - 2000)
Who doesn't love Charles M. Schulz's creations - Snoopy and the gang - that are going strong (through replays) even today?
- "Garfield" (1978)
Created by Jim Davis, this American chronicle was originally released under the name 'Jon.' we don't know about you, but we definitely want a greedy, nimble orange cat like Garfield, and maybe Odie too.
- “Zits” (1997)
Published in more than 200 newspapers, Jim Borgman's popular cartoon about teenager Jeremy Duncan and his life has won numerous awards for its realism.
- "Dilbert" (1989)
Scott Adams created this satirical office manga; it has become a subculture for many frustrated workers.
Some reasons for Cartoonists Day being loved
- We love cartoons
They are a great stress reliever; they take us back to our childhood and make us laugh out loud. Creative and innovative storytelling goes beyond the page to inspire us and take us away from reality. What more can we say?
- We love cartoonists
Cartoonists have made our lives better. Their cartoons are an endless source of humor, and they spark thought and debate.
- Cartoons for everyone
There is a special cartoon for every one of all races, cultures and genders. We love a helping us day to honor the people who come up with such fun ideas and then share them with us.
How to celebrate Cartoonists Day
- Share your work with the world
Are you a cartoonist? If so, share your creations with everyone. Is it an amateur or a simple doodler? Go ahead and show the world how great your creations are.
- Honor your favorite animators
Love the work of a certain animator? Show some love by learning more about them, their work, and thanking them on social media.
- Enjoy your favorite cartoon
Grab a bowl of popcorn and settle in with your favorite cartoon(s) all the time. Discover new episodes and rediscover old favorites, and maybe even expand your horizons beyond your current favorites.
Observed
Cartoonists Day has been observed annually on May 5th.Dates
Friday, May 5th, 2023
Sunday, May 5th, 2024
Monday, May 5th, 2025
Tuesday, May 5th, 2026
Wednesday, May 5th, 2027