When he throws a tantrum, spit flies and his voice sounds like it’s been through a dozen cheese graters. He waddles through life pantless but he never swims without trunks. So why do we celebrate Donald Duck Day on June 9th?
We don’t judge him because he makes us feel a little better about our own shortcomings. He certainly inspires us to keep our pants on. We honor him because he makes us laugh out loud in a good way.
This is a Donald who can lay claim to legitimate success. His 1942 anti-Nazi cartoon won an Academy Award. He was an Oscar presenter in 1958 and in 1984, he gifted a silver statue of himself to the city of Los Angeles.
For an animated personality who also has his own star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, that is an impressive set of accomplishments. Is there anything else left for this slightly insane yet oddly lovable duck?
The answer is yes. Considering the fact that Donald Fauntleroy Duck is not a superhero, he is the most widely published comic book character on the planet. He is also the only Disney protagonist with a middle name.
We need to clear up some confusion about the authentic, real, totally not fake Donald Duck Day. In 1984, the mayor of Los Angeles made it official with a June 9 proclamation marking the 50th anniversary of Mr. Duck’s on-screen debut.
There are those who believe that his birthday, on March 13, is a better choice. While I strive for accuracy here at HolidayDispatch, I respect everyone’s wiggle room.
Whichever date you choose to enjoy Donald Duck Day, fly into it with energy, enthusiasm and a sense of humor. I only ask that you try to keep your pants on while celebrating our nation’s most famous duck.