Annual observance

Mickey Mouse Day

November 18 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-18

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

Mickey Mouse Day, celebrated annually on November 18th, commemorates the official debut of Mickey Mouse in the animated short film "Steamboat Willie" in 1928. This date is widely recognized as the iconic character's birthday, marking the beginning of his enduring legacy and profound cultural impact as a global ambassador for The Walt Disney Company.

Observed each year on November 18, Mickey Mouse Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Mickey Mouse Day, observed on November 18, celebrates the debut of Mickey Mouse in "Steamboat Willie" in 1928, marking the start of a cultural phenomenon that has shaped entertainment and childhood experiences for generations. This day honors Mickey's role as a beloved symbol of creativity, imagination, and the magic of storytelling.

Origin and story

Mickey Mouse's original name, proposed by Walt Disney, was Mortimer Mouse, but his wife Lillian reportedly convinced him to change it.

Walt Disney himself provided the voice for Mickey Mouse from 1928 until 1947, and intermittently thereafter.

Quick facts

  • DateNovember 18
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share one fast fact about Mickey Mouse Day: Mickey Mouse's original name, proposed by Walt Disney, was Mortimer Mouse, but his wife Lillian reportedly convinced him to change it.
  • Plan something small on November 18: a quick nod to Mickey Mouse Day with friends, family, or coworkers.
  • Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by Mickey Mouse, or play music that matches the mood.
  • Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the cultural / community observance vibe and make it a mini tradition.
  • Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.

Fun facts

  • Mickey Mouse's original name, proposed by Walt Disney, was Mortimer Mouse, but his wife Lillian reportedly convinced him to change it.
  • Walt Disney himself provided the voice for Mickey Mouse from 1928 until 1947, and intermittently thereafter.
  • Mickey Mouse was the first animated character to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded on November 18, 1978, coinciding with his 50th anniversary.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is Mickey Mouse Day?
It is observed on November 18 each year.
What is Mickey Mouse Day?
Mickey Mouse Day, celebrated annually on November 18th, commemorates the official debut of Mickey Mouse in the animated short film "Steamboat Willie" in 1928. This date is widely recognized as the iconic character's birthday, marking the beginning of his enduring legacy and profound cultural impact as a global ambassador for The Walt Disney Company.
How do people celebrate Mickey Mouse Day?
Share one fast fact about Mickey Mouse Day: Mickey Mouse's original name, proposed by Walt Disney, was Mortimer Mouse, but his wife Lillian reportedly convinced him to change it.

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