“I only hope we never lose sight of one thing – that it was all started by a mouse,” said Walt Disney.

18 November is National Mickey Mouse Day, a day created to honour Disney’s favourite mouse.

It all started with a short film – Steamboat Willie – and ever since he’s been the very icon of family fun, hope and adversity. His iconic ears are recognised everywhere and his face graces everything – from ceramic mugs and balloons, to ice-cream and hoodies.

Mickey Mouse was originally dreamed up by Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney in 1928. From the first short film, Mickey has risen to be an icon that is recognised world-wide. Mickey was nominated for the Academy Award for the Best Animated Short Film year after year – and finally won one in 1932. As a tribute to his popularity, he was the first animated character to receive a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Mickey was created as a replacement for Walt’s first popular creation – Oswald the Lucky Rabbit – and has since grown into a family of characters that have all become part of the Disney universe.

With Mickey appearing in so many places and different types of media, celebrating today is only limited by your imagination. You can start off by wearing or buying a Mickey-themed piece of clothing – a hoodie or a hat with Mickey Mouse ears. Then you can gather all your friends and family to enjoy some of the old cartoons from the days when your grandparents were children. Mickey Mouse has been around for a long time, and some of the oldies are definitely goodies.

Post on social media using #NationalMickeyMouseDay.

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/2015/11/17/345675/