Batman Day is a global celebration. Picture the most timeless superhero ever — we’re sure you’re picturing Batman and Batman only. Of course, we’re all aware of his epic look, his classic partner Robin, and his ever popular Batmobile.
Because of this, every September 21, we celebrate Batman and the ageless storytelling of his life through comic books and movies. Citizens of Gotham and of the world honor Batman’s legacy on this fun filled day that celebrates a pop culture icon. This day is celebrated across the globe due to Batman’s popularity in TV, film and comics. For 80 years, Batman has gained much popularity as a character who reflects justice for fans all over the world. This Batman Day, let’s celebrate by practicing our own superhero qualities within.
If you are of the opinion that there are not enough days set aside to celebrate fictional vigilantes, who dress up as flying creatures in order to tackle crime, then we agree with you. Fortunately, there is one such date set aside every year – Batman Day.
The purpose of Batman Day is to celebrate the anniversary of the character’s first ever appearance, which was in Detective Comics #27 way back in May 1939. Since those early comic book appearances, Batman has grown into one of the world’s best-loved and most recognisable fictional characters, and is the focal point of television shows, animated cartoons, video games and Hollywood blockbusters.
Do you possess some Batman-related comic books, video games or DVDs? Are you the proud owner of a Batman fancy dress costume that rarely gets used? Whatever the case, why not find a way to celebrate Gotham City’s greatest detective?
History of Batman Day
Batman’s success over the years makes him a household name, but this day is actually celebrated to commemorate his first appearance ever in ‘‘Detective Comic’’ back in 1939. The day was originally in June in its first year, but was moved around a few times until it found its place on September 21.
The first Batman Day was officially on July 23, 2014 to make sure it coincided with Comic Con International in San Diego that year. At Comic Con, Batman’s 75 year anniversary was celebrated through Batman merchandise sales, and participating stores sold Batman stock from four different eras of the protagonist’s career. Classic original to modern design.
In 2015, special Batman publications and merchandise were released especially for Batman Day. From then on, September 21 was ultimately decided as the final date for Batman Day. It was discovered that the popularity of this day compared to other characters such as Wonder Woman and Superman, was the humanistic component. Batman is known to have no super powers though he is in fact viewed as a superhero. His relatability, bravery and pure athleticism over time gained the brand all its hardcore fans over the years.
The Bat signal became known worldwide, as one of the most identifiable images amongst other superhero iconography, making Batman capable of transcending cultures and language throughout the world. For the past five to six years, ‘’Warner Bros’’ and ‘‘DC Entertainment’’ have had Batman Day celebrations memorializing this classic character; This year’s Batman Day is promised to be the biggest and best one yet. This year is also Batman’s 81th anniversary.
Batman Day timeline
- September, 2019
Simply Iconic
Batman day celebrated 80 years in the superhero game, commemorating the dark knights legendary status.
- September, 2015
Hosting the Gang
Comic book shops host Batman comic creators such as Jim Lee, Brian Azzarello, Scott Snyder and Grant Morrison on Batman Day.
- September, 2014
Batman Forever
This particular Batman Day fueled the heightened popularity of this holiday, helping it to gain notoriety through small and big events held in the U.S.
- May, 1939
Batman Begins
Batman bursts onto the scene in his first appearance in the ‘‘Detective Comics’’ and a year later debuts his own comic book series.
Batman Day FAQs
What other fun things are happening on Batman Day?
In honor of Batman Day, the Empire State Building is usually set to glow yellow. Check out ‘‘dccomics.com’’ and look for Batman day maps to find the closest bookstores, comic bookshops, and more holding events near you. There’s Batman day reads, a Batman playlist and deals and promotions to use.
How do we follow the Bat signal around the world?
Fans can download the Batman Bat Tracker from ‘‘Batman90.com’’ to follow the bat signal around the world. You can find details of cities and other activities, including what the creators will be up to on the day.
How was the character Batman created?
Batman’s character was originally created by Bob Kane based off the ‘‘Mask of Zorro.’’ Kane created a character based in a complete suit, and who was hiding his identity. He originally had wings under his arms, which then turned into a cape. The superhero element was inspired by ‘‘Superman’’ in comic books, released in 1939.
5 Facts About Batman Day
It’s Bat-tastic
The decision for Batman Day to be in September is still unexplained and as mysterious as Batman himself.
Dark as the knight
In Washington DC, Tokyo, Berlin and Paris, cities known as Gotham cities, real life bat signals are set to shine in the sky.
Holy cow, Batman
There’s a Batman themed 5k marathon planned for this day in Los Angeles.
Riddle me this
Every year on Batman Day, a panel discussion with the Batman writers is held in New York.
He meets his match, it's him.
In 2019, there were uniquely two Batman days. March 30th and September 21.
Batman Day Activities
Watch the movies
Where do you begin? From ‘‘Dark Knight’’, ‘‘Joker’’, ‘‘Batman Forever’’, to ‘‘Batman and Robin’’, the choices are endless. You’re in for a treat because Batman movies are always epic and there’s just so much choice. Plus, there’s great star appearances from Jim Carey, Christian Bale, Ben Affleck and Michael Keaton.
Do Batman related activities
Create your own Batman related costume or props. If you have kids, you can dress up together or read a batman comic or book together. There’s Batman 5-minute stories, perfect for kids. There’s also an archive of great Batman television shows dating back to 1966.
Take away
Many comic book stores are doing giveaways, signings, exclusive deals and lots more to honor the dark knight. Some libraries are also highlighting the day by putting comics on display. Get out in your local area and explore what’s on offer.
Why We Love Batman Day
A little help from my friends
The Batman series introduced us to many classic characters like the Joker, Robin, Harley Quinn, the Riddler, Cat Woman, the Penguin and so much more. These characters made the narrative original and though some were evil, they were pivotal to the plot and stories. On this day, we get to celebrate these characters too.
All at once
The choice of content to binge on on Batman day is endless. Batman appears in television, comic books, movies and pop culture. This day allows fans to connect with the caped crusader and his adventures all over again.
Batman returns
There’s a fabulous panel every year on this day at ‘‘WonderCon’’ in Anaheim where fans can go and listen in on others celebrating Batman.
