GLOBAL SMURF DAY
Every year on the Saturday closest to June 25th, Global Smurfs Day celebrates these little blue cartoon characters. It’s also a great day to learn more about the Smurfs.
Most people who watch the Smurfs probably remember Papa Smurf, Smurfette, Brainy Smurf, and Jokey Smurf. But what about the lesser-known Smurfs like Finance Smurf or Nosey Smurf? You might be surprised to know that there are actually over 100 Smurfs! Some of the Smurfs are named after their disposition. Others are named according to their profession. Besides the Smurfs, there are also the villains. The most memorable villains include Gargamel and his pet cat Azrael. Together, they would try to capture the Smurfs to eat them.
Many adults grew up watching the Smurfs during Saturday morning cartoons in the 1980s. However, the origins of the Smurfs go back to 1958. This is when a Belgian cartoon artist named Pierre Culliford created the little blue characters. Culliford is better known by his pen name, Peyo. The original Smurfs also lived in mushroom-like houses located in Smurf Village.
The Smurfs made their TV debut in 1965. They were the main characters of an 87-minute animated film called “The Adventures of the Smurfs.” The black and white film was released in theaters in Belgium. In the early 1980s, the Smurfs made their debut in the United States. The cartoon aired on TV from 1981 to 1989. Reruns of the original Smurfs cartoon can still be seen on some channels. The entire original series has also been released on DVD.
HOW TO OBSERVE #GlobalSmurfsDay
The best way to observe this day is to watch the Smurfs. Besides the original Smurfs episodes, there are also three Smurfs movies. Have a contest with your friends to see who can name the most Smurfs. You can also dress up like a Smurf. If your kids have never seen the Smurfs, today is the perfect day to introduce them to these beloved characters. Be sure to spread the love for the Smurfs on social media with #GlobalSmurfsDay.
GLOBAL SMURFS DAY HISTORY
The first Global Smurfs Day was held on June 25th, 2011. The worldwide event celebrated the release of The Smurfs movie. Among those participating in the event was Peyo’s daughter, Veronique Culliford. Since then, Smurf lovers have gathered every year on the Saturday closest to June 25th to celebrate their favorite blue characters.