We celebrate National Mario Day every year on March 10 because, when written as “Mar10”, it looks like Mario’s name. The friendly, mustached character was first introduced by Nintendo in 1985 — doesn’t that make you feel old? Since then, Mario has appeared in nearly 200 different games.
The Mario series has also earned the title of the best-selling video game franchise in history, surpassing other popular competitors like Pokémon, and continues to be a beloved icon in gaming culture.
History of National Mario Day
National Mario Day has been celebrated annually on March 10 for over a decade. Although the exact year of its origin is unclear, fans were honoring the iconic character long before Nintendo officially recognized the day in 2016. Since then, Nintendo has embraced the holiday, offering special deals, discounts on Mario games, and hosting Mario-themed events each year.
Mario’s Journey: From Donkey Kong to Super Mario
Mario made his debut in the 1981 Nintendo arcade game Donkey Kong, designed by renowned Japanese video game creator Shigeru Miyamoto. Miyamoto, the mastermind behind Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Star Fox, crafted Mario’s character, which would later become a global sensation. The success of the Mario franchise even led to a movie adaptation in 1993 titled “Super Mario Bros.”, though it didn’t fare well commercially or with audiences, marking one of the earliest attempts at adapting a video game into a film.
Why Mario Games Are Timeless
The Mario series has continued to evolve, maintaining a delicate balance between fun and challenge that appeals to players of all ages. One of the franchise’s early innovations was the introduction of a playable female character, Princess Peach, in the U.S. version of Super Mario Bros. 2, which featured four selectable characters. Each Mario game offers new adventures, exciting challenges, and multiplayer options that encourage fans to play with friends.
How Nintendo Celebrates National Mario Day
Each year on National Mario Day, Nintendo celebrates by offering exclusive discounts, promotions on Mario games, and hosting special events. These celebrations give fans the opportunity to experience both new and classic Mario games while honoring one of gaming’s most beloved characters.
How to Celebrate National Mario Day
Celebrating National Mario Day with Mario Games
For many fans, the best way to celebrate National Mario Day is by playing Mario games. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or the latest releases, there’s a Mario game for everyone.
Classic Mario Games
For those who grew up with Mario, revisiting the classic games like Super Mario Bros. or Mario Kart 64 is a great way to celebrate. These timeless classics still provide the same fun and challenge they did when they first launched.
New Mario Games
For players who prefer the latest releases, there are plenty of new Mario games to enjoy. Whether you’re into platformers, RPGs, or racing games, the Super Mario series has something for every type of gamer.
Multiplayer Mario Games
Celebrate National Mario Day with friends and family by playing multiplayer Mario games like Mario Party or Mario Kart. These games are perfect for gathering loved ones and enjoying some Mario-themed fun together.
Celebrating National Mario Day with Mario Merchandise
If gaming isn’t the only way you want to celebrate, consider Mario-themed merchandise. From clothing to collectibles, there are many ways to show your love for Mario.
Mario Clothing and Accessories
Show your passion for Mario with themed clothing and accessories like Mario hats, shirts, socks, or even backpacks. There are plenty of stylish options available for all Mario fans.
Mario Toys and Collectibles
For collectors, there’s no shortage of Mario toys and collectibles. From action figures and plush toys to keychains and stickers, there’s something for everyone’s collection.
Mario Home Decor
Bring the Mushroom Kingdom into your home with Mario-themed home decor. From wall art and posters to bedding and curtains, these items allow fans to decorate their space with Mario flair.
Celebrating National Mario Day with Food and Drinks
Another fun way to celebrate National Mario Day is with Mario-themed food and drinks. Whether you’re cooking up themed recipes or crafting Mario-inspired snacks, there are plenty of tasty options.
Mario-Themed Recipes
Whip up some Mario-themed dishes like Mario-shaped pasta, mushroom-topped pizzas, or Mario-inspired cupcakes. Get creative and add a touch of Mario to your meals.
Mario-Themed Snacks and Desserts
If you have a sweet tooth, create Mario-themed snacks like cookies, candies, or cupcakes. Decorating with Mario-themed icing or fondant adds an extra layer of fun to your celebration.
Mario-Themed Drinks
Mix up some Mario-themed drinks, whether it’s a Mario cocktail, smoothie, or soda. Adding Mario-themed decorations, such as themed straws or ice cubes, makes the drinks even more festive.
Hosting a National Mario Day Party or Gathering
Gather your friends and family for a National Mario Day party. From themed decorations to fun activities, there are plenty of ways to host a memorable event.
Planning a National Mario Day Party
Decide on a theme for your party—whether you go for a classic Mario vibe with retro decorations or opt for a modern Mario theme based on recent releases. Once your theme is set, plan your decorations, games, and activities.
National Mario Day Party Decorations
Decorate with Mario-themed balloons, streamers, tablecloths, and centerpieces. You can even create custom Mario banners or posters to personalize your celebration.
National Mario Day Party Games and Activities
From Mario trivia to video game tournaments, there are plenty of games and activities to entertain your guests. Create unique Mario-themed games like “Pin the Mustache on Luigi” or “Mario Bros. Bean Bag Toss.”
Participating in Community National Mario Day Events
Join in on the community celebration by participating in National Mario Day parades, festivals, or charity events.
National Mario Day Parades
National Mario Day parades often feature themed floats, music, and costumes, providing a fun way for fans to come together and celebrate their favorite character.
National Mario Day Festivals
Attend a Mario-themed festival with food, games, and merchandise stalls. These events are perfect for connecting with fellow fans and enjoying themed activities.
National Mario Day Charity Events
Celebrate National Mario Day while giving back by participating in a charity event. These events often feature Mario-themed games and activities, with proceeds going to local charities.
Celebrating National Mario Day on Social Media
Connect with other Mario fans by sharing your celebrations on social media using popular hashtags and sharing posts, photos, and videos.
Popular National Mario Day Hashtags
Use hashtags like #MarioDay, #Mar10, or #MarioBros to join the online National Mario Day conversation and share your love for the iconic character.
National Mario Day Facebook and Twitter Posts
Share your National Mario Day celebrations on Facebook and Twitter by posting Mario-themed memes, photos, or videos. It’s a great way to connect with the community.
National Mario Day Instagram Stories and Posts
For Instagram users, post your National Mario Day photos, stories, and videos. Whether it’s party decorations or themed treats, share your celebration with the world.
Celebrating National Mario Day with Friends and Family
Make the day extra special by organizing group activities with friends and family, like a Mario-themed party, movie marathon, or road trip.
National Mario Day Group Activities
Plan a fun-filled day with group activities such as playing Mario games, watching Mario movies, or embarking on a Mario-themed adventure. It’s the perfect way to bond and celebrate.
National Mario Day Gift Ideas
Looking for the perfect gift for a Mario fan? Consider giving Mario-themed clothing, accessories, or collectibles. It’s a thoughtful way to share the love for this beloved character.
5 Fascinating Facts About Mario
1. Over 600 Million Copies Sold
The Super Mario franchise is one of the best-selling video game series of all time, with more than 600 million copies sold worldwide!
2. Mario Was Originally a Carpenter
Mario’s first profession wasn’t plumbing! He started off as a carpenter in Donkey Kong, but with the game’s pipe-filled backgrounds, he was reimagined as the now-iconic plumber we all know and love.
3. Bowser Was Initially an Ox
In the early sketches, Bowser was designed as an ox. However, animator Yōichi Kotabe interpreted the character as a giant turtle, and this design ultimately became the Bowser we recognize today.
4. Chain Chomp’s Inspiration Came From a Dog
The fearsome Chain Chomp was inspired by a neighborhood dog that frightened game creator Shigeru Miyamoto in his childhood.
5. Mario’s Music Hits the Stage
The Super Mario Bros. theme song has become iconic and has been performed live at numerous concerts, including “PLAY! Chicago”, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, and the “Mario & Zelda Big Band Live” show.
Why We Love National Mario Day
A Game for Every Mood
With over 200 Mario games spanning different genres, there’s a Mario game for every mood. Whether you enjoy puzzles, sports, role-playing, racing, or party games, the world of Mario has endless options to keep you entertained.
Mario Games Can Benefit Your Brain
A study by the Max Planck Institute discovered that playing Super Mario 64 can improve spatial orientation, memory, strategic planning, and fine motor skills. Not only are Mario games fun, but they can also boost cognitive abilities—just remember to play in moderation!
Mario Brings People Together
Since the 1980s, Mario has been a social experience for players. Recently, the mobile app Mario Kart Tour added a multiplayer mode, allowing you to race friends from your smartphone. Challenge your buddies to a virtual Mario Kart race from the comfort of your own home!
National Mario Day FAQs
What Day Is National Mario Day?
National Mario Day is celebrated every year on March 10. This date was chosen because “Mar10” looks like it spells Mario.
What Is Mario’s Last Name?
Originally, Shigeru Miyamoto stated that Mario and Luigi had no last names. However, during the 30th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. in 2015, Miyamoto revealed that Mario’s full name is “Mario Mario,” while Luigi’s full name is “Luigi Mario.”
How Do You Celebrate National Mario Day?
Celebrate National Mario Day by revisiting your favorite Mario games and hosting a game night with friends where everyone dresses up as their favorite Mario character. Don’t forget to share the fun on social media using the hashtag #MarioDay.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Mario Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the iconic video game character and everything related to the Mario franchise. Whether you’re playing Mario games, wearing Mario-themed gear, or enjoying the day with friends and family, there’s something for every fan. No matter how you choose to celebrate, National Mario Day is a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow Mario enthusiasts and show your love for the famous plumber.
