National Bugs Bunny Day is a fun and nostalgic celebration observed annually on April 30. It honors the debut of Bugs Bunny, one of the most iconic cartoon characters in American pop culture, who first appeared in the 1938 short film Porky’s Hare Hunt. Known for his witty humor, mischievous antics, and famous catchphrase, “What’s up, Doc?”, Bugs Bunny has entertained generations of fans.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: April 30
- Tagged as: Cartoon, Animation, Pop Culture
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalBugsBunnyDay
- When was it founded?: 1938 (commemorating Bugs Bunny’s first appearance)
- Who founded it?: Warner Bros. (through their animated shorts)
History of National Bugs Bunny Day
Bugs Bunny made his first appearance as “Happy Rabbit” in Porky’s Hare Hunt on April 30, 1938. However, his official debut as Bugs Bunny came in the 1940 short A Wild Hare, where he solidified his personality and catchphrase. Over the decades, Bugs has become a cultural icon, starring in Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies, feature films like Space Jam, and even earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Timeline
- 1938: Bugs Bunny debuts as “Happy Rabbit” in Porky’s Hare Hunt.
- 1940: Official debut as Bugs Bunny in A Wild Hare.
- 1960: The Bugs Bunny Show premieres on television.
- 1997: Bugs becomes the first cartoon character featured on a U.S. postage stamp.
- 2003: Appears in Looney Tunes: Back in Action.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 30 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 30 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 30 | Friday |
| 2028 | April 30 | Sunday |
| 2029 | April 30 | Monday |
| 2030 | April 30 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Bugs Bunny Day is celebrated by binge-watching Looney Tunes cartoons, sharing favorite clips on social media with #NationalBugsBunnyDay, eating carrots like Bugs himself, and reminiscing about childhood memories.
Fun Facts About Bugs Bunny
- Bugs Bunny holds the record for appearing in more films than any other cartoon character.
- His voice was originally performed by Mel Blanc for nearly five decades.
- Bugs is one of the few animated characters to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Quiz
- What year did Bugs Bunny officially debut?
- What is Bugs Bunny’s famous catchphrase?
- In which short film did he first appear?
(Answers: 1. 1940; 2. “What’s up, Doc?”; 3. Porky’s Hare Hunt)
FAQs
Q: Why is April 30 celebrated as National Bugs Bunny Day?
A: It marks the date of his first appearance in Porky’s Hare Hunt in 1938.
Q: What other holidays are celebrated on April 30?
A: National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, National Bubble Tea Day, and National Honesty Day.
Q: Was Bugs Bunny always called “Bugs”?
A: No, he was initially called “Happy Rabbit” before becoming Bugs Bunny.
Importance of National Bugs Bunny Day
This day celebrates not just a beloved cartoon character but also the legacy of animation and its impact on pop culture. It reminds us of the joy and laughter that cartoons bring to our lives.
Related
- Looney Tunes Cartoons
- Merrie Melodies Series
- Space Jam Franchise