National Yo-Yo Day: A Celebration of a Timeless Toy
National Yo-Yo Day is a day dedicated to honoring the classic and beloved toy, the yo-yo. This celebration not only highlights the joy and creativity that yo-yos bring to people of all ages but also pays tribute to its rich history and cultural significance.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: Annually on June 6th.
- Tagged as: Fun & Games, Hobbies & Activities, Awareness & Advocacy.
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalYoYoDay.
- When was it founded?: 1990.
- Who founded it?: Daniel Volk, a yo-yo demonstrator and enthusiast.
History of National Yo-Yo Day
The yo-yo has been around for over 2,000 years, with its earliest references dating back to ancient Greece and possibly even earlier in China. The modern yo-yo’s journey began in the Philippines, where the term “yo-yo” (meaning “come-come” in Ilokano) originated. Pedro Flores, a Filipino immigrant, introduced the toy to the United States in the 1920s. Donald F. Duncan Sr., a visionary entrepreneur, later popularized it by acquiring Flores’ company and founding the iconic Duncan Toy Company.
National Yo-Yo Day was established by Daniel Volk in 1990 to commemorate Duncan’s contributions. Although there is some controversy over whether Duncan’s birthday is June 6th or June 8th, the day has been widely celebrated on June 6th for decades.
Timeline
- 500 BC: Earliest depiction of a yo-yo on a Greek vase.
- 1860s: The word “yo-yo” appears in a Filipino dictionary.
- 1928: Pedro Flores begins manufacturing yo-yos in California.
- 1932: Donald F. Duncan Sr. acquires Flores’ company and trademarks “yo-yo.”
- 1990: National Yo-Yo Day is founded by Daniel Volk.
- 1999: The Duncan Yo-Yo is inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 6 | Friday |
| 2026 | June 6 | Saturday |
| 2027 | June 6 | Sunday |
| 2028 | June 6 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | June 6 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | June 6 | Thursday |
Observed
National Yo-Yo Day is celebrated with activities such as yo-yo demonstrations, competitions, themed parties, and visits to the National Yo-Yo Museum in Chico, California. It’s a day to showcase tricks like “Walk the Dog” or “Rock the Baby,” share collections, and enjoy this timeless toy.
Fun Facts About Yo-Yos
- The world’s largest yo-yo weighs 256 pounds and is displayed at the National Yo-Yo Museum.
- A yo-yo was taken into space aboard the shuttle Atlantis in 1992.
- Napoleon Bonaparte reportedly played with a yo-yo before the Battle of Waterloo.
Quiz
- What does “yo-yo” mean in Ilokano?
- Answer: Come-Come
- Who is considered the father of the modern yo-yo?
- Answer: Pedro Flores
- Where is the National Yo-Yo Museum located?
- Answer: Chico, California
FAQs
Q: Why is National Yo-Yo Day celebrated on June 6th?
A: It honors Donald F. Duncan Sr., whose birthday was thought to be on this date.
Q: What are some popular yo-yo tricks?
A: Tricks include “Walk the Dog,” “Rock the Baby,” and “Around the World.”
Related
- Pedro Flores
- Donald F. Duncan Sr.
- National Toy Hall of Fame
- The National Yo-Yo Museum