National Popeye the Sailor Man Day
1 min read
By: Calia Bennett
National Popeye the Sailor Man Day is observed on January 17th. The day was established to celebrate the 95th anniversary of the invention of the spinach-eating sailor.
Popeye is an iconic cartoon figure that has represented strength, resilience, and hope for several generations. He was first developed by Elzie Crisler (E.C) Segar and made his debut in the comic strip “Thimble Theatre” on January 17, 1929. Popeye, originally meant to be a lesser character, quickly rose to the status of superstar. By 1938, the comic had changed its name to “Popeye,” resulting in one of the most recognizable cultural comic strips of all time.

To commemorate Popeye’s 95th birthday, National Day Calendar® and King Features Syndicate® announce the first-ever Popeye® the Sailor Man Day. The American icon Popeye will be commemorated on January 17 of each year, starting in 2024. Alongside the holiday will be a year full of events, collaborations, and promotions.
While Popeye day is still a relatively new holiday, people can’t help but be excited to celebrate it. During an interview with Caleb Shaulis, a Lenape Tech student from LEIT, said that, “I like the shows and comics of popeye. I think he encompasses that even though things get tough, you got to be tougher.” Another student from Cosmetology, Indigo Bowser, she said “I always thought Popeye was funny when I was younger.” Regardless of how someone spends the day, the most important thing is to have fun, and eat your spinach!