National Bobblehead Day (January 7)
January 7 is National Bobblehead Day, a celebration of those wobbly collectibles that somehow manage to be both silly and oddly charming.
From stadium giveaways to pop culture icons, bobbleheads have been around for decades and keep finding new fans. Whether you’ve got one on your desk or a whole shelf full of them, it’s a fun excuse to appreciate these nodding little figures.
Below you’ll find the history, some genuinely interesting facts, and easy ways to celebrate this obscure January holiday.
When is the Holiday?
National Bobblehead Day is observed every year on January 7. It’s an unofficial holiday dedicated to the joy and history of bobbleheads.
Who Invented It?
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum submitted the holiday in December 2014.
The museum itself was announced a month prior and officially opened in 2016 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where it houses the world’s largest collection of bobbleheads.
The History of the Holiday
Bobbleheads were originally created in Germany over 100 years ago.
However, their origins can be traced even further back to “temple nodders,” which were spiritual figures, including Buddhas, that featured a similar nodding motion.
Bobbleheads made their way to the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming especially popular with sports teams.
Today, nearly every major sports franchise, entertainment brand, and celebrity has a bobblehead to their name.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- The first recognized bobbleheads were made in Germany in the early 20th century.
- The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum in Milwaukee holds the world’s largest bobblehead collection.
- Many sports teams hold “Bobblehead Giveaway Days” for fans.
- Some rare bobbleheads can sell for thousands of dollars.
- The term “temple nodders” refers to ancient figurines that inspired modern bobbleheads.
Coloring Page
This free bobblehead coloring page gives kids a fun way to join in, featuring a classic nodding figurine they can decorate however they like.
Activities to Celebrate
- Visit the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum – Take a trip to Milwaukee and explore the extensive collection, learning about the history and significance of bobbleheads.
- Add a new bobblehead to your collection – Whether it’s a sports figure, a celebrity, or a unique custom bobblehead, adding to your collection is a great way to mark the occasion.
- Reorganize or display your bobblehead collection in a new way – Arrange them by theme, color, or year of release to give your display a fresh new look.
- Share your favorite bobblehead on social media – Post a picture or video of your favorite bobblehead with a fun caption and the hashtag #NationalBobbleheadDay.
- Try making your own bobblehead – Use clay, paper, or 3D printing to create a personalized bobblehead that represents you or someone you admire.
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Links to Resources
- History of Bobbleheads. A deep dive into the fascinating origins and evolution of bobbleheads from ancient times to modern pop culture.
- Custom Bobblehead. Design your own custom bobblehead for a unique keepsake or gift.
- Funko Pop Disney. Browse a wide variety of Disney-themed Funko Pop bobbleheads featuring your favorite characters.
Related Holidays
- National VCR Day (June 7)
- National Teddy Bear Day (September 9)
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