National Mario Day (March 10)
National Mario Day on March 10 is a fan-favorite celebration inspired by the legendary video game hero Mario.
The date works as a clever nod to his name. Written as “Mar10”, it has become an annual excuse to replay classic games, share nostalgia, and introduce a new generation to the Mushroom Kingdom.
From early arcade adventures to modern open-world titles, Mario has shaped video game history for more than four decades.
It’s one of the most playful holidays in March, blending pop culture, childhood memories, and pure fun.
When is the Holiday?
It’s celebrated every year on March 10, chosen because “Mar10” visually resembles the name Mario.
Who Invented It?
Fans started recognizing the date online long before it became official.
In 2016, Nintendo embraced the idea and began promoting Mario Day with special events, game releases, and themed celebrations.
The History of the Holiday
What began as a clever internet discovery quickly turned into a worldwide gaming tradition.
Once Nintendo officially acknowledged the day, it grew into a major annual event featuring discounts, tournaments, livestreams, and fan tributes across social media.
Today, Mario Day is celebrated by gamers of all ages. From longtime fans who played on the original NES to kids discovering the franchise for the first time.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- Mario first appeared in Donkey Kong under the name “Jumpman.”
- He was named after Mario Segale, the landlord of Nintendo’s early U.S. warehouse.
- The Mario franchise has sold hundreds of millions of games worldwide, making it one of the most successful in history.
- Mario originally worked as a carpenter before becoming a plumber.
- His red hat was added because early game graphics struggled to animate hair.
Coloring Page
This Mario-themed coloring page gives kids a fun way to celebrate the holiday while enjoying one of gaming’s most iconic characters.
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Activities to Celebrate
Mario Day usually starts with picking one favorite game rather than trying to play everything at once, which makes it feel more special (and less chaotic).
Older kids often love replaying a classic level they remember struggling with years ago, while younger ones enjoy watching or taking turns with easier modes. Between game sessions, setting out a small craft station with coloring pages or Perler beads gives everyone a screen break without killing the theme.
If you’re already in the kitchen, simple red-and-blue treats or star-shaped cookies tie in nicely without needing elaborate baking. Ending the day with one friendly Mario Kart race, winner chooses the next family movie or dessert, keeps it fun instead of competitive.
Related Recipes for the Holiday
- Mario and Princess Peach Cupcakes – Colorful character-themed treats that are great for parties and game nights.
- Mario Kart Cupcakes – Racing-inspired desserts decorated with bold colors and fun toppers.
- Piranha Plant Strawberry Cupcakes – A playful twist using fresh strawberries to recreate the famous Mario enemy.
- Mario Star and Dino Egg Cookies – Bright, easy cookies shaped like classic power-ups kids recognize instantly.
Links to Resources
- Free printable Mario coloring pages – Printable pages featuring Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Bowser that kids can color during game breaks or parties.
- Super Mario dot-to-dot worksheets – Number activities that build counting skills while revealing favorite characters as kids connect the dots.
- DIY Mario Kart obstacle course ideas – Simple backyard and indoor race setups using everyday items to recreate Mario Kart fun in real life.
- Mario-themed party decorations and costumes – Banners, tableware, and outfit ideas to turn any celebration into a Mario adventure.
Related Holidays
- National Video Game Day (July 8) – celebrates gaming culture across all platforms
- Batman Day (Third Saturday in September) – honors another iconic pop-culture hero
- Science Fiction Day (January 2) – honors sci-fi storytelling that has influenced games, movies, and worlds much like the imaginative settings in the Mario universe.
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