National Juggalo Day

Excited person with colorful face paint, wearing a unique outfit and surrounded by a vibrant and lively carnival atmosphere.. — National juggalo day illustration

Hey there, friends! Are you ready to dive into the wild and wonderful world of National Juggalo Day? Get your face paint ready and prepare to be amazed!

When is Juggalo Day?

It's national juggalo day on the 18th February.

The Origins of National Juggalo Day

Do you remember the year 2007? It was a time when the internet was a lot less crowded, but the spirit of fun and camaraderie was growing stronger every day. In the depths of cyberspace, a subculture known as the 'Juggalos' was flourishing. These dedicated fans of the Insane Clown Posse (ICP) were passionate about their music, their unique style, and their sense of belonging. It was only a matter of time before they decided to celebrate their love for all things Juggalo with a special day of their own.

And so, on February 18th, 2007, National Juggalo Day was born. This joyous occasion gives Juggalos across the world a chance to gather, share their love for music, and embrace their individuality without judgment. It's a day filled with community, music, and of course, plenty of face paint.

Celebrations and Traditions

National Juggalo Day is all about celebrating what it means to be a Juggalo. From attending concerts and music festivals to organizing local meetups, Juggalos come together to show their dedication and support for the Insane Clown Posse. It's a time to let loose, enjoy the music, and connect with like-minded individuals who understand the unique Juggalo way of life.

Fun Fact: A Painted Palooza!

Did you know that Juggalos are known for their elaborate face paint? It's true! This iconic tradition allows Juggalos to express their individuality and creativity. From intricate designs to bold colors, each face paint style is unique to the individual. So, grab a paintbrush and get ready to transform into your Juggalo alter ego!

History behind the term 'Juggalo'

1994

The Birth of Juggalos

In 1994, the term 'juggalo' was coined by the hip hop duo Insane Clown Posse (ICP) in their song 'The Juggla'. The song depicted a character named 'the Juggla' who was a devoted fan of the Insane Clown Posse. This marked the birth of the term 'juggalo', which would go on to shape a unique subculture.

1994

Birth of a subculture

In 1994, the hip hop duo Insane Clown Posse (ICP), consisting of Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, released their debut album, 'Carnival of Carnage.' The album introduced their unique style of music, known as horrorcore, which combined elements of hardcore hip hop with themes of horror. Fans of ICP quickly began to identify themselves as 'Juggalos,' embracing the music, lyrics, and theatrical persona of the group.

1990

Birth of the Insane Clown Posse

In 1990, Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, better known as Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, formed the rap group Insane Clown Posse (ICP) in Detroit, Michigan. Their unique blend of horrorcore rap, comedic lyrics, and theatrical performances quickly gained a dedicated following.

1994

Birth of a movement

In the year 1994, the term 'juggalo' was coined by the hip hop duo Insane Clown Posse (ICP) as a way to identify their dedicated fan base. ICP, consisting of Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, used the term to refer to their fans who found solace and camaraderie in their music and shared love for their unique style of horrorcore rap.

1991

Birth of a subculture

In 1991, the term 'juggalo' was coined to describe the dedicated fanbase of the American hip hop group Insane Clown Posse (ICP). ICP, consisting of members Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, blended horrorcore rap with a theatrical performance style, mesmerizing audiences. The term 'juggalo' was derived from the lyrics of their song 'The Juggla' and quickly gained popularity among their fans.

1990

Birth of the Insane Clown Posse

In 1990, Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, known by their stage names Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, formed a hip hop group called the Insane Clown Posse (ICP) in Detroit, Michigan. Their music, characterized by aggressive lyrics and horrorcore themes, would later become synonymous with the term juggalo.

1994

Birth of a fandom.

In 1994, the term 'juggalo' was coined by the hip hop duo Insane Clown Posse (ICP) as a name for their dedicated fans. ICP, consisting of Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, released their debut album 'Carnival of Carnage' which introduced the concept of the 'Dark Carnival' and its followers, the juggalos. The term 'juggalo' is derived from the lyrics of their song 'The Juggla,' which is a blend of 'juggler' and 'hobo clown.' It was meant to signify a sense of camaraderie and belonging among ICP fans.

1990

The Birth of Juggalos

In 1990, the term 'juggalo' was coined by the hip-hop duo Insane Clown Posse (ICP) as a way to refer to their dedicated fans. Inspired by the lyrics and themes of ICP's music, the term 'juggalo' quickly caught on and became a self-identifier for a growing subculture of devoted fans.

1994

The Birth of Juggalos

In 1994, the now-infamous musical duo Insane Clown Posse (ICP) released their second studio album titled 'Ringmaster.' This album introduced the term 'juggalo' to describe their dedicated fans. Juggalos quickly became known for their unwavering support of ICP's unique blend of horrorcore hip hop.

1990

The Birth of Insane Clown Posse

In 1990, two friends from Detroit, Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, decided to form a hip-hop duo called Insane Clown Posse (ICP). They built their musical persona around the imagery of evil clowns and took on the personas of Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope. Their unique blend of horrorcore rap and carnival-inspired theatrics would go on to captivate a loyal fan base.

1990

Birth of a subculture

The term 'juggalo' originated in 1990 among fans of the Detroit-based hip hop group Insane Clown Posse (ICP). These dedicated fans formed a subculture characterized by their deep affection and strong identification with the music and lyrics of ICP. Juggalos embraced ICP's unique blend of horrorcore rap and clown-themed imagery, creating a tight-knit community centered around their love for the group.

1997

Carnival of Carnage

In 1997, Insane Clown Posse released their album 'The Great Milenko', which became a pivotal moment in the development of juggalos. The album featured dark, often humorous, and controversial lyrics that resonated with a growing fanbase. The release of 'The Great Milenko' solidified juggalos as a collective group of ICP fans who embraced the darker side of life and found solace in this alternative culture.

1994

The Genesis of the Term 'Juggalo'

In 1994, Insane Clown Posse released their third studio album titled 'Ringmaster.' Within the album's liner notes, the term 'Juggalo' was mentioned for the first time. Violent J described a Juggalo as 'someone who recognizes and appreciates the magic' within ICP's music.

1997

The Great Milenko and mainstream recognition

In 1997, Insane Clown Posse released their fourth studio album, 'The Great Milenko,' which became a pivotal moment for the juggalo subculture. The album's controversial lyrics and provocative imagery catapulted ICP and their fans into the public eye. Juggalos proudly embraced their outsider status and rallied around the band, leading to increased recognition and scrutiny from the mainstream media.

1997

The Gathering of the Juggalos

In 1997, the first Gathering of the Juggalos took place. Organized by Insane Clown Posse, this annual music festival brought together Juggalos from all over the world for a weekend of performances, entertainment, and camaraderie. The Gathering of the Juggalos became a significant event for the Juggalo subculture, reinforcing their strong sense of community and shared identity.

1997

The Great Milenko

The release of Insane Clown Posse's fourth studio album, 'The Great Milenko', in 1997 played a significant role in popularizing the term 'juggalo'. The album's themes of dark humor, social commentary, and carnival-esque atmosphere resonated deeply with ICP's fan base, leading to an increase in the number of self-identified juggalos.

1997

The Gathering of the Juggalos

In 1997, the first Gathering of the Juggalos took place. This annual music festival, organized by ICP, brought together thousands of passionate fans. The Gathering became a cornerstone of juggalo culture, celebrating music, art, and the unique camaraderie shared among fans. The event showcases various underground and independent artists, creating a platform for both established acts and emerging talent.

1994

The Rise of 'Juggalos'

In 1994, the Insane Clown Posse released their third studio album, 'Ringmaster,' which included the track 'The Juggla.' This song featured the word 'juggalo' as a term for their devoted fan base. The catchy term quickly caught on among ICP fans, who proudly embraced the label.

1994

The First Gathering of the Juggalos

The term 'Juggalo' was coined in 1994 during the first Gathering of the Juggalos, a music festival organized by Insane Clown Posse. This annual event brought together fans of the band, who proudly embraced the term 'Juggalo' as a way to identify themselves. It quickly became synonymous with the dedicated and passionate followers of Insane Clown Posse.

1997

A Gathering of the Juggalos

In 1997, the first Gathering of the Juggalos took place. This annual music festival, organized by ICP, brings together Juggalos from all around the world for several days of performances, wrestling, games, and other activities. The Gathering of the Juggalos has become a significant event within the Juggalo subculture, reinforcing their sense of community and identity.

1996

Spreading underground subculture.

By 1996, the juggalo subculture started gaining momentum and spreading beyond ICP's immediate fan base. The release of ICP's album 'The Great Milenko' in that year played a significant role in making juggalos more widely known. Juggalos embraced the album's controversial lyrics and themes, identifying with ICP's outsider status and rebellious attitude. The term 'juggalo' became synonymous with a community that expressed their love for the music, the Dark Carnival mythology, and the overall ethos of nonconformity.

1995

Juggalos Unite at The Gathering of the Juggalos

Building upon the growing fanbase, ICP organized The Gathering of the Juggalos, an annual music festival that brings together Juggalos from all over the world. Starting in 2000, this event became a central gathering place for the Juggalo community, cementing their sense of identity and camaraderie.

2000

Mainstream recognition

By the early 2000s, the term 'Juggalo' had gained recognition beyond the realm of Insane Clown Posse's fans. Juggalos became known for their distinctive attire, including face paint, Hatchetman logos (the symbol of Psychopathic Records, the record label founded by ICP), and an affinity for Faygo, a popular soft drink often used in ICP's stage performances.

2000

Gathering of the Juggalos

In the year 2000, Insane Clown Posse organized the first 'Gathering of the Juggalos,' a multi-day music festival and cultural event exclusively for juggalos. The Gathering became an annual tradition and served as a communal gathering for fans to celebrate their shared love for ICP and other underground artists. This event further solidified the identity and sense of belonging within the juggalo subculture.

2000

Juggalos united through the Gathering

2000 marked the birth of an annual event that would become the heart of the juggalo community: The Gathering of the Juggalos. Organized by Insane Clown Posse, the Gathering brings together thousands of juggalos from all over the world for a multi-day music festival, carnival, and celebration of the subculture. The Gathering solidified the sense of belonging and camaraderie among juggalos, fostering an even stronger and more inclusive community.

1997

The Gathering of the Juggalos

In 1997, the Insane Clown Posse organized the first 'Gathering of the Juggalos' music festival in Novi, Michigan. This annual event brought together thousands of dedicated ICP fans, who proudly identified themselves as juggalos. The Gathering of the Juggalos became a cultural phenomenon, providing a sense of community and acceptance for the juggalo subculture.

2000

Juggalos and Family

By the year 2000, the concept of 'Juggalos' had evolved beyond being just fans of Insane Clown Posse. Juggalos started referring to each other as 'family,' emphasizing the close-knit bonds and support within the subculture. The Juggalo lifestyle began to encompass a set of values centered around acceptance, loyalty, and nonjudgmental attitudes, fostering a sense of belonging for many individuals who felt marginalized or misunderstood by mainstream society.

1997

The Great Milenko Album

In 1997, Insane Clown Posse released their fourth studio album, 'The Great Milenko.' This album, featuring tracks like 'Hokus Pokus' and 'Boogie Woogie Wu,' marked a significant turning point for the group and their fans. 'The Great Milenko' became a cult classic among Juggalos, solidifying their bond and further popularizing the term.

1996

The Gathering of the Juggalos

In 1996, Insane Clown Posse organized the first 'Gathering of the Juggalos.' This annual music festival brought together fans of ICP from all around the world. It became a place for Juggalos to celebrate their love for the music, connect with other fans, and embrace their unique subculture.

1998

The Gathering of the Juggalos

In 1998, the first 'Gathering of the Juggalos' was held. This annual music festival, organized by Insane Clown Posse and their label Psychopathic Records, served as a gathering point for juggalos from all over the country. The festival provided a space for likeminded individuals to celebrate their love for ICP and be part of a community that embraced their unique beliefs and interests.

2011

Juggalos' Battle for Recognition

In 2011, the FBI labeled Juggalos as a 'hybrid gang' in their National Gang Threat Assessment. This classification led to significant challenges for Juggalos, with some facing discrimination and unfair treatment from law enforcement. The Juggalo community fought back, arguing that they are a family-oriented subculture rather than a criminal organization.

2000

Emergence of the Gathering of the Juggalos.

In the year 2000, ICP organized the first Gathering of the Juggalos, a multi-day music festival dedicated to celebrating the juggalo culture. The event featured live performances from ICP, as well as various underground hip-hop and rock acts. The Gathering became an annual ritual for juggalos, providing a space for like-minded individuals to come together and express themselves freely. It became a testament to the sense of community and acceptance that defined the juggalo subculture.

2000

ICP's 'Amazing Jeckel Brothers' album

In 2000, Insane Clown Posse released their sixth studio album titled 'The Amazing Jeckel Brothers.' This album further solidified the term 'juggalo,' as it prominently featured the song 'Juggalo Family.' The track emphasized the tight-knit bonds and unwavering loyalty that defined the juggalo community. 'The Amazing Jeckel Brothers' album became a notable milestone in the evolution of juggalo culture.

2000

Mainstream Attention and Subculture Expansion

By the early 2000s, the popularity of Insane Clown Posse and the Juggalos began to grow. The release of their albums 'The Amazing Jeckel Brothers' and 'The Wraith: Shangri-La' brought mainstream attention to their music and distinctive fan base. The Juggalo subculture started expanding beyond the music, incorporating elements of cosplay, face paint, and a sense of belonging.

2011

Recognition and Controversies

In 2011, the FBI classified Juggalos as a loosely organized hybrid gang, generating significant controversy and sparking legal battles. While acknowledging that not all Juggalos engage in criminal activity, the FBI's classification had unintended consequences, with some Juggalos facing discrimination in employment, housing, and legal matters based solely on their association with the subculture. This led to debates about the cultural impact of the term 'juggalo' and the challenges faced by its followers.

2000

Juggalos and Legal Battle

In 2000, juggalos faced legal challenges when the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) classified them as a 'loosely organized hybrid gang'. This classification had significant implications for many juggalos, as it led to discrimination, profiling, and even the loss of employment. The juggalo community rallied together, calling for their right to be recognized as fans of a music group rather than criminals.

2011

The FBI classification

In 2011, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) classified juggalos as a 'loosely organized hybrid gang' in their National Gang Threat Assessment report. This unexpected classification caused controversy and backlash, with many juggalos feeling unfairly targeted and stigmatized due to the actions of a few individuals. This event, along with subsequent legal challenges, brought national attention to the juggalo community.

2011

Legal Recognition as a Subculture

In 2011, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) classified juggalos as a 'loosely organized hybrid gang' in their National Gang Threat Assessment report. This classification sparked controversy and legal challenges, as it negatively impacted the lives of many law-abiding fans. Juggalos campaigned for their right to be recognized as a legitimate subculture, fighting against unfair stereotypes and stigmatization.

2011

Political controversy

In 2011, the FBI classified Juggalos as a 'loosely organized hybrid gang' in their National Gang Threat Assessment report. This classification caused significant controversy among Juggalos and civil liberties organizations who argued that it unjustly labeled all Juggalos as criminals. The issue sparked various legal battles and calls for the FBI to reconsider their classification.

2011

Recognition and controversy.

In 2011, the FBI included juggalos in their National Gang Threat Assessment report, equating them to a gang. This classification faced significant backlash from the juggalo community and civil liberties advocates. Juggalos argued that their association was primarily based on music appreciation and a shared subculture, rather than criminal behavior. The case led to legal battles and raised questions about the government's understanding of subcultures. Despite the controversy, the juggalo community remained resilient and united in their love for ICP and the fellowship they found among fellow juggalos.

2014

The Juggalo March on Washington

In response to the FBI's gang classification, a historic event called the Juggalo March on Washington took place in 2017. Thousands of Juggalos gathered on the National Mall to protest the unfair stigma and demand their rights be recognized. The march aimed to raise awareness about the discrimination faced by Juggalos and to promote tolerance and understanding.

2011

Juggalos and the FBI

In 2011, the FBI labeled juggalos as a 'loosely organized hybrid gang' in their National Gang Threat Assessment report. This classification created controversy and backlash within the juggalo community, as many saw it as an unfair generalization that criminalized their shared love for Insane Clown Posse. The Juggalo March on Washington in 2017 aimed to challenge the FBI's designation and protect juggalos from unfair profiling.

2011

Recognition of Juggalos as a subculture

In 2011, the term 'juggalo' received recognition as a distinct subculture when the FBI included them in their National Gang Threat Assessment report. This classification generated controversy, as many felt it unfairly labeled juggalos as a gang rather than appreciating them as a tightly knit community united by their love for ICP and their shared values. The situation spurred legal action, with juggalos seeking to challenge the gang classification.

2000

Juggalos in Mainstream Media

By the early 2000s, Juggalos had gained a significant presence in mainstream media. The unique subculture and their distinctive face paint began to be recognized and featured in various television shows and documentaries. This exposure helped to spread the term 'Juggalo' beyond the confines of Insane Clown Posse's fan base, making it more widely known.

2011

The FBI's Juggalos Classification

In 2011, the term 'Juggalo' gained national attention when the FBI included Juggalos in their National Gang Threat Assessment report. This classification sparked controversy and debate over whether Juggalos should be considered a gang or simply a misunderstood subculture. The Juggalo community rallied together to challenge this classification and raise awareness about their positive values.

2020

Recognition as a social movement.

In 2020, a federal court ruled in favor of juggalos, stating that their classification as a gang was unconstitutional. This landmark decision recognized the juggalo movement as a protected expression of free speech and association. The ruling acknowledged that juggalos, although distinct in their style and values, were not a criminal organization. The case served as a victory for the juggalo community and solidified their status as a unique and vibrant subculture, celebrated for their dedication to ICP, their sense of family, and their commitment to inclusivity.

2017

The Juggalo March

In 2017, Juggalos organized a peaceful protest in Washington, D.C., known as the Juggalo March. Thousands of Juggalos marched to challenge the FBI's gang classification, asserting their rights to freedom of speech and association. The Juggalo March aimed to raise awareness about the unfair stigmatization of the subculture and advocate for the recognition of Juggalos as a noncriminal community. The march garnered attention from media outlets and shed light on the cultural impact and unity of Juggalos.

2020

Juggalos and the fight against stereotypes

Juggalos have faced ongoing challenges due to negative stereotypes associated with their subculture. However, in 2020, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) helped juggalos navigate the legal battle to remove the gang designation. This victory highlighted the resilience and determination of the juggalo community in combating unjust stigmatization and standing up for their rights as a subculture.

2020

Juggalos' Legal Victory

In 2020, a federal appeals court ruled that the FBI's classification of Juggalos as a gang violated their First Amendment rights. The court recognized that being a Juggalo is a form of protected expression and association, underscoring the importance of freedom of speech and subcultural identities.

2017

Legal victory

The juggalo community achieved a significant legal victory in 2017. A lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of ICP and their fans, challenging the FBI's classification of juggalos as a gang. The case reached a settlement, resulting in the removal of the 'loosely organized hybrid gang' label from the FBI's gang assessment. This milestone reaffirmed the uniqueness of the juggalo subculture and its value as a non-violent community.

Present

A thriving subculture

To this day, the juggalo subculture continues to thrive with a strong and passionate fanbase. Juggalos gather at concerts, events, and online platforms to connect with one another, celebrate their love for ICP, and embrace the unique identity that being a juggalo represents. The term 'juggalo' has transcended its origins as a mere fandom and has become a symbol of unity, acceptance, and counterculture resistance.

2011

Juggalos' March on Washington

In 2011, juggalos organized a march on Washington, D.C., known as the 'Juggalos' March'. This march aimed to protest the FBI's gang classification, seeking to raise awareness about the misconceptions surrounding their subculture. Thousands of juggalos attended the historic event, highlighting their dedication to their community and the struggle for their rights.

2017

Legal victory

In 2017, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit on behalf of Insane Clown Posse and their fans, challenging the FBI's classification of Juggalos as a gang. The lawsuit argued that the classification violated Juggalos' First Amendment rights to free expression and association. Ultimately, in 2020, a federal judge ruled that the FBI's classification of Juggalos as a gang was unconstitutional, bringing a significant legal victory for the Juggalo community.

2020

Juggalos' Positive Contributions

Over the years, juggalos have demonstrated their positive impact on communities. Through charity events, fundraisers, and volunteer work, they have shown their dedication to helping others. Organizations like Juggalos Against Sanity and the Juggalo March on Washington have promoted social causes and raised awareness about issues affecting both juggalos and society at large. Juggalos continue to defy stereotypes, emphasizing unity and acceptance within their subculture.

2011

Juggalos' Struggle for Recognition

In 2011, the FBI classified Juggalos as a 'loosely organized hybrid gang' in its National Gang Threat Assessment report. This designation led to numerous Juggalos facing discrimination, including being denied employment or parental rights. Juggalos nationwide campaigned and filed lawsuits to challenge the gang classification and protect their rights as a subculture.

2017

Legal Victory for Juggalos

In 2017, after years of legal battles, a federal judge ruled that classifying Juggalos as a gang violated their First Amendment rights to free speech and association. This decision was a significant victory for Juggalos, ensuring their recognition as a dedicated fan base rather than a criminal organization.

2020

Juggalo Day Celebrations

To honor their dedicated fan base and the cultural impact of 'Juggalo' as a term, Insane Clown Posse started celebrating 'Juggalo Day' in 2020. This annual event serves as a gathering for Juggalos worldwide, featuring live performances, fan interactions, and a celebration of the unique Juggalo culture. 'Juggalo Day' has become a prominent fixture on the calendar for fans of Insane Clown Posse.