National Playdoh Day

A child playing with Play-Doh, smiling and surrounded by colorful molds and creations, in a cheerful classroom setting.. — National playdoh day illustration

Get ready to squish, mold, and create to your heart's content because it's National Play-Doh Day! This day is all about celebrating the colorful and imagination-inspiring goodness that is Play-Doh. So break out your favorite molds, roll up your sleeves, and let's dive into the world of Play-Doh!

When is Playdoh Day?

It's national playdoh day on the 16th September.

A Brief History of Play-Doh

Play-Doh, the beloved modeling compound, has been delighting children and adults alike since its invention in the 1950s. Originally developed as a wallpaper cleaner, Play-Doh took a remarkable turn when its creator, Noah McVicker, realized that kids were using it to mold makeshift ornaments for Christmas trees. Sensing an opportunity, McVicker rebranded Play-Doh as a toy, and its popularity skyrocketed.

Over the years, Play-Doh has evolved to include a whole range of colors and themed sets, allowing children to bring their wildest imaginings to life. From creating pretend pizzas to sculpting animals, Play-Doh has become a staple in playrooms all across the globe.

Fun Ways to Celebrate

To truly make the most of National Play-Doh Day, here are a few fun ideas:

Host a Play-Doh party with family and friends. Set up stations with different molds and encourage everyone to unleash their creativity.
Take a trip down memory lane by digging out your old Play-Doh creations. Reminisce about the shapes and characters you made as a kid.
Challenge yourself to create the most intricate sculpture using only Play-Doh. Get your competitive spirit on and see who can make the most jaw-dropping creation!

Did You Know?

Did you know that Play-Doh has its own distinctive smell? Many people can instantly recognize the scent of Play-Doh, which is a unique blend of sweet and slightly chemical odors. It's like a fragrant trip down memory lane!

History behind the term 'Playdoh'

1955

Accidental Discovery

Playdoh was accidentally discovered by Noah McVicker, a chemist at Kutol Products. McVicker was trying to develop a wallpaper cleaner but ended up creating a pliable and squishy substance instead. This early version of Playdoh was first sold as a wallpaper cleaner in Cincinnati, Ohio.

1956

Rebranding as Playdoh

In 1956, McVicker's nephew, Joseph McVicker, joined the company. He recognized the potential of the squishy substance as a modeling compound for children. The product was rebranded as Playdoh and marketed as a safe and reusable toy for kids.

1956

Initial Sales and Commercials

Playdoh made its first appearance in stores in 1956. Initially, the sales were limited, but Joseph McVicker devised a strategy to boost sales. He created an advertising campaign that aired during children's television shows, which showcased the versatility and creative possibilities of Playdoh. The commercials played a significant role in making Playdoh a household name.

1965

Introduction of Color Options

In 1965, Playdoh introduced a variety of vibrant colors, replacing the previous off-white hue. The introduction of different colors made Playdoh even more appealing to children, allowing them to create more colorful and imaginative creations.

1983

Induction into the National Toy Hall of Fame

Recognizing its iconic status and lasting impact on playtime, Playdoh was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in 1983. This prestigious honor solidified Playdoh's place as one of the most beloved and influential toys in history.

2003

Playdoh in Pop Culture

Playdoh has made numerous appearances in popular culture, including being referenced in songs, movies, and TV shows. The versatility and nostalgic appeal of Playdoh continue to resonate with both children and adults, making it an enduring symbol of creativity and fun.

Did you know?

Did you know that Play-Doh has its own distinctive smell? Many people can instantly recognize the scent of Play-Doh, which is a unique blend of sweet and slightly chemical odors.