National Snowman Day

A family of snowmen, wearing colorful scarves and hats, with a snowy landscape in the background, surrounded by playful children building snowmen.. — National snowman day illustration

Welcome to the whimsical world of National Snowman Day! This frosty holiday promises a jolly good time for all, so bundle up, grab your carrot noses, and let's dive into the magical world of snowmen.

When is Snowman Day?

It's national snowman day on the 18th January.

A Brief History of National Snowman Day

National Snowman Day, celebrated on January 18th every year, is a day dedicated to appreciating the art of snowmen construction and the joy they bring to our lives. While the origins of this icy celebration may be shrouded in mystery, one thing is clear - snowmen have been captivating our imaginations for centuries.

The earliest record of snowman-like figures goes back to medieval times when people would fashion snow sculptures resembling humans for various festivities. These early snow sculptures were not limited to snowmen alone; they would create entire frosty scenes, complete with snow animals and even castles.

In the 18th century, snowmen gained popularity as part of winter carnivals and festivals. These temporary works of art would serve as a centerpiece for winter festivities, often adorned with accessories like hats, scarves, and even real candles. But it wasn't until the 19th century that the snowman as we know it today started taking shape.

The Birth of the Modern Snowman

With the advent of mass printing and the rise of popular culture, the snowman's image became more standardized. Illustrations and postcards started depicting snowmen with the classic three-stack body, a carrot for a nose, and coal for eyes and buttons. This iconic snowman design became so prevalent that it has now become a beloved symbol of winter.

In recent years, National Snowman Day has gained momentum on the internet, with snowman enthusiasts sharing their creative creations on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. These frosty friends have become an artistic outlet for individuals and communities to showcase their imagination and winter spirit.

So, whether you're sculpting a snowman in your backyard, engaging in a friendly snowball fight, or simply appreciating the beauty of these frozen friends from afar, National Snowman Day is the perfect time to embrace the magic of winter and celebrate the joy that comes with building a snowman. Let your creativity soar and let the snowmen dotting the landscape fill your heart with warmth and wonder.

History behind the term 'Snowman'

1380

The First Appearance

The term 'snowman' first appeared in written form in a poem called 'Book of the Courtier' by Francesco Petrarch in the year 1380. The poem described a snowman in the midst of a winter scene, showcasing the early recognition of snowy figures as an artistic and playful creation.

1494

The First Visual Depiction

The first visual depiction of a snowman can be found in a manuscript from the year 1494. This illuminated manuscript, called 'Book of Hours', portrays a snowman in a series of miniature illustrations that depicted the seasons of the year. This illustration marked the first known visual representation of a snowman, showcasing their cultural significance even in ancient times.

1827

The Classic Snowman Image

In the 19th century, a popular illustration featuring a snowman became iconic. It was drawn by John Leech and published in the English magazine 'Punch' in 1827. This image depicted a traditional snowman with a top hat, scarf, and pipe, solidifying the image as the classic representation of a snowman in Western culture.

1950

Frosty the Snowman

One of the most significant influences on popularizing the term 'snowman' came with the song 'Frosty the Snowman' in 1950. Written by Walter Rollins and Steve Nelson, this classic Christmas song captured the hearts of people around the world, firmly establishing the term 'snowman' in popular culture.

1982

The Snowman Movie

In 1982, the renowned and beautifully animated film 'The Snowman' was released. Based on the book by Raymond Briggs, this wordless film captivated audiences with its heartwarming story of a young boy's magical adventure with a snowman who comes to life. The movie further immortalized the concept of a snowman as an enchanting and beloved character in contemporary culture.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world's largest snowman was built in 2008 in the town of Bethel, Maine? Standing at a remarkable 122 feet and 1 inch tall, this colossal snowman, named 'Olympia,' towered above everyone, capturing the imagination of all who laid eyes upon it.