June 13

Doll Day

Enjoy the magic of Doll Day and make your favorite dolls come alive with fun activities, accessories, and decorations!

Yearly Date

Second Saturday in June

Observed in

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate Doll Day on the second Saturday of June! This day has been around since 1828, when it was first created to honor dolls and the joy they bring. It's a great time to take out your favorite doll or stuffed animal and have some fun. You can also use this day to explore different cultures, as dolls come in all shapes, sizes, colors and designs that are inspired by different countries and regions around the world. From simple handmade dolls to designer collectibles, there is definitely something for everyone on Doll Day!

Doll Day Timeline

1828

Doll Day Origin

Doll Day was first observed in 1828 to celebrate dolls and the joy they bring to children and collectors.

1873

Porcelain Dolls Peak in Popularity

Mass-produced porcelain dolls became increasingly popular worldwide, known for their sculpted details and delicate features.

1959

Introduction of Barbie

Ruth Handler, inspired by Bild Lilli dolls, designed and produced the first Barbie doll for Mattel, marking a significant milestone in modern doll history.

1986

Cabbage Patch Kids Craze

Cabbage Patch Kids dolls gained global popularity, creating a craze in the doll toy industry for their unique adoption concept.

1995

American Girl Hits Market

American Girl dolls, designed to teach historical periods through the stories of their dolls, made a significant impact on the market with their educational and play value.

2010

Modern Doll Collecting

High-end ball-jointed dolls gain popularity amongst adult collectors for their customization and aesthetic appeal, underscoring the role of dolls as art forms.

How to Celebrate Doll Day

1 Make a doll

Making a doll can be a fun and rewarding experience. Gather some fabric, stuffing, and thread to put together your own handmade doll.

2 Go on a doll hunt

Head out to the thrift store and look for some unique dolls. You can find all kinds of unique dolls at thrift stores, from antique porcelain dolls to modern plastic dolls.

3 Host a doll party

Invite your friends over for a doll themed party. Each guest can bring their favorite doll and everyone can take turns showing off their special dolls.

4 Put on a puppet show

Gather up some dolls and put on a puppet show for your friends and family. You can make up your own stories or use books as inspiration.

5 Dress up your dolls

Grab some fabric and start sewing clothes for your dolls. You can make dresses, sweaters, pants, and even hats for your dolls.

Why We Love Doll Day

Dolls help foster friendships

Whether you're 3 or 33, having a doll to play with can bring about real-life connections in an individual's life. From gifts for others to playing with friends and family members, giving and receiving a doll—or playing with one together—can be an incredibly meaningful experience that helps nurture existing relationships and may even create new ones!

Dolls promote creativity

Playing with dolls gives humans of all ages the opportunity to express their creative side. Whether it is making diaries or mini versions of merchandise using the doll’s tiny accessories, amazing craft ideas come alive when creating something special for your beloved companion.

Dolls never become boring

Dolls provide endless hours of entertainment, no matter how old you are. With so many sizes, shapes and styles available, there will always be something new to discover and explore — from styling hair to cooking miniature meals that make the perfect meal for two (you and your doll!).