Shamu the Whale Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Orcas

The annual celebration of Shamu the Whale Day occurs on September 26. This holiday is also known as National Shamu the Whale Day. In the late 1960s, the first Shamu was recognized. Through SeaWorld shows, this same name has been handed down through numerous generations. It has since become a day to celebrate the orca population.

The background of Shamu the Whale Day

In the late 1960s, the first Shamu was a whale that ascended to prominence. It was the highlight of a SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment-produced performance. Shamu’s stunning performances drew a large audience from across the country. Despite their name, orcas are generally innocuous and extremely entertaining to observe. Therefore, people enjoyed visiting them. When the original Shamu passed away in 1971, successive cast members were given his name. SeaWorld ultimately trademarked the name “Shamu,” and has since used it to promote their events.

In 1985, September 26 became significant because it marked the birth of the first surviving infant Shamu. Therefore, Shamu the Whale Day is now observed annually on September 26. The holiday is observed in memory of the original Shamu. After her passing, Shamu the Whale Day became a time for people to visit SeaWorld Parks and observe other killer whales perform.

However, orcas fare better in their natural habitats, and people are now encouraged to watch documentaries about orcas or find a means to visit their world as opposed to visiting parks to see them.

The holiday is now celebrated more for the awareness it generates regarding orcas and other large marine mammals. On Shamu the Whale Day, people now rally in support of orcas living in inhumane conditions. There are a number of organizations concerned with orca welfare. These organizations assist in monitoring and protecting our beloved orcas.

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ORCAS: 5 INTERESTING FACTS

Orcas are commonly known as killer whales due to their strength.

Orcas are found in all oceans around the globe.

In their natural environments, killer whales will not mortally attack humans.

They rely on their sight and hearing instead.

There are multiple reports of orcas exhibiting intelligent behavior.

SHAMU THE WHALE DAY DATES