National Wiffle Ball Day

Georgia Stone
Dec 22, 2023 By Georgia Stone
Originally Published on Mar 08, 2022
Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur
Find out more about National Wiffle Ball Day.

Where is National Wiffle Ball Day celebrated?

National Wiffle Ball Day is celebrated as America's beloved backyard game by people of all ages throughout the country.

Who is National Wiffle Ball Day celebrated by?

National Wiffle Ball Day is a fun-filled day for family and friends all throughout the country as they enjoy a game of Wiffle ball.

When did National Wiffle Ball Day first start?

The origins of National Wiffle Ball Day are unknown, but it is held on August 14 every year.

Who started National Wiffle Ball Day?

Although there is no record about the founder of National Wiffle Ball Day, the Wiffle ball itself was the brainchild of David Mullany, who got the inspiration from his son.

History And Timeline

Several versions of baseball have been played for decades, including stickball, which was improvised by children using things like socks or tennis balls. The Wiffle Ball was created to compete with baseball, stickball, and softball to play in streets and backyards.

It gradually crept into the mainstream of American culture over the years. Even those who don't like baseball have had a go at this iconic sport on a lazy Sunday afternoon! Learn more about its origins below.

Wiffle Ball Invented

In 1953, David N. Mullany invented a ball that curved effortlessly for his 12-year-old son at his house in Fairfield, Connecticut.

1953

Wiffle Ball Patented

In 1954, Mullany filed for a patent, which was issued in 1957 under the name 'Game Ball.'

1957

Wiffle Ball Factory Launched

A manufacturing facility of Wiffle balls was established in Shelton, Connecticut, in 1959.

1959

World Wiffle Ball Championship

Jim Bottorff and Larry Grau founded the World Wiffle Ball Championship in Mishawaka, Indiana in 1980.

1980

Traditions And Customs

The Wiffle ball, which is light and easy to pitch, allowed American kids to play baseball without fear of injury or a shattered window. It replaced a number of traditional summer sports as the game of choice.

In the last decades, it has also exploded in popularity among adults, serving as a nostalgic reminder of youth, an outlet for fierce competitive spirit, and a favorite pastime all rolled into one!

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Wiffle Ball Day

Bring out the kid in you on National Wiffle Ball Day, and spend it playing Wiffle ball in your backyard or on the street. Join a Wiffle Ball Championship or league near you, create an event yourself, or invite your team of friends over for a Sunday game.

Don't forget to share photos and videos of your favorite pitches and moments online!

Facts And Stats

  • National Wiffle Ball Day celebrates the toy that was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in 2017.
  • In addition to celebrating National Wiffle Ball Day, marine biologists regularly use it as a size reference when measuring corals and other items in science.
  • On this day you can create an improvised game with a Wiffle ball and can play it with your friends.

When Is National Wiffle Ball Day?

National Wiffle Ball Day falls on August 14 annually.

What are the limitations in celebrating National Wiffle Ball Day?

One limitation is that Wiffle balls cannot be thrown or hit long distances farther.

What is the importance of celebrating National Wiffle Ball Day?

It's a fantastic game for being competitive while also having a great time.

What are some reasons for celebrating National Wiffle Ball Day?

National Wiffle Ball Day celebrates a beloved Sunday game that is full of energy and excitement.

Does every country celebrate National Wiffle Ball Day?

Being widely popular, fans from other countries, such as Spain, enjoy the game as well.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Friday, August 14, 2020
  • Saturday, August 14, 2021
  • Sunday, August 14, 2022
  • Monday, August 14, 2023
  • Wednesday, August 14, 2024

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Written by Georgia Stone

Bachelor of Arts specializing in French with Film Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Year Abroad) specializing in Literature, History, Language, Media, and Art

Georgia Stone picture

Georgia StoneBachelor of Arts specializing in French with Film Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Year Abroad) specializing in Literature, History, Language, Media, and Art

Georgia is an experienced Content Manager with a degree in French and Film Studies from King's College London and Bachelors degree from Université Paris-Sorbonne. Her passion for exploring the world and experiencing different cultures was sparked during her childhood in Switzerland and her year abroad in Paris. In her spare time, Georgia enjoys using London's excellent travel connections to explore further afield.

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Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur

Bachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet Kaur picture

Amanpreet KaurBachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet has a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Birla Institute of Technology and Xavier Institute of Social Service respectively, coupled with her internships at Decimal Point Analytics and the Royal Bank of Scotland, has equipped her with the necessary skills to analyze complex data and present insights in an easy-to-understand format. Her paper on the impact of COVID-19 on CSR programs has received high commendation.

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