Peter Pan Day
World ObservancesWhat Is Peter Pan Day?
December 27th is "Peter Pan Day." It commemorates December 27, 1904, when Scottish author J. M. Barrie's play "Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up" premiered at the Duke of York's Theatre in London. More than 120 years later, the story of Peter Pan—the eternal boy who never wants to grow up—is still beloved by children around the world.
The Story of Peter Pan
The Darling siblings, led by Wendy, meet Peter Pan, who comes from Neverland—a place where children live forever young alongside the fairy Tinker Bell. Sprinkled with fairy dust, the children learn to fly and head off to Neverland, where adventures with Captain Hook the pirate, mermaids, the Lost Boys, and fairies await.
Peter Pan's Influence on the World
- Disney's animated film (1953): Brought Peter Pan to a worldwide audience, turning Tinker Bell into a Disney icon
- Stage and musical productions: Performed around the world, including on Broadway and by Japan's Shiki Theatre Company
- "Peter Pan syndrome": A term that entered the psychological lexicon to describe a reluctance to grow up
- J. M. Barrie's legacy: Barrie permanently donated the copyright to Peter Pan to a London children's hospital, which still benefits from it today
On Peter Pan Day
"Never lose the heart of a child, even as you grow up"—in that spirit, today is a good day to revisit the picture books, films, and games you loved as a child.