International Dalek Remembrance Day, observed on December 21, commemorates the first appearance of the Daleks on the BBC television series Doctor Who in 1963. They were introduced in The Daleks, a storyline from the era of the First Doctor, played by William Hartnell, and quickly became one of the most enduring symbols of British science fiction.
Daleks are mutated beings encased in armored metal shells, designed by Raymond Cusick from a concept created by writer Terry Nation. Within the series, they originate from the planet Skaro and were engineered by the scientist Davros. Devoid of empathy and individuality, they exist to enforce absolute domination, famously voiced through their command: “Exterminate.”
Conceived in the aftermath of World War II, the Daleks reflect fears of authoritarian systems, loss of individuality, and ideology enforced without moral restraint. Their emotional emptiness is central to their meaning, showing how extreme beliefs can erase humanity rather than strengthen it.
Throughout the show’s history, Daleks have driven some of its most important storytelling. Genesis of the Daleks (1975) questions whether preventing their creation would be ethically justified, while Dalek (2005) explores the psychological cost of war through a single surviving Dalek.
When Is International Dalek Remembrance Day?
International Dalek Remembrance Day is observed every year on December 21. The date honors the Daleks’ first television appearance in 1963 and remains fixed on the calendar, with only the weekday changing each year.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December 21 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 21 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 21 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 21 | Thursday |
| 2029 | December 21 | Friday |
| 2030 | December 21 | Saturday |
👽 Similar days to remember:
- Fish Fingers and Custard Day on April 3
- Impossible Astronaut Day on April 23
- Doctor Who Day on November 23
- Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day on December 8
How to Celebrate
For those wanting to mark the day, there are plenty of ways to commemorate the appearance of Daleks and their symbolism.
- Watch Dalek episodes: If you’re new to Doctor Who, start with “Dalek” (2005) or “The Stolen Earth” (2008). If you’re a seasoned fan, classics like “The Daleks” (1963) or “Remembrance of the Daleks” (1988) offer a great throwback.
- Share your favorite Dalek moments: Use the day as an excuse to connect with other fans online. Daleks have given the Doctor plenty of dramatic moments—what’s yours?
- Get creative: Fans love creating Dalek art, costumes, or even baking Dalek-shaped cookies. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at a Dalek craft or share some fan art on social media?
Featured Image: Dalek at Sudbury Hall 2023, photo Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)
