The Simpsons is one of the most popular TV shows in the world. Some people have watched an episode of these yellow characters at least once in their lives.
But… Did you know there’s a day to celebrate TV’s most beloved yellow family? Here we tell you about this special day and why it is celebrated.
Origin of The Simpsons
The Simpsons is one of the most beloved animated series around the world, widely considered one of the funniest and most entertaining shows on television. To date, it has aired 36 seasons, with the latest premiering on Fox Broadcasting Company on September 29, 2024.
The idea for these iconic characters came from cartoonist Matt Groening in 1987, when he received a call from James L. Brooks, producer of The Tracey Ullman Show, who invited him to create a series of animated shorts based on Brooks’s written ideas.
When they met, Groening rejected the offer—he had something else in mind. Instead of adapting existing ideas, he wanted to create brand-new characters and stories that reflected his own creative voice.
In just 15 minutes, Groening came up with the initial concept, drawing inspiration from his own family. Due to the rush, he even named the characters after his real family members—except for Bart Simpson, the only fictional name:
- Homer (his father)
- Margaret (his mother)
- Lisa (his sister)
- Maggie (his sister)
One of Matt Groening’s main goals was to make the characters instantly recognizable, even just by their silhouettes. He even chose yellow as their signature color because it stood out and was easy to spot on TV.
That’s how the foundation was laid for what would become one of the most iconic animated families in history.
When Did The Simpsons First Air?
The first appearance of the Simpson family was on April 19, 1987, in a short segment titled Good Night, featured on The Tracey Ullman Show, produced by James L. Brooks.
These early shorts were only about two minutes long. It wasn’t until 1989 that the Fox network decided to turn The Simpsons into a full-fledged half-hour series. The production team—led by Matt Groening, James L. Brooks, and Sam Simon—expanded the show’s universe, introducing unforgettable secondary characters like Moe, Barney, Apu, Principal Skinner, and Krusty the Clown.
The Simpsons officially debuted as its own series on December 17, 1989, with the episode Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire.
The show was an instant hit, quickly capturing the audience’s attention and becoming one of the most successful and iconic television series in history.
Why is April 19th considered Simpsons Day?
This date marks the first-ever airing of the show back in 1987. Thanks to the love and support from fans and viewers around the world, April 19th was officially designated as Simpsons Day to celebrate the beginning of one of the most iconic TV shows of all time. The day was established in 2017 in honor of the show’s 30th anniversary and its lasting impact on pop culture.
The funniest episodes to watch on Simpsons Day
Celebrating Simpsons Day without a proper marathon just wouldn’t be the same. Here’s a Top 5 of classic episodes that will make you laugh again and again:
Top 5 Classic Simpsons episodes
- Homer’s Enemy (Season 8, Episode 23)
This episode introduces Frank Grimes, a hardworking and meticulous man who starts working at the Nuclear Power Plant. He quickly becomes frustrated by Homer’s laziness and incompetence, especially given Homer’s comfortable lifestyle. Their tension escalates until it leads to a dark and unforgettable ending for Grimes.
- You Only Move Twice (Season 8, Episode 2)
Homer gets a new job at the Globex Corporation, led by the charming and secretly villainous Hank Scorpio. The family moves to Cypress Creek, where Homer thrives at work, but the rest of the family struggles to fit in. In the end, they decide to return to Springfield, despite Homer’s success.
- Treehouse of Horror V (Season 6, Episode 6)
This Halloween special features three spooky mini-episodes, including “The Shinning,” a hilarious parody of The Shining. With creepy twists and classic lines, it’s one of the best Halloween-themed episodes in the series.
- 22 Short Films About Springfield (Season 7, Episode 21)
A collection of short, interconnected stories showing a day in the life of Springfield’s residents. Inspired by Pulp Fiction, this unique episode features iconic scenes, especially the legendary “Steamed Hams” segment starring Skinner and Superintendent Chalmers.
- King-Size Homer (Season 7, Episode 7)
Trying to skip the power plant’s exercise program, Homer intentionally gains weight to reach 300 pounds so he can be considered disabled and work from home. At first, everything seems great—but soon, things go sideways, putting the whole plant in danger thanks to his new lifestyle.
5 Perfect Destinations to commemorate Simpsons Day by watching your favorite episodes
1.- Cancun, México
Imagine watching your favorite episodes with your feet in the sand, a donut in one hand, and a cocktail in the other. Cancun is the perfect place to enjoy the sun, the sea… and Homer!
This destination offers some of the best resorts, so we recommend booking in advance. Get from the Cancun Airport to the Hotel Zone with private transportation to start your Simpsons marathon stress-free.
2.- París, France
Imagine watching the episode where the Simpsons visit France, while you’re in a cozy apartment with a view of the Eiffel Tower. In Paris, you can blend art, architecture, and satire in style.
Many Parisian cafés have high-speed Wi-Fi and comfy spots where you can host your own Simpsons-themed night. And why not pair it with a glass of wine and a cheese board worthy of Mr. Burns himself?
3.- New York City, USA
New York has inspired countless Springfield moments—from skyscrapers to the urban chaos Homer knows too well. Walk through Times Square or visit the Empire State Building, then relax at your hotel and binge-watch episodes where Homer takes on the Big Apple.
The city also features themed bars, Simpsons trivia nights, and special screenings at indie theaters on April 19. For true fans, NYC is a living homage to the show.
4.- Tokyo, Japan
Japan is a dreamland for animation lovers. Celebrating The Simpsons Day in Tokyo is the perfect blend of global entertainment and Japanese aesthetics.
Browse anime shops, sip coffee, and munch donuts in themed cafés, and find rare Simpsons merch in specialty stores. Bonus points if you stay in a futuristic capsule hotel—ideal for an all-night marathon with HD screens and every snack imaginable.
5.- Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is all about creativity, art, and great vibes. Spend your day exploring the Sagrada Familia or strolling through Park Güell, and end it with a rooftop Simpsons marathon by the Mediterranean.
Many bars and cafés in the Gothic Quarter offer chill atmospheres, perfect for screening episodes with friends, paired with tapas, craft beers, and endless laughs. If you’re traveling with a group, rent an Airbnb with a projector and plan the ultimate yellow-themed night!
Conclusion: A Show That Shaped Generations Deserves Its Own Day
The Simpsons didn’t just make television history—they became a part of our lives. They’ve kept us company during lazy afternoons, inspired thousands of memes, and offered endless laughs with a touch of social satire.
This April 19, whether you’re at home, on the beach, or somewhere across the globe, take a moment to enjoy your favorite episodes. Watch them alone, with friends, or with family—but don’t forget the heart of the show: laughing at life, and ourselves, with a big yellow smile.
Happy Simpsons Day!