International Dalek Remembrance Day
Getting hyped and cheering for those iconic, menacing metal menaces from another galaxy who always keep the Doctor on their toes.
“Exterminate! Exterminate!” If you’re a fan of Doctor Who these words will send you into a quick panic attack, or have you running to the TV to see the latest episode.
Doctor Who has been with us for a very long time – and the Daleks are his longest ongoing and most feared enemy, ultimately responsible for the destruction of Gallifrey in the Time War.
How to Celebrate International Dalek Remembrance Day
There are a number of ways to celebrate International Dalek Remembrance Day, so check out a few of these:
Make a Dalek Christmas Tree
Arguably one of the most popular ways to celebrate this day, due to the season it falls in, is decorating your Christmas Tree as a Dalek.
After all, it nearly has the appropriate shape and you’re already draping it with ornaments and lights, with a little creativity it’s a simple thing to work it around to being a Dalek!
Watch a Doctor Who Marathon
Another popular way to celebrate it is to start a Doctor Who marathon, it’s always just a few days until the Christmas day premier episode, and you can watch them all again in the time you have between International Dalek Remembrance Day and the Christmas Premier.
Enjoy Some Dalek Themed Snacks
If you’re going to do that, you might as well get together and enjoy Doctor Who inspired snacks to enjoy around the glowing light of your TV.
It’s the season for making cookies, so why not make Dalek Sugar cookies and enjoy snacking on them while you enjoy the show! International Dalek Remembrance Day is a great opportunity to really embrace your Whovian nature, so get out there and “Exterminate!” something!
History of International Dalek Remembrance Day
International Dalek Remembrance Day is a recognition of the first time that the Daleks appeared on Doctor Who, on December 21, 1963.
It’s been celebrated as the day that the most instantly recognizable aspect of the show, outside of the TARDIS itself, came into existence.
Most people don’t know this, but the Dalek’s were inspired by and fashioned after the Nazi’s of Third Reich Germany.
They’re strong believers that everything not a Dalek is an inferior race, and are fashioned out to be the master race by their creator Davros.
While they’re terrifying to be sure, and nearly indestructible, their personality leads one to believe that they’re little more than “toddlers in perpetual hissy fits” who absolutely go violently insane when they’re will or ambition is thwarted.
Dalek’s are a very common reference in Whovian culture, and specifically in English culture where the show originated.
But these days Whovians are everywhere, and references to the Dalek’s will be recognized by anyone who’s been a fan.
International Dalek Remembrance Day FAQs
Why were the Daleks designed without the ability to climb stairs?
Originally, Daleks couldn’t ascend stairs, reflecting 1960s production limitations.
This trait became a running joke until the 1988 episode “Remembrance of the Daleks,” where they were shown levitating to overcome this obstacle.
How did the Daleks influence the English language?
The term “Dalek” entered the Oxford English Dictionary, describing someone as heartless or mechanical, highlighting their cultural impact beyond television.
What inspired the creation of the Daleks?
Terry Nation, the creator, drew inspiration from the Nazis, designing the Daleks as emotionless beings intent on universal domination, mirroring totalitarian regimes.
How did “Dalekmania” manifest in the 1960s?
Following their debut, Daleks sparked “Dalekmania” in Britain, leading to a surge in Dalek-themed merchandise, comics, and even music, embedding them deeply in popular culture.
What role did Davros play in Dalek history?
Davros, introduced later in the series, is the Kaled scientist who created the Daleks, adding depth to their backstory and exploring themes of scientific ethics and morality.
How have Daleks been portrayed in other media?
Beyond “Doctor Who,” Daleks have appeared in films, audio dramas, and literature, showcasing their versatility and enduring appeal across various storytelling mediums.
What are some unique ways fans celebrate Dalek Remembrance Day?
Fans engage in activities like hosting “Doctor Who” marathons, creating Dalek-themed crafts, and sharing fan art, fostering a sense of community and shared enthusiasm.
What are some common misconceptions about the Daleks?
A prevalent myth is that Daleks are purely robotic; however, they are organic beings encased in mechanical shells, adding complexity to their characterization.
How have Daleks evolved in the series over time?
Daleks have undergone design and capability enhancements, such as gaining the ability to hover, reflecting advancements in special effects and storytelling ambitions.
What is the significance of the Daleks’ catchphrase “Exterminate!”?
The phrase “Exterminate!” epitomizes the Daleks’ ruthless nature and has become a hallmark of their identity, symbolizing their relentless pursuit of extermination.
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