I’m on a “random holidays” kick, so bear with me… Did you know that June 12 is Superman Day? Superman was first created in 1933 by Jerry Siegel (a writer) and Joe Shuster (an artist). The Man of Steel’s first appearance was in the April 1938 issue of Action Comics #1, and he’s since gone on to become arguably the most iconic superhero in history.
Here’s a fun piece of trivia: did you know that Superman was originally created as a villain? In 1933, Jerry Siegel self-published a story called “The Reign of the Superman,” featuring a mad scientist who takes a homeless vagrant and gives him telepathic capabilities. This “Superman” becomes intoxicated by his newfound power, then kills the mad scientist and begins taking over the world… until the spell wears off and he goes back to being a nobody. Eek! Luckily, Siegal and Shuster teamed up, rewrote the character — and the rest is history.
Today, Superman stands for justice and good — so here are 5 ways you and your kids can celebrate the occasion!
1. Fly!
Go to the top of the Carew Tower to admire the city. Fly a kite. Go to Lunken Playfield. Go to the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Park. Ride a roller coaster at Kings Island! Do something high flying!
2. Study!
Visit the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County to research the Man of Steel — then let your kids explore the Children’s Learning Center!
3. Read the Newspaper!
Celebrate Clark Kent’s newspaper career by grabbing a paper, coffee (for you) and donut (for, um, the kids!).
4. Be Faster than a Speeding Bullet!
Head over to the Loveland Bike Trail and do some speed work! Power walk, run or bike as a family!
5. Do Good!
Visit a nursing home, volunteer at the animal shelter, donate some books — celebrate Superman by doing something Super for the community!
As an added bonus: you’ll also check a few items off your Summer Bucket List.
Happy Superman Day!
ETA: My husband informed me that the Cincinnati Museum Center bears a striking resemblance to the “Super Friends Hall of Justice,” so if you’re feeling extra ambitious, head over there to take a look!
Source: The History Channel.