Since November 23, 1963, Doctor Who has been running for 39 seasons with over 800 episodes, not to mention a dozen companions and various audiobooks and books.
Fans have celebrated its anniversary yearly by binge-watching, reading books, or visiting Doctor Who landmarks for short trips.
But for me, organizing a Doctor Who gathering among my fellow fans is my top favorite.
Here's a Doctor Who Day guide if you're new to the fandom and want to share the fun with your friends and family.
A Comprehensive Guide On Doctor Who Day
Doctor Who Day, celebrated on November 23, is a fan-driven holiday dedicated to the iconic and longest-running sci-fi series—Doctor Who.
It's a day filled with excitement, nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for the Doctor and his companions' journey.
As an organizer and avid fan, it is one of the most exciting days of the year for me and a good get-together event during the holiday season.
What's Doctor Who Day?
Doctor Who Day is a tribute to the show's debut on November 23, 1963. This date marks the beginning of a legendary journey that spanned six decades, constantly garnering new viewers.
Fans worldwide would often binge-watch their favorite parts during this day, while some would plan for various events and activities.
For events, I usually prepared Doctor Who collectibles and gifts for those who attended and participated in games.
Read: Our Favorite Doctor Who Gifts
How Do You Celebrate It?
There are multiple ways to celebrate Doctor Who Day. Usually, I would advise my clients to binge-watch their favorite Doctor Adventures because that's how I do it every year.
How about rewatching the "Father's Day" and "Human Nature" episodes? Short stories released by Titan Comics, Penguin Random House, Big Finish, and BBC Audio are also available.
But aside from that, planning short trips to Doctor Who landmarks would also be a fantastic celebration. It is the best way to relive your favorite scenes and adventures, so why not go to the Post Office Tower or the Westminster Bridge?
Why Is Nov 23 Doctor Who Day?
November 23 is Doctor Who Day because it is the anniversary of the show's first-ever episode, released in 1963.
The first episode title is "An Unearthly Child," starring William Hartnell as a time-traveling alien and the first Doctor.
His companions were portrayed by Carole Ann Ford, William Russell, and Jacqueline Hill.
Why Is TARDIS Day Celebrated?
There are various reasons why fans celebrate TARDIS (Time and Relative Dimension in Space) Day or Doctor Who Day each year. It could be the hair, the gadgets, the social commentary, the villains, the action, or the thrill of traveling through time and space.
This show started as an educational TV program and later focused on sci-fi stories rather than history.
Who Celebrates This Special Day?
Whovians, or the Doctor Who fandom, are the ones who celebrate this special day every November. Anniversaries like this year's 60th would have special releases like Doctor Who: Four from Doom's Day by Darren Jones.
It becomes more special if you can celebrate this classic series with your whole family, as we do at home every anniversary.
It was aired first in 1963, was rebooted in 2005, and is still ongoing. So, it is not surprising that the fandom unites generations of sci-fi fans all over the world.
What To Do On Doctor Who Day?
Dress Up & Party
Doctor Who is composed of many characters you may want to cosplay this Halloween or Doctor Who day. You can cosplay any character, from Sarah Jane Smith and Captain Jack Harkness to Rose Tyler or even the Time Lord himself.
How about going for the quirky Fourth Doctor (Tom Baker) or the charming and romantic Eighth Doctor (Paul McGann)?
Watch & Chill
With over 800 episodes, there are some Doctor Who episodes that you will surely want to watch again for the first time. Well, we can only settle on rewatching certain episodes like Journey's End (Season 4), The Eleventh Hour (Season 5), Hell Bent (Season 9), and The Impossible Astronaut (Season 6).
The Husbands of River Song, a Christmas special by Steven Moffat, would be suitable this holiday season.
Reading books is also an excellent way to chill and relax. Why not read Extraction Point by MG Harris, featuring the Second and Ninth Doctors?
Gather Doctor Who Fans & Discuss
Another fantastic way to celebrate Doctor Who Day is by organizing an event or casual gathering among fellow fans. The War Games (introduction of Time Lords), Stolen Earth, and The Doctor Dances would have made fun conversation starters.
You can also discuss audiobooks like The Howling Wolves of Xan-Phear by Simon Clark, Dawn of an Everlasting Peace, and The War Doctor Begins.
Among my favorite discussions is the difference between the past Doctors like the first of the reboot, 9th Doctor (Christopher Eccleston), and the awkward Eleventh Doctor (Matt Smith).
Doctor Who: Lost in Time mobile game would be a good pastime.
FAQs
In what order should I watch Doctor Who?
You can watch Doctor Who in chronological order from its first release in 1963 until the latest release in 2022. Nevertheless, you can also start in its revival in 2005, the Ninth Doctor, as your starting point [1].
What is the longest episode of Doctor Who?
The longest episode of Doctor Who is "The Five Doctors," with a 90:23 run-time, released in November 1983. Most Doctor Who reboot episodes have an average of 50-minute run time.
Is David Tennant coming back to Doctor Who?
Yes, David Tennant is coming back to Doctor Who for the 60th anniversary of the series. Tennant played the 10th Doctor in 2005 and returned to the role in "The Day of the Doctor" in 2013 for the series' 50th anniversary [2].
His comeback reunites him with his companion, Donna Noble, played by Catherine Tate.
Who is the new Doctor Who 2023?
The new Doctor in 2023 is David Tennant, who also played the role of the tenth Doctor. It is a 60th anniversary special with three episodes where Tennant would also portray the 14th Doctor.
Ncuti Gatwa will be the 15th Doctor for the next season.
Key Takeaways
Doctor Who Day is the most-awaited celebration for Whovians, where fans from all over the world can gather and celebrate their love for the longest-running sci-fi TV show.
So, if you're ready for an incredible adventure through time and space, you'd better have this Doctor Who: Companions Companion Hardcover Book. It is the ultimate companion guide with tips and hints compiled into a 176-page book.
For more Doctor Who Merchandise, visit our store and ensure you have everything you need for a memorable Doctor Who Day. We offer free delivery within the US (except Hawaii and Alaska).
References:
- https://www.cnet.com/culture/watch-doctor-who-viewing-guide-perfect-order/
- https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/pictures/doctor-who-2023-david-tennant-returns-everything-to-know/
