Celebrate Mario Day with fun events around the Shreveport-Bossier area

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Since 2016, Nintendo has officially recognized March 10 as “Mario Day” being that the presentation of “MAR 10” resembles the word “Mario.”

Nintendo’s iconic mascot got his start in 1981’s “Donkey Kong” arcade game as the player character known simply as “Jumpman” at the time. Since then, the Mario franchise has become the bestselling video game franchise of all time, broke the record for highest grossing film based on a video game, and has received its own themed area at Universal Studios.

It’s safe to say that Mario is doing pretty well after all these years as his popularity continues to grow. So too does the annual celebration of the character and its history. Fan events, sales on Mario-themed products, or playing one of the hundreds of Mario video games with friends tend to be staples of Mario Day.

This year, the Shreveport-Bossier area is celebrating with local events for fans of all ages.

The Shreve Memorial Library will host an interactive Mario celebration with crafts and games today from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at their Atkins Branch, 3704 Greenwood Road in Shreveport.

Game Warriors Gamer Haven is hosting a Mario Day Party that will feature snacks and drinks, Mario-themed games and prizes, photo ops with Mario characters, and classic Super Mario games that guests can play together from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Game Warriors Gamer Haven, 814 Constable St in Minden.

“Whether you’re a classic NES Mario fan or love racing in Mario Kart, this is a night you don’t want to miss!” said Game Warriors Gamer Haven in a post. “Bring your friends, wear your best Mario-themed gear, and get ready for a power-up of fun!”