Smokey Bear is now an octogenarian and today, Smokey celebrates eight decades of educating Americans about the role they play in preventing human-caused wildfires.
Smokey Bear emerged from his den during World War II, when fears of incendiary shells led to his emergence as a symbol of fire prevention. Smokey’s “Only You” message has since become part of American culture through thousands of posters, radio ads, TV spots, billboards, and merchandise.
To honor 80 years of Smokey Bear, the USDA Forest Service (USFS), the National Association of State Foresters (NASF), the campaign’s long-standing agency, FCB, and the Ad Council are inviting the public, and a few key influencers, to join Smokey’s birthday celebrations and be part of his wildfire prevention legacy.
Smokey’s image was cemented as a mainstay of American culture by the imagination of FCB, plus the artwork of Rudy Wendelin, and the celebrities that brought their voices to the campaign, including Ray Charles, Stephen Colbert, Betty White, Sam Elliott, and most recently, Brian Tyree Henry, who voiced the latest spot, “Decades.”
The 80th birthday celebration will include influencer and brand collaborations, social media activations, and events such as tree lightings, local appearances, birthday celebrations, and his participation in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, all highlighting his top wildfire prevention tips.
Today, Aug. 9, dozens of influencers, including The Retirement House, Grandma Droniak, and Carol Starr are welcoming Smokey to his 80s through custom social content, with other icons like Mychal Threets, the Bennet Gang, Bill Nye, and Sparky the Fire Dog showing up by amplifying important wildfire prevention education for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
