MASCOT

A mascot is a symbolic figure used to represent a group, brand, event, or organization. It serves to personify identity, foster team spirit, and engage audiences through branding, marketing, and public appearances. Mascots can be animals, characters, objects, or people in costumes, and they often appear at games, parades, schools, and promotional events to entertain and galvanize supporters.

The term mascot derives from French mascotte, meaning a talisman or lucky charm. Its use in English-speaking contexts became common in the 19th and 20th centuries as organizations adopted visual symbols to stand for themselves and connect with fans, customers, or students.

Mascots come in several forms. Living mascots are real animals or people who serve as the symbol for a team or institution. Costumed mascots are performers who wear a character suit and perform during events and broadcasts. Corporate mascots are brand characters created for marketing and advertising, such as the Michelin Man or the Aflac Duck. Virtual mascots and digital avatars are increasingly used in online media, video games, and social platforms to extend reach and consistency of branding.

In addition to entertainment, mascots play a substantial role in branding and fan engagement. They help create a recognizable identity, support fundraising and community outreach, and drive merchandise sales. Mascots also contribute to event experience by facilitating interaction, storytelling, and nostalgia.

Ethical and practical considerations include animal welfare for live mascots, safety for performers, cultural sensitivity, copyright and licensing, and the potential for negative publicity if a mascot’s image becomes controversial or outdated. Some organizations retire or redesign mascots to align with evolving values and audiences.

Examples of well-known mascots include corporate characters like the Michelin Man and the Aflac Duck, as well as sports mascots such as Gritty, among others.