Zip Code Day

Zip Code Day is celebrated every July 1st. Since the late 1960s, post offices have used zip codes to designate different regions of the United States. An advertising campaign was launched featuring Mr. Zip as the mascot, encouraging people to use the new codes. Over 72,000,000 postcards were distributed as part of the campaign to inform residents of their new zip codes.

History

Postcodes now seem to be a normal part of life, but this was not always the case. In the past, they did not exist at all. In England, London and Liverpool were the first cities to be divided into specific sectors with postcodes. In the 1920s, towards the end of the First World War, this system began spreading to other countries. In some nations, a postal code is also referred to as a PIN. However, in places like Ghana, the Bahamas, Yemen, Botswana, Fiji, and others, this system has not gained widespread adoption.

The division of the United States into postal zones and the introduction of postal codes began in the 1960s. This was implemented to expedite home mail delivery, as it was observed that letters and parcels reached their destinations faster when postal codes were included alongside the address.

Today, the use of the postal code system extends beyond its original purpose. It is now utilized for geographical statistics, internet mail routing, credit card authorization, identification of legislative districts, workplace locations, insurance, and more. The term “zip code” was registered by the United States Postal Service, and starting in 1967, the system became mandatory for double-deck mailboxes.

Interesting Facts

• The inventor of the postal code system was Robert A. Moon, a postal clerk with 20 years of experience.
• Zip in “zip code” stands for “Zone Improvement Plan.”
• Mr. Zip, the mascot, was initially designed for Chase Manhattan Bank in the 1950s. AT&T later purchased the design and used it in their campaign.

How to Take Part

Zip Code Day is best celebrated with family and friends. To honor this unofficial holiday, you can bake a cake featuring your own postal code in icing or chocolate. Additionally, you can collaborate with your local government to organize a community event centered around your region’s zip code. Such celebrations could include competitions, parades, entertainment, baking contests, and more.

When is Zip Code Day in 2025?

Zip Code Day is associated with the anticipation of happiness and joy. It is observed on July 1st each year.

Observations