Stamps celebrating 'SpongeBob SquarePants' debut in Times Square

Christy Martinez
Aug 1
2 min read

Are You Ready Kids? From a Pineapple Under the Sea to Your Mailbox

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Postal Service today issued stamps celebrating Nickelodeon's animated children's television show "SpongeBob SquarePants" in New York City's Times Square.

Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS who designed the stamps using artwork provided by Nickelodeon, signed autographs for customers purchasing the stamps.

Since its debut on July 17, 1999, Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants" animated children's show has struck a chord with audiences of all ages. Its colorful characters, zany humor and memorable catchphrases have captured the hearts of both children and adults. The show's unique blend of humor, wit and absurdity has made it one of the most watched cartoons in history.

The roots of "SpongeBob SquarePants" can be traced to Stephen Hillenburg, a marine biologist and animator love of marine life whose scientific and artistic passions converged to create the underwater world of Bikini Bottom. His initial idea came in the form of an educational comic book he created while working at a marine sciences center in Southern California. "The Intertidal Zone" featured anthropomorphic sea creatures, including a sponge, living in an underwater town. This concept later served as the foundation for the show's unique setting and characters.

"SpongeBob SquarePants" quickly became a hit, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. In addition to its many catchphrases and memorable moments, the show's merchandise became a staple of the early 2000s. From action figures and clothing to video games and lunchboxes, "SpongeBob SquarePants" merchandise flooded the market, solidifying the show's status as a cultural fixture. In 2004, the show made the leap to the big screen with "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie," which received critical acclaim, furthering the franchise's success.

Over the years, the show continued to evolve while staying true to its core charm. It expanded its universe with the introduction of new characters and explored different themes and storylines, while maintaining its creative energy and resonating with audiences. Movie sequels followed, including "The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water" (2015) and "The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run" (2020), with a fourth theatrical release, "The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants," slated to hit theaters later this year.

The Postal Service's stamp program strives to appeal to a wide audience, both young and old, and is excited to bring these fun stamps to the American public. SpongeBob is widely considered nostalgic for many viewers evoking positive memories and feelings. USPS anticipates these stamps will provide the same positive feeling for senders and receivers alike.

The Forever stamps are available at Post Office locations nationwide and online at usps.com/shopstamps.

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