the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, announced a special one-night-only free event honoring Dav Pilkey’s global phenomenon, Dog Man. The event promises not only entertainment and inspiration but also a chance to make Guinness World Record history.
Set to take place on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025, at The Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend, Indiana, this family-friendly celebration will feature a live performance of Dog Man: The Musical by TWTheatricals, along with exclusive fan experiences. Attendees will receive a signed copy of Dog Man: Big Jim Believes and even have the opportunity to meet Dav Pilkey himself.
The highlight of the evening will be an ambitious attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as a comic book or graphic novel character. Fans — young and old — are encouraged to dress up as Dog Man, the beloved canine superhero whose adventures have inspired millions of readers worldwide.
The current record, held by Salt Lake Comic-Con with 1,784 participants (2015), could soon be history if the Dog Man fandom rises to the occasion.
“I’m humbled and honored that I get to play a part in getting kids excited about books,” said Dav Pilkey, creator of Dog Man and Captain Underpants. “This event is a way to celebrate the heroes behind the scenes—parents, teachers, and librarians—who change lives through the power of reading.”
The record attempt comes amid a landmark year for Pilkey and his creations. In January 2025, the Empire State Building was illuminated in Dog Man colors to celebrate the blockbuster success of DreamWorks’ Dog Man movie, which debuted at the top of the box office.
Adding to the excitement, Scholastic’s “Power Up with Reading” Tour — already completely sold out — and the upcoming Global Dog Man Day celebrations across thousands of schools and libraries aim to further inspire children to embrace reading with joy.
Launched in 2016, Dog Man has become one of the bestselling graphic novel series of all time, with over 70 million copies in print and translations in multiple languages. Known for its humor, heart, and positive themes of kindness, courage, and creativity, the series continues to bridge generations of readers around the world.
As part of Children’s Book Week (November 3–9), Dog Man will also serve as the official anchor of the nation’s longest-running literacy initiative, with thousands of Power Up with Reading events taking place in schools and libraries across the U.S., Canada, and beyond.
“Breaking a Guinness World Record would be the perfect finale to this incredible year,” said a Scholastic spokesperson. “Dog Man has always been about doing good and having fun — this event captures both in a truly historic way.”
With the stage set, costumes ready, and fans eager to unite, December 9th promises to be a “supa epic” night where literacy, laughter, and love of storytelling come together — and history might just be made.
