A mascot is a character, animal, or symbol that represents a team, school, organization, or event and helps build spirit and identity. The Chicago Bulls have a mascot named Benny the Bull who performs at games and gets fans excited. Many schools have mascots like wildcats, eagles, or bulldogs that appear on uniforms and banners. The Olympic Games create special mascots for each host city.

Mascots often dress in costumes and perform at events, leading cheers and entertaining crowds. They give people something to rally around and cheer for together. A good mascot becomes part of a team's identity: fans wear mascot T-shirts, kids want mascot plushies, and everyone knows what the mascot stands for.

The word comes from a French term meaning “lucky charm,” and mascots still carry that meaning. Teams believe their mascot brings good fortune and energy. When you see your school mascot at a pep rally or game, it reminds everyone they're part of something bigger than themselves, united by shared pride and enthusiasm.