National Dance Like a Chicken Day (May 14)
Every May 14th, it’s time to flap your wings and shake your tail feathers—because it’s National Dance Like a Chicken Day.
This quirky celebration invites people of all ages to embrace silliness, join in on the classic Chicken Dance, and laugh along with others.
Whether you’re grooving solo or leading a group of partygoers, it’s a moment to let loose and enjoy life’s absurdities. One of the best weird holidays in May.
When is the Holiday?
National Dance Like a Chicken Day lands annually on May 14th, right in the middle of spring—a perfect time to shake off winter and dance in the sunshine.
It’s not tied to a specific event or person, which makes it even more accessible: no prep, no planning, just dance like a chicken whenever and wherever the mood strikes.
Who Invented It?
No one really knows who came up with this fun day. It didn’t start with a presidential proclamation or a Hallmark campaign—this is pure people-powered celebration.
Like many unofficial holidays, it likely began as a grassroots idea, shared at parties, picked up by local radio, and amplified by the internet.
Whoever first decided to dedicate May 14th to this beloved dance probably wanted to give people an excuse to be silly, nostalgic, and a little ridiculous. And honestly, mission accomplished.
The History of the Holiday
The roots of this celebration lie in Europe. In the 1950s, Swiss accordionist Werner Thomas composed a tune called the “Der Ententanz” (The Duck Dance), inspired by the waddling of birds he saw from his restaurant perch.
Over time, it evolved in both music and movement—first becoming a wedding favorite in Germany, then making a splash in North America in the late 1970s.
When the song hit the U.S., it got a new name: The Chicken Dance. With its catchy beat and easy-to-learn moves (beak, wings, tail, clap), it became a staple at weddings, birthday parties, and school events.
Though it was originally meant to mimic a duck, the flapping arms and waddling steps made “chicken” a better fit—and it stuck.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
The Chicken Dance has been translated into over 140 versions worldwide, with slight variations in rhythm and lyrics—but always the same goofy energy.
It’s one of the top three most-played party songs in America, especially at weddings and Oktoberfests.
The largest Chicken Dance on record took place in Cincinnati, Ohio, with more than 43,000 dancers participating at once.
YouTube is full of global takes—you’ll find the dance performed in schools, flash mobs, cruise ships, and even political rallies.
It’s often used in classrooms to teach rhythm and coordination to young children, blending fun with early physical education.
Activities to Celebrate
Throw a Chicken Dance Party. Host a backyard get-together or classroom event where everyone gets to show off their moves. Add in chicken-themed costumes, yellow streamers, and a speaker blasting the classic tune.
Craft a Chicken Mask. Before you dance, have kids make their own chicken masks using paper plates, feathers, and googly eyes. It’s an easy craft that doubles as a dance prop.
Organize a Flash Mob. Grab some friends, choreograph a quick routine, and surprise a local park or plaza. Even better—record it for social media and challenge others to outdo your performance.
Dance Marathon for a Cause. See who can keep the Chicken Dance going the longest! Turn it into a fundraiser by having sponsors pledge donations based on how long participants last.
Social Media Costume Contest. Encourage followers to share their best chicken-themed dance videos using a unique hashtag like #CluckAndSpin. Offer prizes for creativity, costume, or best group performance.
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Links to Resources
Chicken activities for preschoolers – A fun roundup of crafts, games, and worksheets that tie in perfectly with the theme. Great for circle time or at-home enrichment.
Chicken Costume for Kids – Whether you’re planning a school event, a birthday bash, or a flash mob, this costume brings instant fun. Fluffy feathers and all.
Chicken Dance Step-by-Step – A YouTube walk-through that makes teaching the moves simple. Ideal for teachers, party hosts, or just confused grown-ups.
Printable Chicken Mask Template – Just print, cut, and color. This easy craft is perfect for preschoolers, party stations, or themed lessons.
Chicken Dance Music – Stream or save the classic tune so you’re never without it. Great for parties, classrooms, or that unexpected dance break in the living room.
Related Holidays
If you love the joyful chaos of this weird holiday, you might also enjoy these lighthearted celebrations that bring people together with laughter, music, or food:
National Pizza Party Day (Third Friday in May) – Just a few days after all that flapping and clapping, gather your flock again for slices and smiles. Perfect follow-up fun for dance-loving foodies.
National Poultry Day (March 19) – A nod to our feathered friends of all kinds. While this day focuses more on appreciation (and cuisine), it’s a great excuse to break out a little extra Chicken Dance flair.
National Beach Party Day (August 7) – Swap the chicken feathers for beach towels, but keep the party energy going. Imagine dancing the Chicken Dance in the sand—ridiculous, yes. Memorable, definitely.
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