National Dance Like a Chicken Day (May 14)

One weird holiday on May 14 is National Dance Like a Chicken Day. Check out the other weird May holidays!

In the tapestry of quirky and joyous holidays that span the calendar year, there lies a gem of whimsical celebration – National Dance Like a Chicken Day. Celebrated annually on May 14th, this day is dedicated to letting loose, embracing silliness, and joining in a dance known the world over: the Chicken Dance.

This day is a testament to the infectious nature of dance, a reminder of the joys of communal activities, and a nod to the humorous side of traditions. In exploring the origins, cultural significance, and ways to celebrate National Dance Like a Chicken Day, we unwrap layers of history, humor, and harmony that resonate with people across ages and borders.

When is National Dance Like a Chicken Day?

National Dance Like a Chicken Day takes place every year on May 14th.

Who Invented National Dance Like a Chicken Day?

The exact originator of National Dance Like a Chicken Day is something of a mystery, as is the case with many whimsical or light-hearted observances. Unlike traditional holidays that have well-documented histories and origins, many modern celebratory days, especially those that have emerged from popular culture or viral trends, often have unclear beginnings.

With National Dance Like a Chicken Day, it is not known who specifically invented it or decided that May 14 should be the day to flap our arms and strut like chickens. What is clear, however, is that the day has become a fixture in the list of unofficial holidays celebrated by people looking for a reason to smile, have fun, and perhaps relive moments from joyful events such as weddings, parties, and community gatherings where the Chicken Dance often makes an appearance.

It’s possible that the day was popularized by a radio station, a promotional event, or a group of enthusiasts who cherished the dance and wanted to share it more broadly. Sometimes, these holidays gain momentum when they are added to calendars of events or when social media campaigns catch the public’s eye and encourage widespread participation.

Although the founder of National Dance Like a Chicken Day remains unknown, the spirit of the day aligns perfectly with the essence of the Chicken Dance itself—an invitation to cast aside worries, to be a little silly, and to enjoy a moment of communal joy. It’s the universal appeal of the Chicken Dance and its ability to unite people in laughter and dance that has sustained the popularity of this unique observance.

Origins of the Chicken Dance

To understand National Dance Like a Chicken Day, one must first become acquainted with the Chicken Dance itself. The dance, known originally as the “Duck Dance,” was composed by Swiss accordion player Werner Thomas in the 1950s.

Thomas worked in the hospitality industry and often saw how music brought people together. He observed the quirky movements of ducks and chickens, later translating these movements into a playful dance sequence. The dance was primarily embraced in Europe as an Oktoberfest staple before it crossed oceans and gained international recognition.

The “Duck Dance” took the form we now recognize when it arrived in the United States in the 1970s. It was then that the name transitioned to the “Chicken Dance” to match the beak, wing, and tail movements of the dance steps. Accompanied by a catchy tune, which Thomas also composed, the Chicken Dance quickly became a staple at weddings, school functions, and various festivities.

How Do You Dance the Chicken Dance?

The Chicken Dance is known for its simplicity and is one of the few dances almost anyone can participate in regardless of age or dancing skill. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do the Chicken Dance, which is sure to be a hit at any party or National Dance Like a Chicken Day celebration:

Step 1: Start with the Chicken Beak: Place your hands in front of your face, palms facing each other, and thumbs pointing down. Open and close your hands four times to mimic the opening and closing of a chicken’s beak.

Step 2: Do the Chicken Wings: Place your thumbs in your armpits and flap your elbows up and down, like wings. Again, do this four times to stay in rhythm with the music.

Step 3: Make the Chicken Tail: With your arms and elbows pulled back, like you are still in the wing position, wiggle your hips and butt four times to resemble the shaking of a chicken’s tail feathers.

Step 4: Clap Four Times: After wiggling, straighten up and clap your hands four times quickly in sync with the tune.

Step 5: Get Moving: Now it’s time to get those chicken legs moving. You can either spin around in a circle or move around the room. Most dancers will do this for about eight counts, but you can adjust according to the length of the musical interlude.

Step 6: Repeat: Go back to the beak movement and repeat the sequence from the top.

Here is a video that shows the basic steps:

The Chicken Dance is usually accompanied by a very catchy, accordion-based tune, which starts slow and speeds up, causing the dancers to increase their pace—which adds to the hilarity and fun of the dance.

There are no strict rules about the Chicken Dance, and many people add their own variations or additional silly movements to the routine. The primary goal is to have fun and enjoy the playful nature of the dance.

Often times, the during the according slower swing music, people will link arms with one another and spin in circles together, like in this video:

During National Dance Like a Chicken Day, people are encouraged to join in on this dance, whether in groups, flash mobs, or even solo performances. It’s a day to embrace the joy and silliness that the Chicken Dance is all about.

Cultural Significance and Impact

The Chicken Dance and the day dedicated to it carry more cultural significance than one might assume for such a lighthearted tradition. Dance has always been a vital part of human culture, serving as a medium for expressing joy, sorrow, and everything in between. National Dance Like a Chicken Day contributes to this rich cultural tapestry by promoting a sense of unity and collective experience through dance.

This day serves as a reminder that laughter and play are universal languages. The Chicken Dance’s simple moves allow people of all ages and abilities to participate, breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity. This aligns with the broader cultural significance of dance as an art form that transcends words and can be a powerful tool for social bonding and community-building.

In a fast-paced, often serious world, National Dance Like a Chicken Day serves as a necessary pause, a day dedicated to unadulterated fun. This celebration can be a stress reliever, a way to encourage creativity, and a platform for social interaction. Moreover, the Chicken Dance’s presence at social gatherings, particularly at weddings, showcases its role in collective celebrations of love and happiness.

Celebrating National Dance Like a Chicken Day

There are countless ways to celebrate National Dance Like a Chicken Day, ranging from the traditional to the creative. Here are a few suggestions to make the most of this eccentric holiday.

Organize a Dance Event for Children or Adults

The most straightforward way to celebrate is to organize a Chicken Dance event. This can be done in schools, community centers, or even at the workplace. Encourage participants to dress up in chicken costumes or wear yellow and red to add to the festive atmosphere. Such events can also serve as fundraisers for local charities, combining fun with philanthropy.

Your child might have fun making this adorable chicken mask before you teach them how to dance the chicken dance! Every kid will want to dance like a chicken.

Then for a delicious treat, you could serve these adorable egg-shaped cookies. Or if it’s a small gathering at your home with children, let them decorate the eggs themselves!

Flash Mob Extravaganza

Flash mobs have a way of captivating audiences and spreading joy. Organize a Chicken Dance flash mob in a public place, such as a mall or park. The sudden outbreak of music and dance is sure to draw attention and perhaps encourage bystanders to join in the fun, creating a ripple effect of positivity and laughter.

Chicken Dance Marathon

For the more competitive spirits, a Chicken Dance marathon could be a fun challenge. This can involve continuous dancing to see who lasts the longest, with participants raising money for a cause based on how long they dance. This activity not only celebrates the day but also promotes physical activity and endurance in a fun and engaging way.

Educational Activities

Schools can use National Dance Like a Chicken Day as an educational opportunity, teaching students about the dance’s origins and cultural impact. It can also be an excellent chance for music and dance education, helping children to learn about rhythm, coordination, and cultural expressions through movement.

You could also go on an egg hunt, similar to an Easter egg hunt or a Halloween egg hunt, and fill the eggs with non-candy items.

Social Media Contests

In the digital age, celebrating can also take place on social media platforms. Encourage people to share videos of their best Chicken Dance moves, perhaps in unusual locations or with creative costumes. Hashtags can track participation, and the best

receive recognition or prizes. This virtual celebration not only increases the day’s visibility but also allows for a broader participation, including those who may not be able to attend a physical event.

Cooking and Cuisine

A creative twist on the day might include chicken-themed cuisine. Restaurants and families can concoct special recipes for the occasion, such as chicken-shaped cookies, chicken-wing feasts, or even cakes decorated to look like a chicken. This can be a fun way to engage people who might be more inclined towards culinary arts than dancing.

You can get a lot of ideas for recipes on our post for National Poultry Day (March 19). Or you might like to try any of these egg or chicken related recipes:

Charity and Community Service

A unique and heartwarming way to honor National Dance Like a Chicken Day is to bring the dance to those who might need a reason to smile. Organizing visits to hospitals, nursing homes, or children’s homes with volunteers dressed in chicken costumes doing the dance can brighten the day for many. Additionally, participating in charity works, like collecting food for food banks or raising funds for animal shelters, can add a layer of purpose to the festivities.

Workplace Wellness

Employers can use National Dance Like a Chicken Day as an opportunity to inject some fun into the workplace. A short dance break where employees are encouraged to stand up and perform the Chicken Dance can be a refreshing change of pace. This can improve morale, promote team building, and provide a much-needed physical activity break.

Incorporating Tradition and Heritage

For those with a passion for history and tradition, the day can be a springboard for exploring the cultural heritage of dances from around the world. One might delve into the significance of animal-themed dances in various cultures and the role they play in storytelling and celebration. This approach not only broadens the scope of the day but also enriches the understanding of dance as a form of cultural expression.

Family and Friends Gathering

Gather friends and family for a backyard barbecue or picnic with the Chicken Dance as a central theme. Encourage guests to engage in dance-offs, enjoy themed games, and share stories of the silliest dances they know. It’s a perfect way to bond, create new memories, and enjoy the lighter side of life.

The Global Dance

In today’s interconnected world, National Dance Like a Chicken Day has the potential to reach a global audience. Communities around the world can share their own versions of the Chicken Dance, showcasing how a simple dance can be interpreted through various cultural lenses. This global dance-off could be a beautiful reminder of our shared humanity and the universal language of laughter and dance.

Reflection and Renewal

While National Dance Like a Chicken Day is inherently light-hearted, it can also serve as a time for reflection and renewal. It can be a day to appreciate the simple joys in life, to let go of inhibitions, and to embrace the communal spirit of togetherness. In a way, the dance is a dance of freedom—a freedom from self-consciousness, a freedom to be joyful, and a freedom to connect with others.

National Dance Like a Chicken Day may not be marked with the solemnity of national holidays or the reverence of religious observances, but it holds a special place in the calendar of celebrations. It is a day that encourages us to take a step back from the rigors of daily life and engage in something purely for the joy of it. In its own peculiar way, it speaks to the heart of what it means to be part of a community, to share in a collective experience that transcends age, language, and culture.

As May 14th approaches each year, the flutter of chicken wings, the clapping of hands, and the laughter that accompanies the Chicken Dance can be heard in various corners of the world. National Dance Like a Chicken Day is a testament to the power of dance to unite and the enduring human spirit that finds delight in the communal celebration of the absurd and the playful.

So, come next May 14th, no matter where you are or who you’re with, remember to fluff up your feathers, kick out your legs, and dance—like a chicken.

Pin it!

Share this post about National Dance Like a Chicken Day on Pinterest!