National Chicken Dance Day

Young children in feathered boas and chicken hats, dancing together in a lively barnyard setting with hay bales and a big red barn in the background.. — National chicken dance day illustration

Welcome, party animals! Get ready to shake your tail feathers and flap your wings, because it's National Chicken Dance Day! This clucky celebration is all about embracing your inner chicken and breaking out into a fun and silly dance. So put on your feathered boas and get ready to strut your stuff!

When is Chicken Dance Day?

It's national chicken dance day on the 14th May.

Feathered Fun: The Internet History of National Chicken Dance Day

Ever wondered how this poultry-themed celebration made its way into the grand tapestry of national days? Well, let me enlighten you with some internet history!

According to our extensive research, the origins of National Chicken Dance Day can be traced back to a popular song and dance that originated in Switzerland. The Chicken Dance, also known as the Chicken Song or Der Ententanz (The Duck Dance), was composed in the 1950s by Swiss musician Werner Thomas. It started gaining international popularity in the 1980s and eventually became a go-to dance at weddings, parties, and sporting events. It's kind of like the Macarena, but with way more squawking!

Now, let's fast-forward to the internet era. National Chicken Dance Day started gaining recognition online around 2005, with people sharing videos of their hilarious chicken dance moves on social media platforms like YouTube. It quickly spread like wildfire, and soon enough, May 14th became the unofficial holiday to showcase your best chicken impression.

So why May 14th, you ask? Well, it's believed that this date was chosen because it's the birthday of Werner Thomas, the creator of the Chicken Dance. What better way to honor the man behind the clucking madness than by dedicating a whole day to his creation?

As National Chicken Dance Day gained more traction on the internet, various organizations and communities started hosting chicken dance flash mobs and competitions. It became a way for people to let loose, have fun, and celebrate their love for all things chickeny.

Today, you can join in on the feathery festivity by gathering your friends and loved ones (both human and feathered) and shaking your tail feathers to the Chicken Dance. Whether you're at a wedding, a party, or just in your living room with your pet rooster, let the chicken within you come alive!

History behind the term 'Chicken Dance'

1950

Origin of a Swiss Folk Dance

The history of the term 'chicken dance' can be traced back to the 1950s when a Swiss folk dance called the 'Der Ententanz' (The Duck Dance) was created. This joyful dance involved participants imitating the movements of ducks, such as flapping their arms like wings and waddling from side to side. The dance gained popularity at festivals and weddings in Switzerland, bringing laughter and entertainment to the crowd.

1950

Bavarian Folk Dance Origins

The term 'chicken dance' originated in the 1950s and can be traced back to Bavaria, a southern state in Germany. It was derived from a traditional Bavarian folk dance known as the 'Chicken Dance' or 'Der Ententanz' in German. This dance was popularized by Swiss accordionist Werner Thomas in the late 1950s and eventually became a hit in various countries.

1970

Reinterpretation as the 'Chicken Dance'

In the 1970s, the 'Der Ententanz' made its way across the Atlantic to the United States. Here, it underwent a reinterpretation and came to be known as the 'Chicken Dance.' The dance steps remained similar, but the imagery shifted from ducks to chickens, perhaps due to the familiarity of chickens in American culture. The 'Chicken Dance' quickly gained popularity at events and parties, becoming a lighthearted and amusing addition to celebrations.

1970

International Popularity

In the 1970s, the 'Chicken Dance' gained international popularity and became a staple at weddings, parties, and events around the world. The catchy melody and simple choreography of the dance made it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. The dance involves flapping arms like wings, wiggling hips, and imitating chicken-like movements, making it a fun and lighthearted group activity.

1981

International Success at Oktoberfest

The term 'chicken dance' experienced a surge in popularity during the 1981 Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. A German band called The Bavarians incorporated the 'Chicken Dance' into their performances, accompanying the dance with a catchy, accordion-driven polka tune. The infectious combination of music and dance spread like wildfire, captivating festival-goers and inspiring them to join the fun. As a result, the 'Chicken Dance' became an iconic part of Oktoberfest celebrations and gained international recognition.

1980

Cultural Phenomenon

By the 1980s, the 'Chicken Dance' had become a cultural phenomenon. It was often performed during sporting events, particularly ice hockey games, where fans would participate in the dance during intermissions. The dance's infectious energy and community-building nature made it a favorite among crowds, fostering a sense of camaraderie and adding an element of entertainment to the sports experience.

1990

Pop Culture References

Throughout the 1990s, the 'Chicken Dance' made appearances in various pop culture references, further solidifying its place in popular consciousness. It was featured in television shows, films, and even children's cartoons, cementing its status as a recognizable and beloved dance. This widespread exposure contributed to the continuing popularity of the term 'chicken dance' and its association with the lively and festive activity.

1994

Record-Breaking Chicken Dance

On May 14, 1994, the small town of Beechwood, Wisconsin, hosted a massive gathering to attempt a record-breaking 'Chicken Dance.' Over 48,000 people, both locals and visitors, joined in the dance, surpassing the previous world record of 21,742 participants. This event brought the 'Chicken Dance' into the spotlight once again, demonstrating its enduring popularity and the enthusiasm it generated among people of all ages.

Late 20th Century - Present

Popularity in Pop Culture and Social Events

In the late 20th century and continuing into the present day, the term 'chicken dance' has become deeply ingrained in pop culture and social events. It is often played at weddings, birthday parties, and various festive gatherings, where people joyfully participate and follow the amusing dance moves. The 'Chicken Dance' has also made appearances in movies, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture as a symbol of lighthearted fun and togetherness.

Present

Global Celebration

Today, the 'chicken dance' continues to be a global celebration of joy and togetherness. It is often performed at weddings, parties, and special events, encouraging people from different cultures to come together and embrace the joyous spirit of dance. The term 'chicken dance' has become synonymous with the lively and energetic group dance, carrying a legacy of fun and merriment that has transcended borders and generations.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world record for the largest chicken dance took place in 2019 at the Stuttgart Cannaught Castle Fest in Germany? A whopping 5,175 people flapped their wings and clucked their hearts out, setting a new clucking record!