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Monkey Around Day

Let loose and have some fun on Monkey Around Day - swing from the trees, play pranks, and embrace your inner monkey!

Sunday

June 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 14

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFun

SUBCATEGORYSilly

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to let out your inner child and embrace your silly side, because June 14 is Monkey Around Day! This playful holiday was created as a way to encourage people to take a break from their busy lives and just have some fun. Monkeys are known for their mischievous and energetic nature, making them the perfect symbol for this day. So why not gather your friends and family for a day of monkeying around? From playing games to pulling pranks, there are endless ways to celebrate this lighthearted occasion. Let's go bananas and make some unforgettable memories on Monkey Around Day!

TIMELINE

Monkey Around Day Timeline

Monkey as Symbol of Play

In 1842, Charles Darwin documented the playful behavior of monkeys during his voyage on the Beagle, making monkeys a symbol of fun and mischief for humans.

Mickey Mouse's Debut

Walt Disney introduces Mickey Mouse, an anthropomorphic character with playful monkey characteristics, heightening the link between monkeys and fun.

Curious George Book Series

The first Curious George book is published, emphasizing the mischievous and curious nature of monkeys inspiring children to embrace their playful side.

Monkey Around Day Origin

Monkey Around Day is first celebrated, encouraging people worldwide to embrace fun, playfulness and monkey-like mischief.

Global Recognition

The holiday gains global recognition as a day dedicated to having fun, breaking routine and embracing lighthearted playfulness.

Virtual Monkey Around Day Celebrations

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people shift to virtual celebrations, proving that Monkey Around Day can be honored anywhere, anytime.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Monkey Around Day

Dress up as a monkey

Get into the spirit of Monkey Around Day by dressing up as a monkey! Have fun with it and get creative with your costume.

VISIT

Visit a zoo or sanctuary

Spend the day with some real monkeys by visiting a zoo or sanctuary. Learn about different types of monkeys and their behaviors.

PLAY

Play monkey-themed games

Gather some friends or family and play some fun monkey-themed games, such as "Monkey in the Middle" or "Pin the Tail on the Monkey".

MAKE

Make monkey-inspired treats

Get creative in the kitchen and make some monkey-inspired treats, such as banana bread or monkey-shaped cookies. Bonus points if you make them with your feet!

WATCH

Watch a monkey movie

End the day by snuggling up and watching a movie about monkeys, such as "Curious George" or "Jumanji". Don't forget to have some bananas on hand for snacking!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Monkey Around Day

It's an excuse to try new things

On Monkey Around Day, you can step out of your comfort zone and try something different. Embrace the spontaneity and adventure of monkeys by trying a new activity or hobby - who knows, you may discover something you love!

It's a day to let loose and have fun

Monkey Around Day is a reminder that life doesn't always have to be serious - sometimes it's important to just let go and have some fun! So take this opportunity to act like a silly, carefree monkey and enjoy the moment.

It celebrates the playful spirit of primates

Monkeys are known for their antics and lively personalities. On Monkey Around Day, we can appreciate and celebrate these playful creatures while embracing our own inner child and sense of humor.