An awareness day on December 14 celebrating monkeys, apes, and all primates while raising awareness about primate conservation.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
Artists Casey Sorrow and Eric Millikin, students at Michigan State University, founded Monkey Day in 2000 when Sorrow jokingly scribbled it on a friend's calendar on December 14. It gained popularity through their Fetus-X comic strip and international art exhibitions, evolving into a global observance for primates.
Get ready to go bananas for National Monkey Day on December 14th! Celebrated since 2000, this day was created by two friends in honor of their love for primates. Whether you're an animal lover or just a fan of these adorable creatures, it's the perfect opportunity to learn about and appreciate monkeys from around the world.
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
By studying monkeys, we can gain insight into our own behavior and evolution. We can observe their social interactions, communication habits and emotional intelligence to better understand the origins of our own actions and behaviors. Plus, studying primates helps us appreciate the intricacies of the natural world!
Whether it's a cute little baby monkey hanging from its mother's back or an adult swinging through the trees, there's no denying that these animals are incredibly endearing. Monkeys also have advanced cognitive abilities that make them more similar to humans than you might think - and at times, much more entertaining!
Monkeys play essential roles in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds and pollinating vegetation, which helps sustain tropical forests. They're also keystone species, meaning they affect how energy flows through their environment. Their existence is vital for the health of nature!
Let loose and have some fun on Monkey Around Day - swing from the trees, play pranks, and embrace your inner monkey!
It's Take a Monkey to Lunch Day - why not try something new and take your furry friend out for an unforgettable lunch adventure?
Swing into action this World Lemur Day! Support these extraordinary creatures and help preserve their unique Madagascar home.
Join us in honoring our closest primate relatives on World Bonobo Day - learn about their fascinating behavior and conservation efforts!
