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National Penguin Day

Celebrate National Penguin Day with a virtual visit to the Antarctic and learn all about these adorable and fascinating creatures!

Wednesday

January 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 20

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYBirds

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

National Penguin Day on January 20th is an exciting day to celebrate the adorable and entertaining birds! Penguins have been around since at least 40 million years ago, with some species living as far away as Antarctica. They come in many different shapes and sizes, from Emperor Penguins that can reach nearly four feet tall to smaller species like the Fairy Penguin which grows to just over a foot in length.

TIMELINE

National Penguin Day Timeline

First Penguin Fossil Discovery

The first ever penguin fossil was discovered in New Zealand, leading to increased scientific interest in penguins.

Emperor Penguins Discovered

The breed of Emperor Penguins was discovered and classified by scientists during the British Antarctic Expedition.

Antarctic Treaty

The Antarctic Treaty came into effect, providing crucial protection for penguins and their habitats.

Initiation of National Penguin Day

National Penguin Day was created to raise awareness about the conservation of penguins and their habitats.

"March of the Penguins"

The documentary "March of the Penguins" was released, greatly increasing people's interest in and empathy for penguins.

Penguin Population Concerns

Reports highlight climate change's severe impacts on penguin populations, emphasizing the importance of National Penguin Day's conservation message.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Penguin Day

Watch a documentary

There are plenty of documentaries about penguins, from BBC’s “Frozen Planet” to “March of the Penguins” and more. Watching one of these documentaries is a great way to appreciate the lives of these amazing animals.

SUPPORT

Support conservation efforts

Research and support organizations that work to protect penguin populations, such as the World Wildlife Fund, Penguin Conservation Trust, and Antarctic Ocean Alliance. Donate to these groups or volunteer to help out.

VISIT

Visit a zoo

Visiting a zoo is a wonderful way to get up close and personal with some amazing wildlife, including penguins. This is a great opportunity for kids to learn more about penguins in an educational and fun way.

MAKE

Make some crafts

Making crafts related to penguins can be fun for all ages. Try making paper plate penguins, origami penguins, or even penguin finger puppets.

Go on a virtual tour

Take an online virtual tour of the Antarctic and watch the incredible wildlife that lives there, including penguins! This is a great way to explore the environment without having to leave your home.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Penguin Day

Penguins are remarkable swimmers

Penguins are excellent swimmers, often swimming up to 100 miles per day in search of food! Many species have adapted specialized flippers for increased agility, enabling them to make sudden turns and dives without much effort. Their incredible feats of aquatic prowess make them an inspirational group of birds to observe!

Penguins are adorable

Who doesn't love the sight of these cute and cuddly birds? Penguins have become a classic symbol of cuteness with their tuxedo-like feathers and goofy waddles. Their endearing behavior may be one reason why they're so beloved by people all over the world!

Penguins live in interesting places

Most species of penguins inhabit some of the coldest and most remote areas on the planet, with colonies as far north as Antarctica and South America. It's a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, showcasing an ecosystem that few get to witness firsthand!