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National Shrek Day

Celebrate Shrek's iconic humor, big heart, and ogre-sized adventures on National Shrek Day for a fairy-tale day of fun.

Tuesday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEMay 18

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYMovies & TV

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to roar with excitement for National Shrek Day on May 18! There’s never been a better time to celebrate our favorite green ogre, whose first big-screen appearance delighted audiences back in 2001 and paved the way for one of the most beloved animated franchises in history. Shrek’s hilarious one-liners, relatable insecurities, and surprisingly big heart have made him an endearing icon for ogres (and humans) everywhere. Whether you remember his triumphant reception at the very first Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature or appreciate the movie’s timeless message of self-acceptance, this brand-new holiday is the perfect opportunity to soak up all the fairytale fun. So grab your swamp-loving friends, don your best set of ogre ears, and gear up for a day that will remind you—like Shrek himself—that it’s what’s on the inside that truly counts!

TIMELINE

National Shrek Day Timeline

Original Book Published

The children’s book “Shrek!” by William Steig is released, introducing the lovable ogre.

Movie Debut

DreamWorks Animation premieres “Shrek,” enthralling audiences with its humor and heart.

Historic Academy Award

“Shrek” becomes the first winner of the Best Animated Feature Oscar, marking a major milestone.

Sequel Sets Records

“Shrek 2” surpasses the original’s success, breaking box-office records and expanding the franchise.

Fourth Film Arrives

“Shrek Forever After” concludes the main movie series, reinforcing the ogre’s enduring popularity.

National Shrek Day Introduced

May 18 is designated as a day for fans worldwide to celebrate everyone’s favorite green ogre.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Shrek Day

Throw a Shrek movie marathon

Gather every Shrek film, invite friends over, and watch them all in one sitting. Don’t forget to serve onion-themed snacks for a truly ogre-ish twist.

DRESS

Dress up like an ogre

Transform into Shrek or Fiona by wearing green clothes, adding face paint, or crafting DIY ogre ears. Encourage friends to join and see who can capture the swampy style best.

COOK

Cook a swamp-inspired feast

Whip up green-themed dishes such as spinach dip, guacamole, or pistachio cupcakes. Add playful twists like mini 'slime' smoothies or onion-infused finger foods.

HOST

Host a donkey karaoke night

Bring out your inner donkey by singing along to your favorite tunes. Bonus points if you include tracks from the Shrek soundtracks and belt them out with full ogre gusto!

Share iconic Shrek quotes

Collect memorable lines like “Ogres are like onions” or “Better out than in.” Post them on social media or recite them together with friends for a hearty laugh.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Shrek Day

He’s surrounded by unforgettable friends

With a chatty donkey, a fierce princess, and a swashbuckling cat, Shrek’s world is packed with funny, loyal companions who remind us that true friends can help us tackle any adventure.

He’s hilariously relatable

Shrek’s grumpy quips and honest outlook make his adventures delightfully funny. His banter with Donkey and refusal to sugarcoat anything remind us it’s okay to be ourselves, flaws and all.

He teaches important life lessons

Shrek proves that true beauty comes from within and that we should embrace our uniqueness. His journey with Fiona highlights love, acceptance, and discovering that we can grow beyond our swamps.

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