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Take a Monkey to Lunch Day

It's Take a Monkey to Lunch Day - why not try something new and take your furry friend out for an unforgettable lunch adventure?

Tuesday

July 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEJuly 21

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFun

SUBCATEGORYSilly

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Let's get ready to celebrate Take a Monkey to Lunch Day on July 21! This unique holiday has been celebrated since 2004 and is a great way to bring some extra joy into your day. It's also an opportunity to learn more about our primate friends, as well as the importance of conservation and habitat protection. So grab your favorite monkey companion and head out for an exciting lunch date! Who knows – you might even make some new furry friends along the way.

TIMELINE

Take a Monkey to Lunch Day Timeline

Inception of the Holiday

Take a Monkey to Lunch Day is first celebrated, inviting individuals to bring their primate friends along for a unique lunch experience.

Holiday Gains Recognition

The holiday begins gaining national recognition as special events are hosted at zoos and parks.

Educational Components Added

Education about primate conservation and habitat protection becomes a core message of Take a Monkey to Lunch Day.

First Major Sponsored Event

A major zoo sponsors its first Take a Monkey to Lunch Day event, serving specially-prepared meals for monkeys and visitors.

Global Participation

The holiday begins being celebrated internationally, with events in both Europe and Asia.

Conservation Fundraising

Take a Monkey to Lunch Day is used for fundraising, generating significant proceeds for primate conservation efforts worldwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Take a Monkey to Lunch Day

Take a Trip to the Zoo

Visit your local zoo and feed the monkeys. Most zoos offer special feeding experiences for animals, so this is a great opportunity to get up close and personal with the primates.

MAKE

Make Monkey Munchies

Create homemade treats such as banana muffins, peanut butter cookies, and monkey bread. You can also buy pre-made treats from the store.

Go on a Picnic

Pack a picnic lunch full of monkey favorites and head to your nearest park. Enjoy the fresh air while you feed your furry friend.

HOST

Host a Monkey Tea Party

Invite your friends over for an afternoon tea party featuring monkey favorites like bananas, grapes, and nuts. Don't forget to bring out the fancy teacups!

VISIT

Visit a Monkey Sanctuary

Visit one of the many monkey sanctuaries around the world and get to know some of the rescued primates. Help out by donating food or supplies and spend some quality time with the animals.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Take a Monkey to Lunch Day

It's good for the bond

Sharing a meal together creates even stronger bonds between you and your monkey. Whether it's ordering food together or taking turns feeding each other, this activity will help you develop a deeper connection as your monkey begins to trust and feel comfortable around you.

It's fun & educational

Taking a monkey to lunch isn't just about having fun - it also provides an incredible learning opportunity. You can teach the monkey how to order, pay and properly use utensils. Plus, you'll also be able to observe the animal up close - a great chance to gain a better understanding of their behavior!

Monkeys are social

Going out to eat with your monkey is an amazing opportunity for them to interact with other people in public. They'll get to meet new faces, practice their communication skills, and learn more about human etiquette while still in an unfamiliar environment.

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