Monkey Around Day
Monkey Around Day flips the script on ordinary. It’s a playful pause, a break from routines that often feel too tight.
Activate playful, stress-relief messaging around December to drive family-friendly retail, food, and entertainment experiences with monkey-themed promotions and activities.
- DIY monkey craft kits and costume bundles for families
- Banana-themed food specials and monkey-face cupcake decorating contests
- Zoo/sanctuary partnership events with educational primate content
- Game night kit promotions featuring monkey-themed party supplies
Monkey Around Day began in 2016 thanks to Bob Matthews, a writer and calendar creator from Rochester, New York. He invented the day to celebrate his daughter Kimberly’s birthday and her love for monkeys.
Bob ran a website called Holiday Insights, where he added this playful day to the calendar. He wanted to encourage people to take a break from stress and enjoy a few laughs. June 14 became the official date, chosen to match Kimberly’s special day.
The phrase “monkey around” has been part of American slang for over a hundred years. People often used it to describe goofing off, being silly, or doing something just for fun. Bob took that spirit and turned it into a reason for celebration.
Monkey Around Day invites everyone to step out of their routines and dive into harmless fun. It doesn’t require much—just a light heart and maybe a touch of mischief.
Since it began, the day has picked up attention online and in schools, homes, and workplaces. More people are taking a moment to laugh, act silly, and loosen up. It’s now a small but joyful reminder that playfulness isn’t just for kids. Adults can monkey around too.
Unleash Your Inner Primate
Start the day by embracing your playful side. Dress up in a monkey costume or wear clothing with monkey prints. Engage in activities that bring out your inner child, like jumping on a trampoline or swinging at a local park. Let go of inhibitions and enjoy the freedom of acting a little silly.
Create Monkey-Inspired Treats
Get creative in the kitchen by making monkey-themed snacks. Bake banana bread, prepare banana smoothies, or decorate cupcakes with monkey faces. Involve friends or family in a friendly baking competition to see who can come up with the most inventive monkey treat.
Visit a Local Zoo or Sanctuary
Spend time observing real monkeys at a nearby zoo or animal sanctuary. Learn about different species, their behaviors, and habitats. Some zoos offer interactive experiences or educational talks about primates, providing both fun and learning opportunities.
Host a Monkey-Themed Game Night
Organize a game night with monkey-themed activities. Play games like “Monkey in the Middle,” charades with monkey-related prompts, or a scavenger hunt with banana clues. Encourage participants to wear monkey hats or tails to add to the fun atmosphere.
Engage in Monkey Crafts
Gather art supplies and create monkey-themed crafts. Make paper plate monkey masks, sock monkeys, or monkey puppets. These activities are great for kids and adults alike, fostering creativity and providing a fun way to celebrate the day.