Appreciate a Dragon Day is celebrated on January 16 each year. It's a day to enjoy dragons in all their forms, from ancient myths and fairy tales to fantasy novels, films and games. Dragons appear in cultures around the world, sometimes as fearsome monsters and sometimes as wise, lucky protectors. The day encourages reading, creativity and imagination.
History of Appreciate a Dragon Day
Appreciate a Dragon Day was created in 2004 by Donita K. Paul, author of the 'DragonKeeper Chronicles' fantasy series. She wanted to celebrate dragons and encourage reading, and the day is popular with libraries, schools and fantasy fans.
Dragons themselves are ancient. In Chinese culture, the dragon, or long, is a powerful and generally positive symbol associated with water, rain, strength and good fortune. It's one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, and dragon dances are part of Lunar New Year celebrations.
In European myths, dragons were often fire-breathing monsters guarding treasure, as in the Old English poem 'Beowulf' and the legend of St. George and the dragon. Dragon-like creatures also appear in Mesoamerican, Norse and Middle Eastern stories. In the real world, the Komodo dragon of Indonesia is the largest living lizard, growing up to about 10 feet long.
Why Appreciate a Dragon Day Matters
Dragons spark imagination, inspiring stories, art and games for children and adults.
Comparing dragon legends across cultures shows how people around the world have used myths to explain nature and express their values.
The day is also a great way to encourage reading, especially fantasy books that can turn reluctant readers into book lovers.
Dragons also appear in art and celebrations people can enjoy today. Dragon boat racing, which began in China more than 2,000 years ago, is now a popular sport in many U.S. cities. Dragon dances at Lunar New Year parades, illustrated folktales and museum collections of dragon art all offer fun ways to explore the legend.
How to Celebrate Appreciate a Dragon Day
- Read a dragon book: pick a fantasy novel or folktale.
- Draw a dragon: design your own creature.
- Learn legends: compare dragons from China, Europe and the Americas.
- Visit a zoo: see a Komodo dragon or bearded dragon.
- Write a story: invent a dragon adventure.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share favorite dragon books or films, or decorate the break room with dragon art. In classrooms, students can write dragon stories, compare dragon myths from different cultures or learn about real reptiles called dragons. At home, families can read dragon tales together, build a cardboard dragon or visit a zoo's reptile house.
Fun Facts About Appreciate a Dragon Day
- Donita K. Paul created Appreciate a Dragon Day in 2004.
- The dragon is one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals.
- Komodo dragons can grow up to about 10 feet long.
Appreciate a Dragon Day FAQs
When is Appreciate a Dragon Day?
Appreciate a Dragon Day is celebrated on January 16 each year.
Who created Appreciate a Dragon Day?
Fantasy author Donita K. Paul created it in 2004.
What do dragons symbolize in Chinese culture?
Strength, good fortune, water and rain.
Are dragons real?
Mythical dragons aren't real, but Komodo dragons and bearded dragons are real lizards.
What is the largest lizard?
The Komodo dragon, which can grow to about 10 feet long.
How can I celebrate Appreciate a Dragon Day?
Read a dragon book, draw a dragon or learn about dragon legends.