Annual observance

Origami Day

November 11 Learning / Reading Updated 2025-12-18

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

Origami Day, celebrated annually on November 11th, honors the ancient Japanese art of paper folding. This date holds significance as it marks the approximate birthday of the book "Senbazuru Orikata" (considered the first known dedicated origami instruction book, published in 1797) and is also associated with the traditional Japanese folk tale of Sadako Sasaki and the thousand paper cranes, symbolizing peace and hope. It's a day to promote the beauty, mathematical principles, and meditative benefits of origami worldwide.

Observed each year on November 11, Origami Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Origami Day, celebrated on November 11, honors the rich tradition of Japanese paper folding, reflecting both artistic expression and mathematical principles.

Origin and story

The word "origami" is derived from the Japanese words "oru" (to fold) and "kami" (paper).

Traditional origami uses a single, square sheet of paper without cutting or gluing.

Quick facts

  • DateNovember 11
  • TypeLearning / Reading
  • Great forBook clubs, Teachers, Students

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share one fast fact about Origami Day: The word "origami" is derived from the Japanese words "oru" (to fold) and "kami" (paper).
  • Set aside 15 minutes to read or learn something tied to the day’s theme.
  • Post a story with #origami-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Write a note or journal entry on why Origami Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Origami Day lands on November 11 — host a quick nod with Book clubs, Teachers and snap a photo.

Fun facts

  • The word "origami" is derived from the Japanese words "oru" (to fold) and "kami" (paper).
  • Traditional origami uses a single, square sheet of paper without cutting or gluing.
  • The paper crane (orizuru) is the most globally recognized origami model and is a powerful symbol of peace.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is Origami Day?
It is observed on November 11 each year.
What is Origami Day?
Origami Day, celebrated annually on November 11th, honors the ancient Japanese art of paper folding. This date holds significance as it marks the approximate birthday of the book "Senbazuru Orikata" (considered the first known dedicated origami instruction book, published in 1797) and is also associated with the traditional Japanese folk tale of Sadako Sasaki and the thousand paper cranes, symbolizing peace and hope. It's a day to promote the beauty, mathematical principles, and meditative benefits of origami worldwide.
How do people celebrate Origami Day?
Share one fast fact about Origami Day: The word "origami" is derived from the Japanese words "oru" (to fold) and "kami" (paper).

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