Appreciate a Dragon Day

Appreciate a Dragon Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to dragons, celebrated on January 16. Everyone has their own image of a dragon: a massive, scaled creature—often inspired by lizards or snakes—capable of breathing fire. Dragons are classic mythological figures in many Asian cultures and have a strong presence in global folklore.

History

Today, dragons hold great social and cultural significance around the world. Their image appears frequently in films, literature, and art. The word “dragon” has Latin roots, originating from “draconem,” meaning “huge serpent.”

Depictions of dragons appear in historical records from ancient Rome and Egypt. Rich dragon lore is also found in the histories of India, China, and Japan.

Appreciate a Dragon Day was created by fantasy author Donita K. Paul. In 2004, she published her novel *DragonSpell*, which was warmly received by critics and fans of fantasy literature. The book’s success helped popularize the holiday. The story follows a young woman who, after gaining her freedom, embarks on a journey to rescue dragons.

Interesting Facts

• Each culture imagines dragons differently—some breathe fire, some have one head, others have many, and their sizes and scale colors vary.
• According to myth, dragons lay eggs, and depending on environmental temperature, either male or female dragons may hatch.
• Some legends suggest dragons are descendants of extinct dinosaurs.

How to Take Part

If there are any events or festivals dedicated to Appreciate a Dragon Day in your area, be sure to check them out. Celebrate by watching movies or TV shows featuring dragons, playing video games with dragon themes (such as *Skyrim*), or reading fantasy novels. You can also buy dragon-themed clothing or collectibles to mark the occasion.

When is Appreciate a Dragon Day in 2026?

Appreciate a Dragon Day is observed on January 16 each year.

Observations