Origami Day

Origami Day is celebrated around the world on November 11th! It’s a holiday for those who love origami, a form of art that anyone can enjoy with just a piece of paper. Join us for fun activities for all ages!

History

Origami, originally known as “orikata”, has been around since 105 BC in Japan. It’s amazing that this hobby has survived to this day! During the 19th century, paper was only accessible to the elite, but now it’s much more commonplace. People used to write letters to each other, containing intricate figures made from paper. In the US, origami was popularized by Lillian Oppenheimer, who organized circles in the US and the UK. People could learn, share their skills, and make new connections. Today, there is a dedicated institution in the US that welcomes origami enthusiasts.

The tradition of origami as a symbol of hope against cancer was started by a girl from Hiroshima. 10 years after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city, the girl got leukemia. She heard that if she made 1000 paper cranes, she would get well. Unfortunately, she only managed to make 644 before she passed away.

Interesting facts

• Paper was first discovered in China, and spread to Japan by monks.
• The first published book about origami was released in 1797, and contained instructions and traditions about the art form.
• The paper crane has become a universal symbol of peace. The heaviest paper crane ever made weighed 794 kg, and was almost 7 meters tall – it had to be presented to the audience at a stadium!

How to take part

Grab a piece of paper and get creative! If you’re new to origami, there are plenty of techniques to explore. Teach others the skill, so that the hobby can spread and reach more people’s hearts. Keep up to date with origami specialists on YouTube and other channels, to get new information every day!

When is Origami Day celebrated in 2023?

Origami Day is observed on November 11 each year.

Observations