What is Draw a Bird Day?
Draw a Bird Day, celebrated annually on April 8, is a heartwarming tradition that encourages people of all ages to draw and share pictures of birds. This day is not about artistic talent but about spreading joy and appreciating life’s simplest pleasures. Originating in the United Kingdom during World War II, it reminds us of the power of creativity to uplift spirits and connect people.
Quick Facts
- When is it? April 8
- Tagged as: Creativity, Positivity, Art
- What’s the hashtag? #DABDAY
- When was it founded? 1943
- Who founded it? Inspired by Dorie Cooper, a 7-year-old girl
History of Draw a Bird Day
In 1943, seven-year-old Dorie Cooper visited her uncle, a wounded soldier in an English hospital. To cheer him up, she asked him to draw a bird. Though his drawing wasn’t great, Dorie’s laughter and encouragement lifted his spirits. Other soldiers joined in, decorating the hospital ward with bird drawings. Tragically, Dorie passed away three years later. Her funeral was filled with bird drawings from those she had inspired. Since then, April 8—her birthday—has been celebrated as Draw a Bird Day to honor her legacy of joy and resilience.
Timeline
- 1943: Dorie Cooper asks her uncle to draw a bird during her hospital visit.
- 1946: Dorie passes away; soldiers honor her with bird drawings at her funeral.
- 1947: Draw a Bird Day is first celebrated on April 8.
- 2011: The day gains popularity on social media with the hashtag #DABDAY.
Draw a Bird Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 8 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 8 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 8 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 8 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 8 | Sunday |
| 2030 | April 8 | Monday |
Observed: Draw a Bird Day
Draw a Bird Day is observed by drawing and sharing bird pictures to spread happiness. It’s an opportunity to embrace creativity without judgment or perfectionism.
In schools and communities, children and adults alike participate by sketching birds—whether simple doodles or detailed artworks—and displaying them proudly. This activity fosters connections and reminds us of the beauty in small acts of kindness.
Additionally, many use this day to reflect on its origins: how one little girl’s innocent request brought hope to soldiers during wartime. It’s a touching reminder that even small gestures can have profound impacts.
Finally, social media plays a big role in modern celebrations. People worldwide share their creations with the hashtag #DABDAY, creating an online gallery of colorful birds that inspire smiles across borders.
Fun Facts About Draw a Bird Day
- The first bird drawn for this day was likely a robin by Dorie’s uncle.
- It’s not just about drawing; some celebrate by crafting bird models or sewing bird designs.
- The day gained global recognition through social media platforms like Twitter.
Quiz
- What date is Draw a Bird Day celebrated?
- Who inspired the creation of Draw a Bird Day?
- What was the first bird drawn for this celebration?
- What hashtag is used for this day on social media?
- Why was Dorie Cooper visiting her uncle in the hospital?
(Answers: 1. April 8; 2. Dorie Cooper; 3. Robin; 4. #DABDAY; 5. He was wounded in World War II.)
FAQs
What is the purpose of Draw a Bird Day?
The day promotes joy and creativity through drawing birds and sharing them with others.
Do I need to be good at drawing to participate?
No! The focus is on having fun and spreading happiness, not artistic skill.
Can I draw any type of bird?
Yes! From penguins to parrots, you can draw any bird you like.
How do I share my drawing?
Post it on social media using #DABDAY or share it with friends and family directly.
Is this an official holiday?
No, but it has been widely celebrated globally since its inception.
Importance of Draw a Bird Day
Draw a Bird Day emphasizes the value of small acts of kindness. Through something as simple as drawing birds, we can brighten someone’s day and foster human connection.
The day also highlights how art can be therapeutic, offering solace during difficult times—just as it did for soldiers during World War II.
Finally, it inspires creativity in people of all ages while reminding us to find joy in life’s simplest pleasures.
Related
- National Creativity Day (May)
- World Art Day (April)
- International Migratory Bird Day (May)