Origami Day

Celebrated on 11/11/2026

Quick Fact

Origami Day celebrates the Japanese art of paper folding, which requires only a single square sheet of paper and no cuts. The word 'origami' comes from the Japanese words 'oru' (to fold) and 'kami' (paper). A single sheet can be transformed into hundreds of different shapes, from simple cranes to complex dragons.

Origins and Establishment of Origami Day

Origami Day is celebrated on November 11th in Japan, a date chosen because the number 11 resembles the shape of two folded paper cranes standing side by side. The holiday was established in 1980 by the Nippon Origami Association (NOA), which was founded in 1973 to promote the art of origami both domestically and internationally. The day aims to encourage people to appreciate the creativity and precision involved in paper folding.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the years, Origami Day has grown from a small observance into a worldwide celebration. In Japan, schools and community centers often hold origami workshops, and public displays of large-scale origami installations are common. Globally, the day is recognized through online tutorials, social media challenges, and exhibitions in museums. Origami has also evolved from traditional designs to incorporate mathematical principles and modern artistic expressions, with some folders creating incredibly intricate and lifelike models.

Facts & General Observations

• The world's largest origami crane, completed in 2009, had a wingspan of 81.94 meters (268 feet 9 inches) and was made from a single sheet of paper.
• Origami is used in various fields, including space exploration (foldable solar panels) and medicine (stent designs), demonstrating its practical applications beyond art.
• The number of possible origami folds for a standard square is estimated to be over 100 billion, showcasing the infinite possibilities of this art form.

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