International Ninja Day

International Ninja Day is celebrated every year on December 5, a fun-spirited occasion that invites people to embrace the mystery, stealth, and playful spirit associated with ninjas — historical and legendary warriors known for agility, cunning, and secrecy. On this day, fans and curious people alike get to explore ninja lore, enjoy ninja-themed activities, and maybe even try on a ninja mask or practice a quiet “sneak.”

History of International Ninja Day

The holiday was created in 2003 by the parody fast-food chain Ninja Burger, which picked December 5 as a humorous way to celebrate “ninja-speed” burger delivery.
Though the origin is light-hearted and satirical, over time the observance gained traction beyond its humorous roots — embraced by fans of ninja history, martial arts, pop culture, and cosplay — turning it into a quirky, global celebration of stealth and imagination.

Why International Ninja Day matters

Beyond jokes and costumes, International Ninja Day is about celebrating creativity, cultural fascination, and the blending of myth with fun. It lets people indulge the fantasy of being stealthy, agile, and mysterious — qualities that appeal to human imagination.
It also encourages awareness of the origins of “ninja” in historical Japan: trained spies and covert agents whose stories became legends. Even if much of what we know about ninjas is mythologized, the symbol of the ninja resonates with values of discipline, agility, and secrecy.

• It invites people to learn about — or revisit — the history and legends of ninjas.
• It celebrates playful imagination and a sense of mystery.
• It encourages creative expression — costume, martial arts, storytelling.
• It connects fans around the world through shared interest in ninja culture.
• It adds a bit of light-hearted fun and surprise to everyday life.

How to Celebrate International Ninja Day

On December 5, there are many fun ways to join in — from lighthearted to creative, solitary to social. Some may choose to watch ninja-themed movies or anime, others might try basic martial-arts moves or attend a dojo, and many enjoy dressing up or participating in ninja-style games.
Whether alone or with friends, the day can be a playful break from routine — a moment to embody the stealthy, cunning, and agile spirit of the ninja in everyday life.

• Watch a classic ninja movie or anime — enjoy ninja adventures on screen.
• Dress up as a ninja — wear a mask or dark clothes and embrace the stealth vibe.
• Try a martial-arts or ninjutsu class to learn some real (or fun) ninja-inspired moves.
• Play ninja-style games or organize a themed game night with friends.
• Share a “ninja selfie” or fun ninja post on social media using a hashtag like #InternationalNinjaDay.

International Ninja Day Dates Table