It’s that time again to delve into events or celebrations on a particular day. I’ve chosen today … May 14. It’s actually quite an interesting day with a diverse list of National Days celebrated. So without further adieu …
National Dance like a Chicken Day
World Stationery Day
National Buttermilk Biscuit Day
International Chihuahua Appreciation Day
I’ll admit I laughed when I read the list. And I immediately knew which day I’d highlight here … Dance like a Chicken Day.
It began with a Swiss accordionist back in the 1950’s. Werner Thomas was his name and he composed the original melody. His original inspiration of this dance came from skiers who reminded him of birds, elbows tucked in and arms outstretched looking like wings.
The dance gained popularity and like most other things it went through some transitions. Eventually a Canadian band called the Emeralds did a comedic version of the song that mixed the movements with polka like music. The popularity of this version cemented its’ place in pop culture. For years we heard and saw it played in movies and at one time it was hugely popular at weddings.
Which brings me to why I chose to highlight it today …. Much to my consternation at the time, it was played at my wedding. I explicitly told the band “absolutely no chicken dance.” Period. Full stop. But, they ignored my instructions to play it for the mother of the bride … my own Mom. She knew I didn’t like the song, so much to her amusement she requested it be played. And she danced to it. At the time I wasn’t amused … today it’s a fond memory of my Mom.
Until the next time.