IWD: When is International Women's Day (IWD)?

When is International Women's Day (IWD)?

Each year, International Women's Day (IWD) falls on March 8.

While many groups mark IWD on this date, a great deal of worldwide activity occurs pre, and post, March 8.

Get ready for IWD 2026

IWD 2026 falls on a Sunday, and while many groups are hosting IWD events and activity on this date, some groups are hosting IWD activity before, and after, March 8.

For IWD 2026, Friday March 6 is appearing to be a popular day selected by groups for IWD events and activity.

Whatever date you choose to deliver or participate in IWD events and activity is fine.

What matters is the focus on awareness raising, engagement, action, and impact.

In 2026, IWD marks an extraordinary milestone: 115 years of collective action, advocacy, and progress toward gender equality. For more than a century, IWD has helped drive transformative change. Each generation has built on the courage of those before it, pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible. Today, IWD serves as a popular mainstream moment that celebrates the social, economic, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for advancing gender equality worldwide.

IWD is a movement

IWD is a movement, powered by the collective efforts of all.

The day belongs to all groups, everywhere. That's what makes IWD so inclusive, not exclusive.

Since the first International Women's Day in 1911, the day remains an important opportunity for elevating and amplifying the focus on gender equality.

IWD celebrates women’s achievements, raises awareness about persistent inequities, and mobilizes action.

Planning for IWD 2026 is well underway with groups worldwide.