When is International Day of Peace?
International Day of Peace 2027 is on Tuesday
Tuesday, September 21, 2027
September 21 every year. That's in 352 days.
until International Day of Peace begins, in your time zone
The International Day of Peace, often called World Peace Day, is a UN day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, and it asks the world to observe 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire.
About International Day of Peace
The International Day of Peace asks governments, armed groups and ordinary people to commit to peace for at least one day, and to think about what lasting peace takes: safety, justice, dignity and cooperation in daily life. The UN marks it at its New York headquarters and through its offices and partners around the world.
The UN General Assembly created the day in 1981 with resolution 36/67. At first it fell on the opening day of the Assembly's regular session each September, so the date changed from year to year. In 2001 the Assembly unanimously adopted resolution 55/282, which fixed the observance on September 21 starting in 2002 and declared it a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, inviting all nations and peoples to stop hostilities for its duration.
A long-standing tradition at UN Headquarters is the ringing of the Peace Bell, a gift from the United Nations Association of Japan in 1954. It was cast from coins and medals donated by delegates and by people, including children, from more than 60 countries, and the Secretary-General rings it there each year on the day. The UN chooses a theme each year, and schools, faith groups and civil society organizations hold vigils, minutes of silence, concerts and peace education events.
Sources: United Nations: International Day of Peace, United Nations: The Peace Bell, General Assembly resolution 55/282 (2001). How we check dates.
How to mark International Day of Peace
- Take part in or organize a minute of silence for people living through war or violence.
- Learn about a current conflict from reliable news sources and support a vetted humanitarian group working there.
- Host a peace-themed reading, art project or discussion at a school, library or place of worship.
- Practice peace close to home by repairing a strained relationship or helping two people settle a dispute.
- Ask your elected officials where they stand on diplomacy, arms control or aid for civilians in conflict zones.
International Day of Peace dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Sunday, September 21, 2025 |
| 2026 | Monday, September 21, 2026 |
| 2027 | Tuesday, September 21, 2027 |
| 2028 | Thursday, September 21, 2028 |
| 2029 | Friday, September 21, 2029 |
| 2030 | Saturday, September 21, 2030 |
| 2031 | Sunday, September 21, 2031 |
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Frequently asked questions
When is International Day of Peace 2027?
International Day of Peace 2027 is on Tuesday, September 21, 2027. It falls on September 21 every year. In 2028, it is on Thursday, September 21, 2028.
Is the International Day of Peace the same as World Peace Day?
Yes. World Peace Day and Peace Day are informal names for the UN's International Day of Peace.
Why was the date fixed to September 21?
The original 1981 date was tied to the opening of the General Assembly's session, so it moved every year. A 2001 resolution set September 21 from 2002 onward, which made it easier for people everywhere to plan ceasefires and events.
Is International Day of Peace a public holiday?
No. International Day of Peace is an observance, not a public holiday, so schools, banks, government offices and most businesses keep their normal hours.