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Earth Hour

Switch off for Earth Hour! Unplug, unwind and unite for our planet-- a moment of darkness for a brighter future!

Saturday

March 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAnnounced annually by WWF (last Sat March; shifts off Holy Saturday)

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYNature

SUBCATEGORYConservation

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to unplug, unwind, and do your part for our beautiful planet on Earth Hour, occurring annually on March 30! The concept of Earth Hour was pioneered by the World Wildlife Fund in Sydney, Australia in 2007. This lights-out event started as a grassroots gesture by the WWF to draw attention to energy consumption and its environmental impact. With a single city plunging into momentary darkness, it rapidly grew into a global movement with hundreds of millions of people across more than 180 countries switching off their lights. The goal is simple yet profound - to raise awareness about climate change and to symbolize that we, as individuals, can make a positive impact on our planet. Celebrate Earth Hour with us for a moment of darkness that heralds a brighter, more sustainable future!

TIMELINE

Earth Hour Timeline

Earth Hour Inception

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) initiated the first Earth Hour in Sydney, Australia, to draw attention to energy consumption and its environmental impact.

Earth Hour Goes Global

In recognition of the climate crisis, Earth Hour became a global movement, reaching over 50 million people across 35 countries in its second year.

Unprecedented Participation

Over 4,000 cities in 88 countries participated in Earth Hour, making it the most extensive global climate change initiative to date.

Digital Reach

Earth Hour's digital reach expanded significantly, with the official Earth Hour video becoming the most shared video on Facebook globally.

Historic Usage of Solar Power

For the first time, Earth Hour powered the event using solar energy, demonstrating the potential of renewable energy.

Virtual Earth Hour

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Earth Hour marked its first-ever fully digital event, emphasizing the importance of collective actions for our planet.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Earth Hour

Host a candlelit dinner

Invite friends and family over for a dinner lit only by candles. This is not only a romantic and fun way to spend the hour in darkness, but it also raises awareness about Earth Hour with your loved ones. Bonus points if the meal features locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients!

TAKE

Take a night walk

Reconnect with nature and take a night walk in your local park or nature reserve. Be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp for safety. Enjoy the sounds and quietness of the world without artificial light.

STARGAZE

Stargaze

Without the glare of city lights, stars become more visible. Head to your backyard or a nearby open area to stargaze. It’s both a relaxing and educational way to spend Earth Hour, marvel at the natural beauty of our universe.

ORGANIZE

Organize a community event

Plan an event for your neighborhood or community such as a lantern parade, poetry reading, or acoustic music session. This can draw attention to Earth Hour, bring the community together, and show solidarity for our planet.

PRACTICE

Practice mindfulness

Switch off your devices, light some candles and practice mindfulness. You can do some yoga, meditate, or simply sit in silence. It’s a great time to reflect on your relationship with the earth and how you can lead more sustainable lifestyle.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Earth Hour is Important

It reminds us of the beauty of nature

During Earth Hour, as we turn off the lights and reduce noise pollution, we get to appreciate the natural world around us more. From the serenity of a night walk to the awe of stargazing, Earth Hour allows us to reconnect with the beauty and serenity of nature.

It raises environmental awareness

Earth Hour is a time for everyone around the globe to unite and reflect on the impact we have on our planet. By simply turning off our lights for an hour, we are able to ponder over the consequences of our energy consumption and how we can make efforts to be more sustainable.

It unites the global community

Participating in Earth Hour allows us to feel connected to a global community, all working towards the same goal. With millions of people across the globe participating, it's a powerful way to show our collective commitment to protect our planet.

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