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International Women’s Day

A cultural observance on March 8 celebrating the achievements of women and accelerating action for gender parity and equality worldwide.

Monday

March 2027

Last updated February 27, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 8

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYWomen

ORIGIN

International Body Recognition

FOUNDING ENTITY

Clara Zetkin & United Nations General Assembly

FIRST OBSERVED

1910

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Clara Zetkin, a leader in Germany’s Social Democratic women’s movement, proposed an international women’s day at the Second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen in 1910. The first coordinated observances followed on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, drawing mass participation in rallies for women’s rights. Decades later, the United Nations adopted it into the UN observance system, beginning UN celebrations on March 8 during International Women’s Year in 1975, and in December 1977 the UN General Assembly proclaimed a “United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace,” to be observed by Member States on any day consistent with their national traditions, which is why it is commonly tied to International Women’s Day in practice.

Legislative Recordvia refworld.org

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to celebrate International Women's Day on March 8! This special day was first established in 1911 and has been a global event ever since. It is dedicated to recognizing the accomplishments of women from all walks of life, celebrating their successes, raising awareness about gender equality issues, and advocating for equal rights around the world. Let us take this opportunity to recognize and thank all the inspiring women who have made a positive impact on our lives!

DEALS & OFFERS

2026’s deals have wrapped

See who celebrated this year, and browse offers from past years.

Offers wrapped for 2026

International Women’s Day ran on March 8. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.

3 brands offered a deal this year

TIMELINE

International Women’s Day Timeline

First Women's March

15,000 women marched in New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and the right to vote, marking a pivotal moment for women's rights.

First International Women's Day

The first International Women's Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.

Russian Women's Strike

Russian women held a strike for "Bread and Peace", ultimately leading to the start of the Russian Revolution and the Tsar’s abdication.

UN Embraces the Day

The United Nations began celebrating International Women's Day to promote gender equality and women's empowerment worldwide.

Introduction of Annual Themes

The UN introduced annual themes for the holiday. The first theme was: "Celebrating the past, Planning for the Future".

100th Anniversary

The centenary of International Women's Day was celebrated worldwide, with thousands of events promoting equality and honoring women's achievements.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Women’s Day

Support a female entrepreneur

Find a female-owned business you'd like to support and purchase something from them. You can also donate to organizations that provide mentorship and financial assistance to women entrepreneurs.

ATTEND

Attend a female-focused event

Look for events in your local community that focus on the celebration and advancement of women. This could be anything from a meetup group to a panel discussion on women's rights.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with a female empowerment organization

Look for organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of women and find ways to volunteer your time or resources. This can be anything from providing mentorship to fundraising.

SEND

Send cards or letters to empower women

Write letters of encouragement or send cards to friends, family, and colleagues who have made an impact in your life or in the lives of others. Show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

HOST

Host a women's networking event

Organize an event where women can network and connect with one another. Invite inspiring speakers to share their stories and create an opportunity for meaningful conversations.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Women’s Day is Important

It raises awareness of issues affecting women

International Women’s Day is also an opportunity to raise awareness on topics such as pay equity, inequality in representation in government or in the workplace, access to education, family planning and reproductive healthcare rights, violence against women, and more.

It celebrates female achievements

International Women's Day is a celebration of the accomplishments and contributions of women around the world. It acknowledges and honors the efforts that women have made in science, business, politics, and other areas over the years.

It promotes gender equality

Gender equality plays an important role in achieving economic growth, reducing poverty, and fostering social inclusion. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder to us all that we must continue striving towards greater equality between men and women at home and abroad.

Related holidays

International Women’s Week

Empower and celebrate the women in your life during International Women's Week! Discover their inspiring stories and contributions.

Nari Dibas

A heritage observance on March 8 celebrating the achievements of Nepalese women, the feminist movement, and promoting gender equality and women's empowerment.

National Women’s Day

Celebrate National Women's Day with the amazing women in your life! Show them how much they mean to you with kind words, thoughtful gifts, and quality time.