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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.

Sunday

August 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEAugust 9

OBSERVED INSouth Africa

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYWomen

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate the spirit of womanhood on National Women's Day on August 9! This special day was first established in 1910, to honor all women and their achievements. It is a celebration of the strength and resilience that women possess, as well as an opportunity to recognize their contributions in both local and global communities. Let's come together to celebrate this important day of recognition for our mothers, daughters, sisters, friends and colleagues around the world!

TIMELINE

National Women’s Day Timeline

Establishment of International Women's Day

On August 9, 1910, the concept of a day to celebrate and honor women was proposed by Clara Zetkin at the International Socialist Women's Conference.

UN Recognizes Women's Rights

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace to recognize women's contribution to world peace.

National Women's History Week

U.S. President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation declaring the week of March 8, 1980, as National Women's History Week.

Observance of National Women's History Month

The US Congress passed a resolution establishing National Women's History Month in March, highlighting contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society.

South Africa's National Women's Day

South Africa marks August 9 as National Women’s Day, commemorating a 1956 march protesting against the country's pass laws during apartheid.

V Day Established

V Day, a global activist movement to end violence against women was established by Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Women’s Day

Gather a group of women

Organize an event with your female friends, family, and colleagues to celebrate the day. Whether it's a dinner party, a night out, or just some drinks and snacks, gather together to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of all women.

SUPPORT

Support causes that benefit women

Donate to charities and organizations that fight for gender equality and help provide opportunities for women around the world. It's a great way to support the cause and show your appreciation for all women.

Share stories of inspirational women

Share inspiring stories of women who have achieved success in their fields or who have made a positive impact on society. Showcase the amazing accomplishments of women from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

HOST

Host a discussion about gender issues

Organize a discussion about gender issues in the workplace, education system, political system, and other areas where gender inequality still exists. This can provide an opportunity for people to learn more about the struggles faced by many women around the world.

ATTEND

Attend a Women's Day event

Look for events in your area that celebrate National Women's Day. These could be conferences, workshops, or lectures that discuss topics related to women's rights and empowerment.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Women’s Day is Important

National Women’s Day encourages solidarity among women

National Women's Day is a great opportunity for women from different backgrounds and cultures to come together and share stories, experiences, struggles, and successes. Through sharing our collective knowledge, we can empower each other by providing support, resources, and inspiration for one another as we strive for success both personally and professionally.

National Women’s Day honors the achievements of women

The annual holiday celebrates and honors the achievements of women throughout history. From inspiring leaders to formidable innovators, National Women's Day is a chance to reflect and appreciate the incredible contributions that women have made - and continue to make - in countless fields and industries around the world.

National Women’s Day promotes gender equality

Gender inequality is still rampant in many parts of the world. National Women's Day serves as an important reminder to all of us that there is still work to be done in achieving total gender parity. By spreading awareness about this meaningful holiday, we can bring attention to this important issue and help fight for equal rights for all women.

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