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One Day Without Shoes

Take a step towards making a difference and join One Day Without Shoes - raise awareness for those in need and experience the world barefoot.

Monday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEMay 10

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYYouth

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to take off your shoes for a meaningful cause on One Day Without Shoes, celebrated every May 10! This day was created by the well-known shoe company TOMS in 2006 to raise awareness about children's health and education issues around the world. By going barefoot for just one day, you can make a statement and also experience what it's like to live without proper footwear. So kick off your shoes and join in on this global movement that is making a positive impact one step at a time.

TIMELINE

One Day Without Shoes Timeline

TOMS Shoes Foundation

Blake Mycoskie founds TOMS shoes to provide footwear to underprivileged children around the world for every pair of shoes sold.

First One Day Without Shoes

TOMS organizes the first One Day Without Shoes event encouraging people to go barefoot for a day to raise awareness about global health and education.

One Day Without Shoes Goes Digital

In addition to physical events, TOMS begins using social media to improve the reach of One Day Without Shoes, encouraging global participation.

Global Impact

By this year, One Day Without Shoes has grown exponentially, with schools, businesses, and individuals participating from around the world.

Adjusting Amidst Pandemic

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the event continues virtually with participants joining from their homes, further raising awareness for the cause.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate One Day Without Shoes

Go barefoot for the day

Challenge yourself to go barefoot for the entire day! Not only will you experience what it's like to not wear shoes, but you'll also raise awareness for those who have no choice but to go without shoes every day.

HOST

Host a shoe drive

Organize a shoe drive in your community and collect gently used shoes to donate to those in need. This is a great way to make a tangible difference in someone's life on One Day Without Shoes.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local shelter

Spend your day volunteering at a local shelter or charity that provides shoes for those in need. Not only will you be making a difference, but you'll also gain a better understanding of the impact that shoes can have on someone's life.

ORGANIZE

Organize a barefoot walk/run

Get your community involved by organizing a barefoot walk or run to raise awareness and funds for those who go without shoes. This is a fun and active way to celebrate One Day Without Shoes while making a difference.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to learn more about the issue of shoelessness and share your knowledge with others. Use social media to spread awareness and encourage others to join in on One Day Without Shoes.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why One Day Without Shoes is Important

It promotes gratefulness for what we have

Going without shoes for even just one day can give us a small glimpse into the daily struggles of those who don't have proper footwear. It can also serve as a reminder to be grateful for the things we often take for granted, such as shoes to protect our feet.

It raises awareness for those in need

One Day Without Shoes is a global event that aims to raise awareness about the millions of people around the world who do not have access to proper footwear. By going barefoot for just one day, we can start conversations and educate others about this important issue.

It shows support for a cause

Participating in One Day Without Shoes is a simple but powerful way to show our support for those without shoes. It sends a message that we care about their well-being and are willing to take action to help make a difference.

Related holidays

MON

Mar 2026

Awareness

National Shoe The World Day

An awareness observance on March 15 dedicated to providing shoes to millions worldwide who lack access to quality footwear and raising awareness about health risks of going barefoot.

No Socks Day

Get ready to ditch your socks and let your toes breathe because it's No Socks Day! Embrace the freedom and enjoy the comfort of going sockless.

Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Step into the day with confidence and independence - it's Put on Your Own Shoes Day! Show off your style and self-sufficiency.

International Red Shoe Day

Get ready to strut your stuff on International Red Shoe Day! Show off your favorite red kicks and join the movement to raise awareness for a good cause.

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