United Nations Day

Next celebratedSaturday, October 24, 2026

Celebrate United Nations Day and recognize the world's efforts for global peace and justice - let's join together to make a difference!

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEOctober 24

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

Celebrate the international organization that promotes peace and unity on United Nations Day, Oct. 24! This day marks the anniversary of when the United Nations Charter came into effect in 1945 and it is an opportunity to recognize how far we have come as a global community. It is also a chance to celebrate all of our differences by celebrating our common humanity.

TIMELINE

United Nations Day Timeline

Creation of the United Nations

The United Nations was officially established after the ratification of its charter by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council.

First Observance of UN Day

The United Nations General Assembly declared October 24 as United Nations Day, marking the coming into effect of the UN Charter.

Decolonization Efforts

The UN's decolonization efforts led to the release of numerous colonial territories and the addition of many new member states.

Millennium Summit

The largest gathering of world leaders in history occurred on UN Day to establish the Millennium Development Goals.

Adoption of Sustainable Development Goals

The UN Member States adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

75th Anniversary of the UN

The 75th anniversary was marked with a year-long celebration emphasizing the theme of "The future we want, the United Nations we need".

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate United Nations Day

Attend a UN event

Check out your local United Nations office to see if they have any events or seminars that you can attend. The UN is all about promoting international cooperation and understanding, so attending one of their events will be a great way to learn more about the organization.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Volunteering your time to support the United Nations' mission is a great way to celebrate UN Day. Whether it's helping out in a local UN office or participating in an awareness campaign, there are plenty of ways to show your support.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser for the UN. You can do this on either a small or large scale, depending on how much time and energy you have to put into it. Get friends and family involved, spread the word, and raise some money for an important cause.

Share your thoughts

Share your thoughts about the United Nations and its goals online through social media. Use the hashtag #UNDay to join in on the conversation.

WATCH

Watch a documentary

Take some time to educate yourself by watching a documentary about the United Nations and its past accomplishments. This will help you gain insight into what the organization stands for and what it means to celebrate UN Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why United Nations Day is Important

It brings attention to world issues

Celebrating UN Day is also an opportunity to draw attention to urgent international issues such as climate change, poverty, gender equality, migration and more. By doing so, we can help raise awareness about vital topics that affect us all and find better solutions that benefit everyone.

United Nations Day celebrates unity and peace

The United Nations is committed to promoting and advancing the ideals of global peace, justice, human rights and the rule of law. Celebrating UN Day is a way to recognize that these principles are essential for lasting peace and sustainable development.

It recognizes the many achievements of the United Nations

Since its founding in 1945, the United Nations has achieved many important milestones such as reducing extreme poverty worldwide by more than half, helping establish universal primary education around the globe, providing lifesaving humanitarian aid during times of crisis and much more.

Related holidays

United Nations Week

Join the global celebration during United Nations Week and learn how you can make a positive impact on the world!

International Day of Peace

Celebrate International Day of Peace by spreading love and kindness - make the world a better place with your actions!

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Join the fight against poverty on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty: donate, volunteer, and spread awareness to give hope to those in need.

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Apr 2026