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World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

On World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, let's honor the bravery and selflessness of those who provide humanitarian aid around the world.

Saturday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEMay 8

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to recognize and honor the incredible humanitarian work of the Red Cross and Red Crescent organizations on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day! This day is celebrated every year on May 8, in honor of the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, who founded the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1863. These organizations have been providing aid and support to people in need all around the world for over a century. From disaster relief to blood donations, their impact has been immeasurable. So let's take a moment to appreciate their efforts and spread awareness about their important mission on this special day.

TIMELINE

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day Timeline

Red Cross Founded

Henry Dunant founds the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Adoption of Red Crescent

Ottoman Empire uses the Red Crescent emblem during Russo-Turkish War (1876-1878) marking its first use.

Formation of Federation

The League of Red Cross Societies, now the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), is founded.

First World Red Cross Day

The first official World Red Cross Day celebrations took place globally on May 8.

Protocol Addition

The addition of a protocol to the Geneva Conventions officially recognized the Red Crescent and Red Lion and Sun emblems.

Title Change

World Red Cross Day became World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day to honor the movement globally.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

Donate to the Red Cross or Red Crescent

One of the best ways to celebrate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is by making a donation to support their humanitarian efforts around the world. Every little bit helps make a difference.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local chapter

Get involved in your community by volunteering at a local chapter of the Red Cross or Red Crescent. You can help with disaster relief efforts, blood drives, or other important initiatives.

LEARN

Learn about the history and mission of the organizations

Take some time to educate yourself about the history and mission of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. This will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for their work and impact on the world.

ORGANIZE

Organize a first aid or disaster preparedness workshop

Help your community become more prepared and knowledgeable by organizing a first aid or disaster preparedness workshop with the Red Cross or Red Crescent. This is a great way to spread awareness and potentially save lives.

HOST

Host a fundraising event

Gather your friends and family together for a fundraising event to support the Red Cross or Red Crescent. This could be anything from a charity run to a bake sale, and it will help raise funds and awareness for their important work.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is Important

It raises awareness and encourages action

By recognizing World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, we are also raising awareness about the various humanitarian crises happening around the world. It encourages individuals to take action, whether it's through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the message of compassion and support for those in need.

It recognizes the importance of humanitarian aid

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is a reminder of the incredible work that these organizations do to provide humanitarian aid and support to those in need. It's a day to honor their efforts and the impact they have on communities around the world.

It promotes the values of humanity and compassion

The principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement - humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality - are at the core of their mission. World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day serves as a reminder for all of us to embody these values in our daily lives.