Countdown to IWD

International Women's Day is a global day celebrated every year on March 8 to honor the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. International Women's Day also serves as a call to action for accelerating gender equality and raising awareness about the challenges women still face around the world. It is marked on every continent, from major capitals to small communities.

The day blends celebration with advocacy, recognizing how far the movement has come while highlighting the work that remains. The countdown above shows exactly how long until the next March 8, helping you plan events, campaigns, or simply a moment of reflection.

When is International Women's Day?

International Women's Day is observed on March 8 every year, a fixed date that does not move regardless of the day of the week. Because the date is constant, it is easy to plan ahead. Watch the countdown above for the precise time remaining, and use our time until calculator or world clock to coordinate events across time zones.

History and origins

International Women's Day has roots in the labor and suffrage movements of the early twentieth century. The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States in 1909. In 1910, at an international conference of working women in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin proposed an annual day to press for women's rights. The first International Women's Day followed in 1911. The date of March 8 became firmly established after women's demonstrations in Russia in 1917. The United Nations began marking the day in 1975 and has chosen an annual theme since.

How International Women's Day is observed

• Marches, rallies, and demonstrations for gender equality.
• Conferences, panels, and educational events in workplaces and schools.
• Recognition of women leaders, scientists, artists, and activists.
• Fundraising for charities that support women and girls.
• Social media campaigns built around the year's official theme.

Frequently Asked Questions

What date is International Women's Day?

International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 every year, the same date regardless of the weekday.

Who started International Women's Day?

The idea of an annual day was proposed by Clara Zetkin in 1910, building on earlier labor and suffrage activism in the United States and Europe.

Is International Women's Day a public holiday?

It is an official holiday in some countries, such as parts of the former Soviet bloc, but in many others it is observed without being a day off work.

What color represents International Women's Day?

Purple is the main color associated with the day, often alongside green and white, drawn from the historic women's suffrage movement.

Does International Women's Day have a yearly theme?

Yes. The United Nations and other organizations select an annual theme to focus attention on specific goals for gender equality.