About Africa Day
Africa Day is the annual commemoration of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963, when leaders of 32 newly independent African states met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The OAU was succeeded by the African Union in 2002, but the date endures as a celebration of African unity, liberation from colonialism, and the shared aspirations of a continent of more than 50 nations and over a billion people.
Across Africa and in the diaspora, Africa Day is marked with concerts, parades, art exhibitions, conferences and debates on the continent's future, often built around an annual theme set by the African Union. Schools and cultural centres hold events celebrating African languages, food, music and dress, while governments and pan-African organisations use the day to reflect on progress in development, integration and peace.
Africa Day falls on May 25 every year, a fixed date that never changes, so the countdown above always points to the next celebration. Whether you mark it with family, community festivities or simply a moment of pan-African pride, add Africa Day to your own countdown page and follow the days until May 25.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Tuesday, May 25, 2027next |
| 2028 | Thursday, May 25, 2028 |
| 2029 | Friday, May 25, 2029 |
| 2030 | Saturday, May 25, 2030 |
| 2031 | Sunday, May 25, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Africa Day?
Africa Day is held on May 25 every year. The live countdown above shows the days, hours and minutes until the next Africa Day in your timezone.
Why is Africa Day important?
It marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity on 25 May 1963 — a milestone in the fight against colonialism and apartheid — and celebrates unity and progress across the continent.
How is Africa Day celebrated?
With concerts, parades, cultural exhibitions, conferences and educational events across Africa and the diaspora, frequently organised around an annual theme chosen by the African Union.
What was the OAU?
The Organisation of African Unity was a continental body founded in 1963 to promote solidarity and end colonial rule; it was replaced by the African Union in 2002, but Africa Day still honours its founding date.