About International Day of Peace
The International Day of Peace, often called Peace Day, is observed worldwide on September 21. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981 and fixed to September 21 since 2002, it is dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace within and among all nations and peoples. The UN calls for a 24-hour global ceasefire and non-violence on the day, inviting warring parties to lay down their arms.
At United Nations Headquarters in New York the day begins with the ringing of the Peace Bell — cast from coins donated by children from around the world — followed by a minute of silence at noon. Each year carries a specific theme, and governments, schools, faith groups and civil-society organisations mark the day with peace vigils, educational events, concerts and tree plantings across the globe.
The International Day of Peace always falls on September 21, so the counter above simply counts down to the next one. It is a fitting date to rally around for anyone organising a peace event, an assembly or a moment of reflection. Add Peace Day to your own countdown page to track the days until the world pauses to mark peace.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Monday, September 21, 2026next |
| 2027 | Tuesday, September 21, 2027 |
| 2028 | Thursday, September 21, 2028 |
| 2029 | Friday, September 21, 2029 |
| 2030 | Saturday, September 21, 2030 |
FAQ
When is the International Day of Peace?
The International Day of Peace is observed on September 21 every year. The countdown above shows the exact days, hours and minutes until the next one.
Why is the International Day of Peace important?
Established by the UN in 1981, it promotes peace and non-violence worldwide and calls for a 24-hour global ceasefire, giving people everywhere a shared moment to commit to peace.
How is the International Day of Peace marked?
With the ringing of the UN Peace Bell, a minute of silence at noon, an annual theme, and peace vigils, concerts, educational events and ceremonies around the world.
What is the UN Peace Bell?
The Peace Bell at UN Headquarters in New York was cast from coins donated by children from many countries; it is rung each year on the International Day of Peace and other key occasions.