World Children's Day
2028Wednesday, September 20
Quick Facts
- Date
- Wednesday, September 20, 2028
- Observed in
- Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada +24 more
- Type
- Cultural Holiday
What is World Children's Day?
World Children's Day (Weltkindertag in German) is a day dedicated to celebrating children and promoting their rights and welfare. Unlike many holidays, Children's Day is celebrated on different dates around the world.
In Germany, World Children's Day is observed on September 20, and since 2019, it has been a public holiday in the state of Thuringia. The date was chosen to commemorate the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Other notable dates include:
- June 1: International Children's Day (former Eastern Bloc countries)
- November 20: Universal Children's Day (UN)
- April 23: National Sovereignty and Children's Day (Turkey)
The day focuses on raising awareness about children's rights, promoting their well-being, and creating special events and activities for children to enjoy.
When is World Children's Day 2028?
World Children's Day is on Wednesday, September 20 in 2028. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
The history of Children's Day dates back to the early 20th century. The first International Children's Day was proclaimed in 1925 at the World Conference on Child Welfare in Geneva.
Key milestones:
- 1925: First International Children's Day proclaimed
- 1950: June 1 established as International Children's Day by the Women's International Democratic Federation
- 1954: UN General Assembly recommends all countries establish a Universal Children's Day
- 1959: UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child adopted on November 20
- 1989: UN Convention on the Rights of the Child adopted
- 2019: Thuringia becomes the first German state to make Weltkindertag a public holiday
Germany's unique history:
In the former East Germany (DDR), Children's Day was celebrated on June 1 following the Soviet tradition. In West Germany, it was observed on September 20. After reunification, September 20 became the official date nationwide, though some eastern regions still hold dual celebrations.
How It's Celebrated
Special Events: Cities organize festivals, concerts, and activities specifically for children with games, performances, and entertainment.
Free Museum Entry: Many museums, zoos, and cultural institutions offer free or discounted admission for children on this day.
School Celebrations: Schools hold special assemblies, performances, and activities focused on children's rights and well-being.
Awareness Campaigns: Organizations like UNICEF and children's charities run campaigns highlighting issues affecting children worldwide.
Family Activities: Families spend quality time together with outings to parks, playgrounds, and child-friendly attractions.
Political Speeches: Politicians often use the day to address children's issues and announce child-welfare policies.
Art and Creativity: Children's art exhibitions, drawing competitions, and creative workshops are common.
Sports Events: Special sports activities and tournaments for children are organized in many communities.
Where It's Observed
World Children's Day is a public holiday in 3 countries. In 2028, it falls on Wednesday, September 20.
Fun Facts
- Children's Day is celebrated on over 50 different dates worldwide, making it one of the most varied holidays globally
- Turkey was one of the first countries to establish a national Children's Day in 1920, and their April 23 celebration is also National Sovereignty Day
- In the former East Germany (DDR), Children's Day on June 1 was a major celebration where children received gifts similar to birthdays
- Thuringia became the first and only German state to recognize Weltkindertag as a public holiday in 2019
- The Universal Children's Day (November 20) was chosen because the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child was adopted on that date in 1959
- In Japan, Children's Day (Kodomo no Hi) on May 5 features families flying carp-shaped flags called koinobori
- The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history
- In Germany, UNICEF and other organizations use Weltkindertag to publish annual reports on child well-being
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Children's Day celebrated on different dates in different countries?
Children's Day developed independently in different regions with varying traditions. The Soviet bloc adopted June 1 in 1950, the UN recommends November 20, and individual countries chose dates significant to their history. Germany settled on September 20 after reunification, linking it to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Is World Children's Day a public holiday in Germany?
World Children's Day (Weltkindertag) on September 20 is only a public holiday in the state of Thuringia, which adopted it in 2019. In all other German states, it is observed but not an official holiday, though many institutions organize special events and some offer free admission.
What is the difference between Kindertag and Weltkindertag?
In German, Kindertag (Children's Day) often refers to June 1, the traditional East German celebration date. Weltkindertag (World Children's Day) refers to September 20, the West German and now official nationwide date. Both terms are sometimes used interchangeably.
What events happen on World Children's Day in Germany?
Events include festivals with games and entertainment, free museum admission, school celebrations, UNICEF awareness campaigns, sports activities, and art workshops. Major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg organize extensive programs, while Thuringia has the largest celebrations as it's a public holiday there.
Why does Turkey celebrate Children's Day on April 23?
Turkey's Children's Day coincides with National Sovereignty Day, commemorating the establishment of the Turkish Grand National Assembly in 1920. Atat??rk dedicated this day to children, making Turkey one of the first countries with an official Children's Day. It's a public holiday with elaborate celebrations.
How did Children's Day differ between East and West Germany?
In East Germany (DDR), Children's Day on June 1 was a major celebration where children received gifts and special attention, similar to a second birthday. In West Germany, September 20 was observed more quietly. After reunification, September 20 became the official date, though some eastern Germans still celebrate both dates.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around World Children's Day? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
