International Day of Play

The International Day of Play on 11 June highlights play as a fundamental right of every child and vital for learning and wellbeing.

  • UK
  • USA
  • Ireland (not marked)
  • Canada (not marked)
  • Australia (not marked)
  • New Zealand (not marked)
  • International
OrganiserUNICEF
ListingAdded by us from official sources
Last checked19 October 2026
First held2024

About the day

The UN General Assembly proclaimed the day, which was first marked in 2024, and UNICEF plays a leading role. It asks governments to build play into education and community life, reflecting the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

2026 theme

Protect Play, Protect Childhood

The 2027 theme has not been announced yet.

Dates for the next three years

YearDateWhereStatus
2027Friday 11 June 2027UK, USA, InternationalSame date every year
2028Sunday 11 June 2028UK, USA, InternationalSame date every year
2029Monday 11 June 2029UK, USA, InternationalSame date every year

Where this information comes from

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