International Overdose Awareness Day
Held on 31 August, the world's largest campaign to remember people lost to overdose, reduce stigma and promote overdose prevention.
- UK
- USA
- Ireland (not marked)
- Canada (not marked)
- Australia (not marked)
- New Zealand (not marked)
- International
OrganiserPenington Institute
ListingAdded by us from official sources
Last checked19 October 2026
First held2001
About the day
The day began in Melbourne in 2001 and has been run by the Australian charity Penington Institute since 2012. It now involves more than a thousand events in over 40 countries.
2026 theme
25 Years On. Still Needed.
The 2027 theme has not been announced yet.
Dates for the next three years
| Year | Date | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Tuesday 31 August 2027 | UK, USA, International | Same date every year |
| 2028 | Thursday 31 August 2028 | UK, USA, International | Same date every year |
| 2029 | Friday 31 August 2029 | UK, USA, International | Same date every year |
Where this information comes from
- International Overdose Awareness Day: about the campaign
- Penington Institute: International Overdose Awareness Day
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