About International Day of Peace
International Day of Peace, also called World Peace Day, is observed on 21 September. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1981, it is devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace and is observed as a day of non-violence and ceasefire.
The UN General Assembly established the International Day of Peace in 1981. In 2001, it voted to make the day a period of non-violence and ceasefire, and fixed the date as 21 September each year. The day is also known as World Peace Day.
The UN invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities on this day and to use it for education and public awareness on issues related to peace. The UN's idea of peace also includes fairness, respect for human rights and communities where people can live without fear.
How it is marked
At UN Headquarters in New York, the day opens with the ringing of the Peace Bell, which was cast from coins donated by children from many countries. Schools, faith groups and community organisations hold peace walks, minutes of silence, art projects and discussions. In India, schools and colleges often mark it with assemblies, peace pledges and poster and essay competitions.
What to write
Wish the person calm and hope, and keep the message simple and sincere.
- Wishing you a calm day and a quiet, happy home. Warm wishes on the International Day of Peace.
- Thinking of you and your family back home today. Hoping for quiet nights and good news soon.
- You're the one who calms everyone down at family dinners. Thank you for being one of the gentlest people I know.
How to wish someone on International Day of Peace
hope for peace at home and in the world, kindness between neighbours and resolving differences calmly
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the International Day of Peace on 21 September?
The UN General Assembly fixed 21 September as the date in 2001, when it also declared the day a time of global ceasefire and non-violence. Before that, it was held on the opening day of the Assembly's regular session each September.
What symbols are associated with the International Day of Peace?
The dove and the olive branch are common symbols of peace. At the UN, the day is marked by ringing the Peace Bell, made from coins donated by children from many countries.
How can schools mark the International Day of Peace?
Schools can hold a minute of silence, a peace walk, an art or poetry project on peace, or a discussion on resolving conflicts at school. Students can also make paper peace cranes or cards to share with classmates.
When is International Day of Peace in 2026?
International Day of Peace 2026 falls on Monday, 21 September 2026.
What is International Day of Peace?
International Day of Peace, also called World Peace Day, is observed on 21 September. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1981, it is devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace and is observed as a day of non-violence and ceasefire.
Is International Day of Peace a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day of Peace varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day of Peace?
Focus on hope for peace at home and in the world, kindness between neighbours and resolving differences calmly. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day of Peace card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .