About International Holocaust Remembrance Day
International Holocaust Remembrance Day, on 27 January, honours the six million Jewish people and millions of others murdered by the Nazi regime. It was designated by the UN General Assembly in 2005 and marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day is a day to remember the six million Jewish people, and millions of others including Roma and Sinti people, disabled people and political prisoners, who were murdered by the Nazi regime and its collaborators. The UN General Assembly designated the day in 2005.
The date, 27 January, is the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp by Soviet troops in 1945. The day asks people to remember the victims, honour survivors, and learn from history so that such crimes are never repeated.
How it is marked
Memorial ceremonies are held, often with candle lighting, readings and moments of silence. Survivors and their families share testimony, in person or through recorded accounts. Schools and universities teach about the Holocaust and discuss prejudice, hatred and human rights, and museums, libraries and UN offices hold exhibitions and screenings.
People in India also take part through educational events and discussions organised by schools, universities and cultural institutions.
What to write
Keep your message simple, quiet and respectful, focusing on memory and a shared commitment to dignity.
- Today we remember the millions who were lost, and honour the survivors. May their memory be a blessing.
- Thinking of you and your family on this day of remembrance. We will not forget.
- Thank you for bringing your grandmother's story to our class. We will remember her, and what she told us.
How to wish someone on International Holocaust Remembrance Day
quiet remembrance of Holocaust victims, respect for survivors and a shared commitment to stand against hatred
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 International Holocaust Remembrance Day on 27 January?
The date marks the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camp by Soviet troops on 27 January 1945.
How is International Holocaust Remembrance Day observed?
People attend memorial ceremonies, light candles, observe moments of silence, listen to survivor testimony and take part in educational events about the Holocaust and its lessons.
What should I avoid writing on Holocaust Remembrance Day?
Avoid cheerful greetings such as "Happy", casual comparisons with other events, and anything that minimises what happened. A short, sincere message of remembrance is best.
When is International Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2026?
International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, 27 January 2026.
What is International Holocaust Remembrance Day?
International Holocaust Remembrance Day, on 27 January, honours the six million Jewish people and millions of others murdered by the Nazi regime. It was designated by the UN General Assembly in 2005 and marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Is International Holocaust Remembrance Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Holocaust Remembrance Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Holocaust Remembrance Day?
Focus on quiet remembrance of holocaust victims, respect for survivors and a shared commitment to stand against hatred. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Holocaust Remembrance Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .