International Literacy Day
UNESCO's day highlighting literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights.
1 min read · Fact-checked · Updated for 2026
About International Literacy Day
International Literacy Day has been celebrated on September 8th since 1967, established by UNESCO. Despite decades of progress, about 750 million adults worldwide still lack basic literacy skills — two-thirds of them women. The day promotes literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning, employment, health and civic participation.
Read more on WikipediaWhen is International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day is celebrated every year on September 8. Upcoming dates:
| Year | Date | Day of week | |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Literacy Day 2026 | September 8, 2026 | Tuesday | View date → |
| International Literacy Day 2027 | September 8, 2027 | Wednesday | View date → |
| International Literacy Day 2028 | September 8, 2028 | Friday | View date → |
| International Literacy Day 2029 | September 8, 2029 | Saturday🎉 weekend | View date → |
| International Literacy Day 2030 | September 8, 2030 | Sunday🎉 weekend | View date → |
How to Celebrate International Literacy Day
- 🎯Learn something new today — a lesson, a lecture, or a chapter of a book.
- 💡Thank a teacher or mentor who made a difference for you.
- 📣Share a favorite learning resource under #InternationalLiteracyDay.
Official hashtag: #InternationalLiteracyDay
Frequently Asked Questions
When is International Literacy Day 2026?
International Literacy Day 2026 is on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
How many days until International Literacy Day?
There are 57 days until International Literacy Day (September 8, 2026).
What category is International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day is categorized as a Education event.
Is International Literacy Day a public holiday?
International Literacy Day is an observance day, not typically a public holiday. Check your country's official calendar for local public holidays.
More Education Days
International Day of Education
January 24
A UN day celebrating education as a human right and a public good, and calling for its protection worldwide.
World Teachers' Day
October 5
UNESCO's day honoring teachers and their central role in society.
National Grammar Day
March 4
March forth — the only date that's also a complete sentence — to celebrate good grammar.
European Day of Languages
September 26
Celebrating Europe's linguistic diversity — and encouraging everyone to learn a new language.