International Women’s Day is a global day that recognises the achievements and contributions of women in society. It is a day that commemorates women’s accomplishments as well as their fight for equality and liberation. 

Across many countries, Women’s Day is celebrated with events, campaigns, and discussions on women’s contributions. At the same time, it draws attention to issues such as gender equality, women’s rights, and the ongoing challenges women face. 

In this guide, we cover when International Women’s Day is celebrated, its significance, and how celebrations take place.

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on 8th March. In 2026, Women’s Day falls on a Sunday. 

International Women’s Day is celebrated on the 8th of March in memory of the ‘Bread and Peace’ protests of 1917, when Russian textile workers in Petrograd protested against food shortages and working hardships due to WWI. 

Eventually, this led to the Russian Revolution, the removal of the Tsar from power, and helped Russian women get the right to vote.

When we talk about the history of International Women’s Day, we need to go back to the early 1900s. This was the time when women in the US and Europe were organising for voting rights and demanding better working conditions.

The first major protest happened in 1908 in New York when 15,000 women marched through the city demanding fair wages, shorter working hours, and the right to vote. As the movement became stronger, the Socialist Party of America started the first National Women’s Day in 1909. 

The idea for International Women’s Day was proposed by German activist Clara Zetkin at the global conference for working women. And soon, in 1911, the first International Women’s Day was held in European countries of Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. 

The United Nations recognised International Women’s Day in 1975, making the day’s global reach stronger. Today, Women’s Day is celebrated across the world as an important cultural event dedicated to their contributions and struggles.

Each year, the United Nations selects a Women’s Day theme that serves as the basis for celebrations. The official International Women’s Day 2026 theme is ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls’. 

The theme calls to break down barriers to equal rights and justice for women. It emphasises the creation of laws that protect women and girls from violence and discrimination, and ensure equal access to justice.

Apart from the UN theme, the IWD’s official theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is ‘Give To Gain’. This theme focuses on the power of offering support and opportunities to women to empower them. It encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.

Here’s why International Women’s Day celebrations remain important: 

• Recognising women’s achievements: The day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political contributions women make in society.

• Talking about gender equality: Women’s Day creates space for discussions about equal rights, fair opportunities, and representation.

• Highlighting challenges women still face: Issues such as unequal pay, discrimination, and limited access to opportunities are often discussed on this day.

• Bringing attention to women’s rights: The day encourages people to think about how women are treated at work, at home, and in society.
• Inspiring future generations: Celebrating Women’s Day and their success stories motivates other young girls and women to pursue their goals.

People celebrate International Women’s Day in many different ways across the world. Here are some common ways Women’s Day 2026 in India may be celebrated:

• Organising awareness events: Schools and organisations will conduct seminars, panel discussions, and workshops focusing on women’s rights and achievements.

• Recognising women’s achievements: Schools, workplaces, and community groups will honour women who have made important contributions in different fields.

• Sharing International Women’s Day quotes: People will share International Women’s Day quotes through social media, posters, and campaigns to spread awareness and show their appreciation for all that women have done.

• Giving Women’s Day gifts: Many people will mark the day by giving a small Women’s Day gift, such as flowers, books, or handwritten notes, to show appreciation for the women in their lives.

• Supporting women-led initiatives: Many individuals and organisations will use the day to support businesses, charities, or campaigns that focus on women’s empowerment.

Since Women’s Day 2026 falls on a Sunday, you can even consider a weekend getaway by bus to show appreciation to the women in your life. You can book a quick Women’s Day bus getaway via redBus in seconds and make this day even more special!