2027 Early Childhood Services Calendar of Events and Awareness Days
Updated: Sep 22
Below is a list of events, awareness days, celebrations and more happening in 2027. At the end of each month below, you can print a version for your service, which includes a section for you to add your own community events.
We have included a variety of different events, including cultural holidays and International holidays, plus some fun days that may be of interest to your children. You do not need to celebrate or talk about all of the below events. Choose days based on your children's and families' interests, connections, and cultures. Please email us if you think we have missed any or have made a mistake- click here..
These dates are all subject to change and we will add more as the year goes so please check back. Sign up here for free and we will send you a monthly calendar to use in your service-
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2027
💗 1st – New Year’s Day (Public Holiday – start of the calendar year in Australia)
💗 1st–31st – Walk Your Dog Month (promoting dog wellbeing, daily exercise and responsible pet ownership)
💗 1st–31st – Veganuary (global campaign encouraging a plant-based diet for animals, health and the planet)
💗 1st – Gantan Sai (New Year’s) – Shinto
(focus on purification, renewal and welcoming the new year)
💗 2nd – World Introvert Day
(celebrating introverts and recognising quiet strengths and reflection)
💗 2nd – National Science Fiction Day
(celebrating science fiction stories, imagination and future thinking)
💗 3rd – International Mind-Body Wellness Day
(highlighting the mind–body connection and holistic wellbeing)
💗 4th – World Braille Day
(promoting accessibility, inclusion and the importance of braille for human rights)
💗 4th – National Spaghetti Day
(fun food celebration – perfect for simple cooking and sensory play ideas)
💗 6th – Epiphany
(Christian – commemorating the visit of the Magi and the manifestation of Christ)
💗 7th – Orthodox Christmas Day
(Eastern Christian churches – Nativity of Jesus celebrated by Julian calendar)
💗 10th – World Hindi Day
(promoting Hindi as an international language and cultural bridge)
💗 12th – Earth Chakra Day
(spiritual observance focusing on global energy points, earth healing and connection)
💗 14th – Orthodox New Year
(New Year’s Day for some Eastern Christian traditions using the Julian calendar)
💗 14th – International Kite Day
(closely linked with Makar Sankranti – celebrating kite flying, colour and community)
💗 14th – World Logic Day - Theme TBC
(UNESCO observance highlighting the importance of logic, reasoning, knowledge and dialogue)
💗 15th – Makar Sankranti
(Hindu harvest festival – gratitude, new beginnings and sharing seasonal foods)
💗 15th – Tamil Thai Pongal
(Tamil harvest festival thanking the sun and nature for the year’s harvest)
💗 17th – Kid Inventors’ Day
(celebrating creativity, problem-solving and inventions by children and young people)
💗 17th – World Religion Day
(promoting interfaith understanding, unity and respect among different religions)
💗 17th – World Snow Day
(part of FIS “Bring Children to the Snow” campaign – motto: “Explore, Enjoy, Experience” snow and winter play)
💗 18th – Winnie the Pooh Day
(celebrating A.A. Milne’s stories, friendships and gentle adventures)
💗 18th – Martin Luther King Jr Day
(US public holiday honouring Martin Luther King Jr and his work for civil rights, equality and non-violent change)
💗 19th – National Popcorn Day
(fun food day – great for sensory tubs, counting and movie-night experiences)
💗 20th – Penguin Awareness Day
(raising awareness about penguin conservation, habitats and climate change)
💗 21st – Squirrel Appreciation Day
(encouraging care for wildlife and observation of local animals)
💗 21st – National Hug Day
(spreading kindness, connection and consent-based comforting hugs)
💗 23rd – Tu BiShvat / Tu B’Shevat
(Jewish New Year for Trees – observed from sundown 1st to nightfall 2nd)
💗 23rd – World Handwriting Day
(Celebrating handwriting and fine-motor development through playful mark-making, drawing, tracing and early writing experiences.)
💗 24th – International Day of Education - Theme TBC
(United Nations day recognising education as a human right and its role in peace, inclusion and opportunity)
💗 24th – World Day for African and Afrodescendant Culture
(celebrating African and Afrodescendant cultures and their contributions to global heritage) ✨ View Our Exploring Africa Ideas Here
💗 26th – Australia Day / Survival Day / Invasion Day
(National Public Holiday – often marked by reflection on history, truth-telling and ongoing calls for change led by First Nations peoples)
💗 26th – Yabun: Celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures
(major Sydney festival honouring First Nations music, dance, Elders and community)
💗 27th – Chocolate Cake Day
(fun day to enjoy baking, measuring and shared treats)
💗 27th – (Public) Term 1 begins – government schools
(QLD, SA, NT – student start)
💗 28th – (Public) Term 1 begins – government schools
(VIC, – student start)
💗 28th – Lego Day
(celebrating creativity, building, STEM thinking and open-ended construction play)
💗 29th – Puzzle Day
(celebrating problem-solving, perseverance and critical thinking)
💗 30th – Parent Mental Health Day - Theme TBC
(held each year on 30 January, raising awareness of parent and carer mental health and family wellbeing)
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2027
🩵 1st–28th – Feel Good February
(A month-long focus on simple daily actions that boost wellbeing, gratitude, connection and kindness for children, educators and families.)
🩵 1st – World Hijab Day - Theme TBC
(Global campaign celebrating women who wear hijab and challenging stereotypes, understanding and respect.)
🩵 1st – (Public) Term 1 begins – government schools
(WA – student start; ACT – new students)
🩵 2nd – World Wetlands Day - Theme: Innovation in action for wetlands
(A global day raising awareness of the importance of wetlands for biodiversity, water, climate and communities.)
🩵 2nd – (Public) Term 1 begins – government schools
(ACT – new students; continuing students)
🩵 3rd – Setsubun Sai
(Shinto “bean-throwing” festival to welcome good fortune)
🩵 3rd – Global School Play Day
(celebrating child-led, unstructured play)
🩵 3rd – World Read Aloud Day - Theme: TBC
(Celebrating the joy of reading aloud and the importance of literacy, storytelling and shared books.)
🩵 3rd – (Public) Term 1 begins – government schools
(NSW Eastern Division – student start)
🩵 4th – World Cancer Day
(Campaign theme 2025–27: “United by Unique”)
🩵 4th (Public) – Term 1 begins
(TAS- student start )
🩵 6th – Waitangi Day (New Zealand’s national day, marking the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi – a chance to honour Aotearoa New Zealand, Māori culture and the idea of partnership and respect between peoples.)
🩵 6th – Lunar New Year – Year of the Fire Goat
(Beginning of the Lunar New Year in 2027, welcoming the Year of the Fire Goat with celebrations, food, lanterns and family traditions.)
🩵7th– Physical Disability Awareness Day
(Australia-wide day recognising people living with physical disability, their contributions and the importance of access, inclusion and visibility.)
🩵 8th – Royal Hobart Regatta
(TAS – regional public holiday)
🩵 8th – International Epilepsy Day
(Second Monday in February – a global awareness day to build understanding and reduce stigma.)
🩵 8th – Ramadan (expected; begins evening 7 FEB; moon-sighting dependent)
(Beginning of the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, generosity and family connection – dates may shift slightly with local moon-sighting.)
🩵 9th – Pizza Day (A fun food-themed day that can explore counting, fractions, sharing, favourite toppings and healthy choices through play-based experiences.)
🩵 9th – Safer Internet Day- Theme TBC
(Australia – led by eSafety, encouraging safer, more respectful and responsible online experiences.)
🩵 9th – Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day
(Traditionally a day to use up rich ingredients before Lent – perfect for cooking, counting, measuring and sharing pancakes together.)
🩵 10th (Public) – Term 1 begins- government schools
(NSW Western Division- student start)
🩵 10th – Ash Wednesday (Christian – beginning of Lent)
(Marks the start of Lent for many Christian families – a time of reflection, kindness and thinking about how we treat others and our world.)
🩵 11th – International Day of Women and Girls in Science - Theme TBC
(Recognising the importance of girls and women in science, STEM learning, innovation and equal opportunity.)
🩵 12th – International Darwin Day
(honors Charles Darwin's birthday and his revolutionary theory of evolution by natural selection, promoting science, critical thinking, and human achievement)
🩵 13th – National Apology Anniversary (Commemorating the National Apology to the Stolen Generations delivered in Parliament on 13 February 2008 – a day for truth-telling, listening and reflecting on ongoing healing and reconciliation.)
🩵13th – World Radio Day - Theme TBC (UNESCO day celebrating radio’s power to inform, connect and include communities.)
🩵 14th – Valentine’s Day (A gentle celebration of love, friendship and care – perfect for focusing on kindness, gratitude and positive relationships with children, families and educators.)
🩵 14th – Library Lovers’ Day
(Celebrating libraries, librarians and the special places where stories, learning and community come together.)
🩵 14th – International Book Giving Day
(Encouraging the sharing of books with children, families and communities to promote a love of reading for all.)
🩵 15th – Nirvana Day / Parinirvana Day (Buddhist)
(A Buddhist day of reflection on the death of the Buddha, focusing on peace, compassion and the impermanence of life in gentle, child-friendly ways.)
🩵 15th – International Childhood Cancer Day- Theme TBC
(Global campaign raising awareness, support and equity for children and young people with cancer and their families.)
🩵 17th – Random Acts of Kindness Day
(Encouraging simple, everyday acts of kindness, empathy and “pay it forward” moments in our rooms and communities.)
🩵 18th – International Asperger’s Day
(Raising awareness, understanding and acceptance of autistic people who may identify with the term “Asperger’s”, and celebrating neurodiversity and strengths.)
🩵 20th – National Love Your Pet Day
(A day to appreciate pets and other animals, and to talk about gentle, responsible care for living things.) ✨ View our Pets Learning Story Set Here
🩵 20th – World Day of Social Justice- Theme TBC
(UN day promoting fairness, inclusion, human rights and equal opportunity.)
🩵 21st – International Mother Language Day
(Celebrating children’s home languages, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages, and the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity.)
🩵 22nd – World Thinking Day - Theme TBC
(Guides and Girl Scouts worldwide celebrate global friendship, leadership and taking action together.)
🩵 26th – Tell a Fairy Tale Day
(A playful celebration of stories, imagination and make-believe – perfect for oral storytelling, puppets and dramatic play.)
🩵 27th – World NGO Day
(Recognising the work of community organisations, charities and not-for-profits that support children, families and communities.)
🩵 27th – International Polar Bear Day
(Highlighting polar bears, sea ice and climate change – a child-friendly way to talk about caring for animals and distant habitats.)
🩵 28th – Summer’s Day – Kidsafe QLD
(A Queensland awareness day named in memory of Summer Steer, focusing on button battery safety and preventing serious injuries to children.)
🩵 28th – Rare Disease Day
(Global awareness day advocating for equity, diagnosis and support for people living with rare diseases and their families.)
🩵 Dates TBC – SeaWeek Australia – Theme TBC
(A national marine education campaign exploring oceans, coasts, marine life and caring for sea Country.)
🩵 Date TBC – Business Clean Up Day (Clean Up Australia)
(Workplaces and organisations come together to clean local areas, showing children how adults care for Country and community spaces.)
🩵 Dates TBC– SeaWeek Australia- Theme TBC
(Theme 2026: “Caring for Planet Water” – a national marine education campaign exploring how the ocean makes Earth habitable and inspiring children to care for seas, coasts and marine life.)
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2027
💙 1st–31st – Australian Women’s History Month
(celebrating the stories, leadership and achievements of Australian women)
💙 1st–31st – Australian Adopt a Pet Month
(promoting pet adoption and responsible, kind care for animals)
💙 1st–31st – Epilepsy Awareness Month
💙 1st–31st – Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
💙 1st–31st – Polite Pets Month
(focusing on safe, respectful behaviour around pets and other animals)
💙1st-31st – World’s Greatest Shave (Leukaemia Foundation fundraiser – check local event dates)
💙 1st-7th – Hearing Awareness Week
(Australia – hearing health, early identification and communication inclusion)
💙 1st – First Day of Autumn (Australia – seasonal change and weather awareness)
💙 1st – Baby Sleep Day (promoting safe, healthy infant and child sleep)
💙 1st – International Wheelchair Day (celebrating wheelchair users and advocating for accessibility and inclusion)
💙 1st – World Compliment Day (sharing genuine compliments and noticing strengths in others)
💙 1st – National Pig Day (fun farm- and animal-themed learning)
💙 1st – Zero Discrimination Day
(championing dignity, diversity and inclusion for all)
💙 1st – Labour Day (Public, WA)
(Western Australia public holiday)
💙 2nd – Dr Seuss Day
(celebrating rhyme, rhythm and playful literacy)
💙 2nd – World Teen Mental Wellness Day
(raising awareness of teen mental health and help-seeking)
💙 3rd – World Hearing Day - Theme TBC
(Theme 2026: “From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children”)
💙 3rd – World Wildlife Day
(UN day celebrating wild animals and plants)
💙 4th – World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development
(STEM problem-solving for people and planet)
💙 5th – World Day of Prayer
(ecumenical Christian day of prayer – Theme "United in Prayer for Justice and Peace".)
🩵 5th – Schools Clean Up Day (Clean Up Australia)
(Schools and education services lead clean-up actions, helping children see themselves as active, capable environmental helpers.)
💙 7th – Clean Up Australia Day
(national community clean-up – first Sunday in March 2026)
💙 8th – UN International Women’s Day (IWD)- Theme TBC
(2026 campaign “Balance the Scales”, focusing on gender equality and women’s rights)
💙 8th – Eight Hours Day (Public holiday, TAS)
(Tasmania public holiday)
💙 8th– Labour Day (Public holiday, VIC)
(Victoria public holiday)
💙 8th – Canberra Day (Public holiday, ACT)
(ACT public holiday)
💙 9th– Ramadan ends (evening; expected; moon-sighting dependent)(Islam – date depends on local moon-sighting)
💙 10th – Eid al-Fitr (expected; begins evening 9 MAR; moon-sighting dependent)
(Islam – end of Ramadan, date may vary with local moon-sighting)
💙 14th – International Day of Mathematics (Pi Day)
(Celebrating the joy of maths – perfect for counting, patterns, shapes, measuring, sorting and playful problem-solving.)
💙14th-20th National Poisons Prevention Week- Theme TBC
Theme-“When the Unexpected Happens, Poison Help is here for you"
🧡15th-21st – Harmony Week🧡
(Australia – “Everyone Belongs” / inclusion, respect and belonging)
💙 17th – St Patrick’s Day
(Celebrating Irish culture and community – a chance for green-themed play, music, dancing, storytelling and shared traditions in respectful, child-led ways.)
💙 18th – Global Recycling Day
(promoting recycling, circular economy and waste reduction)
✨View our Recycling Set here
💙 18th – National Close the Gap Day
(campaign to achieve health equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)
💙 19th – International Read to Me Day
(highlighting the importance of reading aloud and access to books for all children)
💙 19th – Ride2School Day
(Bicycle Network – encouraging active travel to school)
💙 20th– International Day of Happiness- Theme TBC
(focus on collective wellbeing and a fairer, kinder world – 2026 theme TBC)
💙 20th – Very Hungry Caterpillar Day
(celebrating Eric Carle’s story and early literacy)
💙 20th – World Storytelling Day- Theme TBC
(Theme 2026: “Light in the Dark” – sharing stories across cultures and generations)
💙 20th – Earth Hour (8.30-9.30 pm local time)
(8.30–9.30 pm local time – “Give an Hour for Earth”, switching off lights to support climate action)
💙 21st – Autumnal Equinox (Southern Hemisphere- Australian Date)
(Marks the change of season as day and night are about equal – a great prompt for weather watching, nature play and noticing seasonal changes.)
🧡 21st – Harmony Day 🧡 (Australia – “Everyone Belongs”, aligned with UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination)
💙 21st – World Poetry Day (UNESCO – celebrating poetry, language and creative expression)
💙 21st – World Down Syndrome Day (global awareness day – often using “Lots of Socks” activities)
💙 21st – International Day of Forests Theme: "Growing forests for a sustainable future -advancing afforestation and reforestation"
💙 22nd – World Water Day 2027 focus: Water, sanitation and health. Theme slogan TBC. (raising awareness of freshwater and sustainable water use – 2026 theme -"Where Water Flows, Equality Grows)
💙 22nd-23rd – Holi / Holika Dahan – Festival of Colours (Sydney dates; local dates TBC)
(Hindu festival celebrating love, spring and the triumph of good – 2026 date may vary by community) (TBC)
💙 23rd – World Meteorological Day- Theme TBC (Theme 2026: “Observing today, protecting tomorrow” – weather, climate and resilience)
💙 23rd – National Eucalypt Day - Theme TBC (Theme 2026: “Our Eucalypt Home” – celebrating Australian eucalypt species and habitats)
💙 23rd – Purim (begins evening 22 MAR)
(Jewish “Festival of Lots” – celebrations begin evening 2nd; date may vary slightly by community)
💙 26th – Epilepsy Awareness Day (Purple Day)
(global epilepsy awareness; wear purple and share learning)
💙 26th – Good Friday (Public Holiday – Australia)
(Christian holy day reflecting on the story of Jesus’ crucifixion – some services and community events may occur.)
💙 28th – Neighbour Day - Theme TBC (Relationships Australia – “Belonging Every Day” and building local connections)
💙 28th – Easter Sunday(Christian celebration of new life and hope – many families mark this with special meals, eggs and gatherings.)
💙 29th – Easter Monday (Public Holiday – Australia)
(Public holiday that often gives families extra time together at the end of the Easter long weekend.)
💙 30th – National Doctors’ Day (US observance) (acknowledging doctors’ contribution to community health and wellbeing)
💙 Dates TBC- Parks Week- Theme TBC
(celebrating parks, nature play and community wellbeing)
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2026
💜 1st–30th – World Autism Understanding Month (Australia & worldwide)
(Building understanding, acceptance and celebration of autistic children, young people and adults.) ✨View our FREE Autism Awareness Pack here.
💜 1st – April Fools Day
(Light-hearted jokes and playfulness – a chance to talk about kind humour and everyone feeling safe.)
💜 2nd – World Autism Awareness Day
(United Nations day highlighting the rights, inclusion and strengths of autistic people.)
💜 2nd – International Children’s Book Day
(Celebrating children’s literature, authors and illustrators – perfect for storybook picnics and book corners.)
💜 4th – International Carrot Day (A fun way to explore vegetables, gardening and healthy food with children.)
💜 6th – Waltzing Matilda Day (Marking the first performance of “Waltzing Matilda” – a playful entry point to Australian history and song.)
💜 6th – International Day of Sport for Development and Peace
(Highlighting how sport and physical activity can promote teamwork, inclusion, respect and peace in communities.)
💜 7th – World Health Day - Theme TBC
(Global focus on health, wellbeing and access to care – great for talking about healthy bodies and minds.)
💜 8th – Hana Matsuri (Buddhism – Buddha’s Birthday in Japan)
(“Flower Festival” celebrating the birth of the Buddha – a gentle way to explore diversity and celebrations around the world.)
💜 10th – National Siblings Day
(Celebrating brothers, sisters and “like-a-sibling” relationships in children’s lives.)
💜 12th – International Day of Human Space Flight
(Commemorating the first human journey into space – perfect for space play, inquiry and STEM provocations.)
💜 13th – Auslan Day
(Celebrating the Australian Sign Language community and promoting inclusive communication.)
💜 14th – Vaisakhi (Sikh New Year & harvest festival) (Marking the birth of the Khalsa and a major Sikh celebration – a rich opportunity to explore culture, music and food.)
💜 14th – National Dolphin Day (Raising awareness of dolphins, oceans and how we can care for marine life.)
💜 15th – Vishu (A New Year festival celebrated by many Malayali families, often focused on gratitude, family traditions and hopes for the year ahead.)
💜 15th – Poila Boishakh / Bohag Bihu
(New Year celebrations observed by some Bengali and Assamese families, offering a gentle opportunity to explore culture, music, food and celebration.)
💜 15th – World Art Day
(Highlighting creativity, imagination and the role of art in our lives and communities.)
💜 18th – International Day for Monuments and Sites (World Heritage Day) (Inviting children to explore special places, old buildings and cultural heritage around the world and locally.)
💜 21st – World Creativity & Innovation Day
(Celebrating problem-solving, new ideas and children’s inventive thinking in play and projects.)
💜 21st–29th – Passover (Pesach) (begins evening 21 APR)
(Jewish festival of freedom – begins evening 1 April and continues for 7–8 days, depending on tradition.)✨View our Free Pack here
💜 22nd – Earth Day- (Food for Our Planet)
(Global focus on caring for our planet – sustainability, recycling, habitats and children’s everyday actions.)
💜 22nd – Jelly Bean Day
(A playful way to explore colours, counting, sorting and patterning – with strong supervision if used in activities.)
💜 23rd – International Girls in ICT Day- Theme TBC
(Encouraging girls’ interest in technology, digital skills, innovation and future pathways in STEM-related fields.)
💜 23rd – World Book and Copyright Day
(Celebrating books, authors and illustrators – and respecting stories, images and creative work.)
💜 24th–30th – World Immunisation Week- Theme TBC
(Promoting the role of vaccines in keeping communities healthy – great for simple conversations about how doctors help us stay well.)
💜 25th – ANZAC Day (public holiday also 26 APR in some states/territories)
(Reflecting on courage, service and Australian and New Zealand history in age-appropriate, gentle ways.)
💜 25th – World Penguin Day
(Spotlighting penguins, polar habitats and caring for cold-climate ecosystems.)
💜 28th – World Day for Safety and Health at Work
(Focusing on safe workplaces – a natural link to children’s own safety rules and risk-benefit conversations.)
💜 29th – World Wish Day
(Recognising the power of hope, kindness and community support for children facing serious illness – a gentle way to talk about care and helping others.)
💜 29th – International Dance Day
(Celebrating movement, rhythm, culture and joy through dance and music.)
💜 30th – International Jazz Day
(Exploring jazz, improvisation, rhythm and diverse musical traditions from around the world.)
💜 30th – Orthodox Good Friday
(A significant Christian holy day for many Orthodox families, observed in the lead-up to Orthodox Easter.)
💜 Dates TBC – Nature Play Week (Australia)
(Encouraging outdoor, unstructured nature play and connection to Country, local parks and natural spaces.)
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2027
🖤1st–31st – Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (Queensland)
(Month-long Queensland campaign raising awareness, promoting respectful relationships and sending a clear message that violence is never OK.)
🖤 2nd – Orthodox Easter Sunday
(Easter celebration for many Orthodox Christian communities – dates can vary slightly with local calendars.)
🖤2nd-8th – International Compost Awareness Week- Theme: All Paths Lead to Compost
(Global focus on composting, soil health and reducing food waste – great for garden scraps, worm farms and sustainability projects.)
🖤2nd – World Laughter Day
(Celebrating the power of laughter and joy for health and connection – perfect for funny stories, games and silly faces together.)
🖤3rd – Labour Day (QLD) / May Day (NT) – Public Holiday
(Public holiday in Queensland and the Northern Territory recognising workers’ rights, unions and fair working conditions.)
🖤3rd–9th – National Family Day Care Week
(Celebrating Family Day Care educators, children and families, and the warmth of small-group, home-based care.)
🖤4th – Star Wars Day
(“May the 4th be with you” – a playful chance for space-themed stories, light/dark play and imaginative dress-ups.)
🖤4th – International Firefighters’ Day
(Honouring firefighters and emergency services who help keep communities safe in fires, floods and emergencies.)
🖤4th – World Asthma Day- Theme TBC
(Raising awareness of asthma, breathing and lung health – a chance to talk about puffers, triggers and helping friends who have asthma.)
🖤5th – Children’s Day – Kodomo no Hi (Japan)
(Japanese festival celebrating children’s health, happiness and strength – carp streamers, family traditions and cross-cultural learning.)
🖤8th – World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day
(Recognising the humanitarian work of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers around the world – a thoughtful way to explore helping others, caring for communities and the roles of emergency support services.)
🖤9th – Mother’s Day (Australia)
(Second Sunday in May – a gentle opportunity to celebrate mums, nanas and special people in children’s lives, in all their diverse forms.)
🖤10th–16th – National Families Week (Australia)- Theme TBC
(Theme: "Every Family, Everywhere".-Annual Australian celebration of families in all their shapes and sizes.)
🖤12th – International Nurses Day
(Honouring nurses and midwives who care for babies, children, families and communities in hospitals and health services.)
🖤14th – Walk Safely to School Day (Australia)
(Promotes safe, active travel for children – a good prompt to talk about road safety, crossing roads and staying visible.)
🖤15th – International Day of Families
(United Nations day highlighting the importance of families, belonging and strong relationships across generations.)
🖤16th – International Day of the Boy Child
(Focusing on the wellbeing, rights and emotional needs of boys, and breaking stereotypes about how boys “should” act or feel.)
🖤16th–23rd – National Road Safety Week (Australia)
(Nationwide campaign to “Drive So Others Survive” – remembering those lost on the roads and promoting safer choices for drivers, riders and pedestrians.)
🖤 16th – Pentecost Sunday (Christian)
(A Christian celebration 50 days after Easter, remembering the coming of the Holy Spirit and often called the “birthday of the Church” – a gentle prompt to talk about celebrations, symbols like doves and flames, and different beliefs in your community.)
🖤17th–23rd – National Volunteer Week (Australia)- Theme TBC
(Recognising volunteers who give time in schools, services, op-shops, canteens, clubs and community groups.)
🖤20th – World Bee Day
(Celebrating bees and pollinators – perfect for flower gardens, life cycles, honey tasting and conversations about protecting insects.) ✨ View our World Bee Day Ideas here
🖤20th – Vesak (Buddhism – Buddha Day)
(A major Buddhist festival marking the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and passing away – a peaceful way to explore kindness, compassion and mindfulness.)
🖤20th – Outdoor Classroom Day (Global movement)
(A worldwide campaign encouraging learning and play outdoors – ideal for bush kindy, nature play and backyard investigations.)✨View our Nature Play Ideas Here
🖤21st – World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
(Encouraging respect, inclusion and curiosity about different cultures, languages and ways of life.)
✨View our Cultural Identity and Belonging Set Here
🖤21st – International Tea Day
(A simple way to explore social rituals around sharing a drink, caring for adults, and the cultures where tea is an important tradition.)
🖤21st – Endangered Species Day
(Third Friday in May – raising awareness of endangered animals and habitats, and how children can help care for living things.)
🖤22nd – International Day for Biological Diversity
(Raising awareness of the rich variety of plants, animals, insects and ecosystems that make up our world – a meaningful opportunity to explore habitats, living things and how we can help care for the environment.)
🖤23rd – World Turtle Day
(Highlighting turtles, sea turtles and freshwater turtles – threats they face and how we can protect waterways and oceans.)
🖤25th – Africa Day
(Commemorating the formation of the African Union – a chance to explore African stories, music, art and community in respectful, strengths-based ways.)
🖤26th – National Sorry Day
(A significant Australian day of remembrance and reflection about the Stolen Generations and ongoing healing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.)
🖤27th May–3rd June – National Reconciliation Week- Theme TBC (Theme "ALL IN ") Annual Australian week of reflection and action, framed by the dates of the 1967 Referendum and the Mabo decision – focusing on truth-telling, respect and walking together.)
🖤27th – Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
(Cancer Council Australia fundraiser – communities share a cuppa to raise money for cancer research, support and prevention.)
🖤30th – World MS Day (Multiple Sclerosis)
(Global day raising awareness of multiple sclerosis and supporting people living with MS; current multi-year campaign focuses on “My MS Diagnosis” and improving early support.)
🖤31st – Reconciliation Day – Public Holiday (ACT)
(ACT public holiday dedicated to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – reflection, truth-telling and walking together.)
🖤Dates TBC – Under 8s Week (Queensland – celebrating 70 years and the early childhood years)- Theme TBC
(Theme: "Celebrating 70 years of Play across the Generations" )
🖤Dates TBC – Education Week (Victoria)- THEME TBC
(Theme 2026: "Showcase your school", encouraging school communities to celebrate what’s great about their school.-Showcasing learning in Victorian schools and early childhood services – a chance to highlight projects, family engagement and children’s voices.)
🖤Dates TBC – Food Allergy Week (Australia)
(Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia campaign raising awareness of food allergy, anaphylaxis and how to keep children with allergies safe and included.)
🖤Date TBC – National Simultaneous Storytime (Australia)- Book TBC
(Children across Australia read the same picture book at the same time – promoting a love of reading and shared story experiences. 2026 book: Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller, written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, and illustrated by Jake A. Minton.)
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2027
🏳️🌈🩵 1st–30th – Pride Month
(Celebrating LGBTQIA+ children, families and educators, and the message that everyone belongs just as they are.)
🩵 1st–30th – National Burns Awareness Month (Australia)
(Kidsafe-led campaign focusing on preventing burns and scalds and teaching correct first aid – especially important in the cooler months.)
🩵 1st – Global Day of Parents
(UN day recognising parents and caregivers and the vital role they play in children’s wellbeing, care and learning.)
🩵 1st – World Dinosaur Day
(A “roar-some” excuse to explore dinosaurs, fossils and prehistoric life through inquiry, small worlds and creative play.)
🩵 1st – World Milk Day
(Celebrating milk and dairy – a chance to talk about where food comes from, farm-to-table journeys and healthy choices.)
🩵 1st – Western Australia Day – Public Holiday (WA)
(State public holiday celebrating Western Australia’s history, cultures and communities.)
🩵 3rd – Mabo Day
(Commemorating Eddie Koiki Mabo and the 1992 High Court decision that recognised native title and affirmed ongoing connection to Country.)
🩵 5th – World Environment Day- Theme TBC
(UN day focusing on urgent environmental action – ideal for sustainability projects, nature play and caring for Country.)
🩵 5th – Butterfly Education and Awareness Day (BEAD)
(First Saturday in June – celebrating butterflies and other mini-beasts, life cycles and protecting insect habitats in gardens and outdoor spaces.)
🩵 6th – Queensland Day
(Celebrating Queensland’s birthday and the day Queensland officially separated from New South Wales in 1859. A lovely opportunity to explore local places, landmarks, maps, community pride and what makes Queensland special.)
🩵 7th – Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day
(Raising awareness of Tourette Syndrome and tic disorders, promoting understanding, empathy and inclusive attitudes.)
🩵 7th – World Food Safety Day
(Global day promoting safe food handling, storage and hygiene – easy to link to kitchen play, lunchboxes and handwashing.)
🩵 8th – World Oceans Day- Theme TBC
(UN day celebrating the ocean and marine life, and encouraging actions that protect seas, reefs and coasts.)
🩵 8th – National Best Friends Day
(A lovely opportunity to explore friendships, kindness, turn-taking and what it means to be a good friend.)
🩵 10th – Thank a First Responder Day
(Recognising paramedics, firefighters, police and other emergency workers who help keep communities safe. A useful link to community helpers, safety discussions and dramatic play.)
✨ View our Community Visitors Pack here
🩵 11th – International Day of Play
(A UN day celebrating every child’s right to play, and recognising play as essential for learning, wellbeing and development.)
🩵 14th – World Blood Donor Day
(Thanking blood donors and raising awareness that giving blood saves lives – a gentle way to talk about helping others and community care.)
🩵 14th – King’s Birthday – Public Holiday
(Observed in ACT, NSW, NT, SA, TAS and VIC. Queensland and Western Australia observe the King’s Birthday public holiday on different dates.)
🩵14th-20th – Men’s Health Week- Theme TBC (Encouraging boys, dads, uncles and grandads to look after their physical and mental health and to seek help when they need it.)
🩵 14th–20th – Learning Disability Week- Theme TBC
(Awareness week promoting visibility, rights and inclusion for people with learning disabilities, and celebrating strengths and voice.)
🩵 15th – Nature Photography Day
(Encouraging children to slow down, notice details in nature and capture leaves, flowers, insects, clouds and outdoor spaces through photos, drawings or nature journals.)
✨ View our Nature Set with Nature Journal Here
🩵 15th – Global Wind Day
(Exploring wind as a natural force and a renewable energy source – perfect for kites, pinwheels, bubbles and “windy day” investigations.)
🩵 16th – National Vegemite Day
(A playful celebration of an iconic Australian spread – exploring taste, senses and culture, with attention to allergies and food safety.)
🩵 16th – World Sea Turtle Day
(Spotlighting sea turtles, their life cycles and the threats they face – a child-friendly entry point to ocean conservation.)
🩵 18th – National Sushi Day
(Fun food-themed day with strong links to Japanese culture, fine-motor skills and safe food preparation – real or pretend.)
🩵 18th – Autistic Pride Day
(Community-led day celebrating autistic identity and neurodiversity, and challenging deficit-based views of autism.)
🩵 18th – International Picnic Day
(A simple celebration of eating together outdoors – perfect for yard or veranda picnics and talking about healthy foods and sharing.)
🩵 20th – World Refugee Day
(UN day honouring people who have been forced to flee their homes, and highlighting welcome, safety and inclusion – sits within Refugee Week in Australia.)
🩵 20th–26th –Refugee Week- Theme TBC(A national week celebrating the contributions of people from refugee backgrounds and inviting us to listen to diverse stories of finding safety and belonging.)
🩵 21st – International Day of Yoga
(Promoting yoga as a way to support body awareness, calm and balance – ideal for simple poses and breathing with children.)
🩵 21st – World Music Day (Make Music Day)
(Global celebration of music-making – perfect for singing, instruments, rhythm exploration and soundscapes.)
🩵 21st – Winter Solstice (Australia)
(Shortest day and longest night of the year – a rich provocation for exploring seasons, light and dark, shadows and winter traditions.)
🩵 21st –27th – Insect Week
(A week to celebrate insects and their important role in ecosystems. Perfect for mini-beast hunts, garden investigations, magnifying glasses, bug hotels and learning how to care for small creatures.)
🩵 22nd – World Rainforest Day
(Celebrating rainforests, biodiversity and the importance of protecting these rich ecosystems and the species who live there.)
🩵 24th–30th – World Wellbeing Week
(International week focusing on physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing – a chance to weave daily self-care, gratitude and connection into the program.)
🩵 27th – National Sunglasses Day
(Reminding everyone to protect their eyes from UV – a fun SunSmart reminder about hats, shade and eye protection.)
🩵 27th–3Rrd JUL – Deafblind Awareness Week
(Raising awareness of deafblindness, communication, inclusion and accessibility. A thoughtful opportunity to explore different ways people connect, communicate and experience the world.)
🩵 29th – International Mud Day
(A joyful outdoor play day celebrating mud, nature and messy sensory learning. Perfect for mud kitchens, mud painting, digging, mixing and exploring texture with safe supervision.)
🩵 30th – International Asteroid Day
(A STEM-inspired day for exploring space rocks, craters, planets, rockets and the wonders of space through stories, small worlds and creative play.)
✨ View our Exploring Space pack here
🩵 Dates TBC – Infant Mental Health Awareness Week- Theme TBC(Highlighting that babies’ and toddlers’ relationships and emotions matter from the very beginning, and that responsive caregiving builds healthy brains.)
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2026
💚 1st–31st – Plastic Free July (A global challenge encouraging people to reduce single-use plastics and choose more sustainable options in everyday life.)
💚 1st–31st – Disability Pride Month
(Celebrating people with disability, challenging stigma and embracing identity, rights and inclusion.)
💚 1st – International Fruit Day
(A simple food-focused day encouraging children to explore different fruits, colours, textures, tastes and where food comes from. )
💚 1st – Coming of the Light
(A significant day for Torres Strait Islander peoples, marking the arrival of Christianity to the Torres Strait on 1 July 1871. This day is an opportunity to respectfully recognise Torres Strait Islander culture, history, faith, identity, community and connection to place.)
💚 1st – International Joke Day
(A playful day to share jokes, humour and laughter – perfect for language, turn-taking and social play.)
💚 1st – International Reggae Day
(Celebrating reggae music, culture and its messages of justice, unity and peace – great for exploring rhythm and global music.)
💚 1st – Territory Day (NT)
(Northern Territory celebration marking self-government – often linked with community events and reflections on place and history.)
💚 3rd – International Plastic Bag Free Day
(Highlighting the impact of plastic bags on wildlife and the environment, and encouraging reusable alternatives.)
💚 5th–12th – NAIDOC Week 2026
(Theme 2026: "50 Years of Deadly" (NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. )
💚 7th – World Chocolate Day
(A fun excuse to explore cooking, sensory play, fair trade and where cocoa comes from.)
💚 10th – Teddy Bear Picnic Day
(A lovely day for children to bring a special soft toy for picnics, role play, storytelling and belonging.)
💚 11th – World Population Day
(UN day inviting simple conversations about people around the world, where we live and how we share the planet.)
💚 12th–18th – National Diabetes Week
(Australian health awareness week focused on increasing understanding of diabetes, supporting wellbeing and recognising that people’s bodies may need different care.)
💚 12th – Malala Day
(Recognising Malala Yousafzai and the right of all children – especially girls – to access education.)
💚 14th – Bastille Day (France)
(French national day – a doorway into language, food, music and celebrations from French-speaking cultures.)
💚 15th – World Youth Skills Day
(UN day focusing on the skills young people need for work and life – easily translated into celebrating children’s capabilities, problem-solving and strengths.)
💚 16th – World Snake Day
(A great prompt to explore reptiles, habitats, safety around wildlife and respect for native animals.)
💚 18th – Nelson Mandela International Day
(Celebrating Nelson Mandela’s life and values – fairness, forgiveness, leadership and standing up for others.)
💚 19-25th – National Farm Safety Week
Theme:"Set the Standard – Show 'em how it's done," (Australian campaign highlighting safer practices on farms – machinery, animals, water and chemicals – and how we can help keep everyone safe.)
💚 21st – National Lamington Day
(A fun celebration of a classic Australian treat – perfect for measurement, sequencing and talking about Australian foods.)
💚 23rd July–2nd August – Commonwealth Games 2026
(Held in Glasgow, Scotland, the Commonwealth Games bring together athletes from Commonwealth nations and territories. This is a great opportunity to explore sport, teamwork, perseverance, fairness, belonging, different countries and celebrating achievements.)
💚 24th – National Pyjama Day
(A day to wear pyjamas and raise funds for children in foster care through The Pyjama Foundation.)
💚 24th – Schools Tree Day
(School- and service-focused tree-planting and nature-care day, giving children practical ways to care for Country and local habitats.)
💚 25th – Christmas in July
(Playful mid-year celebration – a chance to explore winter, giving, traditions and family without the busyness of December.)
💚 25th – World Drowning Prevention Day
(A global awareness day highlighting the importance of water safety and drowning prevention. A valuable reminder to revisit safe supervision around pools, beaches, dams, bathtubs, water troughs and water play.)
💚 26th – National Tree Day
(Australia’s largest community tree-planting event – encouraging communities to plant and care for trees and native plants.)
💚 26th – National Step-families Day Australia
(Raising awareness that families come in many forms, and highlighting the experiences and strengths of stepfamilies.)
💚 29th – International Tiger Day
(Highlighting tiger conservation, habitats and the importance of protecting endangered species.)
💚 29th – National Out of School Hours Care Educators Day
(Celebrating Out of School Hours Care educators and the vital role they play in children’s lives before and after school and in vacation care.)
💚 30th – International Day of Friendship (World Friendship Day)
(UN day celebrating friendships between individuals, communities and countries – ideal for exploring empathy, inclusion and “being a good friend”.)
💚 31st – World Ranger Day
(Honouring park rangers and conservation workers who protect wildlife, cultural sites and natural places – a great link to national parks and caring for Country.) DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE MONTHLY CALENDAR 👇👇
View August- Dec 2026 here August_Dec
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