Celebrating UNESCO International Day of Light 2026

16th May 2026 marks the 9th edition of UNESCO’s International Day of Light (IDL) – an annual observance raising awareness of the broad societal importance of light science and technology across diverse sectors of the society and in diverse fields such as communications, energy & healthcare, as well as art and culture.

The focus theme for 2026 is ‘Light For A Sustainable Future.’ The theme aims to highlight how light-based technologies drive sustainability in many areas including the development of low energy lighting, green manufacturing, improved agriculture, and as a means of encouraging the next generation into education in science, engineering and technology.

Every year, the IDL steering committee welcomes registration of events on the focus theme and broad theme of light, allowing communities worldwide to participate in activities that help achieve the goals of UNESCO – education, equality, and peace.

Since its proclamation in 2018, IDL celebrations till date have seen more than 3300 science outreach events around the world. IDL is truly a unique initiative that reaches areas of the world that do not generally see support for outreach events. The IDL website provides a list of ever-growing events for 2026, covering an exciting range of themes relating to the science and applications of light.

Moreover, the United Nations-proclaimed 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, and a key objective of the 9th edition of IDL is also to shine a particular light on the valuable efforts of our volunteers and event organisers for their continued commitment and support.

How to Get Involved
The IDL Steering Committee is pleased to invite everyone to organise events for the International Day of Light within an individual’s or institution’s capacity. The events could be anything from online or in-person lectures and exhibitions to workshops and outdoor activities.

Besides the broad and focus theme of light, we welcome events that align with the UN International Day of Living Together in Peace and the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

To be part of IDL celebrations, organisers need to register their events by filling up an event registration form (available on IDL website). Even though the main highlight falls on May 16th, the committee welcomes event registrations throughout the year. One can always pre-register the events and contact the secretariat to update the information later, even if it takes place after May 16th or later in the year. Once the event has been registered, it will be listed on IDL website and promoted through IDL social media channels giving the events broad publicity within the UNESCO community.

Get involved and join a global community of organisations, universities, museums, and individuals committed to promoting light and its applications. This is a great opportunity to learn about and connect with related event organisers in one’s region or country.

We believe your participation will be a valuable contribution to the success of the UNESCO International Day of Light. Come join us in yet another global celebration of light science!

Important links

Website: www.lightday.org
Resources: https://www.lightday.org/resources
Quick Guide: https://www.lightday.org/quickguide-organising-an-idl-event
Inspiration from Previous Events: https://www.lightday.org/previous-years
Newsletter: https://www.lightday.org/newsletter-archive
Official hashtag: #lightday2026

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