International Museum Day
Each year since 1977, ICOM has organised International Museum Day, which represents a unique moment for the international museum community.
The objective of International Museum Day (IMD) is to raise awareness about the fact that, “Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” Organised on 18 May each year or around this date, the events and activities planned to celebrate International Museum Day can last a day, a weekend or an entire week. IMD was celebrated for the first time 40 years ago. All around the world, more and more museums participate in International Museum Day. Last year, more than 37,000 museums participated in the event in about 158 countries and territories.
International Museum Day 2025: The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities
In an era marked by constant transformation, museums find themselves at the forefront of change, navigating a dynamic landscape shaped by shifting global events and evolving societal needs. This year’s International Museum Day theme, The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities, invites us to reimagine the role of museums as essential connectors, innovators, and stewards of cultural identity. Aligned with the 27th ICOM General Conference in Dubai, this theme underscores the critical conversations ahead—exploring how museums can safeguard intangible heritage, harness the energy of youth, and adapt to new technological frontiers. Together, we will chart a collective path toward empowering museums and communities to thrive in the face of rapid change.
Museums are more than spaces of preservation—they are active participants in shaping sustainable and inclusive communities. This year’s theme aligns with three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 8: Museums support local economies by creating employment opportunities and offering educational programs that empower communities.
- SDG 9: By fostering creativity and embracing technological advancements, museums drive innovation and enhance accessibility.
- SDG 11: Museums contribute to sustainable urban development by acting as cultural hubs that promote inclusion, resilience, and heritage preservation.
To ensure the success of International Museum Day, we need your help!
You are the ambassadors of International Museum Day. Thanks to the activities that you organise and the strong connections you develop with your public, this event continues to be a success year after year. In addition to the activities you plan, your participation in International Museum Day is an opportunity for you to:
- Implement partnerships with schools, associations, libraries, other museums, etc. to promote your event and reinforce your links with organisations with similar goals;
- Advocate for the role of museums in our societies by letting local, regional, and national authorities know about your activities and why they matter for the general public;
- Spread information about International Museum Day through the local press, your social media and your website;
- Gain international visibility about your activities by sharing information about your International Museum Day events with ICOM, allowing us to spread the news throughout our network and beyond.
When preparing a special activity for International Museum Day 2024, we recommend that you follow five important steps:
- TARGET A SPECIFIC PUBLIC
You can choose to target your regular visitors or new public. In any case, we recommend you to target at least one specific public such as children, senior citizens, a minority within your community, etc. - DEFINE YOUR OBJECTIVES
Your aim can be to reach new public, highlight your participation in the community, be heard by public authorities, make your institution known to potential partners, etc. - FORGE INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
International Museum Day is a chance to create local, national or international partnerships and sponsorships in regards to many aspects – from collections, to mediation or financing. - JOIN AN INTERNATIONAL CAMPAIGN
Register your activity on the interactive map of International Museum Day (coming soon !) and use our hashtags on social media to join museums worldwide in the celebration. - MAKE A POST-EVENT EVALUATION
It is important to analyse the success of your International Museum Day and its impact. We also encourage you to send your images and outcomes to your ICOM National Committee — they might feature in ICOM’s Annual Report!
For more informations click here – https://icom.museum/en/international-museum-day-2/
And Read More Here: https://icom.museum/en/news/international-museum-day-2025-the-future-of-museums-in-rapidly-changing-communities/