International Day of Families (May 15)
International Day of Families is celebrated each year on May 15th and shines a light on the importance of families as the heart of social life.
Established by the United Nations in 1993, this day encourages awareness of family-related issues and promotes supportive policies.
From honoring all family structures to addressing modern challenges, it’s a meaningful observance worldwide. A lovely pick for those exploring weird holidays in May.
When is the Holiday?
International Day of Families is observed annually on May 15th.
Who Invented It?
The United Nations officially declared the day in 1993, recognizing the need for a global reminder of the role families play in development and well-being.
History of the Holiday
The UN’s focus on families began in the 1980s, as shifting demographics and social changes highlighted the need for family-centered dialogue.
Resolution A/RES/47/237 established the day, aiming to spark global awareness and support for family-inclusive policies.
This initiative gained further traction during the 1995 World Summit for Social Development.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
The UN once used it to promote chocolate. In 2012, Brussels celebrated with chocolate coins stamped with EU family themes—sweetening awareness efforts, literally.
One year’s theme tackled climate change. Yes, the International Day of Families connected household habits to global climate goals, proving families have power far beyond the home.
It’s not just about parents and kids. The day embraces all family types—grandparent households, foster families, communal living setups, and more get a spotlight.
Mock parliaments are part of the fun. In Europe, students celebrate by role-playing as members of the European Parliament to debate family-centered policy.
It inspired a global photo movement. Some past celebrations encouraged families to share photos and stories online, creating a visual archive of family diversity across continents.
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Activities to Celebrate
Sit down together and map out goals, dreams, and shared priorities. Include drawings, magazine cutouts, or quotes that represent your family values.
Whether it’s organizing donations, joining a local clean-up, or helping at a shelter, giving back as a unit reinforces the day’s message of connection and support.
Read books such as All Kinds of Families that reflect different family structures and cultures. Use them to start meaningful conversations.
Set aside screens, order or cook a favorite meal, and play games or tell stories from each person’s childhood. Focus on quality time and reflection.
Whether it’s planting a tree together or writing notes of gratitude to each other, mark the day with something your family can repeat each year.
Post about what family means to you, highlight the UN theme for the year, or share helpful resources using #InternationalDayOfFamilies.
Links to Resources
- UN’s Official Families Page – Offers yearly themes, background, and official publications used by schools, organizations, and media to guide observance.
- Family Discussion Guide Printable – A conversation starter for families to explore values, roles, and goals together. Great for dinner time reflection or classrooms.
- Family Tree Worksheet – Help kids understand generational connections and cultural roots, perfect for use at home or in schools.
- Free Parenting Resources from UNICEF – Practical advice and tools for building stronger family relationships through communication and support.
- Printable Family Goals Sheet – Encourages collaboration and reflection as families set short- and long-term goals together.
- Support Resources for Military Families – Free printables and tips for families navigating deployment, transition, or reintegration challenges.
Related Holidays
Other celebrations that highlight relationships and care include:
National Siblings Day (April 10) – A sweet chance to honor sibling connections and shared childhood memories.
Please Take My Children to Work Day (June 25th) – A humorous nod to the chaos of parenting, reminding us of the invisible labor caregivers perform daily.
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