International Women's Day

International Women's Day History

International Women's Day (IWD) celebrates women's achievements and advocates for gender equality. It highlights the social, economic, cultural and political accomplishments of women, while also focusing on the hindrances they face in the pursuit of gender equality. The day is not associated with any one group or organisation but is a collective effort, often led by women's rights organisations, recognising the plight and achievements of women from all different demographics and locations.

The origins of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century and was sparked by various labour movements in North America and Europe. In the United Kingdom, the day has a significant resonance due to the UK's historical role in the women's suffrage movement and its ongoing commitment to addressing gender disparity. IWD is an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations in the UK to celebrate progress towards gender equality, and to challenge and raise consciousness about remaining biases and barriers.

In the United Kingdom, International Women's Day is marked by a range of events such as marches, debates, theatrical performances, and discussions regarding women's achievements and obstacles. It is a day for everyone, regardless of gender, to recognise and applaud women's advancement and to continue the strive for gender parity. Schools, businesses, charities and government bodies all play their part in marking the day, which occurs annually on March 8th.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 International Women's Day in the UK

• The 2026 United Nations observance of the day will be held under the global theme Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls, focusing on dismantling legal and structural barriers that continue to leave women with only 64 per cent of the legal rights held by men worldwide.
• The official International Women's Day campaign for the year is titled Give To Gain, which encourages a culture of "intentional multiplication" where individuals and businesses are urged to provide visibility, mentorship, and resources to help accelerate gender equity.
• In a high-profile celebration of female artistry, the Royal Albert Hall will host a special concert led by organist Anna Lapwood MBE, featuring performances by trailblazing saxophonist Jess Gillam and singer-songwriter Katie Melua to highlight the works of female film score composers.
• Transport for London is marking the occasion by renaming ten of its Santander Cycles after notable women cyclists, including Olympic legends Victoria Pendleton and Dame Laura Kenny, alongside several unsung heroes nominated by the public.
• High-street pioneer Mary Portas OBE will headline a fundraising event at The Barbary in Notting Hill titled An Open Letter To My Younger Self, with proceeds supporting The King's Trust Change a Girl's Life campaign.
• The Southbank Centre is set to host a Women in Jazz residency as part of the Montreux Jazz Festival, featuring live performances from rising talent Lucy-Anne Daniels and an in-depth career discussion with singer-songwriter Celeste.
• Ahead of significant UK workplace reforms anticipated in April 2026, many organisations are using this year's observance to pilot new menopause action planning and gender pay gap transparency initiatives to meet upcoming legal standards.
• The British Library will host an evening of conversation and poetry titled Iranian Women's Voices to launch a new publication of the same name, showcasing the photography of Hengameh Golestan and the activism of contemporary Iranian writers.
• Sports and media personalities Jill Scott MBE and Angela Scanlon will appear at the sixth annual Step Forward Summit hosted by AllBright, a day-long event focused on the evolution of confidence and financial empowerment for working mothers.
• For those seeking an alternative celebration, the EVE: Riot Grrrls of Wrestling promotion is staging a punk-rock cabaret and wrestling night at Big Penny Social under the title EVE Wrestling: Women Behaving Badly.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Women's Day

Top things to do in the UK for International Women's Day

• Attend one of many popular Women’s day events including: WeCon Women's Empowerment Conference (Austin, TX), Women of the World Festival (UK), and The Empowerment Bridge (NYC).
• If you’re a man, show appreciation by performing a chore for your special lady that is typically done by her. This may include cooking, cleaning, child care or anything that the special woman in your life does.
• Visit art exhibits that showcase the work of female artist such as the Women in Art Fair in London.
• Watch films which highlight women’s suffrage and inequality such as Hidden Figures (2016), The Iron Lady (2011), Made in Dagenham (2010).