National & International Observances

June, the sixth month of the year, derives its name from Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth. Another interpretation connects the name to the Latin word “iuniores”, meaning “younger ones.” June marks the onset of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and is filled with significant observances that highlight global issues, cultural celebrations, and humanitarian causes.

From World Environment Day to International Yoga Day, June 2025 brings attention to health, human rights, sustainable living, and more. Here’s a comprehensive guide to important national and international days in June 2025.

Why Celebrating These Days Matters

Recognising these days helps to:

• Raise awareness on vital global and local issues
• Encourage civic engagement and responsibility
• Honour cultural traditions and humanitarian efforts
• Promote health, education, sustainability, and peace

1 June – World Milk Day
World Milk Day is celebrated every year on 1 June to recognise the contributions of the dairy sector to nutrition, food security, livelihoods, and economic development. Initiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the day promotes awareness about milk as a global food.

1 June – Global Day of Parents
The Global Day of Parents honours the role of parents in nurturing and protecting children. Declared by the United Nations in 2012, the day recognises the lifelong sacrifices parents make and encourages appreciation of their role in shaping future generations.

2 June – Italy Republic Day
Italy celebrates its Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica) on 2 June every year to mark the 1946 referendum in which Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic. It is a national holiday celebrated with parades and ceremonies.

2 June – International Sex Workers’ Day
Observed on 2 June, this day commemorates the 1975 occupation of Saint-Nizier Church in Lyon, France, by sex workers protesting against poor working conditions. It highlights the need for respect, dignity, and rights for sex workers globally.

2 June – Telangana Formation Day
Telangana Formation Day is celebrated annually to mark the creation of the Indian state of Telangana in 2014. It recognises the long struggle and movement that led to the establishment of the 29th state of India.

3 June – World Bicycle Day
World Bicycle Day promotes the use of bicycles as a simple, affordable, reliable, and eco-friendly means of transport. It highlights cycling’s contribution to health and sustainable development.

4 June – International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression
This United Nations observance highlights the pain suffered by children across the world who are victims of physical, mental, and emotional abuse, especially in conflict zones.

5 June – World Environment Day
World Environment Day is the United Nations’ primary platform for environmental outreach, celebrated in over 100 countries. It urges individuals and governments to take action for environmental protection and sustainability.

6 June – National Donut Day
Celebrated on the first Friday of June in the United States, National Donut Day was created to honour the Salvation Army “Donut Lassies” who served donuts to soldiers during World War I.

6 June – Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God. It is marked by special prayers, feasts, and acts of charity, and is one of the most significant Islamic festivals.

7 June – World Food Safety Day
World Food Safety Day raises awareness about foodborne risks and the importance of safe food practices. It calls for action to prevent, detect, and manage food safety risks for better health outcomes.

8 June – World Brain Tumour Day
This day is dedicated to raising awareness about brain tumours and advocating for more research, early detection, and support for patients and their families.

8 June – World Oceans Day
World Oceans Day celebrates the role of the oceans in our everyday life and promotes sustainable use of marine resources. It encourages actions to protect ocean health and reduce plastic pollution.

8 June – National Best Friend Day
National Best Friend Day celebrates friendships and the value of having a close friend. It is a reminder to appreciate and connect with our best friends.

12 June – World Day Against Child Labour
Initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO), this day calls for the global eradication of child labour and promotes safe and quality education for all children.

12 June – National Red Rose Day
Celebrated in the US, National Red Rose Day honours the red rose as a symbol of love and passion. It is also June’s birth flower.

14 June – World Blood Donor Day
World Blood Donor Day encourages voluntary blood donation and thanks donors for their life-saving contributions. It raises awareness about the need for safe blood supplies worldwide.

14 June – Flag Day (USA)
Flag Day in the United States commemorates the adoption of the national flag in 1777. It is observed with patriotic ceremonies and flag-raising events.

15 June – World Wind Day
This day promotes the benefits of wind energy and its role in reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable development.

15 June – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Recognised by the United Nations, this day calls for action to protect elderly individuals from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

15 June – Father’s Day
Celebrated on the third Sunday of June, Father’s Day honours fatherhood and paternal bonds. In 2025, it falls on 15 June.

17 June – World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
This UN-observed day focuses on sustainable land use, combating desertification, and mitigating the effects of drought, especially in arid regions.

18 June – Autistic Pride Day
Autistic Pride Day promotes self-acceptance and inclusion of people with autism. It celebrates neurodiversity and the unique perspectives of autistic individuals.

18 June – International Picnic Day
A light-hearted day that encourages people to enjoy nature and spend quality time outdoors with family and friends.

19 June – World Sickle Cell Awareness Day
This day raises awareness about sickle cell disease and the challenges faced by those living with this genetic blood disorder.

19 June – Juneteenth
Also known as Freedom Day, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the U.S. and celebrates African American culture and achievements.

19 June – World Sauntering Day
World Sauntering Day encourages people to slow down and enjoy life’s simple moments instead of rushing through the day.

20 June – World Refugee Day
Observed by the United Nations, this day honours the courage and resilience of refugees and calls for global support for displaced communities.

21 June – World Music Day
Also known as Fête de la Musique, World Music Day celebrates music’s power to bring people together across cultures and borders.

21 June – World Hydrography Day
This day promotes awareness of hydrography—the science of surveying and mapping oceans, seas, and waterways.

21 June – International Yoga Day
International Yoga Day celebrates the ancient Indian practice of yoga and its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. It is promoted globally by the Indian Ministry of AYUSH.

21 June – Summer Solstice
The Summer Solstice marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a celebration of light, energy, and seasonal change.

22 June – World Rainforest Day
This day highlights the importance of rainforests in maintaining Earth’s climate, biodiversity, and freshwater supplies. It calls for collective action to conserve these critical ecosystems.

23 June – International Olympic Day
International Olympic Day promotes fitness, well-being, and the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.

23 June – United Nations Public Service Day
This day recognises the value and virtue of public service in community development and encourages youth to pursue careers in the public sector.

23 June – International Widows’ Day
International Widows’ Day raises awareness of the struggles widows face, including poverty, discrimination, and social isolation.

26 June – International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
This day aims to strengthen global action and cooperation against drug abuse and illegal drug trade, promoting a drug-free society.

26 June – International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
Established by the UN, this day affirms solidarity with victims of torture and supports efforts to end inhuman treatment worldwide.

27 June – Helen Keller Day
Helen Keller Day celebrates the life of the blind and deaf American author and activist, highlighting issues of disability rights, education, and inclusion.

29 June – National Statistics Day (India)
Observed in honour of Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis, this day promotes the importance of statistics in policy-making and sustainable development.

29 June – International Day of the Tropics
This day raises awareness about the challenges and opportunities faced by tropical regions, including climate change and biodiversity conservation.

30 June – World Asteroid Day
World Asteroid Day is observed annually on 30 June to raise global awareness about asteroids and the potential threat they pose to Earth. The day marks the anniversary of the Tunguska event, a massive explosion that occurred in Siberia on 30 June 1908, caused by the airburst of a small asteroid. This event flattened over 2,000 square kilometers of forest and remains the most destructive asteroid-related event in recorded history. Recognising the importance of asteroid impact awareness and planetary defence, the United Nations officially declared June 30 as International Asteroid Day in 2016. The day is observed through educational programs, expert talks, documentaries, and scientific discussions around asteroid tracking and space safety.

List of Important Days in June 2025