International Mountain Day 2026

International Mountain Day was created by the United Nations which is celebrated every year on 11 December 2026. This day describes the importance of mountains for people and nature.

About 27% of the Earth’s land is covered by mountains, which provide a home to 15% of the global population and nearly half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. These mountains work like “water towers,” as they supply freshwater and support farming, clean energy, and wildlife. 

History International Mountain Day 

International Mountain Day

On 11 December 2001, a campaign for the International Year of Mountains was launched at the UN Headquarters in New York. In 2002, the International Year of Mountains was held by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) whose main goal was to spread awareness regarding the importance of mountains and to take action to protect them. 

On 20 December 2002, when the International Year of Mountains campaign came to an end, the UN decided to make 11th December an official International Mountain Day. This special day is now celebrated every year to keep raising awareness about mountains and to encourage countries to protect them for the people and wildlife who depend on them. 

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The Theme for International Mountain Day 2026 

The theme for International Mountain Day 2026 is "Glaciers matter for water, food and livelihoods in mountains and beyond." This year, the main focus will be on glaciers and how they support life in mountain regions.  

Glaciers are very important for livelihoods, but these are melting very fast because of climate change. This is a serious problem for billions of people who depend on glacier melt for their daily needs. If these glaciers keep melting rapidly then it can cause floods, landslides, and damage to communities and infrastructure. Therefore, in 2025, the United Nations declared it the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect glaciers and mountain ecosystems.

Importance of Glaciers 

Glaciers are a vital source of freshwater, essential for agriculture, drinking water, clean energy, and much more. Below are some key reasons why glaciers are important: 

  1. They store about 70% of the world’s freshwater. 
  1. More than two billion people depend upon glaciers and snow melts for water supply. 
  1. Glaciers are helpful for agriculture, hydropower, tourism, and more. 
  1. They are considered as sacred to many Indigenous people. 

How to Observe International Mountain Day 2026

There are many ways by which you can celebrate International Mountain Day and help in raising awareness about the importance of mountains and glaciers: 

  • You can share photos of your favorite mountain on social media by using hashtags like #MountainsMatter 
  • You can create art or write poems about mountains. 
  • If you live near a mountain, then you can go for a hike, or a nature walk. 
  • You can join online events or presentations about mountains. 
  • You can spread awareness by organising a school or community activity about mountains. 
  • You can also host an event on International Mountain Day by registering yourself on the official website of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United States 

FAQs on International Mountain Day 2025

  • What is the theme for International Mountain Day 2026?

    In 2026, the theme for International Mountain Day is "Glaciers matter for water, food and livelihoods in mountains and beyond.

  • What kinds of events can I organize on International Mountain Day 2026?

    You can host nature walks, photo contests, school activities, art exhibitions, webinars, or community clean-ups. 

  • How can I participate in International Mountain Day 2026?

    You can join or organise events by registering on the official website of the FAO. You can even share glacier photos and facts on social media with #MountainsMatter. 

  • Is there a public holiday on International Mountain Day 2026?

    No, there is no public holiday on International Mountain Day as it is a global observance day. 

  • On which day is International Mountain Day celebrated?

    The International Moutain Day is observed every year on 11th December. 

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