International Development Week

February 1 - 7

International Development Week (IDW) highlights the contributions of Canadians to international development and raises public awareness of the importance of these contributions to developing countries. The year 2009 marks the 19th annual IDW and will focus on the theme: "Development for Results". Visit: The Canadian International Development Agency

National Flag of Canada Day

February 15

National Flag of Canada Day was declared in 1996. It marks the day in 1965 when Canada's red and white maple leaf flag was first raised over Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and in hundreds of communities across Canada. National Flag of Canada Day is the perfect opportunity to wave your Canadian flag high and learn about its history. Visit: Heritage Canada

International Mother Language Day

February 21

UNESCO launched International Mother Language Day in 1999 to celebrate the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity. This day is an important one to recognize, as there are Roots & Shoots groups in almost 100 countries! Part of the Roots & Shoots mission is to promote understanding and cooperation among all cultures and beliefs, so join us in celebrating International Mother Language Day to recognize the uniqueness of different languages and the people who speak them. Visit: UNESCO

International Women’s Day

March 8

Observed since 1911, International Women’s Day (IWD) is a United Nations commemorated occasion celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. Although women’s rights have greatly improved since the first IWD, many inequalities and injustices remain.  This day is meant to be both a look back at the struggles women have faced in the past and a look forward to the future and the fight for equality, justice, peace and development. Visit: International Women's Day    

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

March 21

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination intends to draw attention to the problems of racism and the need to promote equality and harmony. The United Nations designated this day in 1966 to commemorate the tragic incident that occurred six years earlier when 69 demonstrators were killed during a peaceful protest against apartheid in Sharpeville, South Africa. Check out the government of Canada's Racism. Stop It! National Video Competition. Visit: Citizenship and Immigration Canada

World Water Day

March 22

Launched in 1993 by the United Nations, World Water Day aims to raise international awareness about freshwater resources and the importance of protecting them, as well as the lack of safe, clean drinking water available worldwide. To observe this day, groups around the world gather for water-themed events and activities, such as walks for water, film screenings, and benefit concerts. The theme for World Water Day 2009 was Shared Water- Shared Opportunities, focusing on cooperation in transboundary water issues. Visit: World Water Day

Check out how Roots & Shoots celebrated World Water Day 2009 in Toronto and Vancouver.

Earth Hour

March 28 at 8:30 pm local time

Created in 2007 by the WWF, Earth Hour is an environmental campaign held annually on the last Saturday of March to raise awareness for the need to take action on climate change, and to illustrate that small, everyday actions such as turning off non-essential lights can make a big difference. To observe Earth Hour, individuals and businesses around the world turn off their lights for one hour. In 2008, there was a reported 8.7% drop in electricity demand in Toronto — the highest reduction of any city in Canada. Visit: WWF Canada  

National Wildlife Week

April 5-11, 2009

National Wildlife Week (NWW) is a program of the Canadian Wildlife Federation. NWW provides an opportunity to celebrate Canada’s natural heritage and play a supportive role in its conservation. Proclaimed by an act of Parliament in 1947, NWW falls every year in the week of April 10, the birthday of Jack Miner, one of the founders of Canada’s conservation movement. This year’s theme is Native Plants. Visit: The Canadian Wildlife Federation

World Health Day

April 7

World Health Day has been organized annually since 1950 by the World Health Organization. On this day around the globe, thousands of events mark the importance of health for productive and happy lives. Each year there is a different theme; in 2009 it's "Save lives. Make hospitals safe in emergencies" and will focus on the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers who treat those affected by emergencies. Visit: The WHO

World Creativity and Innovation Week

April 15-21

World Creativity and Innovation Day was launched in Toronto on April 21, 2001. In 2005 the day transformed into World Creativity and Innovation Week, beginning on Leonardo da Vinci's birthday, April 15. The event is now celebrated in over 106 communities, schools and business across 43 countries and continues to grow. Check out the website to find suggested activities for work, home and school to use your creativity to make the world a better place, and to make your place in the world better too. Visit: World Creativity and Innovation Week

National Volunteer Week

April 19-25

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is the biggest celebration of volunteers and volunteerism in Canada. NVW pays tribute to the millions of Canadian volunteers who donate their time and energy. Volunteer Canada is taking the lead on the celebrations in 2009 and their website is ful of useful products and resources to help you celebrate. They are also inviting Canadians – individuals and organizations – to submit photos and videos that recognize volunteerism as being an essential part of who we are. Visit: National Volunteer Week

Earth Day

April 22

First launched as an environmental awareness event in the United States in 1970, Earth Day is celebrated as the birth of the environmental movement. The event provides the opportunity for positive actions and results, and is the largest, most celebrated environmental event worldwide. More than 6 million Canadians join 1 billion people in over 170 countries in staging events and projects to address local environmental issues. In 2009, Roots & Shoots will be participating in three events surrounding Earth Day: Waterloo Sunoco Earth Day, Earth Day Hamilton-Burlington, and the Green Living Show in Toronto. Visit: Earth Day Canada

World Press Freedom Day

May 3

The World Association of Newspapers organizes World Press Freedom day on May 3rd every year. The day is held to draw attention to the importance of the free press, and how it's being threatened. It highlights the large number of journalists who have been arrested, jailed or killed in recent years. The organization’s website encourages individuals to send protest letters to countries that are currently holding journalists captive. Visit: The World Association of Newspapers and Canadian Journalists for Free Expression for activities in Canada.

International Composting Awareness Week

May 3-9

For more than two decades, International Composting Awareness Week has been celebrated annually every May. On a national scale, the event is run through the Composting Council of Canada with the aim of promoting composting to individuals, businesses and municipalities. Some of the benefits of composting include diverting organic waste from landfills, preventing the production of methane and producing a soil alternative that can be used in your garden. Visit: The Composting Council of Canada

International Migratory Bird Day

May 9

International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) is celebrated annually on the second Saturday in May. The day focuses attention on birds’ migratory paths between their summer and winter homes. It is celebrated throughout North America with bird walks, festivals and other education programs. The theme for IMBD 2009 is “Celebrate Birds in Culture”. Check out the IMBD website for a range of educational and promotional materials. Visit:  Environment for the Americas

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

May 21

In 2001, the United Nations proclaimed May 21st World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. The day was created to promote the relationship between culture and development and the important role communication technology plays in this relationship.  On this day, various events are organized to increase the understanding of issues around cultural diversity and development among governments, non governmental organizations and individuals. Visit: UNESCO

International Day for Biological Diversity

May 22

The International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated each May 22 by countries around the world to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. Each year has a different theme, and this year’s theme is Biodiversity, Development and Poverty Alleviation. Check out the Convention on Biological Diversity website to learn how you can get involved, and what is happening around the world to take practical action for the diversity of life on Earth.  Visit: Convention on Biological Diversity

World Turtle Day

May 23

During the month of May, most turtles have recently emerged from hibernation and are beginning their search for mates and nesting areas. As such, May 23 was designated World Turtles Day by the American Tortoise Rescue. This day is celebrated in order to increase public awareness about the fact that turtles are among the most endangered animals on earth and continue to be threatened by human activity. The Humane Society of the United States has a list of suggested actions you can take to protect turtles. Visit: Humane Society of the United States

World No Tobacco Day

May 31

Tobacco is the leading preventable cause of death. World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) is commemorated each year by the World Heath Organization (WHO) as a reminder of the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco. This day aims to inform the public about the dangers of tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies and what the WHO is doing to combat tobacco use. The government of Canada has supported this campaign since its inception and supports many WNTD related events across the country. Visit: Health Canada and The World Health Organization

Clean Air Day

June 2

Clean Air Day is a celebration of environmentally-friendly activities that promote clean air and good health across Canada. It's a great opportunity for everyone to make environmentally-friendly lifestyle choices. Check out the website to find ideas to take action. Visit: Clean Air Day Canada

World Environment Day

June 5

World Environment Day is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action. The theme for 2010 is “Many Species. One Planet. One Future”. It reflects the urgency for nations to conserve the diversity of life on our planet. Visit: The United Nations Environment Program

World Oceans Day

June 8

World Oceans Day provides an opportunity each year to celebrate our world oceans and our personal connection to the sea. This year’s theme is “Oceans of Life”. Oceans and Fisheries Canada's World Oceans Day site, the David Suzuki Foundation, the Living Oceans Society and Roots & Shoots' Project Blue all have ideas for action and info on events and celebrations. Visit: The Ocean Project

Canadian Rivers Day

June 13

Celebrate Rivers to Oceans Week in Canada from June 8th to June 13th. This week reminds us that safeguarding the health of all water — local springs, creeks, streams, lakes, rivers, wetlands and even groundwater — flowing through our watersheds also improves the quality of Canada’s oceans. Visit: Rivers to Oceans

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

June 17

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought promotes public awareness relating to an international effort to combat desertification and the effects of drought. Desertification and drought threaten human security by depriving people of their means of life – by taking away food, access to water, the means for economic activities, and even their homes. Visit: The UN Convention to Combat Desertification

World Refugee Day

June 20

On World Refugee Day, we turn our attention to the millions of refugees who live without material, social and legal protection. The fundamental need for protection is will be the focus of this year’s events. For some, this includes economic security; for others, protection is freedom from violence and persecution. Visit: UNHCR Canada

National Aboriginal Day

June 21

First proclaimed in 1996, this day presents Aboriginal peoples with an opportunity to express great pride for their rich, diverse cultures with their families, neighbours, friends and visitors. National Aboriginal Day is an opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal people (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) and their contribution in to makinge Canada the great nation it has become. National Aboriginal Day also kicks off “Celebrate Canada,” an eleven-day celebration which takes place from June 21 to July 1. Events continue with Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (June 24), Canadian Multiculturalism Day (June 27), and culminate with Canada Day (July 1). Visit: Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Canada Day

July 1

Canada Day is Canada’s national day, and a statutory holiday that is celebrated July 1st every year. It is a celebration of the July 1st, 1867 signing of the British North America Act that recognized Canada as its own nation. Many events and celebrations, such as fireworks shows and festivals are held throughout the country on this day, most notably in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. Visit: The Canadian Government

International Day of Cooperatives

July 3

Held annually on the first Saturday in July, the International Day of Cooperatives is observed to recognize the important role cooperatives play in social, economic and cultural development. Cooperatives throughout the world celebrate this day by meeting with government officials, partnering with community agencies and sponsoring cultural events such as concerts and theatre. The theme for 2010 is "Driving Global Recovery through Cooperatives Enterprise Empowers Women," which will highlight how the underline the fact that cooperatives model of enterprise can successfully empower women can effectively contribute to global economic recovery. Visit: The United Nations

World Population Day

July 11

The United Nations’ World Population Day is celebrated annually to increase international awareness of population issues such as family planning, gender struggles, poverty and human rights. In 2010, the theme is “Everyone Counts” and focuses on ensuring that all people are taken into account in order to highlight the importance of data analysis and development strategies is educating girls in developing countries in order to fight poverty. This year, various events will be held around the world in order to commemorate the 20th World Population Day. Visit: World Population Day

Canada's Parks Day

July 17, 2010

A national event celebrated on the third Saturday of July each year, Canada’s Parks Day is held to showcase and appreciate our national parks, national historic sites, provincial parks, territorial parks and community and regional parks. Park agencies often choose Canada’s Parks Day to launch new facilities or programs. Many other events across Canada are also held to celebrate the occasion, such as campfires, art displays, nature walks, and historical demonstrations. Visit: Canada's Parks Day

International Day of the World's Indigenous People

August 9

In 1994, the UN General Assembly declared the International Day of Indigenous People August 9th every year. While this day is mainly celebrated at the UN Headquarters in New York City and Geneva, the General Assembly encourages Governments to observe the day at a national level by taking steps towards reconciliation between the State and indigenous people. Visit: The United Nations

International Youth Day

August 12

Youth – defined by the United Nations as the age group between 15 and 24 years old – make up one sixth of the world's population. International Youth Day was adopted by the UN General Assembly to promote awareness of the “World Programme of Action for Youth to the Year 2000 and Beyond,” an international strategy to effectively address the problems of young people and to increase opportunities for their participation in society. Around the world, celebrations and activities are organized to encourage the empowerment and participation of youth in the processes, decisions and issues that affect their lives. August 12, 2010 to August 11, 2011 has been proclaimed by the UN General Assembly as the International Year of Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding. The 2010 theme is “Sustainability: Our Challenge, our Future”. Visit: The United Nations

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

August 23

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is commemorated annually by UNESCO as a historic reflection on the transatlantic slave trade, as well as a promotion of human rights and acceptance. UNESCO member states organize events each year to mark this date. Many also use this day as a way to promote awareness about slavery issues that we continue to face, such as bonded labour, forced labour, and child trafficking. Visit: UNESCO

International Literacy Day

September 8

Literacy is a broad-based issue, a key to personal development and economic opportunity, and a major factor in Canadians' ability to participate as full and active citizens in all areas of society. International Literacy Day was established in 1965 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). It is celebrated at the community level, through special activities such as learning centre open houses, community reading festivals, celebrity read-ins, literacy displays and fund raisers, and literacy awareness initiatives aimed at local media. Visit: International Literacy Day

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

September 16

In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed September 16 the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the date in 1987 on which the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was signed. Nations are invited to devote the Day each year to promote activities in accordance with the objectives of the Montreal Protocol and its amendments.

The official website and its catalogue of previous years' celebrations provide information and materials that can be used to celebrate "Ozone Day" in your country, organisation or school. Visit: UNEP

World Carfree Day

September 22

By getting out of our cars we can remind the world that we don't have to accept our car-dominated society!

Let World Carfree Day be a showcase for just how our cities might look like, feel like, and sound like without cars…365 days a year. As the climate heats up, World Carfree Day is the perfect time to take the heat off the planet, and put it on city planners and politicians to give priority to cycling, walking and public transport. Browse the links and resources, and join in on the celebrations! Visit: World Carfree Day

Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup

September 18 - 26, 2010

The cleanup is a national conservation initiative organized not only to pick up trash, but also to collect data to help determine the causes of shoreline litter. This is a great opportunity to get involved in a hands-on conservation program that has a real, measurable impact on the environment, both locally and globally. You can join an existing cleanup or register your own site as a Site Coordinator. Join a Roots & Shoots cleanup in Toronto on September 17th at Budapest Park, or at the Grand River in Waterloo on September 18th! Visit: The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup

The UN International Day of Peace

September 21

Peace Day is a global holiday when individuals, communities, nations and governments come together to highlight efforts to end conflict and promote peace. By celebrating Peace Day, you will be joining millions of people around the world in promoting a culture of peace for current and future generations. In 2010, Roots & Shoots members around the world will gather on September 19 to build and fly giant peace doves to commemorate Dr. Goodall’s appointment as a U.N. Messenger of Peace. You can organize your own event or join one near you. For those in Southern Ontario, celebrate with us at Sunnyside Park in Toronto, and let’s spread Dr. Jane’s vision of peace. Visit: International Day of Peace

Global Wake Up Call

September 21

We can only stop climate change if we all pull together and show world leaders that we demand action. Time is running out. The Global Wake Up Call hosts over 2,600 events in 134 countries organized by TckTckTck partners and individuals to sound the Global Wake Up Call in cities, towns and villages around the world. We need to wake up world leaders to the crisis of climate change by making noise and ringing bells and showing them that the world is ready for a bold climate deal. Visit: Tck Tck Tck and Avaaz.

National Forest Week

September 19-25, 2010

National Forest Week is a time to reflect on the important role that forests play in our daily lives and to celebrate Canada’s connection to the forest. The 2010 theme is “Canada’s Forests - Strong Roots, Green Shoots” – a perfect connection to Roots & Shoots! Celebrate National Forest Week by participating in a Forest Week activity in your community or by simply taking the time to enjoy the trees in your neighbourhood. Visit: Natural Resources Canada

World Animal Day

October 4

Celebrate World Animal Day (WAD) to express your love and concern for all creatures. WAD's mission is to: celebrate animal life in all its forms; celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom; acknowledge the diverse roles animals play in our lives; and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives. Organize an activity or check the online events diary to find an event near you. Visit: World Animal Day

World Teachers Day

October 5

UNESCO inaugurated October 5 as World Teachers’ Day in 1993 and it is now celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide. This day is to display appreciation for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development. Because teachers matter! Visit: Education International or UNESCO

World Food Day

October 16

World Food Day marks the date of the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945 and is now recognized in 150 countries. The aim of the day is to raise public awareness of global food issues and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. Visit: FAO and download Oxfam Canada's World Food Day kit to take action: Oxfam Canada

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 17

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was established by UN resolution 47/196, which was adopted on 22 December 1992. This day presents an opportunity to acknowledge the effort and struggle of people living in poverty, a chance for them to make their concerns heard, and a moment to recognize that poor people are the first ones to fight against poverty. Visit: The United Nations or The United Nations

Waste Reduction Week

October 19-25

Waste Reduction Week aims to inform and engage Canadians about the environmental and social impact of wasteful practices. It strives to educate, engage and empower Canadians to reduce, reuse and recycle waste. Municipalities, Schools, Businesses, Non-Profits and Individuals can all get involved! For registration and resources, visit: Waste Reduction Week Canada

International Day of Climate Action

October 24

Scientists now know that if we let the amount of carbon in the atmosphere top 350 parts per million, we can’t have a planet “similar to the one on which civilization developed and to which life on earth is adapted.” We’re already past that number—we’re at 390 parts per million, which is why the Arctic is melting and drought is spreading across the planet. 350 gives us a target to aim for. Join the international movement on October 24 to take a stand for a safe climate future and raise awareness about this important number (350). Make a statement to get the attention of the world’s leaders, before they meet in Copenhagen in December to reach an agreement on a new climate treaty. Visit: 350.org

Remembrance Day

November 11

Every year on November 11, Canadians, and other nations around the world, pause in a silent moment of remembrance for the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. More than 1,500,000 Canadians have served our country in this way, and more than 100,000 have died. They gave their lives and their futures so that we may live in peace. Visit: Veterans Affairs Canada

International Day for Tolerance

November 16

UNESCO declared the International Day for Tolerance in 1995 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. Tolerance is respect and appreciation of the rich variety of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. This day aims to promote education about tolerance, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and stimulate social and political reflection and debate on local and global problems of intolerance. Visit: Human Rights Education Associates

World Toilet Day

November 19

World Toilet Organization (WTO) is a global non-profit organization committed to improving toilet and sanitation conditions worldwide. Founded in 2001 with 15 members, it now has 133 member organizations in 50 countries working towards eliminating the toilet taboo and delivering sustainable sanitation. WTO declared its founding day of November 19 as "World Toilet Day", increasing awareness and generating local action for better sanitation. Visit: The World Toilet Organization

Universal Children's Day

November 20

November 20 was designated National Children’s Day to commemorate the day on which both the Declaration on the Rights of the Child (1959) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) were adopted. This day aims to increase awareness of the Convention, which is a valuable tool for promoting the rights of children around the world. The Convention has been signed or ratified by more countries than any other international treaty. Visit: The United Nations

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

November 25

November 25 has been observed for decades as a day against violence, and was officially designated International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by the United Nations in 1999. The goal of this day is to raise public awareness and change the attitudes and behaviours that lead to violence against women. The date was selected to commemorate the Mirabal sisters, activists from the Dominican Republic who were violently assassinated for their political activism. Visit: Human Right Education Associates

Buy Nothing Day

November 28 (in Canada)