For over 45 years, International Museum Day has been celebrated on 18 May. Each year, IMD mobilises thousands of museums across the globe. The continued growth of IMD reflects its importance as a platform for cultural exchange, community engagement, and international collaboration. In 2026, IMD will explore “Museums Uniting a Divided World”, focusing on how museums can act as bridges across cultural, social, and geopolitical divides, fostering dialogue, understanding, inclusion, and peace within and between communities worldwide.
For 2026, the theme will also shape the celebrations of ICOM’s 80th anniversary, marking eight decades of dedication to supporting museums and professionals worldwide. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on ICOM’s enduring commitment to fostering a strong, connected global museum community and to advancing the vital social role of museums in an constantly changing world.
We warmly invite our global audience to take part in International Museum Day while also joining us in celebrating this 80-year legacy by honouring past achievements, engaging with present challenges, and looking ahead to the future of museums. To mark the occasion, an anniversary campaign, including a digital exhibition exploring the history and impact of ICOM, along with additional exclusive content, will soon be made available across our channels.
You can find more information HERE.
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