international tourism day date

World Tourism Day 2024

Many people around celebrate the United Nations’ (UN) World Tourism Day, which is on September 27 each year. The day aims to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values.

World Tourism Day recognizes the importance of tourists and the tourism industry across the globe.

©iStockphoto.com/Alex Nikada

What Do People Do?

The United Nations’ World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) invites people worldwide to participate in World Tourism Day on September 27 every year. The UNWTO Secretary-General annually sends out a message to the general public to mark the occasion. Many tourism enterprises and organizations, as well as government agencies with a special interest in tourism, celebrate the event with various special events and festivities.

Different types of competitions, such as photo competitions promoting tourism, as well as tourism award presentations in areas such as ecotourism, are held on World Tourism Day. Other activities include free entries, discounts or special offers for the general public to any site of tourism interest. Government and community leaders, as tourism business representatives, may make public announcements or offer special tours or fares to promote both their region and World Tourism Day on or around September 27.

Public Life

The World Tourism Day is a UN observance and it is not a public holiday.

Tourism has experienced continued growth and deeper diversification to become one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world. ‎Modern tourism is closely linked to development and includes more new destinations for tourists. These dynamics turned tourism into a key driver for socio-‎economic progress.‎ Tourism has become one of the major players in ‎international commerce, and represents at the same time one of the main income ‎sources for many developing countries.

The UNWTO decided in late September 1979 to institute World Tourism Day, which was first celebrated on September 27, 1980. September 27 was chosen as the date for World Tourism Day because that date coincided with an important milestone in world tourism: the anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes on September 27, 1970.

The UNWTO believes that the date for World Tourism Day is appropriate because it comes at the end of the high tourist season in the northern hemisphere and the start of the tourist season in the southern hemisphere, when tourism is of topical interest to many people worldwide, particularly travelers and those working in the tourism sector. Each year has a different theme – for example, “Tourism – Celebrating Diversity” was designated as the theme for 2009, with Ghana as the event’s host country for that year.

World Tourism Day Observances

While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. If you find an error, please let us know .

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World Tourism Day – September 27, 2024

Get your bulky cameras ready, unfold your maps and make sure your fanny pack still fits snugly. World Tourism Day every September 27,  raises awareness of the need for accessible tourism all over the planet.

World Tourism Day is the result of the work done by the UN’s specialized agency — the World Tourism Organization (WTO). If you’ve ever strolled through a charming, perfectly-preserved European village or town, you’ve probably seen the WTO at work. Boosting local economies and ensuring sustainable tourism are but a few of the benefits of the WTO.

More importantly, on World Tourism Day, the WTO makes sure that travel is accessible for everyone, including those with disabilities and folks with low-income. Whether you’re walking with a cane or rolling in a chair; the world is open for business to you and your friends. So, get traveling!

World Tourism Day related content

Cheap Flight Day

Hopefully, you globetrotters marked your calendars for Cheap Flight Day, well in advance.

World Tourism Day Activities

Treat a normal day like a vacation.

Today, take a step back from your normal routine and consider: If I were on vacation in my hometown, what would I do? Where would a tourist go for the day? By checking out your own turf through the eyes of a tourist, you’ll support local businesses and you may see your town from a new perspective.

Get the word out

The key to continuous improvement in global tourism is economic stability and sustainability. Educate yourself on the best ways to see a new country, city, or village in ways that create a positive impact.

Plan a trip

If you’ve been putting off that vacation, use World Tourism Day as an opportunity to make those plans. Talk to friends and family with special challenges, either physical, financial or both; who may want to travel but have never been able to plan a trip. Together, you can help and encourage each other, following the message of the WTO that tourism is for all.

Why We Love World Tourism Day

It creates jobs.

All over the world, even in its most remote corners, tourism has become a dependable source of jobs. In the U.S. alone, the travel, tourism and hospitality industry supported 7.6 million jobs in 2015. This means one out of every 18 Americans is employed in tourism. When done responsibly, tourism can create jobs in areas where unemployment has risen due to unavoidable factors like automation.

It’s a cash cow

In 2015, international tourism generated $1.5 trillion in export earnings. This can be a tremendous benefit for smaller, under-developed communities. Developing a sustainable tourism ecosystem is paramount for ensuring these earnings are distributed among the community. Thanks to the work of the WTO, these areas are seeing smart tourism strategies put in place.

It creates a better world

Sure, the site of yet another lost tourist in your hometown may induce a small groan, but the reality is that traveling and seeing new places is good for our minds and good for our society. So, start planning your next trip!

World Tourism Day dates

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About World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day is an annual celebration of the global tourism industry, recognized every year on September 27th. This special day provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of tourism, its impact on the world, and to raise awareness about the benefits of responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

What is World Tourism Day?

World Tourism Day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization ( UNWTO ) in 1980. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its impact on the global economy, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability. Each year, World Tourism Day has a different theme, highlighting various aspects of tourism and its benefits.

Every year, the UNWTO selects a specific theme for World Tourism Day. The theme is chosen to reflect current trends and challenges facing the tourism industry, and to promote new initiatives and ideas for the future. In 2021, the theme for World Tourism Day was "Tourism for Inclusive Growth," highlighting the importance of creating sustainable tourism opportunities that benefit all members of society, including those in marginalized and vulnerable communities.

When is World Tourism Day?

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. It is a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. World Tourism Day provides an opportunity to recognize the immense potential of tourism as a force for good and to raise awareness about the challenges facing the industry.

The Importance of World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day is observed annually on September 27th. This day is an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate the transformative power of tourism and its ability to create a better world.

One of the primary goals of World Tourism Day is to raise awareness about the social, cultural, and economic benefits of tourism. Travel and tourism are among the world's largest industries, generating significant income and employment opportunities in many countries around the world. In fact, according to the UNWTO, the tourism sector accounts for around 10% of global GDP and employs one in ten people worldwide.

But beyond the economic benefits, tourism also plays a vital role in promoting cross-cultural understanding, fostering peace and tolerance, and preserving cultural heritage. Tourism can also help to promote sustainable development, protect natural resources, and support local communities by providing income and employment opportunities.

When it comes to celebrating World Tourism Day, there are a variety of activities and events taking place around the world. Some countries organize tourism fairs and exhibitions, while others hold conferences, seminars, and workshops focused on promoting responsible tourism practices. In recent years, there has also been a growing trend of digital events, including webinars, online forums, and social media campaigns.

One of the most significant achievements of World Tourism Day has been its role in promoting sustainable tourism practices. As more and more people travel, it's essential to ensure that tourism is managed in a way that respects local communities and the environment. The UNWTO has developed a set of guidelines for sustainable tourism, known as the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, which encourages tourists to be responsible and respectful when traveling.

Some of the key principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism include respecting local customs and traditions, protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting cultural understanding. By adhering to these principles, tourists can help to ensure that tourism continues to benefit local communities and the environment while promoting social and cultural diversity.

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, and it has the potential to create enormous benefits for both people and the planet. It contributes to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange, and it is a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, with many businesses and communities struggling to survive.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, World Tourism Day presents an opportunity to rethink and transform tourism into a more sustainable and resilient industry. The celebration of this day highlights the importance of tourism and its potential to create a better future for all.

World Tourism Day is celebrated in various ways worldwide, including cultural festivals, food fairs, adventure sports, and nature walks. These activities showcase the unique features of different destinations, promote local businesses, and encourage sustainable tourism practices. They also provide an opportunity for tourists and locals to come together and experience the diversity of cultures and traditions that make our world so fascinating.

World Tourism Day is a crucial event that celebrates the importance of tourism and its impact on the world.

This Day is an occasion to celebrate the power of travel and tourism in creating a better world. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of tourism and its potential to promote economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability. As we celebrate this day, we must also recognize the challenges facing the tourism industry and work together to promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit both people and the planet.

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World Tourism Day honors global travel, promoting cultural awareness, and highlights tourism's socioeconomic importance. Observed annually on September 27th.

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

Sector gets ready to celebrate world tourism day 2022, world tourism day, rethinking tourism, returns to focus on the future, the tourism we want.

During the celebration, UNWTO launched its first World Tourism Day Report, the first in an annual series of updates and analysis of the Organization’s work guiding the sector forward. The inaugural report is titled “ Rethinking Tourism: From Crisis to Transformation ”, reflecting the timely relevance of the 2022 theme as well as the unprecedented crisis that hit the sector in 2020.

Tourism’s relevance has never been clearer. The time is now to seize this opportunity to rethink how we do tourism.

Arrival and Registration of participants

Welcome dinner (For all registered delegates)

Opening Ceremony

Special Address by Mr. I Wayan Koster , Governor of Bali

Welcome remarks by H.E. Mr. Sandiaga Uno , Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of Indonesia

Congratulatory Message by H.E. Mr. Joko Widodo , President of The Republic of Indonesia, Video Taping (Tbc)

Opening remarks by Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili , Secretary-General of UNWTO

Culture Performance Group Photo

Coffee Break – News Conference

Presentation: World Tourism Day 2022 Report: from Crisis to Transformation

Mr. Marcelo Risi , UNWTO Chief of Communications

Mr. Phillip Orga , Head of Swiss Economic Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Indonesia (International Expert)

High-Level Debate on Rethinking Tourism

Moderator: Ms. Emma Nelson , presenter at BBC TV news

H.E. Mr. Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno , Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesia H.E. Ms. Fatima Al Sairafi , Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Bahrain H.E. Mr. Faiyaz Koya , Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport of Fiji H.E. Mr. Ahmed bin Aqil Al Khateeb , Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia H.E. Mr. Cho Yongman , Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Republic of Korea H.E. Ms. María Reyes Maroto Illera , Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Spain Ms. Claudia Müller , Federal Government Coordinator for the Maritime Industry and for Tourism, Germany Ms. Julia Simpson , President & CEO of World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

Lunch Hosted by Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy

Panel Discussion - Rethinking Tourism and New Governance for Recovery

Moderator: Ms. Sandra Carvão , Chief of Market Intelligence and Competitiveness, UNWTO

Introductory remarks by Mrs. Angela Tanoesoedibjo , Vice Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy

Ms. Fransiska Handoko , Chairwoman of the Bali Hotel Association (BHA) and General Manager of Risata Bali Resort & Spa Mr. Lim Jock Hoi , Secretary-General, ASEAN (TBC) Mr. Jozua Makes , Founder of Plataran Hospitality Group Ms. Laretna T. Adishakti , Lecturer and Coordinator of The Center for Heritage Conservation, Department of Architecture and Planning, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Gadjah Mada

The Tourism We Want - A conversation with Local Representatives

Ms. Melati Wijsen , Youth UN Envoy and Founder of Bye Bye Plastic Bags Mr. Kadek Fendi Wirawan , Marine Biologist & Scientific Diver, Representative from Indonesian Coral Reef Garden Mr. Agung Suryawan Wiranatha , Head of Centre of Excellence in Tourism, Udayana University in Bali, Coordinator of the INSTO Observatory in Sanur (Bali) Mr. Sugeng Handoko , Secretary of Nglanggeran Tourism Village Management – BTV 2021 Mr. I Wayan Budiarta , Representative from Panglipuran Tourism Village, Bali Mr. Juan Kartika Sitepu , Representative from Tangkahan Village, North Sumatera (TBC)

UNWTO Affiliate Members: Breaking the ground in private-public partnership

Moderator: Mr. Juan Daniel Solana Alonso , General Director, Basquetour

Welcome Remarks by Mr. Ion Vilcu , Director, Affiliate Members Department, UNWTO

Mr. Ruben Hattari , Director Public Policy – SEA, NETFLIX Ms. Beth Potter , CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) Mr. Steven Liew , APAC Policy Director, AirBnb Mr. Lee Sang Hoon , Executive Director of International Tourism & MICE, Seoul Tourism Organization Mr. Ion Vilcu , Director, Affiliate Members Department, UNWTO Q&A

Conclusion & Closing

Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili , Secretary-General of UNWTO

H.E. Mr. Sandiaga Uno , Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of Indonesia

H.E. Mr. Ahmed bin Aqil Al Khateeb , Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

World Tourism Day Dinner -(by invitation only)

Magical Bali, Wonderful Indonesia - Technical Tour

The official World Tourism Day celebration will be held in Bali, Indonesia, on 27 September , highlighting the shift towards tourism being recognized as a crucial pillar of development.

• General Information Note  
• Concept Note  

Zurab Pololikashvili

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António Guterres

Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno

3 actions you can take to # rethinktourism.

Find everything you need to celebrate World Tourism Day, including social media images, graphics and animations.

Save the date for World Tourism Day 2022!

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* The designations employed in this section of the website do not imply the expression of any opinions whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, España

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With less than a month away to this year’s World Tourism Day, UNWTO is gearing up for its observance in Bali, Indonesia.

This year the focus is on re-imagining the sector’s growth, both in terms of size and relevance. The Republic of Indonesia will host the official day (27 September), though all UNWTO Member States, as well as non-members and stakeholders from across the private sector, are being invited to host their own celebrations as well as to promote the day and its central theme.

World Tourism Day   has been held on 27 September each year since 1980. The date marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Statutes of the Organization in 1970, paving the way for the establishment of UNWTO five years later.

One can check for more updates and information about the event on the UNWTO Official Website and share their local celebrations through the World Tourism Day platform .

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World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day on 27 September is about deciding the tourism we want for the future. That means thinking not just about the economy but also about the impact on people and the planet.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the article and do the exercises.

Preparation

Magazine: World Tourism Day – preparation

Every year on 27 September the United Nations World Tourism Day is celebrated. It began in 1980, and the event is hosted by a different country or group of countries every year. On World Tourism Day, the United Nations calls for investments in people and the planet, not just economic productivity.

Why do we need World Tourism Day?

It may seem curious that tourism has its own special day, but maybe it's not so surprising when you think of the enormous number of people employed in this sector. Tourism and travel is one of the world's biggest industries. According to 2019 research, over 333 million people – that's about one in ten working people worldwide – were employed in tourism and travel. Now, this huge global industry is growing again after the pandemic, creating serious issues for people and the planet.

How does tourism affect local people?

With mass tourism, fascinating places are becoming overwhelmed by millions of tourists. Enormous tour buses block roads and make getting to school or work difficult for residents. International chains take over from local businesses, tourist apartments take over from ordinary housing, and rising prices force local people out of their homes.

Barcelona in Spain and Venice in Italy are two examples of places where the local population have demanded that tourism is controlled more tightly. In Barcelona, regulations related to short-term rental accommodation were introduced to help local people have access to flats. In Venice, the number of large cruise liners entering the port is now controlled to protect the historic city and its natural environment from further damage. Locals also complained about the huge crowds of cruise passengers, who were putting pressure on the city's resources but contributing little to the economy. Maybe tourism in the 21st century will continue to be regulated to protect people and local environments.

How does tourism affect the environment?

Mass tourism is bad news for our planet too. The industry destroys natural habitats to build tourist facilities and consumes large amounts of energy and natural resources, such as land, soil and water. Pollution is also a negative consequence of travel and tourism, including solid waste and sewage pollution, noise pollution and air pollution. Carbon emissions from tourism are more than five per cent of global emissions, and this figure is going up. The tourism and travel industry continues to contribute to the climate crisis. 

Can we be responsible tourists?

In the words of Bruce Poon Tip, producer of the documentary The Last Tourist , 'travel is a privilege, not a right'. The Last Tourist encourages us to be 'conscious consumers' when deciding where and how to travel. As tourists, we need to think more carefully about the impact of our choices. If we decide to stay at a beautiful resort, who is going to benefit from our money? Is the hotel owned by people from the local community? And how can we minimise our contribution to pollution and climate change? To protect the beautiful places we love to visit, and the people who live in them, we need to rethink tourism and act responsibly.

Magazine: World Tourism Day – 1

Magazine: World Tourism Day – 2

Have you noticed any positive or negative effects of tourism where you live?

Language level

For me the tourism is more than travel and get a good time, is about responsibility and conscience.

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In Mexico, I've seen negative effects like deforestation, air pollution, and the destruction of natural resources and ecosystems. As a matter of fact, In Mexico, there is a controversial train that is driving to the most natural resources and places in Mexico only that a part of a forest was destroyed to create that railroad. at least the train is different from the others, it cannot produce dioxide of carbon. On the other hand, there are brilliant ideas from architects, engineers, and environmentalists that are great solutions. On the whole, we must be responsible and conscious people about the environment and how we can take care of any place that we are living or visiting

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By Bastian Herre, Veronika Samborska and Max Roser

Tourism has massively increased in recent decades. Aviation has opened up travel from domestic to international. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international visits had more than doubled since 2000.

Tourism can be important for both the travelers and the people in the countries they visit.

For visitors, traveling can increase their understanding of and appreciation for people in other countries and their cultures.

And in many countries, many people rely on tourism for their income. In some, it is one of the largest industries.

But tourism also has externalities: it contributes to global carbon emissions and can encroach on local environments and cultures.

On this page, you can find data and visualizations on the history and current state of tourism across the world.

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