International Day of Living Intangible Cultural Heritage (17 October)

International Day of Living Intangible Cultural Heritage – 17 October: submitting initiatives for October 2026

The Secretariat of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage is collecting proposals for activities to mark the International Day of Living Intangible Cultural Heritage, observed on 17 October. Selected activities will be listed on the event's official webpage.

• Who can submit: UNESCO Member States, local authorities, communities and tradition-bearers, cultural institutions, NGOs and other stakeholders involved in safeguarding intangible heritage.
• Types of initiatives sought: outreach events, performances, hands-on workshops, trainings, exhibitions, educational activities and awareness-raising projects that promote safeguarding and transmission.
• How to submit: complete the online form provided by the Secretariat; include a concise description of the activity, objectives, proposed dates in October 2026, lead contact information and any supporting materials.
• Selection and visibility: proposals selected by the Secretariat will be published on the Day's official UNESCO webpage. Guidance on logo use and potential support for activities is also available on the site.
• Practical tips: emphasize community participation, outline accessibility and sustainability measures, highlight educational value and explain how the activity contributes to safeguarding the intangible practice.

To submit an initiative or for further details, consult the relevant section on the UNESCO website or contact the National Commission for UNESCO in Italy. It is recommended to submit proposals well in advance of the planned October 2026 dates.