Brain awareness week
2026-03-16 00:00 - 2026-03-22 23:59 (Europe/Dublin)
16–22 March marks Brain Awareness Week, a global campaign dedicated to increasing public awareness of brain health and the importance of neuroscience research.

The week highlights how our brain health affects many aspects of everyday life, including memory, learning, mental wellbeing, and resilience. It also provides an opportunity to share information on how lifestyle choices — such as regular physical activity, quality sleep, good nutrition, and managing stress — can support long-term brain health.

Workplaces can take part by sharing resources on cognitive wellbeing, encouraging healthy work practices such as regular breaks and movement, and promoting conversations about mental health and wellbeing.

Nutrition & Hydration Week
2026-03-16 00:00 - 2026-03-22 23:59
Every March Since 2012

Nutrition and Hydration Week has taken place every March since 2012. Its purpose is to bring people together to create energy, focus and fun in order to highlight and educate people on the value of food and drink in maintaining health and well being in health and social care.

Organisations from around the world and from all areas of health and social care take part and new organisations are welcome to join in the fun.

World Down Syndrome Day
2026-03-21 00:00 - 23:59
21 March marks World Down Syndrome Day, a global day dedicated to raising awareness of Down syndrome and celebrating the lives and contributions of people with Down syndrome.

The day promotes inclusion, equality, and respect for people with Down syndrome, while encouraging greater understanding of the supports and opportunities that help individuals live full and meaningful lives.

Workplaces can recognise the day by promoting awareness, supporting inclusive workplace practices, and celebrating diversity. Many organisations also take part in the “Rock Your Socks” initiative, wearing brightly coloured or mismatched socks to start conversations and show support.

National Arthritis Week
2026-03-30 00:00 - 2026-04-06 23:59
Take on a Challenge for National Arthritis Week!

This National Arthritis Week (Monday 31st March- Sunday 6th April), take action and make a difference! Whether big or small, your fundraising efforts will help support people living with arthritis across Ireland.

💙 How You Can Get Involved:

Choose a fundraising challenge that suits you:

🏃 Move for Arthritis

Step Challenge – Set a step goal (e.g., 10,000 steps per day for the week) and get sponsored to complete it.

Cycle for Arthritis – Set a cycling distance goal over a month.

Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon – Walk, jog, or run to raise vital funds.

Irish Life Dublin City Marathon – Take on the challenge and make a difference every step of the way

🥗 Eat Well for Arthritis

Healthy Bake Sale – Sell arthritis-friendly treats at work or in your community.

Break a Habit – Give up sugar, caffeine, or smoking for National Arthritis Week and raise funds while improving your health.

🤝 Host a Social Fundraiser

Charity Quiz Night – Host a trivia night with entry fees going to Arthritis Ireland.

Community Walk – Gather friends and family for a local group walk.

Karaoke for a Cause – Organise a fun singing event where people donate to request songs.

📢 We’ve Got You Covered!

Register your fundraiser with us, and we’ll send you a sponsorship card and an Arthritis Ireland t-shirt to wear while you take on your challenge.

💡 Start Fundraising Today!

Visit Arthritis Ireland – Create Your Page! to sign up, or email us at fundraising@arthritisireland.ie for support.

Let’s come together to raise awareness, funds, and build healthier habits! 💙

Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Awareness Week
2026-03-30 00:00 - 2026-04-10 23:59
Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Awareness Week raises awareness of the unique challenges faced by young people diagnosed with cancer.

Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week highlights the importance of specialised care, research, and support services tailored to the needs of adolescents and young adults, including access to appropriate treatment, mental health support, and survivorship care.

Workplaces can support awareness by sharing information about cancer prevention and early detection, promoting supportive workplace policies for employees affected by cancer, and encouraging a culture of empathy and understanding for colleagues and families impacted by serious illness.

Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
2026-04-01 00:00 - 2026-04-30 23:59
April marks Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, an important opportunity for workplaces to support men’s health and encourage open conversations about early detection and wellbeing.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men, but when detected early it is highly treatable. Workplaces can play a positive role by helping to raise awareness, sharing reliable information, and encouraging employees to seek medical advice if they notice any changes.

As part of promoting a healthy workplace culture, organisations may wish to share resources, highlight the importance of regular self-checks, and encourage conversations that reduce stigma around men’s health.

For more information, guidance and resources on men’s health and testicular cancer awareness, visit the Movember Foundation website.

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month
2026-04-01 08:00 - 2026-04-30 17:00
April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Bowel Cancer and the importance of early detection, prevention, and open conversations about digestive health.

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers, but when detected early it is highly treatable. Increasing awareness of the signs and symptoms — such as persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing abdominal discomfort — can help people seek medical advice sooner.

Workplaces can support awareness by sharing trusted information, encouraging staff to participate in screening programmes where eligible, and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviours such as balanced nutrition, physical activity, and reducing smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Creating a workplace culture where employees feel comfortable discussing health concerns can play an important role in supporting early detection and overall wellbeing.

World Autism Day
2026-04-02 00:00 - 23:59
Since the United Nations General Assembly designated 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) in 2007, the UN has worked to promote the full realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic individuals, ensuring their equal participation in society. Over the years, significant progress has been made, driven in large part by autistic advocates who have worked tirelessly to bring the lived experiences of autistic individuals to the forefront of global discussions.

The 2007 General Assembly resolution (A/RES/62/139) highlighted the need to raise public awareness of autism. Today, the global movement has expanded beyond awareness to actively promote acceptance, appreciation, and inclusion, recognizing the contributions autistic people make to their communities and the world at large.

The 2026 World Autism Awareness Day Observance

The 2026 observance of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), held under the theme “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value,” highlights and affirms the dignity and worth of all autistic people as part of our shared human future. At a time when misinformation and regressive rhetoric about the lives of autistic people is resurfacing, this year’s virtual event is a call to action to move beyond limiting narratives and to recognise the inherent dignity, equal rights, and unconditional worth of every autistic person.

World Health Day
2026-04-07 00:00 - 23:59
World Health DayWorld Health Organization

World Health Day is marked each year on 7 April, led by the World Health Organization. The day highlights a global health theme each year and provides an opportunity to raise awareness about key public health issues affecting communities worldwide.

Workplaces can support World Health Day by promoting initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles, mental wellbeing, and access to reliable health information. Activities such as lunchtime talks, wellbeing campaigns, or encouraging physical activity can help create a healthier workplace environment.

International Traveller and Roma Day Council of Europe
2026-04-08 00:00 - 23:59
The work of the Roma and Travellers Division contributes to promoting and protecting the rights of Roma and Travellers in Council of Europe member States and to fostering equal opportunities, diversity and social inclusion by fighting discrimination and antigypsyism.

Cystic Fibrosis “65 Roses” National Awareness Day
2026-04-11 00:00 - 23:59
11 April marks 65 Roses Day, organised by Cystic Fibrosis Ireland to raise awareness of Cystic Fibrosis.

The day highlights the experiences of people living with cystic fibrosis and the importance of continued research, access to treatment, and community support. Workplaces can help raise awareness by sharing information about the condition and supporting conversations about chronic illness and inclusive workplace practices.

Cystic Fibrosis "65 Roses" National Awareness Day Cystic Fibrosis Ireland
2026-04-11 00:00 - 23:59
What is 65 Roses Day?

65 Roses Day is our National Fundraising Day for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. The term “65 Roses” originates from a boy listening to his Mum making calls to fundraise for Cystic Fibrosis. He commented afterwards on her working for “65 Roses”. This led to a worldwide fundraising campaign called 65 Roses Day.

World Liver Day
2026-04-19 00:00 - 23:59
WORLD LIVER DAY

COMING SOON: 19 April 2026

The official liver health awareness campaign.

Solid Habits, Strong Liver.

Your liver is a powerhouse: it filters blood, breaks down food, stores energy, and keeps your body in balance. But today, 1/3 of the global adult population is living with a condition called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Often linked with weight, diet, and lifestyle, MASLD can stay silent for years, but over time it may lead to scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis (advanced fibrosis and loss of some of the liver function), or even liver cancer.

The good news? Small, steady lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

Our 2026 campaign, Solid Habits, Strong Liver, highlights four solid habits that keep your liver strong: eating a balanced diet, staying active, reducing alcohol intake, and getting regular liver checks. By making these habits part of your daily life, you can take control of your liver health and prevent serious complications.

World Immunization Week
2026-04-24 00:00 - 2026-04-30 23:59
24 to 30 April is World Immunization Week

World Immunization Week, celebrated in the last week of April, aims to highlight the collective action needed and to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease.

Through its convening power, WHO works with countries across the globe to raise awareness of the value of vaccines and immunization and ensures that governments obtain the necessary guidance and technical support to implement high quality immunization programmes.

The ultimate goal of World Immunization Week is for more people – and their communities – to be protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work
2026-04-28 00:00 - 23:59
World Day for Safety and Health at WorkUnited Nations

28 April marks the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, recognised internationally and supported by the United Nations. The day promotes the prevention of workplace accidents and occupational illnesses, and highlights the importance of strong health and safety systems.

Workplaces can use the day to review safety practices, encourage reporting of hazards, and reinforce the importance of creating safe and supportive working environments.

National Workplace Wellbeing Day
2026-04-29 00:00 - 23:59
National Workplace Wellbeing Day, celebrated on 29 April, highlights the importance of supporting employee health and wellbeing in the workplace.

The day encourages organisations to take simple but meaningful actions to support wellbeing — whether through promoting physical activity, supporting mental health, encouraging work-life balance, or recognising the contributions of staff.

Participating in Workplace Wellbeing Day is a great opportunity for organisations to strengthen a culture of wellbeing and reinforce their commitment to creating healthy, supportive workplaces.

EU Diversity Month
2026-05-01 00:00 - 2026-05-31 23:59
May marks EU Diversity Month, an initiative led by the European Commission to celebrate diversity and promote inclusion in workplaces across Europe.

EU Diversity Month highlights the value of creating workplaces where everyone feels respected, included, and able to contribute fully, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances. It encourages organisations to reflect on how diversity and inclusion can strengthen workplace culture, improve employee wellbeing, and support innovation and collaboration.

Workplaces can take part by promoting inclusive practices, sharing stories that celebrate diversity, hosting learning sessions or discussions, and reviewing policies that support equality and belonging.

Recognising EU Diversity Month is an opportunity for organisations to reaffirm their commitment to creating supportive, inclusive workplaces where all employees can thrive.

Sun Smart - Skin Cancer Awareness Month
2026-05-01 00:00 - 2026-05-31 23:59
Skin Cancer Awareness Month in Ireland, observed each May, is a national campaign focused on educating people about the risks of skin cancer and the importance of early detection. With skin cancer being the most common form of cancer in Ireland, the campaign highlights simple but vital steps such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and checking your skin regularly for unusual changes. It also encourages people to be mindful of UV exposure—even on cloudy days—and to seek medical advice if they notice anything concerning. The goal is to promote healthier habits and reduce the incidence of preventable skin cancers across the country.

Bealtaine Festival
2026-05-01 00:00 - 2026-05-31 23:59
Bealtaine 2026 Festival Programme

Click the image above to check out our digital brochure!

WISE is a network designed to connect artists who work with older people, fostering a community that shares valuable information, opportunities, and resources. The aim is to create a space for mutual support and collaboration in this growing and impactful field. You can register your interest in joining the network by clicking below.

European Mental Health Week
2026-05-04 00:00 - 2026-05-08 23:59
This week focuses on improving mental health awareness and reducing stigma. Employers are encouraged to support open conversations, promote wellbeing initiatives, and foster supportive work environments.

The next edition of European Mental Health Week will take place on 4–8 May 2026 under the theme “Stronger Together: Prioritise Mental Health in a Changing Europe.” The campaign recognises both the challenges we currently face and the strength we draw from community.

As Europe continues to change, we want to highlight what truly connects us: hope, collective resilience, and the power of supporting one another. Even in challenging times, we can create environments where everyone has the support they need to thrive.

European Public Health Week
2026-05-04 00:00 - 2026-05-08 23:59
What is EUPHW?

European Public Health Week (EUPHW) is an annual initiative led by EUPHA to shine a spotlight on public health. Each year, hundreds of organizations and thousands of individuals across Europe come together to host activities, share knowledge, and raise awareness of important public health challenges and solutions.

EUPHW is open to everyone: from national health institutes and universities, to local communities, schools, and civil society groups. The week offers a unique opportunity to exchange experiences, inspire action, and highlight the value of public health to our societies.

Workplaces can engage by sharing health information and encouraging positive lifestyle choices.

World Hand Hygiene Day
2026-05-05 00:00 - 23:59
Each year the SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands campaign aims to progress the goal of maintaining a global profile on the importance of hand hygiene in health care and to ‘bring people together’ in support of hand hygiene improvement globally.

WHO calls on everyone to be inspired by the global movement to achieve universal health coverage (UHC), i.e. achieving better health and well-being for all people at all ages, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health care services and access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all. Infection Prevention and Control, including hand hygiene, is critical to achieve UHC as it is a practical and evidence-based approach with demonstrated impact on quality of care and patient safety across all levels of the health system.

International Day of the Midwife
2026-05-05 00:00 - 23:59
This day recognises the vital role midwives play in maternal and newborn health. It’s an opportunity to appreciate healthcare workers and raise awareness of maternal care.

Midwives perform a vital service in providing care and support to women and their families while pregnant, throughout labour and during the period after a baby’s birth.

On this day, we celebrate the role of midwives across the WHO European Region, recognizing in particular the importance of educating, training, regulating and licensing midwives to improve quality of care and to reduce maternal and newborn mortality.

We also showcase WHO/Europe’s work in raising levels of midwifery education in the Region; creating evidence-based knowledge on midwifery; and influencing national policies that will lead to the provision of high-quality, accessible, equitable, efficient and sensitive health services.

World Asthma Day
2026-05-06 00:00 - 23:59
Asthma Awareness Week is an annual initiative by the Asthma Society of Ireland, dedicated to increasing public awareness about asthma, promoting effective management strategies, and supporting the asthma community across the country.

Key objectives

Community engagement: Organising events and activities that foster community support and encourage active participation in asthma awareness initiatives.

Education and empowerment: Providing individuals with asthma, their families, and the general public with up-to-date information on asthma management, symptom recognition, and trigger avoidance.

World Maternal Mental Health Day
2026-05-06 00:00 - 23:59
Why we needMaternal Mental Health Day

Helping mothers, helping babies!

In many countries, as many as 1 in 5 new mothers experiences some type of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMADs). These illnesses frequently go unnoticed and untreated, often with tragic and long-term consequences to both mother and child.

Raising Awareness

No one is immune!

Women of every culture, age, income level and race can develop perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Symptoms can appear any time during pregnancy and the first 12 months after childbirth. There are effective and well-researched treatment options available to help women recover.

Changing Attitude

No health without mental health!

Increasing awareness will drive social change with a goal toward improving the quality of care for women experiencing all types of PMADs, and reducing the stigma of maternal mental illness. We are encouraging mental health professionals, friends and relatives of new moms to ask her how she’s really feeling and encourage her to seek help.

World Ovarian Cancer Day
2026-05-08 00:00 - 23:59
May 8 – World Ovarian Cancer Day

Established in 2013 by a group of leaders from ovarian cancer advocacy organizations around the world, May 8 – World Ovarian Cancer Day, is the one day of the year we globally raise our voices in solidarity in the fight against ovarian cancer.

While the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition works on many fronts, World Ovarian Cancer Day is our flagship awareness-raising initiative, and is the key date in our calendar. Supported by over 200 organizations from around the world, our social media reach grows exponentially every year. Our partner organizations, as small as kitchen table-based patient advocacy groups in rural communities, to national healthcare associations based in major metropolitan areas, all come together as one to raise awareness about the disease.

National Bike Week
2026-05-09 00:00 - 2026-05-16 23:59
There’s never been a better time to get on a bike! The purpose of Bike Week to encourage new, occasional, and seasoned cyclists to make cycling part of their lifestyle.

Bike Week 2026 will run from Saturday 9th – Sunday 17th May 2026. It’s easy, fun and there’s something for everyone.

Enjoy a wide range of events from community and school cycles, fun bike festivals, safety workshops and much more.

International Nurses Day
2026-05-12 00:00 - 23:59
Celebrating the dedication and contribution of nurses worldwide. A chance to recognise their essential role in healthcare and wellbeing.

The WHO European Region celebrates International Nurses Day on 12 May, held each year on the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth.

Despite being the backbone of health-care provision, nurses often face financial constraints and their role is frequently undervalued. This year’s international day aims to reshape perceptions of nursing, demonstrating how strategic investment in nursing can bring considerable economic and societal benefits.

As part of the day, WHO/Europe will be highlighting the vital role of nurses over the last few years and showcasing its work to raise the level of nursing in the Region; to create evidence-based knowledge on nursing; and to influence national policies that will lead to the provision of high-quality, accessible, equitable, efficient and sensitive health services.

Organ Donation Awareness Week
2026-05-16 00:00 - 2026-05-23 23:59
Organ Donation Awareness Week highlights the life-saving impact of organ donation and encourages people across Ireland to make their wishes known. Led nationally by organisations such as the Irish Kidney Association and supported by the Health Service Executive, the campaign aims to increase awareness and spark conversations among families about organ donation decisions.

In the workplace, this week provides an opportunity to share accurate information and encourage staff to carry an organ donor card or register their wishes. Even a simple conversation can make a profound difference, helping to ensure that more lives are saved and transformed through transplantation.

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia & Transphobia
2026-05-17 00:00 - 23:59
This international awareness day promotes dignity, equality, and respect for LGBTQ+ people, while challenging discrimination and stigma. In Ireland, organisations like LGBT Ireland and Belong To play a key role in providing support, education, and advocacy.

Workplaces can mark the day by reinforcing inclusive policies, promoting allyship, and fostering a culture where everyone feels safe and respected. Supporting diversity not only benefits individuals but also strengthens team wellbeing, engagement, and overall workplace culture.
