International Women's Day
March 8 · Level 9 · #263 of 2238
International Women's Day recognises women's achievements and calls for equal rights and opportunities. Rooted in the labour and social movements of the early twentieth century, it combines celebration with attention to the barriers women still face.
How it is celebrated: marches, discussions, concerts and public events highlight women's contributions to science, business and culture. In countries with a gift-giving tradition, people also exchange flowers, presents and messages of appreciation.
The first international celebrations in 1911 took place in March, but not on the eighth. The date now associated with the occasion became established later.