International Women’s Day is observed on March 8 and celebrates women’s achievements while calling attention to equality. In the office, the most meaningful observances are practical: they listen, share knowledge and create lasting support rather than a single day of gestures.
Where International Women’s Day comes from
The day grew out of the labour and suffrage movements in the early twentieth century. The first observances in 1911 took place in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. The United Nations began celebrating the day in 1975, and in 1977 the General Assembly invited member states to proclaim a day for women’s rights and international peace. March 8 is now recognised in many countries, and in some it is a public holiday.
Purple, green and white are often associated with the day, with purple the most visible colour in decorations.
Principles for a workplace observance
Before choosing activities, decide what you want people to take away. A good observance feels inclusive, voluntary and tied to something concrete. Ask employees what they would value, and involve colleagues of all genders in planning.
International Women’s Day ideas that go beyond a cake
Learning and conversation
- Invite a speaker or host a panel of colleagues to talk about career paths.
- Start a book club around a biography or a collection of essays.
- Publish short profiles of women in your field, past and present.
A single hour of shared learning can spark conversations that continue for weeks, especially if you share the recording or a short summary with people who could not attend.
Support and mentoring
- Launch a mentoring programme, or restart one that lapsed.
- Offer a skills workshop, such as negotiation or public speaking, open to all.
- Review internal practices such as promotion criteria and flexible working policies.
Community and giving
- Volunteer with a local organisation supporting women and girls.
- Run a donation drive for a charity chosen by staff.
- Invite a local female-owned business to supply the team lunch.
Choosing the right format
| Format | Time needed | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Lunch and learn | 45 to 60 minutes | Small and mid-size teams |
| Panel discussion | 1 hour | Larger organisations |
| Volunteer afternoon | Half a day | Teams wanting a hands-on activity |
| Mentoring launch | Ongoing | Lasting impact |
A planning timeline
- Six weeks ahead: form a small planning group and ask staff for input.
- Four weeks ahead: choose a format, book speakers and secure a room.
- Two weeks ahead: announce the event and make participation optional.
- On the day: keep the schedule short and leave time for questions.
- Afterward: gather feedback and decide what continues year-round.
Making the day matter for individuals
Large programmes are helpful, but small gestures count too. Managers can use the day to check in with their teams, review who is getting stretch assignments and make sure meeting time is shared fairly. Colleagues can nominate someone for an award, write a note of thanks for a mentor or share a useful contact. These actions cost nothing, and they are easy to repeat all year.
It also helps to remember that experiences differ. Some employees will enjoy a celebration, while others may prefer a quiet acknowledgement. Offering several ways to take part respects both.
Measuring what you started
After the event, send a two-question survey: what was useful, and what should continue? Share the results with the team and name one change you will make in response. People take observances more seriously when they see action follow.
Things to avoid
Skip stereotyped gifts such as flowers and pink items. They can read as tokenistic, and some colleagues find them patronising. Avoid events that put the burden on women to educate others. If an activity would not make sense on March 9, it probably needs rethinking.
Connecting to the wider calendar
Many teams bundle observances into a yearly plan. Early in the year, a day of service for Martin Luther King Jr. Day offers a template for volunteering together. In spring, Mother’s Day is another moment to recognise family and caregiving. Later, Juneteenth calls for its own thoughtful approach. Our Holidays & National Days collection can help you map it out.
Key takeaways
- International Women’s Day is observed on March 8; early observances date to 1911.
- The UN invited states to proclaim the day in 1977.
- Choose voluntary, practical activities over token gestures.
- Follow up so the day leads to lasting support.
Frequently asked questions
When is International Women’s Day?
It is observed on March 8 each year.
When did International Women’s Day begin?
The first observances took place in 1911 in several European countries. The UN invited member states to proclaim the day in 1977.
What colours are associated with the day?
Purple, green and white are commonly linked to International Women’s Day, with purple used most often.
Should men take part in workplace events?
Yes. Most organisers encourage colleagues of all genders to attend and help plan activities.
Photo: Women walking into the office by Verne Ho verneho, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
