International Museum Day

Quick Facts - CA

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Related Hashtags#Museum, #Museums, #History
2024 DateMay 18, 2024
2025 DateMay 18, 2025

International Museum Day

International Museum Day in
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International Museum Day (IMD) is an annual celebration that aims to raise awareness about the crucial role museums play in developing society, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering education and dialogue between diverse communities. Observed worldwide, this special event offers the perfect opportunity for people of all ages, background, and interests to connect with their local and global histories, engage in immersive experiences, and strengthen their community ties through the transformative power of exhibits, workshops, and interactive programs.

The origin of International Museum Day dates back to 1977 when it was established by the International Council of Museums (ICOM). Over the years, IMD has grown in scale and popularity, with thousands of museums participating in more than 150 countries. Each year, the council proposes a unique theme that highlights a global priority or challenge, allowing museums around the world to showcase their collections, expertise, and missions while addressing contemporary issues like sustainability, accessibility, or digital technology. Through this collaborative effort, IMD plays a key part in fostering international cooperation, cultivating cultural exchange, and promoting the importance of cultural preservation in the face of rapid change and global challenges.

In Canada, as in other countries, International Museum Day is observed annually on May 18th, inviting Canadians to explore and discover the rich and diverse world of museums. Participating institutions often curate special events and offer reduced or free admission, making it an accessible and inclusive opportunity for community members to connect with their heritage, broaden their horizons, and celebrate the invaluable contributions museums make to the social and cultural landscape of the nation.

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International Museum Day facts

  • The theme for International Museum Day in 2023 was Museums, Sustainability and Well-being.
  • In 2022, There are about 95,000 museums around the world according to UNESCO.
  • The oldest known museum in the world is the Ennigaldi-Nanna's museum, built by Princess Ennigaldi in what is now modern-day Iraq in 530 BC.
  • According to a 2020 report by the Canadian Museums Association and Oxford Economics, museums in Canada generate $8.6 billion in GDP and support 159,000 full-time jobs.
  • The Canadian Museum of History, located in Gatineau, Quebec, is Canada's largest museum. It showcases over four million artifacts, including the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles.

Top things to do in Canada for International Museum Day


References and related sites

icom.museum: Museum Day 2023 theme

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