International Museum Day 2025: Date, Time, History And More
Museums are windows to the past, preserving history, culture, and creativity for future generations. Every year, on 18 May, International Museum Day (IMD) is celebrated to educate people about museums and their artefacts. At IMD, museologists meet with common people to discuss the role of museums as modern institutions that enrich intellectual life and foster community spaces for learning and curiosity. Scroll down to learn more about IMD, its history, dates, and importance.
International Museum Day Date & Theme 2025
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Since 1977, on 18th May, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) has paid tribute to the international museum community by organising International Museum Day with a unique theme annually. The theme for International Museum Day 2025 is “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.” This theme highlights museums’ role as essential connectors, innovators, and stewards of cultural identity.
- International Museum Day 2025 Date: 18th May
- International Museum Day 2025 Theme: The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities
History & Significance Of International Museum Day
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In tribute to the museum community, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) introduced the International Museum Day in 1977. However, IMD traced back to 1951 in a Crusade for Museums meeting. Every year on 18th May, International Museum Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of museums around the world as a source of education and a tool that connects people to their past and history. The ICOM chooses a theme every year, which includes environmental care, globalisation, bridging culture gaps and Indigenous people.
From famous paintings to elegant sculptures, museums in the world have been collecting, preserving, exhibiting and providing insight into humankind’s history. International Museum Day plays an important role in raising global awareness about the importance of museums in society, highlighting their role in cultural exchange, education, and fostering understanding and peace. This event also draws attention to the impact of the illegal trafficking of artefacts.
Things To Do On The International Museum Day
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You can do many things on International Museum Day. We curated a list of things to do on International Museum Day.
Museum Hopping: Visiting museums on the IMD will help you understand their importance in our lives. On International Museum Day, you can learn about the culture, heritage, and history of the region through exhibitions.
Volunteer in the Museum: Volunteering at the museum will allow you to gain valuable experience and support its educational mission.
Attend Special Events: Many museums organise special events, exhibitions, and guided tours for International Museum Day.
Plan a virtual tour: If you don’t wish to wait in a long queue, you can visit a museum. A virtual tour is one of the best ways to learn about museums and enjoy the exhibitions and effects.
Creative Arts: Challenge yourself to create an art piece in one of your favourite styles or art movements. Attend the workshops and competitions held on International Museum Day.
Top 5 Museums in The World
Here is the list of the top 5 Museums in the world to celebrate the best International Museum Day.
1. British Museum, London
The British Museum in London is renowned for its vast collection of art and artefacts worldwide, including treasures like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. The museum is home to 8 million items that show the diverse culture and traditions of the region. On International Museum Day, the British Museum organised free exhibitions and events to raise awareness about the role of museums as educators, essential connectors, innovators, and stewards of cultural identity.
- Location: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, UK
- How to Reach: One can take a flight to London and then hire a cab or taxi to the museum.
2. Louvre Museum, Paris
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One of the most beautiful museums globally is the Louvre Museum in Paris. Its iconic glass pyramid entrance has captured the attention of people worldwide. This museum promotes French and European culture through its many masterpieces on display. On International Museum Day 2025, you can participate in engaging exhibitions and events and learn about the facts of the Louvre Museum.
- Location: 75001 Paris, France
- How to Reach: You can fly to Charles de Gaulle Airport or Orly Airport in Paris. From the airport, you can take local transportation.
3. Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad
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Salar Jung Museum is one of the popular museums in Telangana. It is home to an extensive collection of artefacts from various parts of the world. On International Museum Day, the museum organised an exhibition of art and artefacts from different cultures and civilisations worldwide.
- Location: Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, Telangana
- How to Reach: One can take a flight or a train to Hyderabad and then book a taxi.
4. National Museum, New Delhi
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Located in Janpath, New Delhi, the National Museum is one of the largest museums in India. Its collections include art from all disciplines, including archaeology, epigraphy, anthropology, and textiles. On International Museum Day, the National Museum organised various activities, such as training workshops, performances, and exhibitions.
- Location: Janpath Rd, Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Delhi
- How to Reach: You can reach the National Museum by flying or train to Delhi, or you can opt for a road trip.
5. Indian Museum, Kolkata
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The Indian Museum, popularly known as Jadughar, is one of the historical places in Kolkata. It is home to the finest collection of historical importance, ranging from contemporary paintings to a sacred relic of Buddha to Egyptian mummies. On the occasion of International Museum Day, the Indian Museum hosted a dynamic workshop for educators and students to learn about the art and history of the region.
- Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal
- How to Reach: You can reach the National Museum by flying or train to Kolkata, or you can opt for a road trip.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, International Museum Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the role of museums in our society. By visiting museums, witnessing collections, and participating in events, one can contribute to a richer and more informed world. So, plan a trip to worldwide museums to learn about the different traditions and cultures.
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FAQs About International Museum Day
Why is International Museum Day celebrated?
International Museum Day (IMD) is celebrated to raise awareness that “Museums are a necessary means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.
When is International Museum Day celebrated?
International Museum Day is celebrated on or around 18 May each year. The events and activities planned for this Day can last a day, a weekend, or a whole week.
What is the theme of International Museum Day 2025?
The theme of International Museum Day 2025 is “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities”.
What happens on International Museum Day?
On International Museum Day, various events are held to raise awareness about museums' importance and role in society, cultural exchange, and education.
What should one do on International Museum Day?
On International Museum Day (May 18th), you can visit a local museum, explore online resources, participate in special events, or volunteer to support museums and their educational missions.
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