Emoji Calendar Events
Upcoming and ongoing emoji events for 2026. Found 20 events happening now or soon.
International Dance Day
Happening now โข 4/29/2026 - 4/29/2026
International Dance Day is celebrated on 29 April each year, established by the International Theatre Institute to promote the art of dance worldwide. The date honours the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the creator of modern ballet, and serves as a global celebration of dance in all its forms. The [๐,woman-dancing] and [๐บ,man-dancing] are the star emojis of International Dance Day, capturing the joy and expression of movement. [๐ต,musical-note] represents the music that drives every dance form, from classical ballet to street dance, salsa to contemporary. Dance transcends language and cultural barriers, making International Dance Day a truly global celebration. [๐ฉฐ,ballet-shoes] honours the classical tradition that inspired the day, while [๐ถ,musical-notes] represents the diverse rhythms and melodies that move people to dance in every corner of the world.
Annual
May Day
Starts 5/1/2026 โข 5/1/2026 - 5/1/2026
May Day is observed on 1 May each year as International Workers' Day in most countries around the world, celebrating the labour movement and the rights of working people. The date has its roots in the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago and has been a rallying point for workers' rights for over a century. The [โ,raised-fist] is the defining symbol of May Day, representing solidarity and the collective power of workers. [๐น,rose] has long been associated with the labour movement and socialist traditions, while [๐ช,flexed-biceps] symbolises the strength and determination of the workforce. May Day marches and rallies take place in cities across the globe, from Berlin to Buenos Aires. [๐ง,hammer-and-wrench] represents the trades and industries at the heart of the movement, [๐,globe-showing-europe-africa] underscores its international reach, and [โค๏ธ,red-heart] โ red being the colour of labour โ ties the celebrations together.
Annual
World Press Freedom Day
Starts 5/3/2026 โข 5/3/2026 - 5/3/2026
World Press Freedom Day is observed on 3 May each year, raising awareness about the importance of press freedom and the fundamental right to freedom of expression. Established by the United Nations in 1993, the day highlights the challenges faced by journalists worldwide, from censorship to violence. The [๐ฐ,newspaper] is the primary symbol of press freedom, representing traditional journalism and its vital role in democracy. [๐๏ธ,rolled-up-newspaper] evokes the daily delivery of news, while [โ๏ธ,writing-hand] represents the journalists and writers who risk their safety to report the truth. World Press Freedom Day serves as a reminder that a free press is essential to informed societies and accountable governance. [๐,memo] symbolises the reporting and documentation that keeps the public informed, and [๐,globe-showing-europe-africa] underscores the global nature of press freedom challenges.
Annual
Met Gala
Starts 5/4/2026 โข 5/4/2026 - 5/4/2026
The Met Gala is fashion's biggest night, held on the first Monday of May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The 2026 gala takes place on 4 May, bringing together celebrities, designers, and cultural figures for a fundraising event that doubles as the opening of the Costume Institute's annual exhibition. The [๐,dress] captures the extraordinary fashion that defines the Met Gala, where attendees push creative boundaries to interpret the year's theme. [โจ,sparkles] and [๐,glowing-star] reflect the glamour and spectacle of the red carpet arrivals that dominate social media for days. The Met Gala generates more social media engagement than almost any other cultural event, with every outfit analysed and debated worldwide. [๐ธ,camera-with-flash] represents the paparazzi frenzy, [๐ ,high-heeled-shoe] embodies the haute couture footwear, and [๐ญ,performing-arts] captures the theatrical nature of the fashion statements on display.
Annual
Star Wars Day
Starts 5/4/2026 โข 5/4/2026 - 5/4/2026
Star Wars Day is celebrated on 4 May each year, inspired by the famous pun on the franchise's iconic line โ "May the Fourth be with you." What began as a fan-driven celebration has grown into a global phenomenon, with official events, merchandise releases, and social media tributes to the beloved sci-fi saga. The [โญ,star] is the natural emoji for Star Wars Day, nodding to the franchise title itself. [โ๏ธ,crossed-swords] evokes the lightsaber duels that are central to Star Wars storytelling, while [๐,milky-way] represents the galaxy far, far away where the saga takes place. Star Wars Day dominates social media with fans sharing their favourite moments, cosplays, and marathon viewing plans. [๐,rocket] captures the space adventure at the heart of the franchise, [๐,glowing-star] represents the heroes and legends of the saga, and [๐ฆ,flashlight] is the closest emoji to a lightsaber โ the weapon of the Jedi.
Annual
Cinco de Mayo
Starts 5/5/2026 โข 5/5/2026 - 5/5/2026
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on 5 May each year, commemorating the Mexican army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico itself, it has become a major celebration of Mexican culture and heritage in the United States and beyond. The [๐ฒ๐ฝ,flag-mexico] is central to Cinco de Mayo celebrations, representing Mexican national pride. [๐บ,trumpet] evokes the mariachi music that is a staple of festivities, while [๐ฎ,taco] represents the Mexican cuisine that is celebrated and enjoyed on the day. Cinco de Mayo has grown into one of the most vibrant cultural celebrations in the US calendar, with parades, live music, and street festivals. [๐,party-popper] and [๐,confetti-ball] capture the festive atmosphere, and [๐,woman-dancing] represents the traditional and modern dance that brings celebrations to life.
Annual
Mother's Day
Starts 5/10/2026 โข 5/10/2026 - 5/10/2026
Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May in the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries, honouring mothers and maternal figures. In 2026, Mother's Day falls on 10 May, and it is one of the most commercially significant holidays of the year, with families showing their appreciation through gifts, meals, and quality time. The [๐,bouquet] is the quintessential Mother's Day emoji, representing the flowers that are the most popular gift of the day. [โค๏ธ,red-heart] expresses the love and gratitude at the heart of the celebration, while [๐ฉ,woman] represents the mothers and mother figures being honoured. Mother's Day drives one of the biggest spikes in social media activity each year, with heartfelt tributes and family photos shared worldwide. [๐,wrapped-gift] represents the presents and surprises, [๐ท,tulip] and [๐น,rose] capture the spring flowers synonymous with the occasion, and every post carries a message of thanks and love.
Annual
Eurovision Song Contest
Starts 5/12/2026 โข 5/12/2026 - 5/16/2026
The Eurovision Song Contest is the world's largest live music event, bringing together artists from across Europe and beyond to compete in a spectacular televised competition. The 2026 contest is hosted in Basel, Switzerland, with semi-finals on 12 and 14 May and the Grand Final on 16 May. The [๐ค,microphone] is the signature emoji of Eurovision, representing the vocal performances that define the contest. [๐ต,musical-note] and [๐ถ,musical-notes] capture the diverse range of musical styles on display, from power ballads to dance anthems, folk to electronica. Eurovision generates enormous social media engagement, with fans voting, debating, and celebrating across time zones. [โจ,sparkles] reflects the dazzling stage productions and pyrotechnics, [๐,trophy] represents the coveted crystal microphone trophy, and [๐จ๐ญ,flag-switzerland] honours the 2026 host nation.
Annual
Cannes Film Festival
Starts 5/12/2026 โข 5/12/2026 - 5/23/2026
The Cannes Film Festival is the most prestigious film festival in the world, held annually on the French Riviera. The 2026 edition runs from 12 to 23 May, showcasing premiere screenings, international competition films, and star-studded red carpet events at the Palais des Festivals. The [๐ฌ,clapper-board] represents the cinema at the heart of Cannes, while [๐,glowing-star] captures the star power of the A-list actors and directors who attend. [๐ฅ,movie-camera] symbolises the filmmaking craft celebrated by the festival and its juries. Cannes is as much about glamour as it is about cinema, with the red carpet generating worldwide media coverage. [๐,trophy] represents the Palme d'Or, the festival's highest prize, [๐ด,palm-tree] evokes both the award's name and the Riviera setting, and [๐,dress] reflects the haute couture fashion that graces the Croisette.
Annual
Vesak
Starts 5/12/2026 โข 5/12/2026 - 5/12/2026
Vesak, also known as Buddha Day, is the most important day in the Buddhist calendar, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. In 2026, Vesak is observed on 12 May, coinciding with the full moon of the month, and is celebrated by Buddhist communities across Asia and around the world. The [๐ชท,lotus] is the most sacred symbol of Vesak, representing purity and spiritual awakening in Buddhist tradition. [๐ฏ๏ธ,candle] reflects the lanterns and candles lit during celebrations to symbolise the light of Buddha's teachings, while [๐,folded-hands] represents the prayer and devotion central to the day. Vesak celebrations include temple visits, meditation, acts of generosity, and the release of caged animals as a symbol of compassion. [๐,full-moon] marks the lunar timing of the festival, [โธ๏ธ,wheel-of-dharma] represents the Buddha's teachings and the Noble Eightfold Path, and [๐ธ,cherry-blossom] symbolises the beauty and impermanence at the heart of Buddhist philosophy.
Annual
International Nurses Day
Starts 5/12/2026 โข 5/12/2026 - 5/12/2026
International Nurses Day is observed on 12 May each year, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth, celebrating the contributions of nurses to healthcare worldwide. The day recognises the dedication, compassion, and expertise of the millions of nurses who form the backbone of health systems in every country. The [๐ฉบ,stethoscope] represents the clinical expertise and hands-on care that nurses provide every day. [โค๏ธ,red-heart] captures the compassion and emotional labour that are inseparable from the nursing profession, while [๐ฅ,hospital] symbolises the healthcare settings where nurses work tirelessly. International Nurses Day took on renewed significance during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the courage and sacrifice of nurses on the front lines. [๐,pill] represents the medical knowledge nurses apply in patient care, and [๐ช,flexed-biceps] symbolises the strength and resilience of a profession that is essential to public health.
Annual
World Bee Day
Starts 5/20/2026 โข 5/20/2026 - 5/20/2026
World Bee Day is observed on 20 May each year, raising awareness about the essential role that bees and other pollinators play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and global food security. The date marks the birthday of Anton Janลกa, a pioneer of modern beekeeping, and the day was established by the United Nations in 2017. The [๐,honeybee] is the star of World Bee Day, representing the industrious pollinators at the centre of the celebration. [๐ฏ,honey-pot] symbolises the sweet produce of bees and the beekeeping traditions that have sustained communities for millennia, while [๐ป,sunflower] represents the flowering plants that depend on bee pollination. World Bee Day highlights the alarming decline in bee populations due to pesticides, habitat loss, and climate change. [๐ธ,cherry-blossom] represents the blossoms that rely on bees for pollination, and [๐,globe-showing-europe-africa] underscores the global importance of protecting pollinators for the future of food production and biodiversity.
Annual
International Tea Day
Starts 5/21/2026 โข 5/21/2026 - 5/21/2026
International Tea Day is celebrated on 21 May each year, recognising the long history and cultural significance of tea around the world. Established by the United Nations in 2019, the day promotes sustainable tea production and raises awareness of tea's importance to rural development and livelihoods. The [๐ต,teacup-without-handle] is the signature emoji for International Tea Day, representing the traditional way tea is served in many Asian cultures. [๐ซ,teapot] symbolises the brewing ritual that is central to tea culture from China and Japan to Morocco and Britain, while [โ,hot-beverage] captures the universal comfort of a warm cup. Tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world after water, connecting cultures across every continent. [๐ฟ,herb] represents the tea plant and the herbal infusions enjoyed globally, and [๐,globe-showing-europe-africa] highlights the worldwide reach of tea culture and the importance of fair trade in the industry.
Annual
French Open
Starts 5/24/2026 โข 5/24/2026 - 6/7/2026
The French Open, known as Roland-Garros, is one of tennis's four Grand Slam tournaments and the premier clay-court championship in the world. The 2026 edition runs from 24 May to 7 June at the Stade Roland-Garros in Paris, attracting the sport's biggest names to compete on the iconic red clay. The [๐พ,tennis] emoji is central to French Open coverage, representing the sport and the rallies played out on the terre battue. [๐,trophy] symbolises the Coupe des Mousquetaires and Coupe Suzanne-Lenglen awarded to the singles champions, while [๐ซ๐ท,flag-france] represents the proud host nation. Roland-Garros is considered the most physically demanding Grand Slam, with long matches on the slow clay surface testing players' endurance and tactical skill. [๐๏ธ,stadium] represents the iconic Court Philippe-Chatrier, and [๐ ,sports-medal] captures the glory of competing at the highest level of the sport.
Annual
Indianapolis 500
Starts 5/24/2026 โข 5/24/2026 - 5/24/2026
The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most prestigious motor races in the world, held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on the Sunday before Memorial Day. The 2026 race takes place on 24 May, with 33 drivers competing in 200 laps of the legendary 2.5-mile oval in front of over 300,000 spectators. The [๐๏ธ,racing-car] captures the speed and excitement of the Indy 500, where cars reach speeds exceeding 230 mph on the famous oval. [๐,chequered-flag] represents the iconic finish line moment and the winner's tradition of kissing the bricks at the yard of bricks. The Indianapolis 500 has been running since 1911, making it one of the oldest and most storied events in motorsport. [๐,trophy] represents the Borg-Warner Trophy, [๐บ๐ธ,flag-united-states] reflects the race's place as an American sporting institution, and [๐๏ธ,stadium] captures the sheer scale of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway โ the largest sporting venue in the world.
Annual
Memorial Day
Starts 5/25/2026 โข 5/25/2026 - 5/25/2026
Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May in the United States, honouring the men and women who have died while serving in the US military. In 2026, Memorial Day falls on 25 May, and it is marked by ceremonies, parades, and the placing of flags and flowers at military cemeteries across the country. The [๐บ๐ธ,flag-united-states] is the centrepiece of Memorial Day, flown at half-staff until noon in tribute to the fallen. [๐๏ธ,military-medal] represents the service and sacrifice of military personnel, while [๐๏ธ,dove] symbolises the peace that those honoured gave their lives to protect. Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States, but its core purpose remains solemn remembrance. [๐บ,hibiscus] is used to represent the poppies and flowers placed at graves and memorials, and [๐,folded-hands] reflects the gratitude and reflection that define the day.
Annual
Eid al-Adha
Starts 5/27/2026 โข 5/27/2026 - 5/30/2026
Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two most important holidays in Islam, commemorating the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. In 2026, Eid al-Adha begins on 27 May and is celebrated over three to four days by nearly two billion Muslims worldwide with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. The [๐,ram] is the central symbol of Eid al-Adha, representing the animal sacrifice (Qurbani) that recalls Ibrahim's devotion. [๐,mosque] represents the congregational prayers held on the morning of Eid, where communities gather in their finest clothes, while [โช๏ธ,star-and-crescent] is a widely recognised symbol of Islam. Eid al-Adha is a time of generosity, family, and community, with the meat from the sacrifice traditionally shared among family, friends, and those in need. [๐,crescent-moon] reflects the Islamic lunar calendar that determines the date, [๐,folded-hands] represents the devotion and gratitude at the heart of the celebration, and [๐,kaaba] honours the holy pilgrimage of Hajj that Eid al-Adha coincides with.
Annual
Pride Month
Starts 6/1/2026 โข 6/1/2026 - 6/30/2026
Pride Month is celebrated throughout June around the world, honouring the LGBTQ+ community and commemorating the Stonewall riots of June 1969 in New York City. The month is marked by parades, marches, festivals, and educational events that promote equality, visibility, and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The [๐ณ๏ธโ๐,rainbow-flag] is the universal symbol of Pride, representing the diversity and inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community. [๐,rainbow] captures the colourful spirit of Pride celebrations, while the spectrum of heart emojis โ [โค๏ธ,red-heart], [๐งก,orange-heart], [๐,yellow-heart], [๐,green-heart], [๐,blue-heart], and [๐,purple-heart] โ mirrors the rainbow flag's colours. Pride Month generates massive social media engagement, with millions sharing messages of support, personal stories, and celebration. Parades in cities from New York and London to Sรฃo Paulo and Sydney draw enormous crowds, making June one of the most vibrant and visible months on the cultural calendar.
Annual
World Environment Day
Starts 6/5/2026 โข 6/5/2026 - 6/5/2026
World Environment Day is observed on 5 June each year, serving as the United Nations' principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment. Since 1973, the day has grown into a global platform for public outreach, with engagement from over 150 countries. The [๐,globe-showing-europe-africa] represents the planet at the centre of the day's mission, while [๐ฑ,seedling] symbolises the growth and renewal that environmental action promotes. [๐ณ,deciduous-tree] represents the forests and green spaces that are vital to the earth's health. World Environment Day focuses on different themes each year, from plastic pollution to ecosystem restoration. [โป๏ธ,recycling-symbol] represents the everyday actions individuals can take, and [๐,green-heart] has become a universal shorthand for love and commitment to the natural world.
Annual
World Oceans Day
Starts 6/8/2026 โข 6/8/2026 - 6/8/2026
World Oceans Day is celebrated on 8 June each year, raising awareness about the vital role the ocean plays in sustaining life on Earth. Recognised by the United Nations since 2008, the day highlights threats including pollution, overfishing, and climate change, and encourages action to protect marine ecosystems. The [๐,water-wave] captures the power and beauty of the world's oceans, while [๐,whale] represents the magnificent marine mammals that depend on healthy ocean environments. [๐ ,tropical-fish] symbolises the incredible biodiversity found in coral reefs and ocean habitats around the world. World Oceans Day mobilises millions of people to take action through beach cleanups, educational events, and advocacy campaigns. [๐,spiral-shell] evokes the natural treasures of the coastline, and [๐,globe-showing-europe-africa] reminds us that the ocean covers over 70% of our planet and connects every continent.
Annual
Emoji calendar events help you find the perfect emojis for holidays, seasons, and special occasions throughout the year.
Events are organized by date and include both recurring annual celebrations like Christmas and Halloween, as well as special one-time events.
Each event is linked to specific emoji groups that are most relevant for that time of year, making it easy to find seasonal emojis.
Use calendar events to discover emojis for your messages, social media posts, and seasonal content.