World Tourism Day History

World Tourism Day is celebrated every year on September 27, a date chosen to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes in 1970. This global event was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1980 to raise awareness about the role of tourism in international development.

The first World Tourism Day was celebrated in 1980, following the UNWTO's recognition of tourism as a crucial sector for fostering global peace and understanding. The day serves as a platform to highlight tourism's impact on economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability.

Each year, World Tourism Day features a different theme, focusing on various aspects of tourism's benefits and challenges. Themes have ranged from "Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals" to "Tourism and Rural Development," emphasizing the importance of promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity in the tourism industry.

Through events, discussions, and activities worldwide, World Tourism Day aims to engage governments, businesses, and travelers in a collective effort to enhance the positive impacts of tourism while addressing its challenges. The observance of this day reinforces the UNWTO's mission to advocate for responsible tourism practices and to recognize the sector's contribution to global development.