My absolute favorite day of any school year since moving overseas is International Day. No matter how many years I’ve lived and worked abroad, this event still brings me to tears of joy. I love seeing students proudly share their cultures, discovering traditions from around the globe, and—of course—trying all the incredible food.

What Is International Day at an International School?

If you’re new to international schools, International Day (or International Week) is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Students, staff, and parents come together to celebrate the diverse cultures represented within the school community.

Every school runs International Day a little differently:

• At some schools, parents set up country booths, teaching games, crafts, or showcasing traditional activities.
• At others, students take the lead, preparing food and cultural displays to share with their peers.
• Many schools add performances, flag parades, or dress-up days to showcase individual cultural traditions and identity.

No matter the format, International Day is a signature tradition at international schools worldwide—a day that builds belonging, pride, and cultural exchange.

My Experience Helping Organize International Day

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats when it comes to International Day: organizer, helper, audience-member, cheerleader—you name it. What I learned quickly was this: a successful International Day requires intentional planning and clear organization.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m the person who always brings a notebook to meetings. That habit has paid off—I’ve collected years of notes, checklists, and ideas that make the planning process smoother. And now, I’ve turned those notes into something you can use too.

Introducing the International Day Planner for Schools

To take the stress out of planning, I created an editable International Day Planner: a step-by-step guide designed specifically for international schools.

Here’s what it includes:

• Checklists for committees and volunteers
• Ideas for event components and logistics
• Templates for budgets, schedules, and communication
• Suggestions that work for schools of any size

Whether this is your first International Day or your tenth, this planner makes it easier for your planning committee to stay organized and ensure your event runs smoothly. Best of all, it’s reusable every year—a long-term investment for your school.

Try the Free Version Before You Buy

Not sure if this planner is right for your school? You can download a free preview version to get an idea of what’s inside. That way, you’ll know exactly how it can support your team before you commit.

Download your free preview: International Day Planner.

Why This Matters

International Day is more than just a fun event—it’s an opportunity for students and families to celebrate identity, build connections, and foster global citizenship. With the right planning tools, it can truly be the highlight of your school year.

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Let’s Share Ideas!

I’d love to hear from you in the comments:

• Does your school host an International Day (or Week)?
• Do you usually help organize the event, or do you enjoy it as a participant?
• If you’ve been part of a planning team, what’s one tip you’d share with other educators?
• What’s your favorite tradition—performances, food, flag parades, or cultural booths?