Basic Information
International Jazz Day is observed on April 30 to celebrate the virtues of jazz as an educational tool, and a force for peace, unity, dialogue and enhanced cooperation among people.
Observed on: April 30
Organized by: UNESCO, UN
Introduced in: 2011 (UNESCO Proclamation)
Observed: Worldwide
About International Jazz Day
International Jazz Day is an annual event organized by UNESCO on April 30. The observance of the day aims to celebrate “the virtues of jazz as an educational tool, and a force for peace, unity, dialogue and enhanced cooperation among people.”
International Jazz Day was proclaimed in November 2011 at the UNESCO General Conference. In December 2012 United Nations General Assembly formally welcomed the decision by the UNESCO General Conference to proclaim this day. Now this day is appearing on both UNESCO and UN official calendars.
This day highlights the power of jazz as a force for freedom and creativity, promotes intercultural dialogue through respect and understanding, and unites people from all corners of the globe.
Activities and Programs on Jazz Day
Many programs and events are there on this day as a part of observance. Some of these programs include music concerts at different places, jazz parades in streets, jazz education programs, flash mobs, lectures, film screening, programs in TV and radio, etc. The programs also include educational and outreach programs to spread the message and importance of Jazz Day.
More than 190 countries worldwide celebrate this day every year. The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz along with UNESCO observe this day. Many other NGOs, schools, universities, arts organizations, libraries, artists, etc. also participate in these celebrations with different programs.