On April 16, 2026, the World Leisure Organization (WLO) will celebrate the sixth edition of World Leisure Day (WL Day) under the inspiring theme “Leisure that Inspires Change: Volunteering for a Sustainable Future.” This year marks a significant milestone, as World Leisure Day has been officially included in the UN Tourism Work Plan, reinforcing the global recognition of leisure as a vital contributor to well-being and sustainable development.
WL Day 2026 highlights the powerful role of leisure as a catalyst for active citizenship and social responsibility. Through volunteering, leisure becomes more than free time—it transforms into purposeful action that strengthens communities, promotes equity, and supports environmental sustainability. From community clean-ups and volunteer-led workshops to cultural initiatives and social support programs, leisure-based volunteering creates meaningful opportunities for collective impact.
The 2026 celebration invites individuals, organizations, and communities worldwide to share their energy, passion, and community spirit. By engaging in volunteer activities rooted in leisure, participants contribute to more resilient and inclusive societies while fostering connection, empathy, and shared responsibility.
As we look toward WL Day 2026, the WLO encourages everyone to discover how their leisure time can inspire real change. Together, through volunteering and collaboration, we can help build a more sustainable future—one meaningful action at a time.
World Leisure Day website: https://worldleisureday.org/
World Leisure Day 2026 Toolkit: https://worldleisureday.org/toolkit/
