International Children’s Day is celebrated in some countries on June 1. The origin of this holiday dates back to 1925, when representatives of various countries met in Geneva, Switzerland, for the first “World Conference on the Welfare of Children”. No specific date was recommended, so countries used the date that best suited their culture.

June 1, Children’s DayPhoto: Jeffrey Groeneweg/AFP/Profimedia

In addition to this holiday, we also have World Children’s Day, which is celebrated every year on November 20 after the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.

In the United States, Children’s Day is usually celebrated on the second Sunday of June. The tradition dates back to 1856, when the Rev. Dr. Charles Leonard held a special service dedicated to children.

The date June 1 is used by many countries of the former Soviet Union, since “International Children’s Day” was established on June 1, 1950 at the congress of the International Democratic Federation of Women in Moscow in 1949.

In Germany

International Children’s Day on June 1 has been known as “Kindertag” in Germany since 1950. On this day, children receive postcards and gifts from their parents. They also participate in special school activities such as field trips.

However, in some regions of Germany, International Children’s Day is celebrated on September 20

In China

The Chinese also celebrate June 1 as International Children’s Day. On this day, performances are held dedicated to them, and many tourist attractions, restaurants and cinemas offer discounts or free admission for children. The government gives parents of state employees a day off to spend more time with their children.

In Russia

Every year around June 1, children participate in traditional dances. Schools and colleges across the country organize cultural events dedicated to children in which parents, teachers and educators participate.

In Vietnam

Children usually enjoy and relax on International Children’s Day in Vietnam. Some families decide to stay home and play, while others go to the zoo or dine at their child’s favorite restaurant. Children also participate in dance and singing performances in schools. Teachers can reward students with gifts if they have done well during the school year.

Japan

The Japanese celebrate Children’s Protection Day or Kodomo no Hi on May 5. Families fly colorful kites called “koinobori flags,” which symbolize determination and strength in Japanese folklore. They display figurines of samurai warriors in their homes, which symbolize strength and courage. Children enjoy oak leaf rice cakes (Kashiwa-mochi) and participate in traditional Japanese performances. The “Children’s Olympics” is held in Tokyo, which annually gathers thousands of children

Mexico

In Mexico, April 30th is Children’s Day, also known as El Día del Niño. Schools, parks and other organizations organize special activities for children in Mexico. School hours are replaced by big parties with food, games and fun rides. Local festivals feature flying banners, piñatas, live music and puppet shows.

Thailand

National Children’s Day is celebrated every year on the second Saturday of January in Thailand. Children are considered the nation’s most valuable resource, and this annual holiday helps to make children aware of their importance and responsibility to society. On this special day, Thai children are allowed free entry to buses, amusement parks, zoos, government offices, as well as army, navy and air force bases. Children are also allowed to explore a Royal Thai Air Force aircraft.

Turkey

In Turkey, the Day of National Sovereignty and Protection of Children is celebrated annually on April 23. Children take seats in the Turkish parliament and symbolically rule the country during the day. They elect a president who will address the nation on television, and children’s festivals are held throughout the country for the rest of the day.