World Cities Day
A global day highlighting sustainable urbanization as cities worldwide face growing populations and challenges.
Date31 October
TopicEnvironment & Sustainability
Established2013
Ways to observe this day
- Learn about urban planning challenges in your city
- Use sustainable transportation such as walking, cycling, or public transit
- Join a local initiative to improve public spaces
- Share ideas for making cities more sustainable and inclusive
On December 27, 2013, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/68/239, designating October 31 as World Cities Day, first observed in 2014 following a proposal by China, which hosted the inaugural global celebration in Shanghai.
The day draws international attention to the rapid urbanization the world is experiencing, with more than half of the global population now living in cities, a share expected to keep rising in the coming decades. It also highlights challenges associated with this growth, such as overcrowding, inadequate housing, pollution, and the gap between wealthy and underserved neighborhoods, calling for sustainable urban planning that considers both environmental and social justice.
The United Nations, through UN-Habitat, and local governments worldwide organize annual events around a different theme each year, including conferences on urban planning, exhibitions showcasing innovative solutions to urban challenges, and discussions on the role of cities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
