List of Important Days in December 2023: National, International, and Special Dates

Important Days in December 2023: December is the twelfth and final month of the year and it brings a lot of joy and celebration to people around the world. There are many important days in December that are observed for various cultural, religious, social, and environmental causes. Some of these days are recognized by the United Nations, while others are celebrated by specific countries or communities.

In this article, we will look at some of the most significant days in December 2023 and their importance.

Important Days in November 2023 Calendar: National and International Dates

• 1st December: World AIDS Day
• 2nd December: National Pollution Control Day
• 2nd December: International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
• 2nd December: World Computer Literacy Day
• 3rd December: World Day of the Handicapped or International Day of Persons with Disabilities
• 4th December: Indian Navy Day
• 5th December: International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
• 5th December: World Soil Day
• 6th December: B.R. Ambedkar’s Death Anniversary
• 6th December: National Microwave Oven Day
• 7th December: Armed Forces Flag Day
• 7th December: International Civil Aviation Day
• 9th December: International Anti-Corruption Day
• 10th December: Human Rights Day
• 10th December: Death Anniversary of Alfred Nobel
• 11th December: UNICEF Foundation Day
• 11th December: International Mountain Day
• 12th December: Universal Health Coverage Day
• 14th December: National Energy Conservation Day
• 16th December: Vijay Diwas
• 18th December: Minorities Rights Day in India
• 18th December: International Migrants Day
• 19th December: Goa’s Liberation Day
• 20th December: International Human Solidarity Day
• 22nd December: National Mathematics Day
• 22nd December: Winter Solstice
• 23rd December: Kisan Diwas (Farmer’s Day)
• 24th December: National Consumer Rights Day
• 25th December: Christmas Day
• 25th December: Good Governance Day (India)
• 31st December: New Year’s Eve

December 2023 Calendar: List of Important Days & Dates with Brief Description

Important Days in December 2023: Special Days & Dates

World AIDS Day: 1st December

World AIDS Day is observed every year on 1st December to raise awareness about the global epidemic of HIV/AIDS and to show support for people living with or affected by the disease. The theme for World AIDS Day 2023 is “End Inequalities, End AIDS” which aims to address the social and structural barriers that prevent access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care for the most vulnerable populations1. World AIDS Day also provides an opportunity to remember those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses and to celebrate the achievements of the global response to HIV/AIDS.

National Pollution Control Day: 2nd December

National Pollution Control Day is observed in India every year on 2nd December to commemorate the victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy that occurred on this day in 1984. The tragedy was one of the worst industrial disasters in history that killed thousands of people and injured many more due to the leakage of methyl isocyanate gas from a pesticide plant2. National Pollution Control Day aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of pollution on human health and the environment and to encourage people to adopt eco-friendly practices and technologies to reduce pollution.

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery: 2nd December

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed every year on 2nd December to mark the date of the adoption of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others in 19493. The day is dedicated to eradicating all forms of modern slavery, such as human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, sexual exploitation, and forced marriage, that affect millions of people around the world. The day also calls for the protection and promotion of human rights and dignity of all people.

World Computer Literacy Day: 2nd December

World Computer Literacy Day is observed every year on 2nd December to promote digital literacy and access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) for all people. The day was initiated by Indian computer company NIIT in 2001 to encourage more people, especially in developing countries, to learn basic computer skills and use them for education, employment, and empowerment. World Computer Literacy Day also highlights the importance of bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone can benefit from the opportunities offered by ICTs.

World Day of the Handicapped or International Day of Persons with Disabilities: 3rd December

World Day of the Handicapped or International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on 3rd December to celebrate the achievements and contributions of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and to advocate for their rights and inclusion in all aspects of society. The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992 as a follow-up to the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons adopted in 1982. The theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023 is “Building Back Better: Toward a Disability-Inclusive, Accessible and Sustainable Post COVID-19 World” which focuses on ensuring that PWDs are not left behind in the recovery from the pandemic.

Indian Navy Day: 4th December

Indian Navy Day is celebrated every year on 4th December to commemorate the role and achievements of the Indian Navy in defending the country’s maritime interests and security. The day also marks the anniversary of Operation Trident, a naval attack launched by the Indian Navy on Karachi harbour during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971. Indian Navy Day honours the courage and valour of the naval personnel who have sacrificed their lives for the nation. The day also showcases the capabilities and activities of the Indian Navy through various events and demonstrations.

International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development: 5th December

International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development is observed every year on 5th December to celebrate volunteerism as a powerful means of achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) and improving lives. The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985 to recognize and appreciate the efforts of volunteers around the world who contribute their time, skills, and resources to various causes. The theme for International Volunteer Day 2023 is “Volunteers Build Resilient Communities” which highlights how volunteers help communities cope with and recover from crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

World Soil Day: 5th December

World Soil Day is observed every year on 5th December to raise awareness about the importance of soil as a critical component of the natural system and as a vital contributor to human well-being. The day was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013 to coincide with the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, who was a patron of soil science and conservation. The theme for World Soil Day 2023 is “Keep soil alive, protect soil biodiversity” which aims to draw attention to the threats posed by soil degradation and loss of biodiversity to food security, climate change, and human health.

BR Ambedkar’s death anniversary: 6th December

BR Ambedkar’s death anniversary is observed in India every year on 6th December to pay tribute to the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion of social justice and human rights. Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was born on 14th April 1891 in a Dalit family and faced discrimination and oppression throughout his life. He rose to become one of the most influential leaders and thinkers of modern India, who fought for the rights and emancipation of the oppressed classes, especially the Dalits, women, and minorities. He also played a key role in drafting the Constitution of India, which is based on the principles of democracy, equality, liberty, and fraternity. He died on 6th December 1956 at the age of 65. His death anniversary is also known as Mahaparinirvan Diwas or Nirvan Diwas.

National Microwave Oven Day: 6th December

National Microwave Oven Day is observed in the United States every year on 6th December to recognize the convenience and innovation of microwave ovens. The day marks the date when the first patent for a microwave oven was issued to Percy Spencer, an American engineer, in 1945. Spencer discovered the heating effect of microwaves by accident when he noticed that a chocolate bar in his pocket melted while he was working on a radar set. He then experimented with other foods and developed the first microwave oven, which was called the Radarange. Microwave ovens have since become a common household appliance that can cook or reheat food in minutes.

Armed Forces Flag Day: 7th December

Armed Forces Flag Day is observed in India every year on 7th December to honour the sacrifices and services of the Indian armed forces personnel who protect the country’s sovereignty and integrity. The day was first celebrated in 1949 as a fund-raising initiative by the Indian Ministry of Defence to support the welfare of war veterans, disabled soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families. On this day, people are encouraged to donate generously and wear flag stickers or badges as a symbol of solidarity with the armed forces. The day also aims to raise public awareness and appreciation for the role and contribution of the armed forces to national security and development.

International Civil Aviation Day: 7th December

International Civil Aviation Day is observed every year on 7th December to celebrate the importance of civil aviation as an engine of global connectivity and socio-economic development. The day was established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, in 1994 to mark its 50th anniversary. The day also aims to promote cooperation and collaboration among all stakeholders in the civil aviation sector, such as governments, airlines, airports, regulators, service providers, and passengers. The theme for International Civil Aviation Day 2023 is “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development” which reflects the need for innovation and digital transformation in civil aviation to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

International Anti-Corruption Day: 9th December

International Anti-Corruption Day is observed every year on 9th December to raise awareness about the negative impact of corruption on society and to mobilize action against it. The day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to coincide with the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), which is the most comprehensive global legal framework for preventing and combating corruption. The day also urges governments, civil society, private sector, media, and individuals to join forces in promoting transparency, accountability, integrity, and ethics in public life and business.

Human Rights Day: 10th December

Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10th December to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The UDHR is a landmark document that proclaims the inherent dignity and equal rights of all human beings regardless of their race, colour, gender, religion, nationality, or any other status. The day also celebrates the achievements and challenges of the human rights movement and calls for the protection and promotion of human rights for all. The theme for Human Rights Day 2023 is “Recover Better: Stand Up for Human Rights” which emphasizes the need to ensure that human rights are at the core of the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

International Mountain Day: 11th December

International Mountain Day is observed every year on 11th December to celebrate the diversity and importance of mountains and their ecosystems. The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to promote sustainable mountain development and to raise awareness about the threats and opportunities faced by mountain communities and environments. The theme for International Mountain Day 2023 is “Mountain Biodiversity Matters” which aims to highlight the richness and fragility of mountain biodiversity and its role in supporting life on Earth.

International Universal Health Coverage Day: 12th December

International Universal Health Coverage Day is observed every year on 12th December to advocate for the right of every person to access quality health care without facing financial hardship. The day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2017 to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the UN resolution on universal health coverage (UHC) in 2012. The day also urges governments and stakeholders to accelerate progress towards achieving UHC as a key component of the SDGs. The theme for International Universal Health Coverage Day 2023 is “Health for All: Protect Everyone” which stresses the need to strengthen health systems and ensure that no one is left behind in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

National Energy Conservation Day: 14th December

National Energy Conservation Day is observed in India every year on 14th December to promote energy efficiency and conservation among citizens and industries. The day was initiated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, in 1991 to recognize and reward the best performers in energy conservation and management. The day also aims to raise awareness about the benefits of saving energy for the environment, economy, and society.

Vijay Diwas: 16th December

Vijay Diwas or Victory Day is celebrated in India every year on 16th December to commemorate the historic victory of the Indian armed forces over Pakistan in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, which resulted in the liberation of Bangladesh. The day also pays homage to the martyrs and veterans who laid down their lives for the nation’s honour and sovereignty. On this day, special ceremonies are held at various war memorials across the country, especially at India Gate in New Delhi, where the Prime Minister lays a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti.

International Tea Day: 16th December

International Tea Day is observed every year on 16th December to celebrate the cultural, economic, and health benefits of tea. The day was initiated by tea-producing countries in 2005 to draw attention to the challenges and issues faced by the tea industry and the tea workers. The day also aims to promote fair trade, organic farming, and sustainable consumption of tea. The United Nations General Assembly declared 21st May as the International Tea Day in 2019, but some countries still observe it on 16th December.

National Mathematics Day: 22nd December

National Mathematics Day is observed in India every year on 22nd December to celebrate the birth anniversary of Srinivasa Ramanujan, one of the greatest mathematicians of the world. Ramanujan was born on 22nd December 1887 in Erode, Tamil Nadu, and made remarkable contributions to various fields of mathematics, such as number theory, infinite series, fractions, and partitions. He also discovered many mathematical formulas and theorems that are still used today. The day was declared by the Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in 2012 on the occasion of the 125th birth anniversary of Ramanujan. The day also aims to inspire and encourage students and young minds to pursue mathematics and excel in it.

National Farmers’ Day or Kisan Diwas: 23rd December

National Farmers’ Day or Kisan Diwas is celebrated in India every year on 23rd December to honour the farmers and their contribution to the nation’s food security and economy. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India, who was a farmer leader and an advocate of farmers’ rights and welfare. He introduced many policies and schemes to improve the condition of farmers and agriculture in India. On this day, various events and programs are organized across the country to acknowledge and appreciate the hard work and dedication of farmers.

Christmas Day: 25th December

Christmas Day is celebrated every year on 25th December to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, the founder of Christianity and the son of God. Christmas is one of the most popular and widely celebrated festivals in the world that symbolizes joy, peace, love, and hope. On this day, Christians attend special church services, exchange gifts, decorate their homes with lights and Christmas trees, sing carols, and enjoy festive meals with their families and friends. Christmas also marks the beginning of the holiday season that lasts till New Year.

Good Governance Day: 25th December

Good Governance Day is observed in India every year on 25th December to celebrate the birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the tenth Prime Minister of India and a Bharat Ratna awardee. Vajpayee was known for his visionary leadership, democratic values, and good governance. He also initiated many reforms and policies that boosted the development and progress of India. The day was established by the Indian government in 2014 to honour his legacy and to promote good governance practices among public officials and citizens. The day also coincides with the birth anniversary of Madan Mohan Malaviya, a freedom fighter, educationist, and social reformer.

Boxing Day: 26th December

Boxing Day is celebrated every year on 26th December in many countries that were formerly part of the British Empire, such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and India. The origin of the name is uncertain, but it may refer to the tradition of giving boxes or gifts to servants, employees, or the poor on the day after Christmas. Boxing Day is also a public holiday and a shopping day, where many stores offer discounts and sales. Boxing Day is also associated with sporting events, such as cricket, football, rugby, and horse racing.

Kwanzaa: 26th December to 1st January

Kwanzaa is a cultural and spiritual festival that is celebrated every year from 26th December to 1st January by people of African descent around the world. The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits of the harvest”. The festival was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an African-American professor and activist, in 1966 to celebrate and affirm the African heritage and values. Kwanzaa is based on seven principles, known as Nguzo Saba, which are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of these principles and is marked by lighting a candle on a special holder called a kinara. Kwanzaa also involves various activities, such as music, dance, poetry, storytelling, art, and feasting.

National Consumer Rights Day: 24th December

National Consumer Rights Day is observed in India every year on 24th December to educate and empower consumers about their rights and responsibilities. The day also marks the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, which provides a legal framework for the protection of consumers from unfair trade practices and defective goods and services. The day also aims to promote consumer awareness and activism and to strengthen the consumer movement in India.

New Year’s Eve: 31st December

New Year’s Eve is celebrated every year on 31st December to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new year with hope and enthusiasm. New Year’s Eve is also known as Old Year’s Day or Saint Sylvester’s Day in some countries. On this day, people celebrate with parties, fireworks, music, dancing, and countdowns. Many people also make resolutions or goals for the new year and express their gratitude for the past year. New Year’s Eve is also a time to reflect on the achievements and challenges of the year gone by and to look forward to the opportunities and possibilities of the year ahead.

December 2023 Calendar: Most Important Hindu Holidays & Festivals Days

Kalabhairav Jayanti (December 4th)

This is a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva’s fierce form, Kalabhairav, who is the protector of time and justice. It is celebrated on the eighth lunar day of the dark fortnight of Margashirsha month, which falls on December 4, 2023. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and perform rituals to seek blessings from Kalabhairav on this day.

Gita Jayanti (December 7th)

This is the anniversary of the day when Lord Krishna imparted the divine wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. It is observed on the eleventh lunar day of the bright fortnight of Margashirsha month, which coincides with December 7, 2023. People recite, study, and discuss the teachings of the Gita on this auspicious occasion.

Dattatreya Jayanti (December 8th)

This is the birth anniversary of Lord Dattatreya, who is considered to be an incarnation of the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva). He is revered as a guru and a master of yoga by many sects of Hinduism. It is celebrated on the full moon day of Margashirsha month, which falls on December 8, 2023. Devotees worship Dattatreya, chant his mantras, and offer food and donations to the needy on this day.

Christmas (December 25th)

This is a global festival that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, who is regarded as a messenger of God and a spiritual leader by Christians. It is celebrated on December 25 every year. People decorate their homes and churches with lights and stars, exchange gifts and greetings, sing carols, and attend mass services on this joyous day.

Purnima Vrat (8th to 27th December)

This is a monthly fasting day observed by Hindus on the full moon day of every lunar month. It is believed that fasting and worshipping on this day can bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to one’s life. The Purnima Vrat in December 2023 will be on December 8 and December 27 respectively.

Also Read: List of Important Days in November 2023: National, International, and Special Dates

Frequently Asked Questions: Important Days in December 2023