Last Updated:May 18, 2025, 07:20 IST
International Museum Day 2025: The theme for this year is ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,’ stressing their adaptability in the fast-moving world.
International Museum Day 2025: The National Museum in Delhi was established in 1949. (File Pic)
International Museum Day 2025: On May 18, International Museum Day is observed to highlight the vital role of museums in cultural exchange, education, and societal development. Established in 1977 by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), IMD fosters global awareness of museums as hubs for preserving heritage and promoting peace.
The theme for this year is ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,’ stressing their adaptability in the fast-moving world.
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On this special occasion, events including exhibitions, workshops and guided tours will be held across 158 countries. Museums contribute to sustainable development, fostering inclusivity and innovation. The IMD encourages public participation, inspiring lifelong learning and cultural appreciation.
International Museum Day 2025: History
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) hosted a meeting with the theme “Museums and Education” in 1951, which is when International Museum Day was first observed. At the 1977 ICOM General Assembly in Moscow, Russia, this served as the impetus for the official creation of IMD. The first IMD was celebrated on May 18, 1978, across 22 countries, aiming to unite museums globally and raise awareness about their role in cultural exchange and education. Over the decades, participation has grown significantly, with over 37,000 museums from 158 countries joining in recent years. Since 2020, IMD has aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising education, innovation, and sustainability.
International Museum Day 2025: Significance
Not many are aware that Museums are more than repositories of artefacts; they are dynamic platforms for cultural preservation, education, and intercultural dialogue. IMD underscores their role in fostering mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace among communities. Museums contribute to sustainable development by supporting climate action, inclusivity, and mental health, aligning with global goals.
They preserve history, narrate stories of human struggles and triumphs, and inspire innovation. In 2025, IMD emphasises museums’ adaptability in rapidly changing societies, ensuring they remain vital connectors of cultural identity.
International Museum Day 2025: Celebration
Individuals are encouraged to visit local museums, donate, or educate others about their significance. International Museum Day is marked by vibrant global celebrations, often spanning a day, weekend, or week. Museums worldwide host exhibitions, guided tours, workshops, and lectures to engage visitors of all ages. Many offer free entry or virtual tours to enhance accessibility.
Community activities, such as educational programs and partnerships with schools, promote lifelong learning. From street performances to digital archives, celebrations inspire curiosity and cultural appreciation, uniting people in exploring heritage.
International Museum Day 2025: Quotes
“A visit to a museum is a search for beauty, truth, and meaning in our lives. Go to museums as often as you can.” – Maira Kalman“Museums are places where time is transformed into space.” – Orhan Pamuk“A country that has few museums is both materially poor and spiritually poor.” – Wendy Beckett“Museums should be places where you raise questions, not just show stuff.” – William Thorsell“A museum is a spiritual place. People lower their voices when they get close to art.” – Mario Botta“Museums are wormholes to other worlds. They are ecstasy machines.” – Jerry Saltz“History is representational, while time is abstract; both of these artifices may be found in museums.” – Robert Smithson“Museums are fine institutions, dedicated to the high values of preservation, education, and truth.” – Robert Hewison“The best introduction to art is to stroll through a museum.” – Jeanne Frank“If out of a million visitors there is even one to whom art means something, that is enough to justify museums.” – Pierre-Auguste RenoirLocation : First Published:News lifestyle International Museum Day 2025: History, Significance, Celebrations And Quotes