World Puppetry Day
Preparing for the global celebration on 21 March
Every year on 21 March, puppeteers, artists, educators, and communities around the world come together to mark World Puppetry Day — an international moment dedicated to the art, traditions, and evolving practices of puppetry.
As March approaches, we’re sharing context and preparation for the day — while saving the official celebration and message for 21 March itself.
What Is World Puppetry Day?
World Puppetry Day was launched in 2003 by UNIMA (the International Union of Puppetry) as a way to both promote puppetry arts globally and connect puppeteers within their own territories.
The day seeks to:
support the safeguarding of puppetry traditions alongside contemporary renewal
recognize puppetry as a tool for ethical, cultural, and aesthetic education
highlight the diversity of puppetry practices across the world
Today, World Puppetry Day is celebrated internationally through UNIMA’s national centres, members, and independent artists.
Why We’re Sharing This Now
In the weeks leading up to 21 March, UNIMA encourages artists and organizations to:
prepare events and collaborations
share contextual and educational information
begin conversations with audiences, schools, and community partners
This early period is about invitation and preparation — not the official message or day-of celebration, which will be released worldwide on 21 March.
How World Puppetry Day Is Celebrated
World Puppetry Day takes many forms around the world, including:
performances and festivals
exhibitions and installations
puppet parades
workshops for children and adults
behind-the-scenes activities
readings of the World Puppetry Day message (on 21 March)
Each celebration is shaped locally, contributing to a shared global moment.
As 21 March Approaches
In the coming weeks, we’ll continue to share:
background and history
ways communities participate
reflections on why puppetry matters today
The official World Puppetry Day message and global celebration will be shared on 21 March, in alignment with UNIMA’s international release.
Together, we prepare — and on 21 March, we celebrate.