The UK celebrates a variety of occasions including International Women’s Day (IWD) which takes place in March.

Celebrated globally, the day has become a permanent fixture in the calendar but what is it and why do we celebrate it?

Here’s what we know about International Women’s Day.

What is International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day takes place on March 8 each year.

The day “marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity” and recognises “the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women”, the International Women’s Day website explains.

It also aims to educate people and raise awareness about women's equality and fundraise for women-focussed charities.

The IWD website explains: “Everyone, everywhere can play a part in helping forge gender equality.

“From a wide range of IWD campaigns, events, rallies, lobbying, and performances - to festivals, parties, fun runs, and celebrations - all IWD activity is valid.

“That's what makes IWD so inclusive.

“So make IWD your day and do what you can, in your own way, to help forge a gender equal world.”

What is the 2024 IWD theme?

Each year, International Women’s Day has its own theme and this year’s is Inspire Inclusion.

The website says: “When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world.

“And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment.

What is International Women’s Day?

“The #InspireInclusion campaign aims to forge a more inclusive world for women.”

The first gathering was held in 1911 and everyone can support International Women’s Day, not just women.

You can find out more about International Women’s Day, including the colours that represent it, the history behind it and more via the website.