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Annual observance

Wikipedia Day

January 15 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

Celebrated annually on January 15th, Wikipedia Day commemorates the launch of Wikipedia, the free, web-based, collaborative, multilingual encyclopedia, on this date in 2001. It acknowledges the global community of volunteers who contribute to and maintain the world's most comprehensive and accessible open knowledge resource.

Observed each year on January 15, Wikipedia Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Wikipedia Day, observed on January 15, celebrates the launch of Wikipedia in 2001, highlighting the significance of collaborative knowledge-sharing in fostering global education and accessibility. This day honors the dedicated volunteers who ensure that this vital resource remains comprehensive and up-to-date for learners worldwide.

Origin and story

Wikipedia was officially launched by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger.

The name 'Wikipedia' is a blend of 'wiki,' a Hawaiian word meaning 'quick,' and 'encyclopedia.'

Quick facts

  • DateJanuary 15
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Read articles on new topics.
  • Follow citation links to original sources.
  • Learn something unexpected.
  • Edit articles for clarity or grammar.
  • Add reliable citations.
  • Create drafts in the sandbox before publishing.
  • Learn how collaborative knowledge works.
  • Discuss media literacy and sourcing.
  • Support open-access education.

Fun facts

  • Wikipedia is one of the most visited websites in the world and is written and maintained by volunteers.

Sources and attribution

Wikipedia: How to Edit

External links may lead to third-party websites.

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FAQ

When is Wikipedia Day?
It is observed on January 15 each year.
What is Wikipedia Day?
Celebrated annually on January 15, Wikipedia Day commemorates the launch of Wikipedia, the free, web-based, collaborative, multilingual encyclopedia, on this date in 2001. It acknowledges the global community of volunteers who contribute to and maintain the world's most comprehensive and accessible open knowledge resource.
How do people celebrate Wikipedia Day?
Read a few Wikipedia articles and explore their sources.

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