How to Plan the Perfect International Women’s Day Event (Step-by-Step Guide)

International Women’s Day (IWD) is an incredible opportunity to celebrate, educate, and empower women and girls while taking meaningful action toward gender equality. Whether you’re planning an event for a school, workplace, or community group, this guide will walk you through the steps to create an impactful and inspiring IWD celebration.

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Step 1: Define Your Event’s Purpose

Before diving into logistics, get clear on your event’s mission. Ask yourself:

• Do you want to educate participants about gender equality?

• Are you looking to celebrate the achievements of women?

• Will your event raise awareness about gender bias and inspire action?

Your purpose will shape every other decision you make, from venue choice to activities and speakers.

Step 2: Choose a Theme

Each year, International Women’s Day has an official theme, but you can also create your own. Some ideas include:

• Breaking the Bias – Addressing gender stereotypes and bias.

• Fearless & Confident – Helping girls and women step into their power.

• Women in Leadership – Celebrating female role models and leadership.

• Future of Equality – Inspiring the next generation of change-makers.

Having a theme will help unify your messaging and event activities.

Step 3: Plan Your Event Format

Decide on the best format based on your audience and objectives:

• In-Person Event – Workshops, panel discussions, or community gatherings.

• Virtual Event – Live-streamed speeches, online panel discussions, or interactive webinars.

• Hybrid Event – A mix of in-person and virtual elements for broader accessibility.

Consider what will work best for engagement and participation.

Step 4: Secure a Venue & Date

• If hosting in person, book a venue early (school hall, community center, workplace conference room).

• If virtual, set up a platform (Zoom, Facebook Live, YouTube, etc.).

• Aim for March 8, but flexibility is key—schedule for a nearby date if needed.

Step 5: Plan Engaging Activities

Make your event interactive with engaging activities such as:

• Keynote Speaker or Panel Discussion – Invite inspiring female leaders to share insights.

• Confidence Workshop – Use the Be Bold & Fearless workshop to boost self-esteem.

• ‘Break the Bias’ Pledge – Encourage participants to commit to challenging stereotypes.

• Empowerment Activities – Icebreakers, vision board creation, or group discussions.

• Community Service – Partner with local organizations supporting women’s causes.

Step 6: Promote Your Event

Get the word out early to maximize attendance:

• Create social media graphics with event details and share on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

• Use hashtags like #IWD2025, #BreakTheBias, #EmpoweredWomen.

• Send email invitations to schools, businesses, and community groups.

• Encourage participants to share and invite others.

Step 7: Prepare Event Materials

Ensure a smooth event by preparing:

• Printed Agendas & Worksheets – Keep attendees engaged with structured activities.

• Pledge Cards & Affirmation Notes – Encourage attendees to take action.

• Multimedia Content – Videos, slideshows, and inspirational stories to enhance the experience.

Step 8: Facilitate an Inspiring Experience

During the event:

• Start with an engaging welcome – Set the tone and purpose.

• Encourage participation – Create space for questions and discussion.

• Celebrate success stories – Highlight women making a difference.

• End with a Call to Action – Encourage ongoing engagement beyond IWD.

Step 9: Capture & Share the Moment

• Take photos and videos (with permission) to document the event.

• Share live updates on social media to extend the impact.

• Encourage attendees to post reflections using your event hashtag.

Step 10: Keep the Momentum Going

Don’t let the conversation end when the event does:

• Encourage follow-up discussions in classrooms or workplaces.

• Implement the FearlesslyKiND School Curriculum for year-round empowerment.

• Offer mentorship opportunities to keep the movement growing.

Planning the perfect International Women’s Day event doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With clear goals, engaging activities, and a strong message, you can create an unforgettable experience that inspires action.

Want an all-in-one toolkit to make event planning easy? Get the International Women’s Day Celebration Kit, packed with ready-made activities, workshop guides, and pledge cards to help you lead a powerful and impactful event!