Speak up with us on 21 March.

What you need to know:

Did you know that 21st March is World Down Syndrome Day? Learn why this official day exists and what it is about.

About World Down Syndrome Day

For 2026 we are talking about the problem of loneliness. Learn how loneliness impacts people with Down syndrome and how we can fight this together.

About the 2026 Theme

Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome. Learn more about Down syndrome from people with Down syndrome.

About Down syndrome

What we do.

Our global community

Each year, the Down Syndrome International network organises events and activities to help our global community mark this important day and make a difference for people with Down syndrome around the world. 

Our global community

At the United Nations

Our events include the World Down Syndrome Day Conference at the United Nations in New York and activities at the United Nations in Geneva. 

These events give self-advocates the chance to share their expert experience with key decision makers on a global stage.

Events

More ways to get involved.

Lots of Socks!

We want everyone to know that 21 March is World Down Syndrome Day. But how?

The answer is socks!! On 21 March, we wear our boldest, brightest, most eye-catching socks.

It’s our way of saying, “Listen up, the Down syndrome community has something to say!”

Lots Of Socks

Light up!

On World Down Syndrome Day, landmarks across the globe are lit in a dazzling display of blue and yellow lights, a symbol of solidarity for the Down syndrome community.

We would love to see your landmark lit up for World Down Syndrome Day.

Our ‘Light up’ gallery

Sign up to hear from us.

Sign up for updates, including new resources and activities to help you mark this important day and make a difference for people with Down syndrome around the world.

Sign up

Contact us

7-9 Chapel Street, Exmouth, Devon,
EX8 1HR, United Kingdom

+44 (0)1395 493108