International AIDS Candlelight Memorial

May 18, Sunday

International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is an annual event held on the third Sunday of May. It is dedicated to the memory of those who have died from AIDS and to expressing support for those living with HIV. In 2025, the ceremony will take place on May 18.

History and Goals
The ceremony was first held in 1983 simultaneously in New York and San Francisco, when little was known about the cause of AIDS, and the disease had already claimed thousands of lives. The event was initiated by activists who sought to honor the memory of those who had passed and support those living with HIV. Since then, it has become one of the world’s largest campaigns to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, coordinated by the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+).

How it is Observed
The ceremony includes:

* Lighting candles in memory of the deceased.
* Organizing educational events and seminars.
* Hosting cultural and musical programs.
* Calls for solidarity and support for people living with HIV.

Each year, the event is held under a specific theme. For example, in 2024, the theme was "TOGETHER WE REMEMBER, TOGETHER WE HEAL, THROUGH LOVE AND SOLIDARITY!"

Significance
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting HIV/AIDS, the need for support for those affected, and the need to break the stigma associated with the disease. It is also an opportunity for communities around the world to come together in remembrance and hope for a future without AIDS.

International AIDS Candlelight Memorial – days left: 13. Create Countdown to Event

International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in other years

2021 May 18, Tuesday
2022 May 18, Wednesday
2023 May 18, Thursday
2024 May 18, Saturday
2026 May 18, Monday

International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in other countries