September 08, 2016
The International Day of Peace is celebrated around the world annually on Sept. 21. The General Assembly of the United Nations has declared the day as "commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.”
There is also a local initiative for the International Day of Peace, called Peace Day Philly. Philadelphians can participate by joining in any of the activities below — many are free.
On Sept. 17, there will be a ticketed concert at the Kimmel Center celebrating how music can end violence and conflict. The 2016 concert will be presented by local and regional youth orchestras and choirs with more than 300 performers on stage.
At intermission, there will be an origami performance.
At Independence Mall, on Sept. 18, there will be a free outdoor yoga class. All levels are invited to participate in the session from 11 a.m. to noon.
Before yoga, there will be a drum circle. After, there will be meditation and a group dinner. Participants should bring their own mats and water for the class. Bringing a dish to share with other attendees is also encouraged.
Sunday, Sept. 18
10 a.m. to 1:20 p.m. | Free
Independence Mall
Fifth and Market streets
The first Peace Day Festival in Philly will take place on Sept. 21 outside International House Philadelphia. There will be music, performances, Peace Day activities, international food trucks and local vendors.
At 7 p.m., once the fair is over, there will be a special screening of the film “The Same Heart.” The film is a documentary about global child poverty and a bold way to address it.
Wednesday, Sept. 21
4 p.m. | Free
International House Philadelphia
Head to Rittenhouse Square on Sept. 21 to join in a group sing-along. After singing various peace songs, chalk will be handed out for attendees to draw symbols of peace on the sidewalk.
Wednesday, Sept. 21
5-6:30 p.m. | Free
Southwest corner of Rittenhouse Square Park
Origami paper cranes have become a symbol of peace. The Penn Museum wants visitors to create their own when visiting on Sept. 24.
A craft table will be set up so visitors can create two cranes — one to hang on a peace display and one to give to someone.
Saturday, Sept. 24
1-4 p.m. | Free with general admission
Penn Museum
More information on the full schedule of events can be found here.
