World Occupational Therapy Day

The World Occupational Therapy Day, observed each year on October 27, is a global event that recognises and celebrates the essential work of occupational therapists and the wider occupational therapy profession. It highlights how these practitioners support individuals of all ages to engage in meaningful activities—whether at home, in school, at work or in community life.

History of World Occupational Therapy Day

World Occupational Therapy Day was first launched in 2010 by the international body for the profession. Since then, the date of October 27 has been designated as the annual occasion to raise visibility of occupational therapy, share its mission, and promote the contributions of the field worldwide.

Why is World Occupational Therapy Day important?

This day matters because occupational therapy plays a unique and often under‑appreciated role in helping people live their lives more fully. These professionals work with individuals who face physical, mental, developmental or social challenges and help them participate in everyday “occupations” – from dressing, working, eating, playing to socialising. Recognising their work gives weight to the idea that health is not only about absence of illness, but about ability, activity and belonging.
The day also invites us to rethink how we define meaningful activities and who gets access to them. When therapy is designed to help someone engage in what they deem important, the focus shifts from limitations to possibilities, from waiting to doing. Occasion like this remind communities, policy‑makers and families that participation is a human right and that occupational therapists help make it real.

• It shines a spotlight on professionals enabling participation in life’s activities rather than just treating symptoms
• It honours the many settings where occupational therapists work—schools, hospitals, homes, workplaces, community centres
• It encourages public awareness of how everyday tasks are central to health and independence
• It supports the idea that therapy is deeply personal, tailored to what the individual wants and needs
• It invites reflection on access, inclusion and how society supports or obstructs participation

How to Celebrate World Occupational Therapy Day

Observing this day can take many forms and be meaningful whether you’re directly connected to the profession or simply someone whose life has been touched by it. You might reach out to an occupational therapist you know and thank them for their work, or invite one into your community to talk about what they do and how it affects lives. Another idea is to host a small community gathering, school talk or online stream that explores the theme of the year and shares real‑life stories of therapy in action.
If you are in therapy, you might volunteer or take part in a workplace event to raise awareness about how therapy supports participation, independence and quality of life. Simple acts like sharing a story on social media, writing a short note, or asking “What’s one everyday activity I take for granted?” can help others see the value of occupational therapy.

• Say thank‑you to an occupational therapist you know and ask them how the profession has changed lives
• Attend or host a talk, session or workshop about what occupational therapy is and why it matters
• Share a story (yours or someone else’s) of how therapy helped regain or enable an everyday activity
• Post on social media using #WorldOTDay with a message of support or awareness for occupational therapy
• Reflect on your own daily routines: what occupations matter to you and how therapy or support might make a difference

World Occupational Therapy Day Dates Table