International Archaeology Day (IAD) is a celebration of archaeology and its contributions to society. Every October the AIA and archaeological organizations around the world present archaeological programs and activities for people of all ages and interests. Whether it is a family-friendly archaeology fair, a guided tour of a local archaeological site, a simulated dig, or a presentation from a visiting archaeologist, the interactive, hands-on IAD programs provide a chance to uncover the past and experience the thrill of discovery.
International Archaeology Day is celebrated annually on the third Saturday in October, although participating events occur throughout the month of October.
Save the date: International Archaeology Day will be celebrated on October 16, 2021.
Many organizations join the Archaeological Institute of America and its Local Societies across the U.S., Canada, and abroad to celebrate International Archaeology Day by hosting an event and including it on the International Archaeology Day calendar.
For information on how your organization can become a Collaborating Organization for International Archaeology Day, please see the Collaborating Organization information page.
Each year hundreds of events are hosted around the world celebrating archaeology. As IAD gets closer, you can see what events have been listed by viewing the International Archaeology Day Calendar.
The success of International Archaeology Day is greatly enhanced by our sponsors. For more information about how to become a sponsor for International Archaeology Day 2021, please contact Ben Thomas (bthomas@archaeological.org).
Organizations that would like to participate in International Archaeology Day but cannot host events can still become Collaborating Organizations by promoting International Archaeology Day to their contacts.
In addition to having a blog, International Archaeology Day is on Facebook and Twitter. Be sure to use the hashtag #IAD2021 when tweeting about International Archaeology Day!
Celebrate International Archaeology Day through participation in the AIA’s IAD ArchaeoDoodles Contest! Activities in past years have included trivia games, ArchaeoMadness bracket competitions, and online scavenger hunts.
