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.
Please Save the Date: In 2020, International Archaeology Day will be held on October 17—this will be the tenth anniversary of this global celebration of archaeology!
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.
In 2019, over 1,200 events were planned around the world to celebrate International Archaeology Day. As it gets closer to October 2020 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 2020, 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 #IAD2020 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.
