International Dot Day

International Dot Day is a global celebration of creativity, courage and connection based on Peter H. Reynolds’ beloved picture book “The Dot.” Observed annually around September 15, it invites people of all ages to embrace creativity, take small steps toward self‑expression, and support one another in making their mark.

What is International Dot Day?

Inspired by the story of Vashti, a young girl who learns that her simple dot becomes the beginning of artistic confidence and discovery, International Dot Day encourages participants to explore their talents and share their creativity. It’s a day rooted in the idea that even the smallest action can spark meaningful change.

What began in 2009 as a small classroom activity at the Horn Elementary School in Texas has blossomed into a worldwide movement. Schools, libraries, families and organisations come together to host art projects, creative challenges, and community‑building events that emphasize that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

When is International Dot Day?

International Dot Day takes place each year around September 15, echoing the publication date of the book. Although not tied to a specific date, most celebrations occur during the week of September 15. In 2026, educators and creativity‑champions worldwide will again organize Dot Day events to mark the occasion.

Why International Dot Day Matters

In a world that often prizes perfection and comparison, International Dot Day reminds us that every journey starts with a single step. It celebrates the value of self‑expression and encourages people—especially young learners—to overcome fear, embrace curiosity and explore their voices.

The day also fosters connection. When communities create art together, share ideas and celebrate effort rather than outcome, they build empathy, collaboration and resilience. International Dot Day offers a reminder that small actions can lead to big things.

How to Get Involved in International Dot Day

• Create a dot art project: Invite participants to make their own unique dots using paint, collage, digital tools or recycled materials.
• Host a collaborative canvas: Set up a large surface where everyone can add a dot—then display the artwork in schools, libraries or community centers.
• Read and discuss the book: Gather readers of all ages for a shared reading of “The Dot,” and explore questions about creativity, growth and perseverance.
• Share online: Post photos or videos of your Dot Day creations or stories using hashtags like #DotDay and #MakeYourMark.
• Link dots to other learning: Use a dot theme to explore geometry, storytelling, coding, music or mindfulness with young learners.
• Celebrate leadership: Encourage students or team members to reflect on a time when they made a small decision that led to something meaningful or new.

History of International Dot Day

The celebration began in 2009 when first‑grade teacher Terry Shay read “The Dot” to her class at Horn Elementary School. The children created dot artwork and shared their discoveries on the internet. Author Peter H. Reynolds joined in, and soon classrooms around the world were connecting over dot art and sharing stories of creative courage.

The shift from classroom project to global movement reflected a shared desire to inspire creativity, confidence and community. Today, educators, families and organisations continue to embrace the Dot Day theme with projects of all shapes and sizes—including digital mashups, school‑wide art installations and community storytelling events.

Noteworthy Facts About International Dot Day

• The celebration began in 2009 in a single classroom and has grown to include participants in over 100 countries.
• Peter H. Reynolds, author of “The Dot,” encourages readers with the message Make Your Mark and see where it takes you.
• Dot Day projects have included everything from chalk art alleyways and giant communal murals to dot-themed coding challenges and music compositions.
• Many schools use Dot Day to jumpstart creative learning for the school year and build a culture of encouragement and self‑expression.
• The celebration embodies growth mindset principles—focusing on effort, curiosity and discovery rather than perfection.

Hashtags

#DotDay, #MakeYourMark, #InternationalDotDay, #CreativeCourage

Links

• The Dot Day page at The Dot Club
• The Dot Club and author Peter H. Reynolds
• Learn about the book “The Dot”