World Rivers Day
World Rivers Day
Fourth Sunday of September - in 2026 that's Sunday 27 September
World Rivers Day is an international celebration of the world's waterways. It highlights the many values of rivers and streams, raises awareness of the challenges they face and encourages people to play an active role in caring for and protecting them. Millions of people around the world take part each year through educational activities, walks, wildlife observations, clean-ups and community events.
Rivers are among our most important natural resources. They provide habitats for wildlife, shape landscapes, support communities and connect people with the natural world. Spending time beside rivers and streams offers opportunities for exploration, observation and discovery, helping children develop a deeper understanding of local environments and the role waterways play in healthy ecosystems.
World Rivers Day is a chance to get outside and take a closer look at the waterways in your local area. Whether you're exploring a stream, watching wildlife, investigating water flow, creating maps, recording observations or simply taking time to notice what lives in and around a river, waterways provide rich opportunities for outdoor learning and nature connection.
Further reading
World Rivers Day
Learn more about World Rivers Day, its history and ways to get involved.
Muddy Faces resources
Coasts and waterways
Explore resources, links and ideas for learning about rivers, streams, waterways and coastal environments.
Reptiles and amphibians
Discover more about the wildlife that can often be found in and around rivers, streams, ponds and wetland habitats.
See also
Big River Watch, all September
Take part in a UK-wide citizen science survey helping to build a picture of the health and use of our rivers.