Each year on September 30, we come together to celebrate International Translation Day, a day dedicated to honoring the pivotal role of translators and language professionals in bridging communication gaps across the globe. This year, in 2025, we once again shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes of communication, culture, and understanding.
The History Behind International Translation Day
International Translation Day aligns with the feast of St. Jerome, the patron saint of translators, who is most renowned for translating the Bible into Latin. The day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2017, but it has been celebrated by the International Federation of Translators (FIT) since 1953. This annual observance underscores the critical role of translation in fostering peace, understanding, and development worldwide.
Why Is International Translation Day Important?
In an increasingly interconnected world, translators and interpreters are the invisible threads weaving together diverse cultures, ideas, and languages. They enable diplomacy, global business, literature exchange, and even our favorite subtitled films! Without their expertise, critical information, from medical research to international treaties, would be inaccessible to many.
This day serves as a reminder of the power of language in uniting people and emphasizes the importance of linguistic diversity. It also highlights the immense challenges that translators face, including the need to convey not just words, but cultural nuances and emotions.
How Is International Translation Day Celebrated?
Organizations, universities, and language institutions worldwide host events, webinars, and workshops to celebrate translators and interpreters. These events often include panel discussions, translation contests, and cultural exchange activities to showcase the art and science of translation.
Additionally, social media platforms light up with hashtags like #InternationalTranslationDay, where people share their love for languages and experiences with translation. It’s also a great day for book publishers and authors to acknowledge the translators who help their works reach global audiences.
Fun Facts About Translation
- The Bible is the most translated book in the world, available in more than 3,000 languages!
- “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes is the most translated novel.
- The United Nations has six official languages: English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and Arabic, requiring constant translation and interpretation services.
Join the Celebration!
This International Translation Day, take a moment to appreciate the hard work of language professionals. Whether it’s by learning a new phrase in a foreign language, reading a translated book, or simply sharing a thank-you note to a translator you know, you can be part of this global celebration!
Let’s honor the beautiful diversity of languages and the people who help us understand one another. Mark your calendars for September 30, 2025, and spread the word about this special day!
