World Listening Day

World Listening Day is a time to be still and truly hear the world around you—from the voices of loved ones to the natural sounds of birdsong, wind, and water. This global observance was created by a nonprofit organization that promotes a deeper connection between people and their natural environment through sound. When the calendar shows July 18, it’s your cue to pause, tune in, and really listen.

History

Why is this holiday on July 18? It marks the birthday of Raymond Murray Schafer, a Canadian composer and the founder of acoustic ecology. Schafer developed the World Soundscape Project, which explored the interaction between humans and their sonic environment. The first World Listening Day was celebrated in 2010. Each year, a new theme is chosen—past themes have included water, lost and found sounds, and listening to the Earth. Over time, thousands of people around the world have participated.

Interesting Facts

• Listening is an art that requires attention, presence, and patience. It benefits both the speaker and the listener.
• Through active listening, people can better understand their surroundings and recognize subtle differences in sound.
• Most people don’t use their hearing to its full potential. By focusing on listening, you can train yourself to hear more clearly and in greater detail.
• Developing your listening skills can also help you tune out distractions and find calm in a noisy world.

How to Take Part

Listen—really listen—to your family, friends, and colleagues. Be attentive, patient, and compassionate. Silence your devices and quiet your mind. Go for a solo walk in nature if you live near a forest, lake, or ocean. Let the wind, waves, and birds guide your thoughts. If you can’t spend time outdoors, try listening to a nature sound recording. Even loud music can help you refocus and reconnect in a different way. However you choose to observe this day, let it be about awareness, reflection, and deeper connection.

When is World Listening Day in 2025?

World Listening Day is observed on July 18 each year.

Observations