About Shades Day

Shades Day is our national fundraising and awareness day when we encourage everyone to wear a pair of shades, whatever the weather!

It is the closest Friday to the UN’s International Day of the Family, and the day we recognise that thousands of struggling UK families never enjoy even the simplest break away from home.

Wearing and sharing photos in your sunglasses on social media for Shades Day or any day that week, helps spread the charity’s message that everyone deserves a chance to paddle in the sea, build a sandcastle and wear shades on the beach for the very first time. And, of course, funds raised will help us send more families on a vital break. For many struggling families in desperate circumstances, the joy of simply seeing each other smile can lift them out of everyday cares and worries and enrich their lives forever.

It was launched in 2016, inspired by our industry ambassadors following the Family Holiday Association’s 40th Anniversary the year before.

Get Involved

2020 isn’t an ordinary year! All we’re asking is for you to spread the word by sharing a picture of you wearing shade and using the hastags #ShadesDay and #HolidaysMatter. It couldn’t be easier!