Holocaust Memorial Day is a national day that takes place on 27 January. We commemorate the six million Jewish men, women and children murdered during the Holocaust, and the millions more murdered under Nazi persecution. Prejudice still continues today within our communities and across the UK. We also learn and commemorate where persecution led in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust has confirmed that the theme for HMD 2026 is “Bridging Generations”. This theme highlights the vital role each generation plays in carrying forward the memory of the Holocaust and more recent genocides. As survivors grow older, the responsibility to listen, learn, and share their stories becomes a collective act of remembrance and a commitment to building a safer, more compassionate future.

It encourages communities, schools, and organisations to explore how memory is passed on, how stories shape understanding, and how we can all contribute to safeguarding truth against distortion or denial.

It Began with Words – New Holocaust Memorial Day Film

It Began with Words explores how the Holocaust began not with violence, but with words, with stereotypes, prejudice and silence. Through survivor testimony and historical insight, it shows how ordinary people and everyday choices allowed hatred to grow. By understanding how the Holocaust unfolded, we can recognise the warning signs of prejudice today and use our voices to stand against it. Holocaust Memorial Day Trust | It Began with Words – New Holocaust Memorial Day Film

Helpful UK Resources

A selection of trusted, accessible UK organisations offering guidance, educational materials, and support for commemorations:

• Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT) Official theme guidance, free resources, lesson plans, and activity packs
• Holocaust Educational Trust (HET) Survivor testimony, teacher training, and the renowned Lessons from Auschwitz programme
• National Holocaust Centre & Museum (Nottinghamshire) Exhibitions, survivor talks, and digital learning resources
• Imperial War Museum (IWM) – Holocaust Galleries Extensive historical collections and educational materials
• Association of Jewish Refugees (AJR) Testimony archives, heritage projects, and support for survivors and their families

Light the Darkness

Each year people from across the UK take part in our Light the Darkness national moment for Holocaust Memorial Day.

At 8pm on 27 January people across the nation will light candles and put them safely in their windows to:

• remember those who were murdered for who they were
• stand against prejudice and hatred today
• Iconic buildings and landmarks will light up in purple during this powerful national moment of commemoration and solidarity