Every year on June 27th, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, and curious minds around the globe come together to celebrate something invisible, yet absolutely fundamental to life: the microbiome. World Microbiome Day (WMD), launched in 2018 by APC Microbiome Ireland with support from MicrobiomeSupport and EUFIC, is more than just a science awareness event—it’s a growing global movement that aims to shift how we think about microbes and their place in our world.

And in 2025, with the theme “Microbiome 101: What You Need to Know”, the event makes a bold and timely move: bringing microbiome science back to basics, and straight into the hands of the public.

Why microbiomes matter (more than you think)

At a glance, microbiomes might sound like niche science—something buried in research papers and lab benches. But these tiny ecosystems of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes are anything but marginal. They are the unsung engineers of our planet and our bodies. They digest our food, train our immune system, and even shape our moods. They enrich soil, cycle nutrients, and help control greenhouse gases. Without them, life as we know it simply wouldn’t function.

Yet despite their impact, microbiomes remain largely misunderstood—or completely unknown—by the general public. That’s exactly the gap World Microbiome Day is trying to fill.

A celebration rooted in curiosity and connection

This year’s “Microbiome 101” theme reflects a growing effort to democratize microbiome knowledge. With interactive quizzes, colorful infographics, and short explainers available for free online, WMD invites everyone—teachers, students, families, professionals—to discover what microbiomes are and why they matter. Topics range from the human gut to fermented food, from ocean microbes to soil biodiversity.

The aim is not only to spark interest but to build microbial literacy. Because understanding how these ecosystems work—and how our actions affect them—can empower people to make better choices for health, nutrition, and sustainability.

A platform for innovation and business opportunity

Beyond education, World Microbiome Day is also becoming a touchpoint for business innovation. As scientific understanding of microbiomes deepens, industries are taking note—and investing. Probiotic supplements, microbiome-friendly skincare, next-generation fermented foods, even biodegradable packaging made with microbial inputs—all point to a market expanding in both scope and sophistication.

For companies operating in the microbiome space, WMD is a chance to connect with consumers in an informed and ethical way. Many brands now organize educational campaigns, sponsor public events, or launch awareness-driven products around the date. It’s also an opportunity for startups and research-backed ventures to showcase their technologies, from microbiome diagnostics to sustainable agriculture solutions.

The commercial appeal is strong—but it’s the shared foundation of evidence and transparency that continues to drive meaningful engagement.

Local action, global impact

What makes World Microbiome Day unique is its decentralized, grassroots approach. While APC Microbiome Ireland and its partners offer central coordination and free toolkits, the initiative thrives through the creativity of its participants. Events range from classroom activities and museum exhibits to lab tours, webinars, and even microbiome-themed brunches. In 2024, workshops popped up from Cork to Paris to rural Spain. In 2025, we can expect even more.

Meanwhile, the digital space comes alive with stories and selfies under the hashtag #MicrobiomeAmbassador—an easy way for anyone to join the celebration by sharing how microbes influence their life, their work, or their meals.

Where science meets society

In an era where disinformation and health fads abound, World Microbiome Day stands out for its scientific grounding and inclusive spirit. It doesn’t promote a product, a protocol, or a diet. Instead, it promotes a conversation—one that cuts across disciplines and demographics. It speaks to researchers and policy-makers, but also to schoolteachers, home cooks, and business leaders. Its message is clear: microbiomes are everyone’s business.

And perhaps most importantly, the event reminds us that thinking micro can help us act macro. Whether we’re supporting gut health, reducing food waste, enriching the soil, or designing circular economies, microbes are the tiny partners we didn’t know we needed.

The takeaway

World Microbiome Day isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a growing movement that reflects the world’s increasing recognition of the microbial dimension of life. In science, in business, in policy, and in everyday choices, microbiomes are changing how we see ourselves and our planet.

So, whether you’re leading an R&D team, launching a fermented food line, teaching a biology class, or just wondering what microbes might be doing in your sourdough starter—June 27th is the perfect time to explore, share, and celebrate.

After all, the future may well belong to those who understand their microbes.

Events to follow on World Microbiome Day 2025

For those eager to join the celebration, two online events on June 27, 2025 perfectly capture this year’s theme and offer engaging ways to learn, connect, and be inspired.

🔬 Interactive Webinar – “Why Microbiomes Matter for You and the Planet”

📅 June 27, 2025 | 2:00–3:00 PM CEST
 📍 Online | Hosted by the European Food Information Council (EUFIC)
This live webinar is open to everyone—from curious individuals to science communicators—and explores the essential roles microbiomes play in human health, sustainable food systems, and the environment. Featuring insights from leading EU-funded projects, the session includes real-world applications, interactive polls, a live Q&A, and myth-busting moments.
🔗 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6717483380055/WN_8PpkVkl8RYyPfwWxgmE0Pw#/registration

📖 Live Book Talk – Mission: Microbiome – Metchnikoff’s Legacy

📅 June 27, 2025 | 5:30 PM Paris | 4:30 PM London | 11:30 AM EST
 📍 Online
 Join author Patrick Veiga and host Nina Vinot for a special live talk about the book, diving into the world’s first gut microbiome scientific thriller. 

To register, visit the contact form at missionmicrobiome.com

These events reflect the growing public and scientific engagement with the microbiome field. By making knowledge accessible and rooted in research, World Microbiome Day continues to foster informed dialogue and cross-sector collaboration.

Happy World Microbiome Day 2025.