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Anyone who grew up in Australia is probably familiar with Earth Hour. What you may not know is that this global movement actually started as a lights-out event right here in Australia 20 years ago. Now, millions of people worldwide switch off their lights for one hour on the same night, making a powerful statement of their commitment to the planet.
If you’re keen to do something good for our Earth this weekend, your chance to take part is coming up on Saturday night. Here’s everything you need to know about Earth Hour in Australia 2026.
What is Earth Hour?
Earth Hour is the world’s biggest movement to protect our planet, where millions of people and iconic landmarks switch off their lights for one hour in support of stronger action on climate change and biodiversity loss.
Since its inception in 2007, Earth Hour has spread to 190 countries and territories – a staggering 97 per cent of the world. From primary schools and small businesses to landmarks like Canberra’s Old Parliament House, Perth’s Bell Tower, Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market and the Sydney Opera House, millions of climate-conscious citizens will be taking part this year.
When is Earth Hour 2026 in Australia?
Earth Hour is happening on Saturday, March 28 from 8.30pm to 9.30pm local time. It takes place on the same day in countries all around the world.
What to do during Earth Hour?
During Earth Hour, you’re encouraged to turn off any non-essential lights for 60 minutes. That includes indoor or outdoor lighting, televisions (yep, Netflix can wait), computers, gaming consoles, kitchen appliances, air conditioning and any other random power-hungry gadgets. Pretty much, just turn off any non-essential switches.
Instead, go all in with a romantic candlelit dinner or take the fun outdoors with a stargazing picnic in the park.
When did Earth Hour start?
We’re pretty proud to say that the first-ever Earth Hour happened right here in Australia on March 31, 2007. That night, more than 2.2 million people switched off their lights for one hour to take a stance against climate change. In its second year, 50 million people in 35 countries took part – with the largest event taking place in 2025. You can find out more about Earth Hour here.