On May 10 2008, people in 70 countries worldwide will hold events to mark World Fair Trade Day (WFTD) and highlight the importance and benefits of Fair Trade. Fair Trade Resource Network, the coordinator of WFTD in the U.S., is working closely with the newly-launched Fair Trade Towns Initiative and other leading Fair Trade organizations to make WFTD 2008 the largest celebration of its kind. Fair Trade enthusiasts worldwide will host Fair Trade food tastings, house parties, speakers, festivals, concerts, and fashion shows. Many communities are celebrating WFTD over a period of two weeks, from May 3- 18th, America’s First Fair Trade Fortnight.

There are a ton of ways you can get involved. A major theme of WFTD this year is "Take A Fair Trade Break!" We are trying to set the world record for the World’s Largest Fair Trade Coffee Break for this WFTD. On May 10, 2008 at 3 pm Eastern/Noon Pacific, people across the country will take a break to enjoy a cup of Fair Trade coffee or other Fair Trade beverage. We will be setting a new record that will serve as a benchmark for future years’ challenges!

The Fair Trade Resource Network has provided lots of resources for anyone who wants to hold an event on World Fair Trade Day. They have posters and postcards available FREE, along with some other great tools, here: http://www.fairtraderesource.org/wftd-08/fair-trade-toolkit/

They've also put together an action guide for planning your event, available here: http://www.fairtraderesource.org/wftd-08/fair-trade-break-action-guide/

And, as if that wasn't enough, you can post your event on their website here: http://www.fairtraderesource.org/link-up/events-calendar/ (Even if you aren't hosting an event, be sure to check out that last link to see WFTD events in your area!)

Contact your USFT regional coordinator if you need ideas, support, or help in any way. Let's make this the best World Fair Trade Day ever!