PEACE
Feels like a big word. Too big sometimes.
Like something reserved for world leaders or breaking news headlines. Just too far off and too hard to reach.
But what if peace didn’t have to be some distant, daunting goal? What if it started small?
Say HI for Peace is Hostelling International’s global campaign to bring people together – and this year, we’re doing it through play.
Because in a world that’s tense and divided, connection is a form of resistance. And play is how we spark it.
This is Say HI for Peace. And this year? We’re playing for it.
Say HI for Peace is back – and this time, we’re bringing connection to life through the power of play.
Since 2013, Say HI for Peace has been all about human connection. No borders. No politics.
Just real people meeting other real people over breakfast, in bunk beds, by sharing stories from their side of the world.
In 2025, the campaign gets a fresh twist.
It’s time to level up. We’re playing for peace.
What is Play for Peace?
Play for Peace is this year’s theme for Say HI for Peace – Hostelling International’s annual campaign to bring people together and drive something bigger.
Sure, peace can feel like a big, serious word. But it doesn’t always have to conjure thoughts of politicians or headlines.
Why not start with a card game? Or maybe a little jam session? And come on, who doesn’t love a game of Jenga or two?
Because when we play, we open up. We drop our defences. We see each other – human to human.
Why it matters right now
The world is moving fast. It’s loud, it can feel divided and connection feels rare. Many young people are shouldering that weight.
Studies show that young people who participate in games (such as team sports) report 10% lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who don’t.
That’s why Play for Peace matters. Because when we carve out space to play, we open the door to connection. We get to breathe, relate and feel like we belong.
Those moments, that change, are what peace looks like in action.
Get involved now, access our connection cards below!
What’s actually happening? (and how you can get involved):
Throughout September, HI Hostels around the world are hosting creative, playful, low-pressure activities that invite people in.
Think:
- Peace bingo and HI conversation cards
- Jenga, darts, pool
- Live music, jam sessions, and a global Playlist for Peace
- Online gaming contests
- Casual sports tournaments and team games
How to get involved
Find events near you
Tag your stories with #SayHIforPeace
Sign up here for peace-powered updates and playful ways to get involved
Let’s remind ourselves that the world can feel better when we’re in it together.
Time to level up. Play for Peace!
Scan the QR code to access our connection cards.
