A PREVENTION DAY CENTERED ON POISONING RISK

Why August 21st?

August 21 focuses on preventing poisonings in a rapidly changing illicit and unregulated drug supply, including situations where fentanyl and other potent synthetic substances may be present without a person's knowledge.

You don't have to be directly affected to make a difference. Across the nation, families, communities, and individuals are standing up to confront the fentanyl crisis and you can be part of this life-saving movement. Join thousands of advocates, educators, first responders, and everyday citizens who are taking action to raise awareness, demand accountability, and protect lives. Every voice matters. Every story saves lives. Whether you choose to share your personal experience, educate others in your community, advocate for policy change, or support local and national awareness campaigns, your involvement matters. Together, we can expose the dangers of illicit fentanyl, fight misinformation, and ensure no more lives are lost to this preventable tragedy. Choose how you want to make a difference-because the time to act is now.

PARTICIPATION GUIDE & TOOLBOX 2026 CDC NATIONAL DAY TOOLBOX

INTERNATIONAL INVITATION TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Facing Fentanyl invites countries, communities, agencies, families, and recovery partners around the world to join August 21 as a shared day of prevention, remembrance, education, and action.

What began in the United States as a family-led movement to prevent fentanyl poisoning can become a global invitation to raise awareness, strengthen prevention, and protect lives.

We welcome every country to help build this day and make the message its own.

NYC Flagship Event August 20 & 21, 2026 United States

*Facing Fentanyl invites families, advocates, and supporters to join us in New York City for a two-day flagship observance of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.
*Together, we will honor lives lost to fentanyl poisoning, recognize the families who have helped build a national awareness movement, and continue our shared mission to save lives.

*Watch the TSX billboard presentation live through the Times Square webcam feed and join us as our angels take over Times Square 11:30AM TO 12:30PM EST:
https://www.earthcam.com/usa/newyork/timessquare/?cam=tsstreet

*Facing Fentanyl does not handle hotel room blocks. If attending all events, please plan to spend two days in New York City.
*We are grateful to the families attending and send our love to those who cannot be with us. We will make every effort to share events live on the Facing Fentanyl Facebook page when possible.