Every October, communities across the country come together for Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest and longest-running drug prevention campaign. This year, we’re turning up the brightness — literally — with Light Up America Red, a powerful visual movement that shines a light on the importance of living drug free.
From glowing landmarks to porch lights and classroom displays, lighting up red is more than a symbol — it’s a statement of unity, hope, and prevention.
When cities, schools, and families illuminate their buildings and homes in red, they create a ripple effect of awareness that reaches far beyond their neighborhoods. Each red light serves as a reminder that prevention starts with education and community action.
This movement encourages everyone — no matter their role — to take part in a simple yet powerful way to show support for safe, healthy, and drug-free lives.
Here are a few creative and impactful ways you can Light Up America Red this Red Ribbon Week (October 23–31):
Swap out your porch light with a red bulb and share a photo using #GoRedForRedRibbon.
Decorate your mailbox, fence, or front yard with red ribbons and positive messages.
Host a “Red Night” dinner with family and friends to talk about making healthy choices.
Light up your school entrance or gymnasium in red.
Have students and staff wear red and create a living “red ribbon” photo.
Encourage classrooms to decorate doors or hallways with prevention-themed art.
Partner with local officials to light up your building, sign, or landmark in red.
Share your participation on social media, tagging @InformedFamilies and @RedRibbonWeek.
Offer a prevention pledge wall where customers or visitors can sign their names in support.
Part of the fun is seeing how far the red light spreads! Snap a photo of your display and share it online to inspire others. Use hashtags like:
👉 #GoRedForRedRibbon
👉 #RedRibbonWeek
👉 #DrugFreeAmerica
👉 #InformedFamilies
Encourage others to join the movement and pledge their support for a drug-free future. You can also visit RedRibbon.org/Pledge to make your commitment official.
Every light, every ribbon, and every post helps illuminate the path toward a safer, healthier America. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or community leader — your participation makes a difference.
Let’s make this Red Ribbon Week one to remember.
Let’s Light Up America Red and show the world that together, we stand for a drug-free future.