North Texas Overdose Awareness Day 2026

The first North Texas Overdose Awareness Day was held in 2018 as a part of a global network, with the purpose of remembering those lost to overdose, providing valuable information on overdose prevention, and growing community awareness in North Texas. Held on the lawn at the old courthouse in downtown Denton, Texas, the event began as a way to honor Randy Roland and the many others lost to drug overdose in the North Texas area. Now, in our 9th year, we are honored to share this special night with you!
NTOAD's Purpose
Unite and educate the community against the opioid epidemic
Provide resources and support for individuals and families struggling with addiction
Reduce the stigma of overdose and addiction
Remember those who have lost their lives to overdose
North Texas Overdose Awareness Day is part of a larger network, the International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) which is a global event held on August 31 each year to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose. International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message that overdose death is preventable. It was initiated in 2001 by The Salvation Army in Melbourne, Australia. Since then, community members, government, and non-government organizations have held hundreds of events each year all over the world to raise awareness and commemorate those who have been lost to drug overdose. IOAD is coordinated by the non-profit Australian public health organization, the Penington Institute.
If you would like to be a part of NTOAD 2026, we have several opportunities. Reach out to us about our sponsorship levels and a member of our admin team will work with you to align your mission with that of NTOAD. Message us to become a Resource Partner and provide information about your related organization from a table during our event. Let us know if you'd like to volunteer as we have several easy ways to help. PM us with the options we provide to remember a loved one lost to overdose!
We can't wait to see you...to remember, to act, and to end overdose!