Santa Clara County International Overdose Awareness Day 2026

Join us as we stand together to create a sanctuary for remembrance, gain connection and tools, and protect each other.
About this Event

The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department and Behavioral Health Services Department in partnership with the City of San José invite you to our annual International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) event.

This year, we gather under the theme “Honoring Grief, Finding Connection,” creating a space that acknowledges our collective loss while strengthening the bonds of support within our community.

Event highlights:

• Resource Fair
  Over 25 community-based organizations will provide resources such as low-barrier treatment access, harm reduction supplies, free naloxone kits, fentanyl test strip, housing resources, and community referrals.
• Community Speakers and Open Mic
  Community speakers will share how their lives have been impacted by substance use and overdose, and what they know about what works to reduce death and stigma. Want to share your story? Open mic session is open to all attendees.
• Affinity Tables
  Have you lost a family member or loved one? Have you survived an overdose? There will be tables facilitated by peers to get support and discuss shared experiences.
• Memorial Altar and Zen Garden
  Reflect and pay tribute to loved ones lost to overdose by bringing an item to the altar, or engage with our Zen garden.
• Meal: We will provide a meal on a first come first serve basis.
• Cost: Free and open to all.

By pre-registering, help us ensure we have enough food and naloxone kits for everyone. It will also mean you will have a faster registration check-in on the day of the event.