Sikh History Day Hero

Sikh History Day 2026

Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History

Explore the rich and vibrant Sikh history through our annual contest that empowers students to research, reflect, and present their findings.

Application Deadline: October 17, 2025

Join the Cohort

What is Sikh History Day?

Sikh History Day (SHD) is an annual contest that empowers students to explore the rich and vibrant Sikh history. Through this initiative, we adapt the National History Day competition framework to encourage young Sikhs to delve into their heritage, research Sikh-specific topics, and showcase their findings.

Sikh History Day motivates students to research, reflect, and present their work in ways that align with the broader National History Day theme. It's a unique opportunity to connect with your roots, share your knowledge, and compete in a dynamic and meaningful competition.

Sikh History Day Students

How It Works

Regional Competitions

Sikh History Day regional competitions will take place across these locations:

  • 209 Region
  • Bakersfield
  • Southern California
  • Bay Area
  • Fresno
  • Sacramento

Winners from these regional contests will advance to the statewide Sikh History Day finals. Since Sikh History Day adheres to the National History Day requirements and specifications, Sikh History Day participants can seamlessly submit their projects to county-level and state-level National History Day competitions, taking their work to even greater heights.

Sikh History Day Competition

2026 Theme

Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History

Need inspiration? Not sure where to start? Click below for topic ideas and resources to kickstart your research journey!

Get Topic Ideas & Resources

Competition Categories

There are three different categories to participate in: Exhibit, Documentary, and Paper. Click Here to read the Contest Rule Book.

EXHIBIT

A visual representation of your research and interpretation of your topic's significance in history.

  • • Analysis and interpretation must be clear to the viewer
  • • Use labels and captions creatively with visual images
  • • Often uses trifold poster board (but not limited to it)
Exhibit Project Checklist Exhibit Competition Rubric

DOCUMENTARY

Reflect your ability to use audiovisual equipment to communicate your topic's significance.

  • • Develop skills in photography, film, video, audio, computers
  • • Must include primary source materials
  • • Must be an original production
Documentary Project Checklist Documentary Competition Rubric

PAPER

A paper is the traditional form of presenting historical research.

  • • Creative writing permitted (diaries, poems, etc.)
  • • Must conform to all general and category rules
  • • Must be grammatically correct and well written
Paper Project Checklist Paper Competition Rubric

Additional Information

For more information on how to participate and what to expect, check out our comprehensive guide:

View SHD Guide