How to Create a Countdown to Any Event

Outside lets you create a countdown to any date you want. Whether it is a concert next month, a wedding next year, or a vacation this summer, you can set it up in seconds and see it on your home screen every day. Here is how to get started.

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Step-by-step guide

Download Outside

Get the free Outside app from the App Store. It works on any iPhone running iOS 16 or later. Create an account in a few seconds to get started.

Tap + to create a countdown

Open the app and tap the + button at the bottom of the screen. This takes you to the countdown creation screen where you can set up your event.

Name your event and pick a date

Type a name for your countdown, like "Taylor Swift Concert" or "Beach Vacation". Then select the date and time of your event using the date picker.

Choose a photo

Pick a photo from your camera roll or choose from the built-in collection. The photo appears on your countdown card and widget, making every event feel personal.

Add a widget to your home screen

Long-press your home screen, tap the + button, search for "Outside", and add a widget. Your countdown will appear right on your home screen so you can see it every day.

Set reminders

Tap the bell icon on your countdown to set reminders. Get notified a week before, a day before, or at any custom time so you never miss the moment.

What can you count down to?

Concert countdowns

Wedding countdowns

Vacation and trip countdowns

Exam and graduation countdowns

Birthday countdowns

Holiday countdowns

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create a countdown to any date?

Yes. Outside lets you create a countdown to any date in the future. There is no limit on how many countdowns you can create or how far in the future the date can be.

Does the countdown show hours and minutes?

Yes. Your countdown shows days, hours, minutes, and seconds on the main screen. The widget on your home screen shows the number of days remaining for a clean, at-a-glance view.

Can I change the photo on a countdown after creating it?

Yes. You can edit your countdown at any time to update the name, date, or photo. Just tap on the countdown and select Edit.

Is the Outside app free to use?

Yes. Outside is free to download with unlimited countdowns and widgets. An optional subscription unlocks premium widget styles and additional features.