A computer implemented method, data processing system, and computer program product for providing instant messaging users with an alarm to remind users of an event or to rejoin an instant messaging chat. An instant message that includes a request for a user to currently participate in an event is received at an instant messaging client. If the user is currently unable to participate in the event, the user may create an alarm message that defines a delay time period after which the user is able to participate in the event. The alarm message is then sent to users in the instant messaging chat session. Responsive to receiving the alarm message at an instant messaging client, a countdown of the delay time period is initiated. Additionally, the receipt of the alarm message and timer countdown processing may occur on the instant messaging server, which would dispatch a message to the instant messaging client when the timer expires. Upon expiration of the delay time period, an alarm popup window is displayed, wherein the alarm reminds the user to participate in the event.