Click on an observance for more information
Month-long Observances
Important January Dates
National Mentoring Month
National Mentoring Month is a campaign run throughout January by MENTOR. Launched in 2002, the campaign aims to unify and expand the mentoring movement, celebrate the power of relationships, and raise awareness.
Poverty in America Awareness Month
Poverty in America Awareness Month is observed every January in the United States. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of
poverty, highlight the challenges faced by millions of Americans living in poverty, and inspire action towards reducing poverty nationwide.
(read more)Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month
On December 31, 2012 Barack Obama declared January the National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. In his proclamation, President Obama
explains that "trafficking networks operate both domestically and trans-nationally, and disproportionately affect women and girls."
(read more)New Year's Day
In the Gregorian calendar, New Year's Day is the first day of the year; January 1. While most solar calendars (like the Gregorian and Julian) begin the year
regularly at or near the northern winter solstice, cultures that observe a lunisolar or lunar calendar celebrate their Lunar New Year.
(read more)World Braille Day
World Braille Day is an international day on January 4 and celebrates awareness of the importance of braille as a means of communication in the full realization of the human rights for blind and visually impaired people.
Orthodox Christmas
Orthodox Christmas is observed on what the Julian Calendar labels December 25, a date that currently corresponds with January 7 on the more
widely used Gregorian Calendar (which is also when Christmas is observed by the Coptic Orthodox Church in countries such as Egypt).
(read more)Maghi
Maghi is the regional name of the Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti celebrated in Punjab, Haryana Jammu division and Himachal Pradesh. Maghi is celebrated on first day of the month of Magh of Hindu Calendar.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. It marks the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., the
chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.
(read more)World Religion Day
World Religion Day is an observance that was initiated in 1950 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United States, which is celebrated worldwide on the third Sunday in January each year.
International Day of Education
International Day of Education is an annual international observance day held on January 24 and is dedicated to education. On December 3, 2018, the United
Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming January 24 as International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for bringing global peace and sustainable development.
(read more)Mahayana New Year
For Buddhists, the new year is a time for meditation and self reflection. The goal is to find ways to improve and learn from past mistakes. Buddhists also believe
that buying new items, cleaning and redecorating the home and giving gifts can bring good luck.
(read more)International Holocaust Remembrance Day
International Holocaust Remembrance Day, is an international memorial day on January 27 that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, which resulted
in the genocide of one third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities by Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1945, an attempt to implement its "final solution" to the Jewish question.
(read more)Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is the festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. In Chinese, the festival is commonly
referred to as the Spring Festival, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important February Dates
American Heart Month
American Heart Month is observed during February, urging the people of the United States to recognize the nationwide problem of heart and blood vessel diseases and to support all essential programs required to solve the problem.
Black History Month
Black educators and Black United Students at Kent State University first proposed Black History Month in February 1969. The first celebration of Black History Month took place at Kent State a year later, from January 2 to February 28, 1970.
Ethnic Equality Month
Ethnic Equality Month is celebrated as an effort to celebrate diversity and promote equality among all ethnicities and cultures. Specific cultures and ethnicities are celebrated individually on specific dates throughout the month.
National Freedom Day
National Freedom Day is a United States observance on February 1 honoring the signing by President Abraham Lincoln of a joint House and Senate resolution that
later was ratified as the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. President Lincoln signed the Amendment abolishing slavery on February 1, 1865, although it was not ratified by the states until later.
(read more)Rosa Parks Day
Rosa Parks Day is a holiday in honor of the civil rights leader Rosa Parks, celebrated in the U.S. states of California and Missouri on her birthday,
February 4, in Michigan on the first Monday after her birthday, and in Ohio and Oregon on the day she was arrested, December 1.
(read more)Safer Internet Day
As the number of internet users continues to grow worldwide, internets, governments, and organizations have expressed concerns about the safety of
children and teenagers and the elderly using the Internet. Over 45% have announced they have endured some sort of cyber-harassment. Safer Internet Day is celebrated worldwide in February to raise awareness about internet safety.
(read more)Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is the festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. In Chinese, the festival is commonly
referred to as the Spring Festival, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season.
(read more)International Day of Women and Girls in Science
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is implemented annually by UNESCO in collaboration with UN Women. Both organizations work with national
governments, intergovernmental organizations, civil society partners, universities and corporations in order to achieve the shared goal of promoting the role of women and girls in scientific fields and celebrate those already successful in the field.
(read more)International Epilepsy Day
Started in 2015 and organized by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), the day provides a platform for
people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with a global audience. The day also calls for all people to advocate for appropriate legislation that will guarantee human rights of people with epilepsy and encourages people with epilepsy to live to their fullest potential.
(read more)Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras refers to events of the Carnival celebration, beginning on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) and culminating on the day
before Ash Wednesday, which is known as Shrove Tuesday. Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday", reflecting the practice of the last night of eating rich, fatty foods before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of the Lenten season.
(read more)Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is traditionally observed with fasting and abstinence from meat in a number of Christian denominations. Many Christians attend special Ash
Wednesday church services, at which churchgoers receive ash on their foreheads. Ash Wednesday derives its name from this practice, in which the placement of ashes is accompanied by the words, "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." The ashes are prepared by burning palm leaves from the previous year's Palm Sunday celebrations.
(read more)Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day, also called Saint Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, originated as a Christian feast day honoring a martyr named Valentine and
through later folk traditions, it has also become a significant cultural, religious and commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.
(read more)Parinirvana Day
Parinirvana Day is a Mahayana Buddhist holiday celebrated in East Asia, Vietnam and the Philippines. It celebrates the day when the Buddha is said to have
achieved Parinirvana, or complete Nirvana, upon the death of his physical body.
(read more)International Childhood Cancer Day
International Childhood Cancer Day is a global collaborative campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors and their families.
World Day of Social Justice
World Day of Social Justice is an international day recognizing the need to promote social justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty,
exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, human rights, and social protections.
(read more)Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honour of the deity Shiva. According to the Hindu calendar, the festival is observed on the fourteenth
day of the dark (waning) half of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha. The festival commemorates the wedding of Shiva and Parvati, and the occasion that Shiva performs his divine dance, called the Tandava.
(read more)Ramandan begins
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. A
commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation, the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important March Dates
Developmental Disabilities
The campaign seeks to raise awareness about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life, as well as awareness of
the barriers that people with disabilities still sometimes face in connecting to the communities in which they live.
(read more)Gender Equality Month
March is regarded as Gender Equality Month, which serves as a call to celebrate the history, contributions, and wellness of community members who are impacted by gender-based bias and oppression.
Greek-American Heritage Month
Greek American Heritage Month, also called Hellenic Heritage Month, is celebrated every March to celebrate Greek culture and history. It coincides with Greece's National Independence Day which occurs on Match 25.
Irish-American Heritage Month
During Irish American Heritage Month, is observed every March to celebrate every part of Irish culture and history. The first observance dates back to 1967 with the first St. Patrick's Parade in New York City.
National Colon Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States. Every March, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month spotlights this disease and inspires more people to get checked starting at age 45.
National Kidney Month
March is National Kidney Month. As many as 90% of Americans who have chronic kidney disease don't know they have the disease until it is very advanced. The
earlier you find out you have kidney disease, the sooner you can take steps to protect your kidneys from further damage.
(read more)National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month
National Multiplie Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month is observed in March of each year, a nationwide effort by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and affiliated groups to raise the public's awareness of multiple sclerosis.
National Women's History Month
Women's History Month began as a local celebration in Santa Rosa, California. The Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the
Status of Women planned and executed a “Women's History Week” celebration in 1978.
(read more)Employee Appreciation Day
Employee Appreciation Day is an event, observed on the first Friday in March, meant for employers to give thanks or recognition to their employees. It was
created by Dr. Bob Nelson who was a founding member of Recognition Professionals International in 1995, initially to celebrate the publication of his book 1,001 Ways to Reward Employees and to remind employers to thank their employees when they do good work.
(read more)Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honour of the deity Shiva. According to the Hindu calendar, the festival is observed on the fourteenth
day of the dark (waning) half of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha. The festival commemorates the wedding of Shiva and Parvati, and the occasion that Shiva performs his divine dance, called the Tandava.
(read more)International Women's Day
International Women's Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement, bringing attention to
issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. Spurred on by the universal female suffrage movement, IWD originated from labor movements in North America and Europe during the early 20th century.
(read more)Pi Day
Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi). Pi Day is observed on March 14 (the 3rd month) since 3, 1, and 4 are the first three digits of π, and was first celebrated in the United States.
Ramandan begins
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. A
commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation, the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.
(read more)Equal Pay Day
The symbolic day was first observed in 1996 by the National Committee on Pay Equity, a coalition of women's and civil rights organizations, labor unions,
professional associations and individuals working to eliminate sex and race based wage discrimination and to achieve pay equity.
(read more)St. Patrick's Day
Saint Patrick's Day was made an official Christian feast day in the early 17th century and is observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion
(especially the Church of Ireland), the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Lutheran Church. The day commemorates Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and, by extension, celebrates the heritage and culture of the Irish in general.
(read more)World Down Syndrome Day
Every year on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day is observed to create awareness about Down syndrome. It is a condition in which a child is born with an
extra 21st chromosome. A common activity is wearing colorful or mismatched socks, to show support for people with Down syndrome.
(read more)Purim
Purim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the survival of the Jewish people in ancient Persia after their Persian rulers marked them for death in the 5th century BCE.
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday is the Christian moveable feast that falls on the Sunday before Easter. The feast commemorates Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, an event mentioned in each of the four canonical Gospels.
Holi
Holi is a popular and significant Hindu festival celebrated as the Festival of Colors, Love, and Spring. It celebrates the eternal and divine love of the deities
Radha and Krishna. Additionally, the day signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it commemorates the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu.
(read more)International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery
The day honours and remembers those who suffered and died as a consequence of the transatlantic slave trade, which has been called "the worst violation of
human rights in history", in which over 400 years more than 15 million men, women and children were the victims.
(read more)Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal
Triduum. It is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Great and Holy Friday (also Holy and Great Friday), and Black Friday.
(read more)International Transgender Day of Visibility
An annual event occurring on March 31 dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a celebration of their contributions to society.
Easter
A Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary.
Laylat al-Qadr
The Night of Power (Night of Decree, or Night of Determination, also the Precious Night), is, in Islamic belief, the night when Muslims believe the Quran
was first sent down from Heaven to the world and also the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad; it is described to be better than a thousand months of worshipping.
(read more)Navaratri begins
Navaratri is a Hindu festival that spans nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga and her nine forms, collectively known as
Navadurga. The word "Navaratri" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "nine nights" (Nava = nine, Ratri = night). The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, but with regional variations in customs, rituals, and festivities.
(read more)Eid al-Fitr
The religious holiday of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims worldwide because it marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan. It is considered a very important and meaning observance in the Islamic religion.
Click on an observance for more information
Month-long Observances
Important April Dates
National Arab-American Heritage Month
The United States Department of State has recognized April as the National Arab American Heritage Month. Stating in a public announcement on April 1, 2021,
through their official social media channels: "Americans of Arab heritage are very much a part of the fabric of this nation, and Arab Americans have contributed in every field and profession."
(read more)National Autism Acceptance Month
April is National Autism Acceptance Month. The recognition raises awareness about autism acceptance and promotes inclusion and connectedness for people
with autism. Social and community support can help people with autism achieve optimal health and reach their full potential.
(read more)Celebrate Diversity Month
Diversity brings substantial organizational benefits such as better decision making and improved problem solving, greater creativity and innovation, which
lead to maximizing the positive impact of an organization.
(read more)Earth Month
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range
of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
(read more)National Child Abuse Prevention Month
National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect.
Prevention services and supports developed by this collaboration can help to protect children and strengthen families.
(read more)National Volunteer Month
National Volunteer month in the United States takes place in the month of April. This month is dedicated to honoring all of the volunteers in our communities as
well as encouraging volunteerism throughout the month.
(read more)World Autism Awareness Day
World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day annually on April 2, encouraging Member States of the United Nations to take measures to
raise awareness about autistic individuals throughout the world.
(read more)Laylat al-Qadr
The Night of Power (Night of Decree, or Night of Determination, also the Precious Night), is, in Islamic belief, the night when Muslims believe the Quran
was first sent down from Heaven to the world and also the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad; it is described to be better than a thousand months of worshipping.
(read more)Eid al-Fitr
The religious holiday of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims worldwide because it marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan. It is considered a very important and meaning observance in the Islamic religion.
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday is the Christian moveable feast that falls on the Sunday before Easter. The feast commemorates Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, an event mentioned in each of the four canonical Gospels.
Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal
Triduum. It is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Great and Holy Friday (also Holy and Great Friday), and Black Friday.
(read more)Easter
A Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary.
National Day of Silence
Day of Silence is GLSEN's annual day of action to spread awareness about the effects of the bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) students.
Yom Hashoah
Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG'vurah, known colloquially in Israel and abroad as Yom HaShoah, and in English as International
Holocaust Remembrance Day, or Holocaust Day, is observed as Israel's day of commemoration for the approximately six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust by Nazi Germany and its collaborators, and for the Jewish resistance in that period.
(read more)Start of Ridvan
A twelve-day festival in the Bahá'í Faith, commemorating Bahá'u'lláh's declaration that he was a Manifestation of God. It is the holiest Bahá'í festival, and is also referred to as the "Most Great Festival" and the "King of Festivals".
Earth Day
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range
of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
(read more)Passover
Passover, also called Pesach, is a major Jewish holiday, one of the three pilgrimage festivals, that celebrates the Biblical story of the Israelites' escape
from slavery in Egypt. Pesach starts on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan which is considered the first month of the Hebrew year.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important May Dates
ALS Awareness Month
ALS Awareness Month is a campaign to spread awareness of and raise funds for research for a cure for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease).
Haitian Heritage Month
Haitian Heritage Month is a celebration in the United States of Haitian heritage and culture. It was first celebrated during the month of May in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1998.
Jewish-American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month is an annual recognition and celebration of American Jews' achievements and contributions to the United States of America during the month of May.
Mental Health Month
The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to raise awareness and educate the public about: mental illnesses, such as the 18.1% of Americans who
suffer from depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder; the realities of living with these conditions; and strategies for attaining mental health and wellness. It also aims to draw attention to suicide, which can be precipitated by some mental illnesses. Additionally, Mental Health Awareness Month strives to reduce the stigma (negative attitudes and misconceptions) that surrounds mental illnesses.
(read more)National Asian American and South Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is observed in the United
States during the month of May, and recognizes the contributions and influenceof Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
(read more)Older Americans Month
Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to society, in particular those
who defended their country. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the United States through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other such activities.
(read more)Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration held on May 5 to celebrate Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza.
Yom Hashoah
Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG'vurah, known colloquially in Israel and abroad as Yom HaShoah, and in English as International
Holocaust Remembrance Day, or Holocaust Day, is observed as Israel's day of commemoration for the approximately six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust by Nazi Germany and its collaborators, and for the Jewish resistance in that period.
(read more)International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia is
observed on May 17 and aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide.
(read more)World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
Held every year on 21 May, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development celebrates not only the richness of the world's cultures, but also
the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.
(read more)Declaration of the Báb
Baha'is around the world celebrate the 22nd of May, 1844 as the day of the Declaration of the Báb, who was the forerunner of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Ascension of Baha'u'llah
Baha'u'llah, the Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith, passed away on 29 May, 1892. This holy day is commemorated by Baha'is all over the world and is known
as The Ascension of Baha'u'llah'. The final resting place of Baha'u'llah, the Shrine of Baha'u'llah, is located in Bahji (in present day Israel), and is the Point of Adoration to which Baha'is turn when reciting their Obligatory Prayer.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important June Dates
Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month is observed in June to raise awareness about Alzheimer's ' disease and other forms of dementia, as well as to highlight
the importance of brain health. During this month, various activities and campaigns are organized to educate the public, support research efforts, and provide resources for those affected by Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders.
(read more)Black Music Month
June is African American Music Appreciation Month. Created by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, this month celebrates the African American musical influences that comprise an essential part of our nation's treasured cultural heritage.
National Caribbean-American Heritage Month
National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is celebrated by proclamation of the President and Congress in the United States in June to honor the
achievements and contributions of Caribbean immigrants and their descendants living in the United States, particularly in government, sports, entertainment, and the arts.
(read more)Pride Month
LGBT Pride Month is a month, typically June, dedicated to celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) pride.
Pride Month began after the Stonewall riots, a series of gay liberation protests in 1969. Modern-day Pride Month both honors the movement for LGBT rights and celebrates LGBT culture.
(read more)World Environment Day
World Environment Day is celebrated annually on the 5th of June and encourages awareness and action for the protection of the environment. It is a
global platform for public outreach, with participation from over 143 countries annually.
(read more)Loving Day
Loving Day is an annual national celebration held on June 12, the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down all anti-miscegenation laws remaining in sixteen U.S. states.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha ("Feast of the Sacrifice") or the Feast of Sacrifice is the second and the largest of the two main holidays celebrated in Islam (the
other being Eid al-Fitr). Sweets and gifts are given, and extended family members typically visit and are welcomed.
(read more)Juneteenth
Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. The holiday's name is a portmanteau of the words "June" and
"nineteenth", as it was on June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War.
(read more)World Refugee Day
World Refugee Day is recognized internationally as a day to celebrate and honor refugees from around the world. It aims to recognize the strength of the refugees
who have fled the conflict and persecution of their country in hope of finding sanctuary and living a better life.
(read more)Summer solstice
The summer solstice or estival solstice occurs when one of Earth's poles has its maximum tilt toward the Sun. It happens twice yearly, once in each hemisphere
(Northern and Southern). For that hemisphere, the summer solstice is the day with the longest period of daylight and shortest night of the year, when the Sun is at its highest position in the sky. At either pole there is continuous daylight at the time of its summer solstice.
(read more)Pride Day (date varies by city and country)
Pride Day commemorates the history, struggles, and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals and promotes equality, acceptance, and human rights. The origins of
Pride Day trace back to the Stonewall Riots of June 1969 in New York City, which were pivotal in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Pride events typically include parades, festivals, educational panels, and other activities designed to celebrate diversity and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
(read more)Muharram
Muharram, also known as the Islamic or Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the migration (Hijra) of the Prophet
Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This migration was a pivotal event in Islamic history, leading to the establishment of the first Muslim community and the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Important July Dates
Independence Day (USA)
Independence Day, known colloquially as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was
ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.
(read more)Muharram
Muharram, also known as the Islamic or Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the migration (Hijra) of the Prophet
Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This migration was a pivotal event in Islamic history, leading to the establishment of the first Muslim community and the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
(read more)Martyrdom of the Báb
All around the globe, Baháis will observe the Martyrdom of the Báb at noon on July 9th, believing that the Báb set in motion a fresh cycle of progressive revelation to humanity.
World Population Day
World Population Day is observed on July 11 each year. It was established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989 to raise awareness
about global population issues and to address the challenges associated with rapid population growth.
(read more)International Nelson Mandela Day
Nelson Mandela International Day (or Mandela Day) is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela's
birthday. Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an impact.
(read more)National Disability Independence Day
In the United States, July 26 is recognized annually as National Disability Independence Day, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law in 1990.
International Day of Friendship
International Friendship Day is celebrated on July 30 each year. It was established by the United Nations in 2011 to recognize the importance of
friendships in promoting peace and understanding among people from different cultures and backgrounds. The day is an opportunity to acknowledge the role that friendships play in bridging divides, fostering mutual respect, and building more inclusive communities.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Important August Dates
Purple Heart Day
Each year on August 7, our nation recognizes the men and women who are known as our Purple Heart recipients. The Purple Heart, one of the oldest military
decorations, is presented to service members who were injured or killed in service to the United States.
(read more)International Day of the World's Indigenous People
Violations of the rights of the world's Indigenous Peoples have become a persistent problem, sometimes because of a historical burden from their
colonization backgrounds and others because of the contrast with a constantly changing society.
(read more)Marcus Garvey Day
Marcus Mosiah Garvey Jr. (17 August 1887 - 10 June 1940) was a Jamaican political activist. He was the founder and first President-General of the Universal
Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League through which he declared himself Provisional President of Africa.
(read more)World Humanitarian Day
On August 19, we come together to honor humanitarians around the world who strive to meet ever-growing global needs. No matter the danger or the hardship,
humanitarians venture deep into disaster-stricken regions and on the front lines of conflict, strive to save and protect people in need.
(read more)Senior Citizens Day
Today, millions of American seniors are changing the way we view old age. Far from fading into the sunset, these citizens are serving as brilliant points of light in their communities.
Women's Equality Day
Women's Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment (Amendment
XIX) to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex.
(read more)Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Krishna's birth is celebrated and observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha).
Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important September Dates
National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries.
National Guide Dog Month
National Guide Dog Month is a celebration of the work of guide dogs in the United States as a way to raise awareness, appreciation and support for guide dog
schools across the United States. It was established in 2008, as a fundraising drive to benefit non-profit guide dog organizations accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation.
(read more)Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month - a time to raise awareness and discuss this highly stigmatized topic. In addition to shifting public perception, we use this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide.
Labor Day
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the
works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States.
(read more)International Day of Charity
Charity, like the notions of volunteerism and philanthropy, provides real social bonding and contributes to the creation of inclusive and more resilient societies. International Day of Charity is celebrated the whole month of September.
Patriot Day (U.S.A.)
In the United States, Patriot Day occurs on September 11 of each year in memory of the people killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. The flag of the
United States is flown at half-staff at the White House and on all U.S. government buildings and establishments throughout the world.
(read more)Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, a significant holiday in the Jewish faith that marks the beginning of the High Holy Days or "Days of Awe," which culminate with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah typically falls in September or early October and is celebrated on the first two days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei.
International Day of Democracy
The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and can only be realized with participation and support from the international community.
Mexican Independence Day
The Mexican War of Independence (Spanish: Guerra de Independencia de México, 16 September 1810 - 27 September 1821) was an armed conflict and
political process resulting in Mexico's independence from the Spanish Empire. It was not a single, coherent event, but local and regional struggles that occurred within the same period, and can be considered a revolutionary civil war.
(read more)International Day of Peace
Each year the International Day of Peace (IDP) is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to
strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
(read more)American Business Women's Day
September 22 marks the 1949 founding date of the American Business Women's Association, the mission of which is "to bring together businesswomen of diverse
occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership; education, networking support and national recognition".
(read more)National Native American Day
Native American Day is a holiday observed in several US states in celebration of Native American culture. In California and Nevada, the holiday is designated on
the fourth Friday of September, whereas in South Dakota and Wisconsin, it falls on the second Monday of October.
(read more)World Gratitude Day
The celebration started in 1965 in Hawaii when an international gathering decided that it would be a good idea to have one day per year to formally
express gratitude and appreciation for the many wonderful things to be found in the world.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important October Dates
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in October, is a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, educating the public on the importance
of early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease. It's also a reminder for fundraising efforts to support research, treatment, and support services.
(read more)Bullying Prevention Month
Bullying Prevention Month, observed in October, focuses on raising awareness about bullying, its impacts, and how to prevent it. The month aims to educate
students, parents, educators, and communities about the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments for everyone.
(read more)Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month, observed in October, is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, supporting survivors, and advocating for
prevention and intervention strategies. The month aims to shine a light on the issue, educate the public, and promote resources and services available to those affected by domestic violence.
(read more)Filipino-American History Month
Filipino-American History Month, celebrated in October, honors and recognizes the contributions, history, and culture of Filipino Americans in the United States.
It is a time to celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of the Filipino American community and to raise awareness about their impact on American society.
(read more)German-American Heritage Month
German-American Heritage Month, observed in October, celebrates the contributions, culture, and history of German Americans in the United States.
It provides an opportunity to recognize the significant impact that German immigrants and their descendants have had on American society.
(read more)Italian-American Heritage Month
Italian-American Heritage Month, celebrated in October, is a time to recognize and honor the contributions, culture, and history of Italian Americans
in the United States. The month highlights the impact of Italian immigrants and their descendants on American society and celebrates their rich cultural heritage.
(read more)LGBT History Month
LGBT History Month, celebrated in October, is a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the history, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals
and communities. It aims to educate the public about LGBTQ+ history, promote awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, and celebrate the progress made toward equality and acceptance.
(read more)National Work and Family Month
National Work and Family Month, observed in October, is dedicated to promoting the balance between work and family life. It emphasizes the importance of
supporting employees in managing their professional responsibilities alongside their family commitments. The month aims to raise awareness about the challenges and solutions related to work-life balance and to advocate for policies and practices that benefit both employees and their families.
(read more)Polish-American Heritage Month
Polish-American Heritage Month, observed in October, celebrates the contributions, culture, and history of Polish Americans in the United States. It is
a time to recognize the significant impact Polish immigrants and their descendants have had on American society and to honor their rich cultural heritage.
(read more)Family History Month
Family History Month, observed in October, is dedicated to exploring and celebrating family heritage and genealogical research. It provides an opportunity
for individuals and families to delve into their own histories, connect with their roots, and preserve their family stories for future generations.
(read more)International Day of Nonviolence
The International Day of Non-Violence, observed on October 2nd, commemorates the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in the global
movement for non-violent resistance and civil disobedience. The day is dedicated to promoting the principles of non-violence as a means to achieve social and political change and to resolving conflicts peacefully.
(read more)Rosh Hashanah begins
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, a major religious festival in Judaism that typically falls in September or early October, depending on the Hebrew calendar.
It marks the beginning of the Jewish year and is observed on the first and second days of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Jewish calendar.
(read more)Navaratri
Navaratri, which means "Nine Nights" in Sanskrit, is a major Hindu festival celebrated over nine nights and ten days. It typically falls in late September or
early October, depending on the lunar calendar. Navratri honors the goddess Durga and celebrates her victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
(read more)World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th each year, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, promoting mental
well-being, and advocating for better mental health services and support. The day aims to highlight the importance of mental health and to address the stigma and challenges faced by individuals experiencing mental health conditions.
(read more)National Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day, observed on October 11th, is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals who come out as LGBTQ+.
It aims to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues, promote visibility, and encourage open discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity.
(read more)Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is one of the most important and solemn holidays in Judaism. It occurs on the 10th day of Tishrei in the Hebrew
calendar, which usually falls in late September or early October. Yom Kippur is considered the culmination of the Ten Days of Repentance that begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
(read more)National Indigenous Peoples' Day (United States)
In the United States, the day is often referred to as Indigenous Peoples' Day or Native American Day and is observed on the second Monday in October,
coinciding with the federal holiday of Columbus Day. This day is intended to recognize and honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities and to challenge the legacy of colonization and misrepresentation associated with Columbus Day.
(read more)Spirit Day
Spirit Day, observed annually on October 19th, is a day dedicated to standing against bullying, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, and to supporting
LGBTQ+ youth. The day aims to raise awareness about the issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and to promote acceptance and inclusion.
(read more)Boss's Day
Boss's Day, celebrated on October 16th, is a day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the role of bosses and managers in the workplace. The day
provides an opportunity for employees to express gratitude and acknowledge the contributions of their supervisors and managers.
(read more)Birth of the Báb
The Birth of the Báb is a significant holiday in the Bahá'í Faith, commemorating the birth of the Báb, one of the central figures in the religion. The Báb, born
Siyyid Ali Muhammad in 1819, was the founder of the Babi Faith, a precursor to the Bahá'í Faith. His teachings paved the way for the Bahá'í Faith and significantly influenced its development.
(read more)Sikh Holy Day (birth of Guru Granth)
The Sikh Holy Day known as the Birth of Guru Granth Sahib is celebrated to honor the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru of the Sikh faith.
The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered by Sikhs to be the final and eternal Guru, and is highly revered for its spiritual teachings and guidance.
(read more)Waste Reduction Week
Waste Reduction Week is an annual event dedicated to promoting strategies and actions for reducing waste and encouraging more sustainable consumption
practices. The event typically takes place in mid-October, although specific dates and observances can vary depending on the country or region.
(read more)International Stuttering Awareness Day
International Stuttering Awareness Day is observed on October 22nd each year. The day is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of stuttering,
also known as stammering, and supporting those who experience it. It aims to educate the public, reduce stigma, and promote acceptance and inclusion for individuals who stutter.
(read more)Halloween
Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, is a holiday that blends ancient traditions, folklore, and modern customs. It originated from the ancient Celtic festival of
Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The festival was believed to be a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was thin, allowing spirits to cross over.
(read more)Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people around the world. Often referred to as the "Festival of Lights," Diwali is
one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Hinduism, and it typically lasts five days. The festival usually falls between mid-September and mid-November, depending on the lunar calendar.
(read more)Sukkot
Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Festival of Booths, is a Jewish holiday celebrated for seven days (eight in the Diaspora) starting on
the 15th day of Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar, which usually falls in late September or early October. It is one of the major Jewish pilgrimage festivals and is deeply rooted in both agricultural and historical traditions.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important November Dates
Diabetes Awareness Month
Diabetes Awareness Month is observed every November to raise awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of prevention
and management. It aims to educate the public, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and highlight the challenges faced by those living with diabetes. Organizations like the American Diabetes Association and the International Diabetes Federation often lead initiatives, campaigns, and events during this month to support research and advocacy efforts. It's a time to spread knowledge and support those affected by the disease.
(read more)National Native American Heritage Month
National Native American Heritage Month is observed in the United States throughout November. It celebrates the rich culture, history, and contributions
of Native Americans. The month is an opportunity to recognize the diverse cultures of indigenous peoples, honor their traditions, and acknowledge the significant challenges they have faced throughout history.
(read more)Dia de Muertos
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. It honors deceased loved ones, blending indigenous
customs with Catholic practices. Families create altars (ofrendas) adorned with photos, favorite foods, and mementos of the departed. Marigolds, sugar skulls, and papel picado (decorative paper) are common symbols. The celebration is vibrant and joyous, emphasizing remembrance and the belief that the souls of the deceased return to visit their families during this time. It's a profound way to celebrate life and death, recognizing the continuity of existence.
(read more)All Saints' Day
All Saints' Day, celebrated on November 1st, is a Christian holiday honoring all saints, known and unknown. It is observed by various denominations, including
Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches. The day follows All Hallows' Eve (Halloween) and emphasizes the lives and contributions of saints and martyrs who have attained heaven. In many cultures, people attend church services, light candles, and visit graves of loved ones to remember them. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual connection between the living and the deceased, celebrating the faithful who have exemplified Christian virtues.
(read more)International Stress Awareness Day
International Stress Awareness Day is observed on the first Wednesday of November each year. It aims to raise awareness about stress and its impact on
mental and physical health. The day encourages individuals and organizations to promote stress management techniques, highlight the importance of mental well-being, and foster a supportive environment for those experiencing stress.
(read more)World Freedom Day
World Freedom Day is observed on November 9th each year, commemorating the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, which symbolized the end of the Cold War
and the fight for freedom and democracy. The day serves as a reminder of the struggles for freedom around the world and celebrates the progress made in promoting human rights and democratic values.
(read more)National Adoption Day
National Adoption Day is observed annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving in the United States. The day aims to raise awareness about
the adoption process and the thousands of children in foster care who are waiting for permanent families. It encourages families to consider adoption and highlights the need for loving homes for children in need.
(read more)Remembrance/Veterans Day
Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day in some countries, is observed on November 11th each year to honor military personnel who have died
in the line of duty during wars and conflicts. It marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. The day is commemorated with ceremonies, moments of silence, and the wearing of red poppies as a symbol of remembrance. Veterans Day, observed in the United States on the same date, honors all military veterans—those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is a day to recognize their sacrifices and contributions, with various events, parades, and tributes taking place across the country. Both days emphasize the importance of remembering those who served and the impact of war on individuals and societies.
(read more)World Kindness Day
World Kindness Day is celebrated on November 13th each year and aims to promote kindness and compassion in communities around the globe.
Established in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, the day encourages individuals, organizations, and countries to perform acts of kindness, both big and small.
(read more)International Day of Tolerance
The International Day of Tolerance is observed on November 16th each year. Established by the United Nations in 1996, this day promotes the importance of
tolerance in fostering peaceful and inclusive societies. It emphasizes the need to respect and appreciate diversity, whether in terms of culture, religion, ethnicity, or beliefs.
(read more)International Men's Day
International Men's Day is celebrated on November 19th each year. It focuses on promoting awareness of men's health issues, improving gender relations,
and highlighting positive male role models. The day aims to address the challenges men face, such as mental health issues, societal expectations, and the importance of male contributions to families and communities.
(read more)Universal Children's Day
Universal Children's Day is celebrated on November 20th each year to promote the welfare and rights of children worldwide. Established by the United Nations
in 1954, this day coincides with the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles children face, including poverty, discrimination, violence, and lack of access to education and healthcare. It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to take action to ensure that every child can enjoy their rights and live in a safe, nurturing environment.
(read more)Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a U.S. national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It originated as a harvest festival in the early 17th century, with
the most well-known celebration occurring in 1621 when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast. Over time, it evolved into a day of giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. Traditionally, Thanksgiving is marked by family gatherings, feasting on dishes such as turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Many people also take time to reflect on what they are grateful for. Additionally, Thanksgiving often includes activities like watching parades, football games, and volunteering to help those in need.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Important December Dates
HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
World AIDS Month is observed annually in December to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and to support those affected by the virus. The key date within this
month is December 1, which is recognized as World AIDS Day. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO), World AIDS Day is a global event dedicated to spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, commemorating those who have died from the disease, and promoting efforts to fight the epidemic.
(read more)Universal Human Rights Month
On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly established a set of principles regarding equality, fairness, and fundamental human rights that must
be universally protected. These principles recognize our freedom to make choices about our lives and develop our human potential. The principles are about living free from fear, harassment, and discrimination.
(read more)World AIDS Day
December 1 is recognized as World AIDS Day. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO), World AIDS Day is a global event dedicated to
spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, commemorating those who have died from the disease, and promoting efforts to fight the epidemic.
(read more)International Day for People with Disabilities
Since its inception in 1945, the United Nations (UN) has outlined and reiterated its commitment to calling for the creation of inclusive, accessible and sustainable
societies and communities – most notably with the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
(read more)International Volunteer Day
Volunteerism is an enormous renewable resource for social, economic and environmental problem-solving throughout the world. As the world faces
mounting challenges, volunteers are often the first to help. Volunteers are at the fore in crises and emergencies, often in very testing and dire situations.
(read more)International Genocide Prevention Day
Every 9 December, the Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide marks the adoption of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the
Crime of Genocide – a crucial global commitment that was made at the founding of the United Nations, immediately preceding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
(read more)International Human Rights Day
Human Rights Day is observed by the international community every year on 10 December. It commemorates the day in 1948 when the General Assembly
adopted a "common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations", towards which individuals and societies should "strive by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance".
(read more)Yule Winter Solstice
Yule is a traditional festival celebrated around the time of the winter solstice, typically from December 21 to January 1. Its origins trace back to ancient pagan
and Norse traditions, and it has been incorporated into various modern celebrations, including some aspects of Christmas.
(read more)Christmas
Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration
among billions of people around the world. A feast central to the liturgical year in Christianity, it follows the season of Advent (which begins four Sundays before) or the Nativity Fast, and initiates the season of Christmastide, which historically in the West lasts twelve days and culminates on Twelfth Night.
(read more)Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a Jewish festival commemorating the recovery of Jerusalem and subsequent rededication of the Second Temple at the beginning of the
Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by lighting the candles of a candelabrum with nine branches, commonly called a menorah or hanukkiah.
(read more)Boxing Day
Boxing Day is celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas Day, primarily in the United Kingdom and other countries historically connected to the British Empire, such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu, usually on the
sixth day. It was created by activist Maulana Karenga, based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa.
(read more)New Year's Eve
In the Gregorian calendar, New Year's Eve, also known as Old Year's Day, is the evening or the entire day of the last day of the year, 31 December. In many
countries, New Year's Eve is celebrated with dancing, eating, drinking, and watching or lighting fireworks. The celebrations generally go on past midnight into New Year's Day, 1 January.
(read more)Click on an observance for more information
Month-long Observances
National Mentoring Month
National Mentoring Month is a campaign run throughout January by MENTOR. Launched in 2002, the campaign aims to unify and expand the mentoring movement, celebrate the power of relationships, and raise awareness.
Poverty in America Awareness Month
Poverty in America Awareness Month is observed every January in the United States. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of poverty, highlight the challenges faced by millions of Americans living in poverty, and inspire action towards reducing poverty nationwide.
Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month
On December 31, 2012 Barack Obama declared January the National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. In his proclamation, President Obama explains that "trafficking networks operate both domestically and trans-nationally, and disproportionately affect women and girls."
Important January Dates
New Year's Day
In the Gregorian calendar, New Year's Day is the first day of the year; January 1. While most solar calendars (like the Gregorian and Julian) begin the year regularly at or near the northern winter solstice, cultures that observe a lunisolar or lunar calendar celebrate their Lunar New Year.
World Braille Day
World Braille Day is an international day on January 4 and celebrates awareness of the importance of braille as a means of communication in the full realization of the human rights for blind and visually impaired people.
Orthodox Christmas
Orthodox Christmas is observed on what the Julian Calendar labels December 25, a date that currently corresponds with January 7 on the more widely used Gregorian Calendar (which is also when Christmas is observed by the Coptic Orthodox Church in countries such as Egypt).
Maghi
Maghi is the regional name of the Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti celebrated in Punjab, Haryana Jammu division and Himachal Pradesh. Maghi is celebrated on first day of the month of Magh of Hindu Calendar.
Mahayana New Year
For Buddhists, the new year is a time for meditation and self reflection. The goal is to find ways to improve and learn from past mistakes. Buddhists also believe that buying new items, cleaning and redecorating the home and giving gifts can bring good luck.
World Religion Day
World Religion Day is an observance that was initiated in 1950 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United States, which is celebrated worldwide on the third Sunday in January each year.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. It marks the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., the chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.
International Day of Education
International Day of Education is an annual international observance day held on January 24 and is dedicated to education. On December 3, 2018, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming January 24 as International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for bringing global peace and sustainable development.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
The International Holocaust Remembrance Day, is an international memorial day on January 27 that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, which resulted in the genocide of one third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities by Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1945, an attempt to implement its "final solution" to the Jewish question.
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is the festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. In Chinese, the festival is commonly referred to as the Spring Festival, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season.
Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
American Heart Month
American Heart Month is observed during February, urging the people of the United States to recognize the nationwide problem of heart and blood vessel diseases and to support all essential programs required to solve the problem.
Ethnic Equality Month
Ethnic Equality Month is celebrated as an effort to celebrate diversity and promote equality among all ethnicities and cultures. Specific cultures and ethnicities are celebrated individually on specific dates throughout the month.
Black History Month
Black educators and Black United Students at Kent State University first proposed Black History Month in February 1969. The first celebration of Black History Month took place at Kent State a year later, from January 2 to February 28, 1970.
Important February Dates
National Freedom Day
National Freedom Day is a United States observance on February 1 honoring the signing by President Abraham Lincoln of a joint House and Senate resolution that later was ratified as the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. President Lincoln signed the Amendment abolishing slavery on February 1, 1865, although it was not ratified by the states until later.
Rosa Parks Day
Rosa Parks Day is a holiday in honor of the civil rights leader Rosa Parks, celebrated in the U.S. states of California and Missouri on her birthday, February 4, in Michigan on the first Monday after her birthday, and in Ohio and Oregon on the day she was arrested, December 1.
Safer Internet Day
As the number of internet users continues to grow worldwide, internets, governments, and organizations have expressed concerns about the safety of children and teenagers and the elderly using the Internet. Over 45% have announced they have endured some sort of cyber-harassment. Safer Internet Day is celebrated worldwide in February to raise awareness about internet safety.
International Day of Women & Girls in Science
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is implemented annually by UNESCO in collaboration with UN Women. Both organizations work with national governments, intergovernmental organizations, civil society partners, universities and corporations in order to achieve the shared goal of promoting the role of women and girls in scientific fields and celebrate those already successful in the field.
International Epilepsy Day
Started in 2015 and organized by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), the day provides a platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with a global audience. The day also calls for all people to advocate for appropriate legislation that will guarantee human rights of people with epilepsy and encourages people with epilepsy to live to their fullest potential.
Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day, also called Saint Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, originated as a Christian feast day honoring a martyr named Valentine and through later folk traditions, it has also become a significant cultural, religious and commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.
Parinirvana Day
Parinirvana Day is a Mahayana Buddhist holiday celebrated in East Asia, Vietnam and the Philippines. It celebrates the day when the Buddha is said to have achieved Parinirvana, or complete Nirvana, upon the death of his physical body.
International Childhood Cancer Day
International Childhood Cancer Day is a global collaborative campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors and their families.
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honour of the deity Shiva. According to the Hindu calendar, the festival is observed on the fourteenth day of the dark (waning) half of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha. The festival commemorates the wedding of Shiva and Parvati, and the occasion that Shiva performs his divine dance, called the Tandava.
World Day of Social Justice
World Day of Social Justice is an international day recognizing the need to promote social justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, human rights, and social protections.
Ramadan begins
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. A commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation, the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.
Click on an observance for more information.
Month-long Observances
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
The campaign seeks to raise awareness about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life, as well as awareness of the barriers that people with disabilities still sometimes face in connecting to the communities in which they live.
Gender Equality Month
March is regarded as Gender Equality Month, which serves as a call to celebrate the history, contributions, and wellness of community members who are impacted by gender-based bias and oppression.
Greek-American Heritage Month
Greek American Heritage Month, also called Hellenic Heritage Month, is celebrated every March to celebrate Greek culture and history. It coincides with Greece's National Independence Day which occurs on Match 25.
Irish-American Heritage Month
During Irish American Heritage Month, is observed every March to celebrate every part of Irish culture and history. The first observance dates back to 1967 with the first St. Patrick's Parade in New York City.
National Colon Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States. Every March, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month spotlights this disease and inspires more people to get checked starting at age 45.
National Kidney Month
March is National Kidney Month. As many as 90% of Americans who have chronic kidney disease don't know they have the disease until it is very advanced. The earlier you find out you have kidney disease, the sooner you can take steps to protect your kidneys from further damage.
National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month
National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month is observed in March of each year, a nationwide effort by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and affiliated groups to raise the public's awareness of multiple sclerosis.
National Women's History Month
Women's History Month began as a local celebration in Santa Rosa, California. The Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women planned and executed a 'Women's History Week' celebration in 1978.
Important March Dates
Employee Appreciation Day
Employee Appreciation Day is an event, observed on the first Friday in March, meant for employers to give thanks or recognition to their employees. It was created by Dr. Bob Nelson who was a founding member of Recognition Professionals International in 1995, initially to celebrate the publication of his book 1,001 Ways to Reward Employees and to remind employers to thank their employees when they do good work.
International Women's Day
International Women's Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. Spurred on by the universal female suffrage movement, IWD originated from labor movements in North America and Europe during the early 20th century.
Pi Day
Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi). Pi Day is observed on March 14 (the 3rd month) since 3, 1, and 4 are the first three digits of π, and was first celebrated in the United States.
Equal Pay Day
The symbolic day was first observed in 1996 by the National Committee on Pay Equity, a coalition of women's and civil rights organizations, labor unions, professional associations and individuals working to eliminate sex and race based wage discrimination and to achieve pay equity.
St. Patrick's Day
Saint Patrick's Day was made an official Christian feast day in the early 17th century and is observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion (especially the Church of Ireland), the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Lutheran Church. The day commemorates Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and, by extension, celebrates the heritage and culture of the Irish in general.
World Down Syndrome Day
Every year on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day is observed to create awareness about Down syndrome. It is a condition in which a child is born with an extra 21st chromosome. A common activity is wearing colorful or mismatched socks, to show support for people with Down syndrome.
Purim
Purim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the survival of the Jewish people in ancient Persia after their Persian rulers marked them for death in the 5th century BCE.
Holi
Holi is a popular and significant Hindu festival celebrated as the Festival of Colors, Love, and Spring. It celebrates the eternal and divine love of the deities Radha and Krishna. Additionally, the day signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it commemorates the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu.
International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
The day honours and remembers those who suffered and died as a consequence of the transatlantic slave trade, which has been called "the worst violation of human rights in history", in which over 400 years more than 15 million men, women and children were the victims.
Laylat al-Qadr
The Night of Power (Night of Decree, or Night of Determination, also the Precious Night), is, in Islamic belief, the night when Muslims believe the Quran was first sent down from Heaven to the world and also the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad; it is described to be better than a thousand months of worshipping.
Navaratri begins
Navaratri is a Hindu festival that spans nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga and her nine forms, collectively known as Navadurga. The word "Navaratri" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "nine nights" (Nava = nine, Ratri = night). The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, but with regional variations in customs, rituals, and festivities.
International Transgender Day of Visibility
An annual event occurring on March 31 dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a celebration of their contributions to society.
Eid al-Fitr
The religious holiday of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims worldwide because it marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan. It is considered a very important and meaning observance in the Islamic religion.
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Month-long Observances
National Arab-American Heritage Month
The United States Department of State has recognized April as the National Arab American Heritage Month. Stating in a public announcement on April 1, 2021, through their official social media channels: "Americans of Arab heritage are very much a part of the fabric of this nation, and Arab Americans have contributed in every field and profession."
National Autism Acceptance Month
April is National Autism Acceptance Month. The recognition raises awareness about autism acceptance and promotes inclusion and connectedness for people with autism. Social and community support can help people with autism achieve optimal health and reach their full potential.
Celebrate Diversity Month
Diversity brings substantial organizational benefits such as better decision making and improved problem solving, greater creativity and innovation, which lead to maximizing the positive impact of an organization.
Earth Month
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Prevention services and supports developed by this collaboration can help to protect children and strengthen families.
National Volunteer Month
National Volunteer month in the United States takes place in the month of April. This month is dedicated to honoring all of the volunteers in our communities well as encouraging volunteerism throughout the month.
Important April Dates
World Autism Awareness Day
World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day annually on April 2, encouraging Member States of the United Nations to take measures to raise awareness about autistic individuals throughout the world.
National Day of Silence
Day of Silence is GLSEN's annual day of action to spread awareness about the effects of the bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) students.
Passover
Passover, also called Pesach, is a major Jewish holiday, one of the three pilgrimage festivals, that celebrates the Biblical story of the Israelites' escape from slavery in Egypt. Pesach starts on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan which is considered the first month of the Hebrew year.
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday is a Christian celebration that marks the beginning of Holy Week, the final week of Lent leading up to Easter Sunday. It commemorates Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, an event described in the Gospels (particularly in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).
Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian holy day that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week on the Friday before Easter Sunday, and it is considered one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar. Despite its sorrowful nature, the term "Good" reflects the belief that Jesus' sacrificial death was part of God's plan to bring about the redemption and salvation of humanity.
Easter
A Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary.
Start of Ridvan
A twelve-day festival in the Bahá'í Faith, commemorating Bahá'u'lláh's declaration that he was a Manifestation of God. It is the holiest Bahá'í festival, and is also referred to as the "Most Great Festival" and the "King of Festivals".
Earth Day
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
Yom Hashoah (Jewish)
Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG'vurah, known colloquially in Israel and abroad as Yom HaShoah, and in English as International Holocaust Remembrance Day, or Holocaust Day, is observed as Israel's day of commemoration for the approximately six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust by Nazi Germany and its collaborators, and for the Jewish resistance in that period.
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Month-long Observances
ALS Awareness Month
ALS Awareness Month is a campaign to spread awareness of and raise funds for research for a cure for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease).
Haitian Heritage Month
Haitian Heritage Month is a celebration in the United States of Haitian heritage and culture. It was first celebrated during the month of May in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1998.
Jewish-American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month is an annual recognition and celebration of American Jews' achievements and contributions to the United States of America during the month of May.
Mental Health Month
The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to raise awareness and educate the public about: mental illnesses, such as the 18.1% of Americans who suffer from depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder; the realities of living with these conditions; and strategies for attaining mental health and wellness. It also aims to draw attention to suicide, which can be precipitated by some mental illnesses. Additionally, Mental Health Awareness Month strives to reduce the stigma (negative attitudes and misconceptions) that surrounds mental illnesses.
National Asian American and South Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is observed in the United States during the month of May, and recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
Older Americans Month
Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to society, in particular those who defended their country. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the United States through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other such activities.
Important May Dates
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration held on May 5 to celebrate Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza.
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia is observed on May 17 and aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide.
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
Held every year on 21 May, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development celebrates not only the richness of the world's cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.
Declaration of the Báb
Baha'is around the world celebrate the 22nd of May, 1844 as the day of the Declaration of the Báb, who was the forerunner of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Ascension of Baha'u'llah
Baha'u'llah, the Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith, passed away on 29 May, 1892. This holy day is commemorated by Baha'is all over the world and is known as The Ascension of Baha'u'llah'. The final resting place of Baha'u'llah, the Shrine of Baha'u'llah, is located in Bahji (in present day Israel), and is the Point of Adoration to which Baha'is turn when reciting their Obligatory Prayer.
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Month-long Observances
Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month is observed in June to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, as well as to highlight the importance of brain health. During this month, various activities and campaigns are organized to educate the public, support research efforts, and provide resources for those affected by Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders.
Black Music Month
June is African American Music Appreciation Month. Created by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, this month celebrates the African American musical influences that comprise an essential part of our nation's treasured cultural heritage.
National Caribbean-American Heritage Month
National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is celebrated by proclamation of the President and Congress in the United States in June to honor the achievements and contributions of Caribbean immigrants and their descendants living in the United States, particularly in government, sports, entertainment, and the arts.
Pride Month
LGBT Pride Month is a month, typically June, dedicated to celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) pride. Pride Month began after the Stonewall riots, a series of gay liberation protests in 1969. Modern-day Pride Month both honors the movement for LGBT rights and celebrates LGBT culture.
Important June Dates
World Environment Day
World Environment Day is celebrated annually on the 5th of June and encourages awareness and action for the protection of the environment. It is a global platform for public outreach, with participation from over 143 countries annually.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha ("Feast of the Sacrifice") or the Feast of Sacrifice is the second and the largest of the two main holidays celebrated in Islam (the other being Eid al-Fitr). Sweets and gifts are given, and extended family members typically visit and are welcomed.
Loving Day
Loving Day is an annual national celebration held on June 12, the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down all anti-miscegenation laws remaining in sixteen U.S. states.
Juneteenth
Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. The holiday's name is a portmanteau of the words "June" and "nineteenth", as it was on June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War.
World Refugee Day
World Refugee Day is recognized internationally as a day to celebrate and honor refugees from around the world. It aims to recognize the strength of the refugees who have fled the conflict and persecution of their country in hope of finding sanctuary and living a better life.
Summer solstice
The summer solstice or estival solstice occurs when one of Earth's poles has its maximum tilt toward the Sun. It happens twice yearly, once in each hemisphere (Northern and Southern). For that hemisphere, the summer solstice is the day with the longest period of daylight and shortest night of the year, when the Sun is at its highest position in the sky. At either pole there is continuous daylight at the time of its summer solstice.
Muharram
Muharram, also known as the Islamic or Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the migration (Hijra) of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This migration was a pivotal event in Islamic history, leading to the establishment of the first Muslim community and the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
Pride Day
Pride Day commemorates the history, struggles, and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals and promotes equality, acceptance, and human rights. The origins of Pride Day trace back to the Stonewall Riots of June 1969 in New York City, which were pivotal in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Pride events typically include parades, festivals, educational panels, and other activities designed to celebrate diversity and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
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Important July Dates
Independence Day (USA)
Independence Day, known colloquially as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.
Martyrdom of the Báb
All around the globe, Bahá'is will observe the Martyrdom of the Báb at noon on July 9th, believing that the Báb set in motion a fresh cycle of progressive revelation to humanity.
World Populace Day
World Population Day is observed on July 11 each year. It was established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989 to raise awareness about global population issues and to address the challenges associated with rapid population growth.
International Nelson Mandela Day
Nelson Mandela International Day (or Mandela Day) is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela's birthday. Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an impact.
National Disability Independence Day
In the United States, July 26 is recognized annually as National Disability Independence Day, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law in 1990.
International Day of Friendship
International Friendship Day is celebrated on July 30 each year. It was established by the United Nations in 2011 to recognize the importance of friendships in promoting peace and understanding among people from different cultures and backgrounds. The day is an opportunity to acknowledge the role that friendships play in bridging divides, fostering mutual respect, and building more inclusive communities.
Important August Dates
Purple Heart Day
Each year on August 7, our nation recognizes the men and women who are known as our Purple Heart recipients. The Purple Heart, one of the oldest military decorations, is presented to service members who were injured or killed in service to the United States.
International Day of the World's Indigenous People
Violations of the rights of the world's Indigenous Peoples have become a persistent problem, sometimes because of a historical burden from their colonization backgrounds and others because of the contrast with a constantly changing society.
Marcus Garvey Day
Marcus Mosiah Garvey Jr. (17 August 1887 - 10 June 1940) was a Jamaican political activist. He was the founder and first President-General of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League through which he declared himself Provisional President of Africa.
World Humanitarian Day
On August 19, we come together to honor humanitarians around the world who strive to meet ever-growing global needs. No matter the danger or the hardship, humanitarians venture deep into disaster-stricken regions and on the front lines of conflict, strive to save and protect people in need.
Senior Citizens Day
Today, millions of American seniors are changing the way we view old age. Far from fading into the sunset, these citizens are serving as brilliant points of light in their communities.
Women's Equality Day
Women's Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment (Amendment XIX) to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex.
Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Krishna's birth is celebrated and observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha).
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Month-long Observances
Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries.
National Guide Dog Month
National Guide Dog Month is a celebration of the work of guide dogs in the United States as a way to raise awareness, appreciation and support for guide dog schools across the United States. It was established in 2008, as a fundraising drive to benefit non-profit guide dog organizations accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation.
Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month — a time to raise awareness and discuss this highly stigmatized topic. In addition to shifting public perception, we use this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide.
Important September Dates
Labor Day
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States.
International Day of Charity
Charity, like the notions of volunteerism and philanthropy, provides real social bonding and contributes to the creation of inclusive and more resilient societies. International Day of Charity is celebrated the whole month of September.
Patriot Day (U.S.A.)
In the United States, Patriot Day occurs on September 11 of each year in memory of the people killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. The flag of the United States is flown at half-staff at the White House and on all U.S. government buildings and establishments throughout the world.
Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, a significant holiday in the Jewish faith that marks the beginning of the High Holy Days or "Days of Awe," which culminate with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah typically falls in September or early October and is celebrated on the first two days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei.
International Day of Democracy
The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and can only be realized with participation and support from the international community.
Mexican Independence Day
The Mexican War of Independence (Spanish: Guerra de Independencia de México, 16 September 1810 – 27 September 1821) was an armed conflict and political process resulting in Mexico's independence from the Spanish Empire. It was not a single, coherent event, but local and regional struggles that occurred within the same period, and can be considered a revolutionary civil war.
World Gratitude Day
The celebration started in 1965 in Hawaii when an international gathering decided that it would be a good idea to have one day per year to formally express gratitude and appreciation for the many wonderful things to be found in the world.
International Day of Peace
Each year the International Day of Peace (IDP) is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
American Business Women's Day
September 22 marks the 1949 founding date of the American Business Women's Association, the mission of which is "to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership; education, networking support and national recognition".
National Native American Day
Native American Day is a holiday observed in several US states in celebration of Native American culture. In California and Nevada, the holiday is designated on the fourth Friday of September, whereas in South Dakota and Wisconsin, it falls on the second Monday of October.
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Month-long Observances
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in October, is a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, educating the public on the importance of early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease. It's also a reminder for fundraising efforts to support research, treatment, and support services.
Bullying Prevention Month
Bullying Prevention Month, observed in October, focuses on raising awareness about bullying, its impacts, and how to prevent it. The month aims to educate students, parents, educators, and communities about the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments for everyone.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month, observed in October, is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, supporting survivors, and advocating for prevention and intervention strategies. The month aims to shine a light on the issue, educate the public, and promote resources and services available to those affected by domestic violence.
Filipino-American History Month
Filipino-American History Month, celebrated in October, honors and recognizes the contributions, history, and culture of Filipino Americans in the United States. It is a time to celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of the Filipino American community and to raise awareness about their impact on American society.
German-American Heritage Month
German-American Heritage Month, observed in October, celebrates the contributions, culture, and history of German Americans in the United States. It provides an opportunity to recognize the significant impact that German immigrants and their descendants have had on American society.
Italian-American Heritage Month
Italian-American Heritage Month, celebrated in October, is a time to recognize and honor the contributions, culture, and history of Italian Americans in the United States. The month highlights the impact of Italian immigrants and their descendants on American society and celebrates their rich cultural heritage.
LGBT History Month
LGBT History Month, celebrated in October, is a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the history, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. It aims to educate the public about LGBTQ+ history, promote awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, and celebrate the progress made toward equality and acceptance.
National Work and Family Month
National Work and Family Month, observed in October, is dedicated to promoting the balance between work and family life. It emphasizes the importance of supporting employees in managing their professional responsibilities alongside their family commitments. The month aims to raise awareness about the challenges and solutions related to work-life balance and to advocate for policies and practices that benefit both employees and their families.
Polish-American Heritage Month
Polish-American Heritage Month, observed in October, celebrates the contributions, culture, and history of Polish Americans in the United States. It is a time to recognize the significant impact Polish immigrants and their descendants have had on American society and to honor their rich cultural heritage.
Family History Month
Family History Month, observed in October, is dedicated to exploring and celebrating family heritage and genealogical research. It provides an opportunity for individuals and families to delve into their own histories, connect with their roots, and preserve their family stories for future generations.
Important October Dates
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is one of the most important and solemn holidays in Judaism. It occurs on the 10th day of Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar, which usually falls in late September or early October. Yom Kippur is considered the culmination of the Ten Days of Repentance that begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
International Day of Nonviolence
The International Day of Non-Violence, observed on October 2nd, commemorates the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in the global movement for non-violent resistance and civil disobedience. The day is dedicated to promoting the principles of non-violence as a means to achieve social and political change and to resolving conflicts peacefully.
Sukkot
Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Festival of Booths, is a Jewish holiday celebrated for seven days (eight in the Diaspora) starting on the 15th day of Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar, which usually falls in late September or early October. It is one of the major Jewish pilgrimage festivals and is deeply rooted in both agricultural and historical traditions.
World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th each year, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, promoting mental well-being, and advocating for better mental health services and support. The day aims to highlight the importance of mental health and to address the stigma and challenges faced by individuals experiencing mental health conditions.
National Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day, observed on October 11th, is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals who come out as LGBTQ+. It aims to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues, promote visibility, and encourage open discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity.
National Indigenous Peoples' Day
In the United States, the day is often referred to as Indigenous Peoples' Day or Native American Day and is observed on the second Monday in October, coinciding with the federal holiday of Columbus Day. This day is intended to recognize and honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities and to challenge the legacy of colonization and misrepresentation associated with Columbus Day.
Boss's Day
Boss's Day, celebrated on October 16th, is a day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the role of bosses and managers in the workplace. The day provides an opportunity for employees to express gratitude and acknowledge the contributions of their supervisors and managers.
Spirit Day
Spirit Day, observed annually on October 19th, is a day dedicated to standing against bullying, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, and to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. The day aims to raise awareness about the issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and to promote acceptance and inclusion.
Waste Reduction Week
Waste Reduction Week is an annual event dedicated to promoting strategies and actions for reducing waste and encouraging more sustainable consumption practices. The event typically takes place in mid-October, although specific dates and observances can vary depending on the country or region.
Sikh Holy Day (birth of Guru Granth)
The Sikh Holy Day known as the Birth of Guru Granth Sahib is celebrated to honor the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru of the Sikh faith. The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered by Sikhs to be the final and eternal Guru, and is highly revered for its spiritual teachings and guidance.
Birth of the Báb
The Birth of the Báb is a significant holiday in the Bahá'í Faith, commemorating the birth of the Báb, one of the central figures in the religion. The Báb, born Siyyid Ali Muhammad in 1819, was the founder of the Babi Faith, a precursor to the Bahá'í Faith. His teachings paved the way for the Bahá'í Faith and significantly influenced its development.
International Stuttering Awareness Day
International Stuttering Awareness Day is observed on October 22nd each year. The day is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of stuttering, also known as stammering, and supporting those who experience it. It aims to educate the public, reduce stigma, and promote acceptance and inclusion for individuals who stutter.
Halloween
Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, is a holiday that blends ancient traditions, folklore, and modern customs. It originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The festival was believed to be a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was thin, allowing spirits to cross over.
Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people around the world. Often referred to as the "Festival of Lights," Diwali is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Hinduism, and it typically lasts five days. The festival usually falls between mid-September and mid-November, depending on the lunar calendar.
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Month-long Observances
Diabetes Awareness Month
Diabetes Awareness Month is observed every November to raise awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of prevention and management. It aims to educate the public, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and highlight the challenges faced by those living with diabetes. Organizations like the American Diabetes Association and the International Diabetes Federation often lead initiatives, campaigns, and events during this month to support research and advocacy efforts. It's a time to spread knowledge and support those affected by the disease.
National Native American Heritage Month
National Native American Heritage Month is observed in the United States throughout November. It celebrates the rich culture, history, and contributions of Native Americans. The month is an opportunity to recognize the diverse cultures of indigenous peoples, honor their traditions, and acknowledge the significant challenges they have faced throughout history.
Important November Dates
All Saints' Day
All Saints' Day, celebrated on November 1st, is a Christian holiday honoring all saints, known and unknown. It is observed by various denominations, including Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches. The day follows All Hallows' Eve (Halloween) and emphasizes the lives and contributions of saints and martyrs who have attained heaven. In many cultures, people attend church services, light candles, and visit graves of loved ones to remember them. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual connection between the living and the deceased, celebrating the faithful who have exemplified Christian virtues.
Dia de Muertos
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. It honors deceased loved ones, blending indigenous customs with Catholic practices. Families create altars (ofrendas) adorned with photos, favorite foods, and mementos of the departed. Marigolds, sugar skulls, and papel picado (decorative paper) are common symbols. The celebration is vibrant and joyous, emphasizing remembrance and the belief that the souls of the deceased return to visit their families during this time. It's a profound way to celebrate life and death, recognizing the continuity of existence.
International Stress Awareness Day
International Stress Awareness Day is observed on the first Wednesday of November each year. It aims to raise awareness about stress and its impact on mental and physical health. The day encourages individuals and organizations to promote stress management techniques, highlight the importance of mental well-being, and foster a supportive environment for those experiencing stress.
World Freedom Day
World Freedom Day is observed on November 9th each year, commemorating the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, which symbolized the end of the Cold War and the fight for freedom and democracy. The day serves as a reminder of the struggles for freedom around the world and celebrates the progress made in promoting human rights and democratic values.
National Adoption Day
National Adoption Day is observed annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving in the United States. The day aims to raise awareness about the adoption process and the thousands of children in foster care who are waiting for permanent families. It encourages families to consider adoption and highlights the need for loving homes for children in need.
Remembrance/Veterans Day
Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day in some countries, is observed on November 11th each year to honor military personnel who have died in the line of duty during wars and conflicts. It marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. The day is commemorated with ceremonies, moments of silence, and the wearing of red poppies as a symbol of remembrance.
World Kindness Day
World Kindness Day is celebrated on November 13th each year and aims to promote kindness and compassion in communities around the globe. Established in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, the day encourages individuals, organizations, and countries to perform acts of kindness, both big and small.
International Day of Tolerance
The International Day of Tolerance is observed on November 16th each year. Established by the United Nations in 1996, this day promotes the importance of tolerance in fostering peaceful and inclusive societies. It emphasizes the need to respect and appreciate diversity, whether in terms of culture, religion, ethnicity, or beliefs.
International Men's Day
International Men's Day is celebrated on November 19th each year. It focuses on promoting awareness of men's health issues, improving gender relations, and highlighting positive male role models. The day aims to address the challenges men face, such as mental health issues, societal expectations, and the importance of male contributions to families and communities.
Universal Children's Day
Universal Children's Day is celebrated on November 20th each year to promote the welfare and rights of children worldwide. Established by the United Nations in 1954, this day coincides with the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a U.S. national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It originated as a harvest festival in the early 17th century, with the most well-known celebration occurring in 1621 when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast. Over time, it evolved into a day of giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year.
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Month-long Observances
HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
World AIDS Month is observed annually in December to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and to support those affected by the virus. The key date within this month is December 1, which is recognized as World AIDS Day. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO), World AIDS Day is a global event dedicated to spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, commemorating those who have died from the disease, and promoting efforts to fight the epidemic.
Universal Human Rights Month
On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly established a set of principles regarding equality, fairness, and fundamental human rights that must be universally protected. These principles recognize our freedom to make choices about our lives and develop our human potential. The principles are about living free from fear, harassment, and discrimination.
Important December Dates
World AIDS Day
December 1 is recognized as World AIDS Day. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO), World AIDS Day is a global event dedicated to spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, commemorating those who have died from the disease, and promoting efforts to fight the epidemic.
International Day for People with Disabilities
Since its inception in 1945, the United Nations (UN) has outlined and reiterated its commitment to calling for the creation of inclusive, accessible and sustainable societies and communities - most notably with the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
International Volunteer Day
Volunteerism is an enormous renewable resource for social, economic and environmental problem-solving throughout the world. As the world faces mounting challenges, volunteers are often the first to help. Volunteers are at the fore in crises and emergencies, often in very testing and dire situations.
Genocide Prevention Day
Every 9 December, the Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide marks the adoption of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide - a crucial global commitment that was made at the founding of the United Nations, immediately preceding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
International Human Rights Day
Human Rights Day is observed by the international community every year on 10 December. It commemorates the day in 1948 when the General Assembly adopted a "common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations", towards which individuals and societies should "strive by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance".
Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a Jewish festival commemorating the recovery of Jerusalem and subsequent rededication of the Second Temple at the beginning of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by lighting the candles of a candelabrum with nine branches, commonly called a menorah or hanukkiah.
Yule Winter Solstice
Yule is a traditional festival celebrated around the time of the winter solstice, typically from December 21 to January 1. Its origins trace back to ancient pagan and Norse traditions, and it has been incorporated into various modern celebrations, including some aspects of Christmas.
Christmas
Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. A feast central to the liturgical year in Christianity, it follows the season of Advent (which begins four Sundays before) or the Nativity Fast, and initiates the season of Christmastide, which historically in the West lasts twelve days and culminates on Twelfth Night.
Boxing Day
Boxing Day is celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas Day, primarily in the United Kingdom and other countries historically connected to the British Empire, such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu, usually on the sixth day. It was created by activist Maulana Karenga, based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa.
New Year's Eve
In the Gregorian calendar, New Year's Eve, also known as Old Year's Day, is the evening or the entire day of the last day of the year, 31 December. In many countries, New Year's Eve is celebrated with dancing, eating, drinking, and watching or lighting fireworks. The celebrations generally go on past midnight into New Year's Day, 1 January.