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Diversity and Inclusion

Cultural and Religious Observances

One of the characteristics of a University that subscribes to inclusive excellence is an appreciation for dates and events that are important to a wide range of cultures and religions. Below is a listing of events to serve as a resource for all and a tool for those planning events.

We ask that you share with us any widely recognized cultural or religious observances you believe should be included on this calendar. Your input will help ensure that these observances are available as another educational tool for the enrichment of campus and area community.

2020 Observances

2021 Observances

2022 Observances

2023 Observances

2024 Observances

2025 Observances

2026 Observances

2020 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

January 1

New Year's Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year's day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 6

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 10

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.

January 14

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

January 20

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15^th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 25

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2020 is a year of the Rat.

January 29

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.
February 1-28

African American Heritage Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 2

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

February 8

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.

February 10

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu BiShvat is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sundown on February 9.

February 21

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.

February 26

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

February 26-April 9

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.
Through April 9

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women's History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 9

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.

Purim begins at sundown on March 8.

March 10

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

March 20

Ostara | Pagan\Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

Naw-Ruz | Baha'i

A festival celebrating the Baha’i new year and ending the annual 19-day fast.

Naw-Ruz is a Baha'i Holy Day and begins at sundown on March 19.

March 21

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.
Through April 9

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

April 2

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

April 4

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors.

April 5

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

April 8

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

April 9

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

April 9-16

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy Days and begins at sundown on April 8.

April 10

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

April 12

Easter | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.

April 21

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah is a Jewish Holy Day.

Ridvan Festival | Baha'i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 21), the ninth (April 29) and the twelfth (May 2) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Baha'i Holy Day and begins at sundown on April 20.

April 24

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 24-May 23

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy Month and begins at sundown on April 23.

April 30

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.
Through May 23

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy Month and begins at sundown on April 23.

May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

May 12

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2^nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sundown on May 11.

May 20

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

May 21

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 23

Declaration of the Bab | Baha'i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy Day and begins at sundown on May 22.

May 24

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul Fitr is an Islamic Holy Day.

May 25

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

May 28

Ascension of Baha'u'llah | Baha'i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

This is a Baha'i Holy Day and begins at sundown on May 27.

May 29-30

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sunset on May 28.

May 31

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

June 14

Race Unity Day | Baha'i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 19

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

Jun 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.

June 25

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 9

Martyrdom of the Bab | Baha'i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

Martyrdom of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy Day and begins at sundown on July 8.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.

July 30

Eid al-Adha | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy Day.

Tish'a B'av | Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

Tish'a B'av is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sundown on July 29.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 11

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami is a Hindu Holy Day.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one's ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 20

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is an Islamic Holy Day and begins at sundown on August 19.

August 22

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.

August 25

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7^th day in the 7^th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.

August 26

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19^th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.

August 30

Ashura | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

Ashura is an Islamic Holy Day.
September 2

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.

September 7

Labor Day | National Holiday

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 10

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sundown on September 9.

September 11

Simchat Torah*^ | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observation

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

September 16

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

Dia de la Independencia is a Mexican holiday that begins at sundown on September 15.

September 19-20

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sundown on September 18.

September 21

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occurring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

September 21-27

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.

September 28

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy Day and begins at sundown on September 27.
Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observation

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month | National Observance

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 1

Mid-Autumn Festival | Chinese Culture

A celebration of hard work and harvest, as well as time for families to reunite.

October 3-9

Sukkot | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 2.

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Observance

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 17-25

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

October 18

Birth of the Bab | Baha’i

Observance of the anniversary of the 1819 birth of Siyyid, the Bab, prophet and forerunner of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of the Bab is a Baha’i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 17.

October 19

Birth of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha’i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 18.

October 25

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

October 29

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States.

November 1

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 11

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 14

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 26

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

Day of the Covenant | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha’i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 25.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
December 3

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 11-18

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 10.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

2021 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

Through January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

January 1

New Year’s Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year’s Day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 3

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 14

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

January 18

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 28

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu BiShvat begins at sundown on January 27.
February 1-28

African American History Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 2

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

February 12

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2021 is a year of the Ox.

February 16

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.

February 17

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

February 17-April 1

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

February 26

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.

Purim begins at sundown on February 25.
Through April 1

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women’s History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 11

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.

March 20

Ostara | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

Naw-Ruz*^ | Baha’i

A festival celebrating the Baha’i new year and ending the annual 19-day fast.

Naw-Ruz is a Baha’i Holy day and begins at sundown on March 19.

March 21

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 28-April 4

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on March 27.

March 28

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.
Through April 1

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

Through April 4

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on March 27.

April 1

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

April 2

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

April 4

Easter Sunday | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

April 8

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah begins at sundown on April 7.

April 13-May 11

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on April 12.

April 20

Ridvan Festival | Baha’i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 20), the ninth (April 28) and the twelfth (May 1) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Baha’i Holy day and begins at sundown on April 19.

April 21

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

April 23

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ+ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 26

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

April 27

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

April 30

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer begins at sundown on April 29.
Through May 11

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on April 12.

May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

May 9

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

May 13

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic Holy day.

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 17-18

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on May 16.

May 23

Declaration of the Bab | Baha’i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 22.

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.

May 26

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.

May 28

Ascension of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

Ascension of the Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 27.

May 31

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

June 13

Race Unity Day | Baha’i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 14

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.

June 19

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

June 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 9

Martyrdom of the Bab | Baha’i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

Martyrdom of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on July 8.

July 18

Tisha B’Av | Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

Tisha B’Av is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on July 18.

July 20

Eid al-Adha | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy day.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 10

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on August 9.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one’s ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 14

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7th day in the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.

August 19

Ashura | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

Ashura is an Islamic Holy day.

August 22

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.

August 26

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.

August 30

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami begins at sundown on August 29.
September 6

Labor Day | National Observance

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 7-8

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 6.

September 10

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

September 16

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 15.

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

Dia de la Independencia begins at sundown on September 15.

September 20-24

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.

September 21

Mid-Autumn Festival | Chinese Culture

A celebration of hard work and harvest, as well as time for families to reunite.

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occuring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

September 21-27

Sukkot | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 20.

September 28

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 27.

September 29

Simchat Torah | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

Simchat Torah is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 28.
Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 6-14

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Culture

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 15

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

October 19

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States.

November 1

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

November 4

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

November 6

Birth of the Bab | Baha’i

Observance of the anniversary of the 1819 birth of Siyyid, the Bab, prophet and forerunner of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 5.

November 7

Birth of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 6.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 11

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 25

Day of the Covenant | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 24.

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

November 29-December 6

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on November 28.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
Through December 6

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on November 28.

December 3

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

2022 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

Through January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

January 1

New Year’s Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year’s Day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 2

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 14

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

January 17

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu BiShvat begins at sundown on January 16.

January 18

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.
February 1-28

African American History Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 1

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2022 is a year of the Tiger.

February 2

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

February 5

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.

February 15

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.
March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women’s History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 1

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.

March 2

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

March 2-April 14

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

March 17

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.
Purim begins at sundown on March 16.

March 18

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

March 20

Ostara | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

March 21

Naw-Ruz | Baha’i

A festival celebrating the Baha’i new year and ending the annual 19-day fast.
Naw-Ruz is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on March 20.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.
Through April 14

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

April 3-May 2

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on April 2.

April 5

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

April 8

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ+ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 10

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

April 14

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

April 15

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

April 16

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

April 16-23

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on April 15.

April 17

Easter Sunday | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.

April 21

Ridvan Festival | Baha’i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 21), the ninth (April 29) and the twelfth (May 2) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on April 20.

April 28

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah begins at sundown on April 17.

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Beltane | Pagen/Wiccan

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 2

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic Holy day.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

May 16

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.

May 19

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer begins at sundown on May 18.

May 24

Declaration of the Bab | Baha’i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 23.

May 26

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 29

Ascension of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

Ascension of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 28.

May 30

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 3

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.

June 5

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.

June 5-6

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on June 4.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

Race Unity Day | Baha’i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 19

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

June 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 9

Eid al-Adha | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy day.

July 10

Martyrdom of the Bab | Baha’i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

Martyrdom of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on July 9.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.

July 30

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is an Islamic Holy month.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 4

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7th day in the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.

August 7

Tisha B’Av | Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

Tisha B’Av is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on August 6

August 8

Ashura | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

Ashura is an Islamic Holy day.

August 12

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one’s ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 18

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami begins at sundown on August 17.

August 26

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.

August 31

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.
September 5

Labor Day | National Observance

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 10

Mid-Autumn Festival | Chinese Culture

A celebration of hard work and harvest, as well as time for families to reunite.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society

September 16

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day)^ | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

September 21

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occuring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

September 26-27

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 25.

September 26-30

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.

September 26-October 4

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.
Through October 4

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 5

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 4.

October 8

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

October 10-16

Sukkot | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 9.

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Culture

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 17

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 16.

October 18

Simchat Torah | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

Simchat Torah is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 17.

October 24

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

October 26

Birth of the Bab | Baha’i

Observance of the anniversary of the 1819 birth of Siyyid, the Bab, prophet and forerunner of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 25.

October 27

Birth of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 26.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States.

November 1

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 11

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 24

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

November 26

Day of the Covenant | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 25.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
December 2

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 18-26

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 17.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

2023 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

Through January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

January 1

New Year’s Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year’s Day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 7

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.

January 8

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 15

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

January 16

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 22

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2023 is a year of the Rabbit.

January 25

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.
February 1-28

African American History Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 2

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

February 5

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.

February 6

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu BiShvat begins at sundown on February 5.

February 18

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.

February 22-April 6

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.
March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women’s History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 7

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.

Purim begins at sundown on March 6.

March 20

Ostara | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

March 21

Naw-Ruz | Baha’i

A festival celebrating the Baha’i new year and ending the annual 19-day fast.

Naw-ruz is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on March 20.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 23-April 21

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on March 22.

March 30

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.
Through April 6

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

Through April 21

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on March 22.

April 2

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

April 5

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

April 6-13

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on April 5.

April 7

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

April 9

Easter Sunday | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.

April 14

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ+ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 18

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah begins at sundown on April 17.

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

April 21

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic Holy day.

Ridvan Festival | Baha’i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 21), the ninth (April 29) and the twelfth (May 2) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on April 20.
May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.

May 9

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer begins at sundown on May 8.

May 18

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 24

Declaration of the Bab | Baha’i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 23.

May 26-27

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on May 25.

May 28

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.

May 29

Ascension of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

Ascension of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 28

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 11

Race Unity Day | Baha’i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

June 19

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

June 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.

June 22

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.

June 28

Eid al-Adha | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy day.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 10

Martyrdom of the Bab*^ | Baha’i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

Martyrdom of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on July 9.

July 19

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is and Islamic Holy month.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.

July 27

Tisha B’Av | Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

Tisha B’Av is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on July 26.

July 28

Ashura | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

Ashura is an Islamic Holy day.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one’s ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 26

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.

August 27

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7th day in the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.

August 30

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.
September 4

Labor Day | National Observance

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 6

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami begins at sundown on September 5.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

September 16

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

Dia de la Independencia begins at sundown on September 15.

September 16-17

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 15.

September 19

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.

September 21

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occuring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

September 25

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 24.

September 25-29

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.

September 27

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

September 30-October 6

Sukkot *^ | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 29.
Through October 6

Sukkot *^ | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 29.

Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 7

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmiini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 6.

October 8

Simchat Torah*^ | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

Simchat Torah is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 7.

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Culture

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 15-23

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

October 16

Birth of the Bab | Baha’i

Observance of the anniversary of the 1819 birth of Siyyid, the Bab, prophet and forerunner of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 15.

October 17

Birth of Baha’u’llah*^ | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 16.

October 24

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States.

November 1

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

November 9

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 11

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 23

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

November 26

Day of the Covenant*^ | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 25.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
December 3

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 7-15

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 6.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

2024 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

Through January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

January 1

New Year’s Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year’s Day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 7

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 15

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 25

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu BiShvat begins at sundown on January 24.
February 1-29

African American History Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 2

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

February 10

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2024 is a year of the Dragon.

February 13

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.

February 14

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

February 14-March 28

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

February 24

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.
March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women’s History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 8

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.

March 11-April 9

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on March 10.

March 20

Ostara | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

Naw-Ruz | Baha’i

A festival celebrating the Baha’i new year and ending the annual 19-day fast.

Naw-Ruz is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on March 19.

March 21

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 24

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.

Purim begins at sundown on March 23.

March 25

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

March 28

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

March 29

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.

Easter Sunday | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.
Through April 9

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on March 10.

April 4

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

April 10

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic Holy day.

April 12

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ+ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 17

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

April 20

Ridvan Festival | Baha’i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 20), the ninth (April 28) and the twelfth (May 1) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on April 19.

April 23

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

April 23-30

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on April 22.
May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

May 6

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah begins at sundown on May 5.

May 9

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 19

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.

May 23

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.

Declaration of the Bab | Baha’i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Bahai’ Holy day and begins at sundown on May 22.

May 26

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer begins at sundown on May 25.

May 27

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

May 28

Ascension of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

Ascension of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 27.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 9

Race Unity Day | Baha’i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 10

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

June 12-13

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on June 11.

June 17

Eid al-Adha | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy day.

June 19

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

June 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 7

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is an Islamic Holy month.

July 9

Martyrdom of the Bab*^ | Baha’i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

July 13

Tisha B’Av *^| Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

July 16

Ashura* | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 10

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7th day in the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one’s ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 18

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.

August 26

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami begins at sundown on August 25

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.
September 2

Labor Day | National Observance

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 7

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.

September 15

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

September 16

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

Dia de la Independencia begins at sundown on September 15.

September 17

Mid-Autumn Festival | Chinese Culture

A celebration of hard work and harvest, as well as time for families to reunite.

September 21

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occuring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

September 23-27

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.
Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 3-4

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 2.

October 3-12

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Culture

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 12

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 11.

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

October 17-23

Sukkot | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 16.

October 24

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 23.

October 25

Simchat Torah | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

Simchat Torah is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 24.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States

November 1

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

Birth of the Bab | Baha’i

Observance of the anniversary of the 1819 birth of Siyyid, the Bab, prophet and forerunner of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 1.

November 3

Birth of Baha’u’lla | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 2.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 11

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 25

Day of the Covenant | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 24.

November 28

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
December 3

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 25-January 2

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 24.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

2025 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

Through January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

Through January 2

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 24.

January 1

New Year’s Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year’s Day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 5

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 13

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.

January 14

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

January 20

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 29

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2025 is a year of the Snake.
February 1-28

African American History Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 2

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.

February 12

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.

February 13

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu Bishvat begins at sundown on February 12.

February 26

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.
March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women’s History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 1-30

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on February 28.

March 5

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

March 5-April 17

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

March 14

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.

Purim begins at sundown on March 13.

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

March 20

Ostara | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

March 21

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 27

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic Holy day.
Through April 17

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

April 4

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

April 11

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ+ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 12

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

April 13

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

April 13-20

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on April 12.

April 14

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

April 17

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

April 18

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

April 20

Easter Sunday | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.

Ridvan Festival | Baha’i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 20), the ninth (April 28) and the twelfth (May 1) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Bahai’ Holy day and begins at sundown on April 19.

April 24

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah begins at sundown on April 23.
May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

May 12

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.

May 16

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer begins at sundown on May 15.

May 23

Declaration of the Bab | Baha’i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 22.

May 26

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

May 28

Ascension of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

Ascension of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 27.

May 29

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 31

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 2-3

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on June 1.

June 6

Eid al-Adha | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy day.

June 8

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.

Race Unity Day | Baha’i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

June 19

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

June 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.

June 26

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is an Islamic Holy month.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 5

Ashura* | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

Ashura is an Islamic Holy day.

July 9

Martyrdom of the Bab*^ | Baha’i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

Martyrdom of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on July 8.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 3

Tisha B’Av | Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

Tisha B’Av is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on August 2.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one’s ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 15

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami begins at sundown on August 14.

August 26

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.

August 27

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.

August 29

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7th day in the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.
September 1

Labor Day | National Observance

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 5

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

September 6

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

September 16

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

Dia de la Independencia begins at sundown on September 15.

September 21

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occuring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

September 22-26

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.

September 22-October 2

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped

September 23-24

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 22.
Through October 2

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 2

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 1.

October 6

Mid-Autumn Festival | Chinese Culture

A celebration of hard work and harvest, as well as time for families to reunite.

October 7-13

Sukkot *^ | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 6.

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Culture

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 14

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 13.

October 15

Simchat Torah | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

Simchat Torah is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 14.

October 22

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

October 23

Birth of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on October 22.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States.

November 1

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 11

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 25

Day of the Covenant | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 24.

November 27

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
December 3

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 14-22

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 13.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

2026 Observances

Contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance for work or school accommodations.

If there are scheduled campus events for the observances listed below, they will be posted on the university calendar.

Go to the university calendar

Through January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.

January 1

New Year’s Day | Federal Holiday

The first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar.

Shogatsu | Japanese Culture

The official and cultural New Year’s Day in modern Japan.

Solemnity of Mary | Catholic

A day honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

January 3

Mahayana New Year | Buddhist

Recognition of the new year which begins with the first full moon in January.

January 4

Epiphany | Christianity

Recognition of the manifestation of God to the world.

January 14

Makar Sankranti | Hindu

Observed on the first day of the tenth solar month of the Hindu calendar when the sun moves from Dhanu Rahsi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn).

January 19

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day | Federal Holiday

A day to honor the birthday (January 15th) and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 23

Vasant Panchami | Hindu

A festival marking the beginning of spring.
February 1-28

African American History Month | National Observance

A month-long celebration to honor generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

February 2

Imbolc | Pagan

Based on Celtic tradition marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

Tu BiShvat | Jewish

This day marks the beginning of the “new year” for trees when the earliest blooming trees emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Tu BiShvat begins at sundown on February 1.

February 15

Maha Shivaratri | Hindu

Also known as the Great Night of Shiva, this festival is observed annually to honor Lord Shiva.

February 17

Lunar New Year | Chinese Culture

The beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 2026 is a year of the Horse.

February 18

Ash Wednesday | Christianity

Marks the start of the season of Lent in Western Christianity.

February 1-March 19

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on February 17.

February 18-April 2

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.
Through March 19

Ramadan | Islamic

A holy month of fasting that begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon and commemorates the night God revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is an Islamic Holy month and begins at sundown on February 17.

March 1-31

Irish American Heritage Month | National Observance

Recognition of the contributions of Irish Americans to our nation’s history.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | National Observance

A grassroots initiative to raise awareness of people with developmental disabilities.

Women’s History Month | National Observance

A celebration of women’s contribution to history, culture and society.

March 3

Purim | Jewish

Commemorates the day the Jewish people were saved from execution in ancient Persia.

Purim begins at sundown on March 2.

Lantern Festival | Chinese Culture

A spring festival marking the end of the Chinese New Year period.

Holi | Hindu

A festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. Also known as the festival of colors and the festival of love.

March 17

Laylat al-Qadr | Islamic

Also known as the Night of Power, it is recognized as the night the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

March 20

Eid ul-Fitr | Islamic

A festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid ul-Fitr is an Islamic Holy day.

Ostara | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival celebrating the spring equinox.

March 21

Naw-Ruz | Baha’i

A festival celebrating the Baha’i new year and ending the annual 19-day fast.

Naw-Ruz is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on March 20.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

A day of action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.

March 27

Rama Navami | Hindu

A spring festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

March 29

Palm Sunday | Christianity

The sixth Sunday of Lent and the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.

March 31

Cesar Chavez Day

Honors Mexican American farm worker, labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez (1927-1993) who was a nationally respected voice for social justice.
Through April 2

Lent | Christianity

Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday.

April 1

Hanuman Jayanti | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.

April 2

Holy Thursday | Christianity

A celebration the Thursday before Easter commemorating the Last Supper with Jesus and the Apostles.

April 3

Theravada New Year | Buddhist

A 3-day Buddhist new year festival celebrated by followers of Theravada beginning on the first full-moon day in April.

Good Friday | Christianity

The Friday before Easter in which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus.

April 3-9

Passover | Jewish

A celebration of freedom commemorating the release of Hebrew slaves in Egypt.

Passover includes several Jewish Holy days and begins at sundown on April 2.

April 5

Qingming Festival | Chinese Culture

A festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, to honor one’s ancestors.

Easter Sunday | Christianity

A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion.

April 6

National Tartan Day

A day to recognize the contributions to the U.S. made by Scottish Americans.

April 10

National Day of Silence | LGBTQ+ Observance

A student-led day-long vow of silence to protest the silencing of LGBTQ students.

April 14

Yom HaShoah | Jewish

Also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day of commemoration for the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.

Yom HaShoah begins at sundown on April 13.

April 21

Ridvan Festival | Baha’i

A 12-day festival commemorating the days Baha’u’llah spent in the Garden of Ridvan and announced his mission as God’s messenger. The first (April 21), the ninth (April 29) and the twelfth (May 2) are holy days.

Ridvan is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on April 20.
May 1-31

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates the contributions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Jewish American Heritage Month | National Observance

An annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans in the United States.

May 1

Vesak Festival | Buddhist

Also known as Buddha Day, the festival celebrates the three major events of Buddha’s life: birth, Enlightenment and death.

May 1

Beltane | Pagan/Wiccan

Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival, is a celebration that falls midway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.

May 5

Lag BaOmer | Jewish

A day recognizing the anniversary of the death of Rabbi Shimon in the 2nd century. It also marks the end of a plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 disciples.

Lag BaOmer begins at sundown on May 4.

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) | Mexican Culture

Recognizes the date (1862) of the Mexican Army’s victory over the France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

May 14

Ascension Day | Christianity

Also known as the Feast of Ascension, celebrating the day Jesus ascended into heaven, occurring on the Thursday 40 days after Easter.

May 22-23

Shavuot | Jewish

Commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai.

Shavuot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on May 21.

May 24

Pentecost | Christianity

A festival celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and marks the beginning of the Christian church.

Declaration of the Bab | Baha’i

Commemoration of May 23, 1844 when the Bab announced he was the Herald of a new Messenger of God.

Declaration of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 23.

May 25

Memorial Day | Federal Holiday

A federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

May 27

Eid al-Adha* | Islamic

Also known as festival of the sacrifice, commemorating the story of the Muslim Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith when commanded by God to sacrifice his son.

Eid al-Adha is an Islamic Holy day.

May 29

Ascension of Baha’u’llah*^| Baha’i

An observance of the anniversary of the death of Baha’i founder Baha’u’llah.

Ascension of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on May 28.
June 1-30

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in New York City on June 28, 1969, considered to be the birth of the LGBTQ+ movement.

June 12

Loving Day | National Observance

An annual celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the remaining anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.

June 14

Race Unity Day | Baha’i

Established as a day to promote racial harmony and understanding.

June 16

Muharram | Islamic

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is an Islamic Holy month.

June 19

Dragon Boat Festival | Chinese Culture

Commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry.

Juneteenth

The oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

June 21

Litha | Pagan/Wiccan

Marks the first day of summer solstice.

June 25

Ashura | Islamic

A day in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, that commemorates God saving Moses from the Egyptians. For Shia-Muslims, it is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD.

Ashura is an Islamic Holy day.
July 4

Independence Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

July 10

Martyrdom of the Bab | Baha’i

A holy day commemorating the execution of the Bab Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad in 1850, one of the founders of the Baha’i faith.

Martyrdom of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on July 9.

July 23

Tisha B’Av | Jewish

Commemorates the destruction of the First Temple in 423 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE in Jerusalem.

Tisha B’Av is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on July 22.

July 26

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day | National Observance

Commemorates the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which promotes the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.
August 1

Lughnasadh | Pagan/Wiccan

A festival half-way between summer solstice and autumn equinox marking the beginning of the harvest.

August 13-15

Obon | Buddhist

An annual three-day festival honoring one’s ancestors.

(Depending on the region, Obon may be observed July 13-15.)

August 19

Qixi Festival | Chinese Culture

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the festival is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl and an ox herd. The festival is also known as Double Seventh Festival because it is celebrated on the 7th day in the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.

August 25

Mawlid | Islamic

A festival celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

August 26

Women’s Equality Day | National Observance

A day commemorating the passage of the 19th Amendment and the continued work of women toward full equality.

August 27

Ullambana | Buddhist

Ullambana means “deliverance from suffering,” and specifically refers to the salvation of anguished souls in Hell. This concept originates from the Buddhist legend of Maudgalyayana saving his mother from Hades. The Ullambana festival reinforces the important concept of filial piety which is deep-rooted in Asian culture.
September 4

Krishna Janmashtami | Hindu

A celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami begins at sundown on September 3.

September 7

Labor Day | National Observance

Created by the labor movement to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers.

September 12-13

Rosh Hashana | Jewish

The first High Holiday signifying the beginning of the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashana is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 11.

September 14

Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu

A festival celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha.

September 15-October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

September 16

Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) | Mexican Culture

Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.

Dia de la Independencia begins at sundown on September 15.

September 21

Mabon | Pagan/Wiccan

Occuring at the autumn equinox, it is a time of gratitude and sharing with others.

Yom Kippur | Jewish

The holiest day of the year in Judaism known as Day of Atonement.

Yom Kippur is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 20.

September 21-25

National Deaf Awareness Week

Promoting awareness of the deaf and hard of hearing community and its culture and heritage.

September 25

Mid-Autumn Festival | Chinese Culture

A celebration of hard work and harvest, as well as time for families to reunite.

September 26-October 2

Sukkot | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 25.
Through October 2

Sukkot | Jewish

A festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest and a commemoration of the 40 years of Jewish wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

Sukkot is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on September 25.

Through October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month | National Observance

A month to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

October 1-31

Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Observance

A national campaign that raises awareness of employment issues for people with disabilities and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

Italian American Heritage Month | National Observance

Celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

LGBT History Month

A time to bring awareness and recognize important moments in the history of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

October 3

Shmini Atzeret | Jewish

“The assembly of the eighth (day)” held the day following Sukkot.

Shmini Atzeret is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 2.

October 4

Simchat Torah | Jewish

“Rejoicing in the Torah” marks the completion of the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings.

Simchat Torah is a Jewish Holy day and begins at sundown on October 3

October 11

National Coming Out Day | LGBTQ Culture

A national day to celebrate coming out and promote a safe world for LGBTQ individuals to live truthfully and openly.

October 11-20

Navaratri | Hindu

A festival celebrated over nine nights near harvest time when the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped.

October 20

Dussehra | Hindu

A festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

October 31

Reformation Day | Protestant

A day marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 1-30

Native American Heritage Month | National Observance

A day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States.

November 1

All Saints Day | Christianity

A commemoration of all the saints of the church, known and unknown, who have attained heaven.

November 1-2

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Mexican Culture

A 2-day celebration when it is believed the passageway between the real world and the spirit world is open so deceased loved ones can visit.

November 2

All Souls Day | Christianity

Commemoration of those who have died and are now in purgatory being made pure before entering the presence of God in Heaven.

November 9

Diwali | Hindu

A religious festival also known as Deepavali and the festival of lights signifying the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

November 9-10

Kristallnacht | Jewish

The Night of Broken Glass commemorates the attacks against Jewish people throughout Germany and Austria in 1938.

November 10

Birth of the Bab | Baha’i

Observance of the anniversary of the 1819 birth of Siyyid, the Bab, prophet and forerunner of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of the Bab is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 9.

November 11

Birth of Baha’u’llah | Baha’i

A holy day celebrating the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith.

Birth of Baha’u’llah is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 10.

Veterans Day | National Observance

A celebration of U.S. military veterans.

November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Bringing public awareness to the dangers of intolerance and a commitment to promote tolerance and non-violence through education, science, culture and communication.

November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

A day to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence.

November 26

Day of the Covenant | Baha’i

A festival commemorating Baha’u’llah’s appointment of his eldest son, ‘Abdul-Baha, as the Center of his Covenant.

Day of the Covenant is a Baha'i Holy day and begins at sundown on November 25.

Thanksgiving Day | Federal Holiday

Commemorates the Pilgrims’ harvest feast in the autumn of 1621. It is considered by some to be a “national day of mourning” in recognition of the conquest of Native Americans by colonists.

November 30

St. Andrew’s Day | Scottish Observance

A national holiday marking the beginning of Scotland as a nation.
December 3

International Day of Disabled Persons

An observance promoting the rights and well-being and increasing the awareness of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

December 4-12

Chanukah | Jewish

An eight-day holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem in 2nd century BCE.

Chanukah begins at sundown on December 3.

December 8

Bodhi Day | Buddhist

Commemorates the day when Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, attained enlightenment.

December 10

Human Rights Day | National Observance

On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

December 21

Winter Solstice

Marks the first day of the winter season, the longest night and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

December 25

Christmas | Christianity

Commemorates the birth of Jesus.

December 26-January 1

Kwanzaa

A seven-day African American and pan-African holiday celebrating family, community and culture.