The Guilderland Central School District is home to students, families and staff from many different backgrounds and cultures. We celebrate our rich diversity; it is what makes GCSD so impressive. With such diversity comes the opportunity to learn about different cultures and perspectives from one another. In turn, this helps to deepen relationships and strengthen bonds, which fosters a more inclusive community.
We offer the following Multicultural Calendar and Observances as an informational tool. This does not represent official Guilderland Central School District school holidays; the objective of offering this resource is to increase understanding of and respect for the religious, ethnic and cultural commitments and obligations of GCSD students, staff and community members.
The district has attempted to be thorough but acknowledges that this listing may not be all-encompassing. If there is an observance or holiday that does not appear here, please contact Communications@guilderlandschools.net.
Anti Defamation League, Calendar of Observances
January 2025
NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH
Dedicated to raising awareness about the power and impact of mentoring. It’s a time to recognize and honor the contributions of mentors while encouraging individuals to become mentors themselves.
POVERTY AWARENESS MONTH
Dedicated to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people struggling to survive, and to analyze and support solutions to end poverty.
January 1: NEW YEAR’S DAY
The first day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, commonly used for civil dating purposes.
January 1: GANTAN-SAI [Shinto]
Gantan-sai is the annual New Year festival of the Shinto religion. Practitioners pray for inner renewal, prosperity and health, as well as visiting shrines and visiting friends and family.
January 4: WORLD BRAILLE DAY
Celebrates awareness of the importance of braille as a means of communication in the full realization of human rights for people who are blind and visually impaired.
January 5: GURU GOBIND SINGH JI’S BIRTHDAY [Sikh]
Guru Gobind Singh was the 10th Sikh guru of Nanak and founder of the Khalsa.
January 6: CHRISTMAS [Armenian Orthodox Christian]
The day Armenian Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Before the Roman empire adopted Christianity, this was the original day all Christians observed the birth of Jesus.
January 6: EPIPHANY | THEOPHANY [Christian]
Celebrates the manifestation of Jesus as Christ. The Western Church associates Epiphany with the journey of the Magi to the infant Jesus Christ, and the Eastern Orthodox Church associates Theophany with the baptism of Jesus Christ by John.
January 7: CHRISTMAS [Eastern Christian]
Commemorating the birth of Jesus, most Orthodox churches celebrate Christmas 13 days later than other Christian churches based on their use of the Julian rather than the Gregorian version of the Western calendar.
January 13: KOREAN AMERICAN DAY
Commemorates the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States in 1903. The day also honors the Korean American’s immense contributions to our society.
January 14: MAHAYANA NEW YEAR [Buddhist]
In Mahayana countries the New Year starts on the first full moon day in January. (This date varies from region to region.)
January 14: MAKAR SANKRANTI [Hindu]
Seasonal celebration marking turning of the sun toward the north.
January 19: WORLD RELIGION DAY
A time to celebrate the culture and diversity of all world religions. World Religion Day occurs annually on the third Sunday of January and was first established by members of the Bahá’í faith.
January 20: DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAY
To mark the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., a chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.
January 20-24: NO NAME-CALLING WEEK
Annual week of educational activities aimed at ending name-calling and bullying of all kinds.
January 27: INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY
Annual day of commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust coinciding with the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp in 1945.
January 29: LUNAR NEW YEAR [Confucian, Daoist and Buddhist]
Also known as the Spring Festival, an important festival celebrated at the turn of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
February 2025
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Celebrates Black History and African American culture in the United States.
February 1: NATIONAL FREEDOM DAY
Commemorates the signing of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in 1865.
February 2: CANDLEMAS [Christian]
This Christian festival commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple of Jerusalem, referring to him as the light of the people of Israel. On this day, Christians take candles to be blessed in church.
February 3-7: NATIONAL SCHOOL COUNSELOR WEEK
Focuses public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems.
February 4: SHROVE TUESDAY [Western Christian]
A day of penitence as well as the last chance to feast before Lent begins. Also known as Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, and Carnival Day, as this day is observed in many ways worldwide.
February 12: MAGHA PUJA [Buddhist]
Also known as Sangha Day, it commemorates the spontaneous assembly of 1,250 principals, completely enlightened monks, in the historical Buddha’s presence.
February 13: BLACK LOVE DAY
Founded in 1993, the root of the spiritual holiday is connected with the honor and celebration of all things related to African and Black cultures.
February 13: TU B’SHVAT [Jewish]
New Year’s Day for Trees, and traditionally the first year for tithing fruit of trees. Now a day for environmental awareness and action, such as tree planting.
February 14: FREDERICK DOUGLASS DAY
Although Douglass never knew his birth date, he chose to celebrate every year on February 14. We mark this day with a collective action that serves and celebrates Black history.
February 14: VALENTINE’S DAY
Celebrates the idea of romantic love.
February 15: NIRVANA DAY [Buddhist]
Celebrates the day when the historical Buddha achieved Parinirvana, or complete Nirvana, upon the death of his physical body. Sometimes celebrated on February 8.
February 15: SUSAN B. ANTHONY DAY
A commemorative holiday to celebrate the birth of Susan B. Anthony (1820–1906) and women’s suffrage in the United States.
February 17: PRESIDENTS’ DAY
Honors all past presidents of the United States of America.
February 20: WORLD DAY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE
U.N. day to recognize efforts to achieve fair outcomes for all through employment, social protection, social dialogue, and fundamental principles and rights at work.
February 25: MAHA SHIVARATRI [Hindu]
Also called Shiva Ratri, the Great Night of Shiva, is a festival in reverence of the god Shiva. The festival is celebrated at the 13th night or 14th day of the waning moon in the Hindu calendar (month of February or March of the English calendar).
February 26–29 AYYÁM-I-HA OR INTERCALARY DAYS [Bahá’í ]
A period of celebration devoted to charity, gift-giving and festivities prior to the annual period of fasting.
March 2025
GREEK AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Also known as Hellenic History Month, the celebration coincides with National Greek Independence Day on March 25.
IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Celebrates the contributions of Irish Americans in our nation’s history.
NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH
A time when we join with our partners to educate the public about developmental disabilities and highlight the many ways people with and without disabilities come together to form strong, diverse communities.
NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS EDUCATION AND AWARENESS MONTH
Dedicated to raising awareness of multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurological disease that affects the nervous system.
NATIONAL WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Honors women as significant agents of historical change.
March 1–19: NINETEEN-DAY FAST [Bahá’í ]
Baha’is between 15 and 70 years of age do not eat or drink from sunrise to sunset and set aside time for prayer and meditation.
March 1–30: RAMADAN [Islamic]
Observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad, which is commemorated on March 27.
March 3: CLEAN MONDAY [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
The beginning of Great Lent for Eastern Orthodox Christian churches, which starts 40 days before Pascha, counting Sundays.
March 5: ASH WEDNESDAY [Western Christian]
The first day of Lent for Western Christian churches, a 40-day period of spiritual preparation for Easter, not counting Sundays.
March 8: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Celebration of the economic, political and social achievements of women worldwide.
March 10: HARRIET TUBMAN DAY
An American holiday in honor of the anti-slavery activist Harriet Tubman.
March 13: PALM SUNDAY [Western Christian]
Observed the Sunday before Easter to commemorate the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.
March 14: PURIM [Jewish]
The “Feast of Lots” marks the salvation of the Jews of ancient Persia from extermination.
March 14: HOLI [Hindu]
A spring festival in India and Nepal dedicated to the god of pleasure, also known as the festival of colors or the festival of sharing love.
March 15: HOLA MOHALLA [Sikh]
An annual event which is a martial arts parade historically coinciding with Holi, the Hindu festival of colors. Celebrations related to Holo Mohalla may be held in various locations over several weekends preceding the actual date of the holiday.
March 17: ST. PATRICK’S DAY [Christian]
Feast day of the patron saint of Ireland. In the U.S., a secular version is celebrated by people of all faiths through appreciation of all things Irish.
March 20: VERNAL EQUINOX
Marks the first day of the season of spring. The sun shines nearly equally on both hemispheres when it’s spring in the Northern Hemisphere and simultaneously falls in the Southern Hemisphere.
March 20: NOWRÚZ [Zoroastrian (Bahá’í)]
Celebrates the first day of Spring and the Iranian New Year, which occurs on the vernal equinox, on or near March 21. Also celebrated as New Year’s Day in Baha’i tradition. (This date may vary based on region or sect.)
March 21: INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
Call to action to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.
March 21: WORLD DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY
Observed to create awareness about Down syndrome.
March 25: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE OF THE VICTIMS OF SLAVERY AND THE TRANSATLANTIC SLAVE TRADE
The day honours and remembers those who suffered and died as a consequence of the transatlantic slave trade, in which over 400 years more than 15 million men, women, and children were the victims.
March 26: KHORDAD SAL [Zoroastrian]
The Zoroastrian celebration of the birth of Zoroaster, the founder of the Zoroastrianism religion. The holiday is specifically celebrated in India and Iran, immediately following the Persian new year, Nowrúz.
March 27: LAILAT AL-QADR [Islamic]
Commemorates the night that the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is known as the “Night of Power.” Often set on the 27th day of Ramadan, Sunnis may observe it on the 21st, 23rd, 25th or 29th and Shīʿite (Shiite) observe it on the 19th, 21st or 23rd day of Ramadan.
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.
March 31: EID AL-FITR [Islamic]
The “Feast of the Breaking of the Fast” marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting from dawn until dusk.
March 31: INTERNATIONAL TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY
Dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a celebration of their contributions to society.
April 2025
ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Celebrates the Arab American heritage and culture and pays tribute to the contributions of Arab Americans and Arabic-speaking Americans.
CELEBRATE DIVERSITY MONTH
Recognizes and honors the diversity of the world around us.
GENOCIDE AWARENESS MONTH
A month that marks important anniversaries for past and contemporary genocides. Throughout the month, individuals, communities and organizations join together to remember and honor victims and survivors of mass atrocities.
NATIONAL DEAF HISTORY MONTH
Celebrates the contributions and accomplishments of people who are deaf and those who are hard of hearing and raises awareness for the Deaf community.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Introduced in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets as a way to increase awareness and appreciation of poetry in the United States.
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH
Dedicated to honoring all of the volunteers in our communities as well as encouraging volunteerism throughout the month.
WORLD AUTISM MONTH
Raises awareness to promote autism acceptance, to celebrate each individual’s unique differences, and to foster inclusivity and connectedness.
April 2: WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY
Observed to raise awareness about autistic individuals around the world.
April 5: RAM NAVAMI [Hindu]
Celebrates the birth of Rama, king of ancient India, hero of the epic Ramayana, and seventh incarnation of Vishnu.
April 6: TARTAN DAY
A North American celebration of Scottish heritage, held on the date on which the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320.
April 11: DAY OF SILENCE
Students take a day-long vow of silence to protest the actual silencing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) students and their straight allies due to bias and harassment. The day differs from year to year.
April 13: PALM SUNDAY [East Orthodox Christian]
Observed the Sunday before Pascha to commemorate the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.
April 13: VAISAKHI (also spelled Baisakhi) [Sikh]
The festival which celebrates the founding of the Sikh community as the Khalsa (community of the initiated). On this day, Sikhs gather and celebrate Vaisakhi at their local Gurdwaras (Sikh house of worship) by remembering this day as the birth of the Khalsa.
April 13–20: PASSOVER/PESACH [Jewish]
The eight-day “Feast of Unleavened Bread” celebrates Israel’s deliverance from Egyptian bondage.
April 13: THERAVADA NEW YEAR [Buddhist]
In Theravada countries the New Year is celebrated on the first full moon day in April.
April 17: HOLY THURSDAY [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
Also known as Maundy Thursday, it is celebrated on the Thursday before Pascha commemorating the Last Supper, at which Jesus Christ and the Apostles were together for the last time before the Crucifixion.
April 18: HOLY FRIDAY [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
Commemorates the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the Friday before Pascha. Known as Good Friday in Western Christianity.
April 18: GOOD FRIDAY [Western Christian]
Commemorates the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the Friday before Easter. Known as Holy Friday in Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
April 20: EASTER [Western Christian]
Known as Pascha in Eastern Christianity, it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
April 20–May 1: FESTIVAL OF RIDVÁN [Bahá’í ]
Annual festival commemorating the 12 days when Bahá’u’lláh, the prophet-founder of the Bahá’í Faith, resided in a garden called Ridván (Paradise) and publicly proclaimed his mission as God’s messenger for this age. The first (April 20), ninth (April 29), and twelfth (May 1) days are celebrated as holy days when Baha’is suspend work.
April 22: EARTH DAY
An annual event to demonstrate support for environmental protection.
April 20: PASCHA [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
Known as Easter in Western Christianity, it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
April 24: YOM HASHOAH [Jewish]
“Holocaust Remembrance Day” memorializes the heroic martyrdom of six million Jews who perished in the Nazi Holocaust.
April 24: ARMENIAN MARTYRS’ DAY
Memorializes the genocide of approximately 1.5 million Armenians between 1915 and 1923 in Turkey.
May 2025
ALS AWARENESS MONTH
A time to raise awareness about amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the people affected by it.
ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH
Recognizes the contributions and celebrates the culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
HAITIAN HERITAGE MONTH
A celebration in the United States of Haitian heritage and culture.
JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Recognizes the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievements of American Jews.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
A national event to bring attention to the importance of mental health.
MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH
A month-long observance in the United States, dedicated for both those in and out of the military.
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
A time to honor and recognize the accomplishments and contributions of older adults across the country.
May 1: INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY
Also known as May Day, it celebrates the contributions of workers worldwide, promotes their rights, and commemorates the labor movement.
May 1: BELTANE [Celtic]
The Gaelic May Day festival, marking the beginning of summer. It is traditionally held on May 1, or about midway between the spring equinox and summer solstice.
May 1: INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY
Also known as May Day, it celebrates the contributions of workers worldwide, promotes their rights, and commemorates the labor movement.
May 1: SCHOOL PRINCIPALS’ DAY
Recognizes the importance of principals, from elementary to high school, and all the work they do for the betterment of the school.
May 3: WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY
Serves as an occasion to inform the public of violations of the right to freedom of expression and as a reminder that many journalists brave death or jail to bring people their daily news.
May 5: CINCO DE MAYO
Commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French occupational forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
May 9-15: NATIONAL STUTTERING AWARENESS WEEK
Through the advocacy of the members of the National Stuttering Association, this day was established as an observance in the United States for people who stutter. It celebrates, educates, and spreads the word about stuttering.
May 11: MOTHER’S DAY
Children of all ages show appreciation for their mothers and mother figures.
May 12: VISAKHA PUJA [Buddhist]
Also known as Vesak or Buddha Day, it marks the birth, spiritual awakening and death (nirvana) of the historical Buddha. (This date may vary based on region or sect.)
May 15: GLOBAL ACCESSIBILITY AWARENESS DAY
The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital access and inclusion for people with disabilities.
May 16: LAG B’OMER [Jewish]
Celebrates the end of a divine-sent plague and/or Roman occupation during Rabbi Akiva’s lifetime (died c. 135 CE).
May 16: MALCOLM X DAY
A holiday that is used to bring light to the contributions the civil rights leader made to society.
May 17: INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA, BIPHOBIA, AND TRANSPHOBIA
Aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide.
May 21: WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Recognizes cultural diversity as a source of innovation, exchange and creativity, as well as the obligation to create a more peaceful and equitable society based on mutual respect.
May 22: HARVEY MILK DAY
Celebrates the life and political accomplishments of Harvey Milk, the first openly-gay elected official in the United States.
May 23: DECLARATION OF THE BÁB [Bahá’í ]
Commemoration of May 23, 1844, when the Báb, the prophet-herald of the Bahá’í Faith, announced in Shíráz, Persia, that he was the herald of a new messenger of God.
May 26: MEMORIAL DAY
A federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces.
May 28: ASCENSION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH [Bahá’í ]
Observance of the anniversary of the death in exile of Bahá’u’lláh, the prophet-founder of the Bahá’í Faith.
May 29: ASCENSION DAY [Western Christian]
Also known as Holy Thursday, celebrated 40 days after Easter, it commemorates the ascension of Jesus into Heaven.
June 2025
ALZHEIMER’S AND BRAIN AWARENESS MONTH
Dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. The month is an opportunity to learn about the impact of these diseases, how to support those affected, and how to promote brain health.
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Promotes the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean American people and their contribution to the United States of America.
IMMIGRANT HERITAGE MONTH
Honors the rich historical, societal, and cultural contributions of immigrants to American history.
LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH
Commemorates the anniversary of the June 28, 1969 Stonewall riot in New York City, the incident that initiated the modern gay rights movement in the United States.
June 2-3: SHAVUOT [Jewish]
The “Feast of Weeks” celebrates the covenant established at Sinai between God and Israel, and the revelation of the Ten Commandments.
June 5: WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY
The United Nations’ most important day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of our environment.
June 6: EID AL-ADHA [Islamic]
Commemoration of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience of a command from God. Marks the end of the annual Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).
June 8: PENTECOST [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
The seventh Sunday after Pascha commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and women followers of Jesus Christ.
June 8: PENTECOST [Western Christian]
Also known as Whitsunday, the seventh Sunday after Easter commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and the women followers of Jesus Christ. Marks the birth of the Christian Church.
June 12: ANNE FRANK DAY
Birthday of a young Jewish girl whose diary describes her family’s experiences hiding from the Nazis through assistance of Gentile friends.
June 12: LOVING DAY
Observes the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down the miscegenation laws remaining in 16 states barring interracial marriage.
June 14: FLAG DAY
Anniversary of the adoption of the United States flag by Congress in 1777.
June 15: ALL SAINTS’ DAY [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
In Orthodox churches observed on the first Sunday after Pentecost, it commemorates all known and unknown Christian saints.
June 15: FATHER’S DAY
Children of all ages show appreciation for their fathers and father figures.
June 18: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF COUNTERING HATE SPEECH
This day was established in 2019 by the UN in response to rising trends of growing racism and xenophobia, antisemitism, and anti-Muslim hatred globally.
June 19: JUNETEENTH
Originally commemorating the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas in 1865, it is now celebrated throughout the U.S. to honor African-American freedom and achievement.
June 20: SUMMER SOLSTICE
Marks the first day of the season of summer. The length of time between sunrise and sunset is the longest of the year with the sun shining the farthest from the Southern Hemisphere and the closest to the Northern Hemisphere.
June 20: WORLD REFUGEE DAY
Raises awareness about the plight of refugees and displaced persons.
June 26: ANNIVERSARY OF LEGALIZATION OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE IN THE U.S.
On June 26, 2015, in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court ruled that the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same-sex couples.
June 26: MUHARRAM [Islamic]
The month of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic liturgical year. This first day, al-Hijra, remembers the migration of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. It also marks the beginning of the ten-day Shīʿite Remembrance of Muharram, a period of intense grief and martyrdom of Hussein, the son of Ali and grandson of Muhammad.
June 29: ASCENSION DAY [Eastern Orthodox Christian]
Also known as Holy Ascension, celebrated 40 days after Pascha, it commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into Heaven.
July 2025
DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH
Honors the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of the disability community. It marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that broke down barriers to inclusion in society.
FRENCH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Recognizes and celebrates the important contributions made to the U.S. by Americans of French descent.
July 4: INDEPENDENCE DAY
Anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776.
July 5: ASHURA [Islamic]
A day of fasting observed on the 10th day of the month of Muharram to celebrate Moses’ exodus from Egypt. For Shi’a Muslims, it also marks the climax of the ten-day Remembrance of Muharram, which mourns the martyrdom of Hussein at the Battle of Karbala.
July 9: MARTYRDOM OF THE BÁB [Bahá’í ]
Observance of the anniversary of the execution by a firing squad in Tabríz, Persia, of the 30-year-old Siyyid ‘Alí-Muhammad, the Báb, the prophet-herald of the Bahá’í Faith.
July 14: INTERNATIONAL NON-BINARY PEOPLE’S DAY
Aimed at raising awareness and organizing around the issues faced by non-binary people around the world.
July 10: DHARMA DAY [Buddhist]
Also known as Asalha Puja, it commemorates the historical Buddha’s first discourse following his spiritual awakening.
July 26: AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) DAY
Commemorates the 1990 signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which guarantees equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
August 2025
August 3: TISH’A B’AV [Jewish]
Mourning of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem in 586 BCE and 70 CE.
August 7: RAKSHA BANDHAN [Hindu]
Also called Rakhi, this festival celebrates the protective relationship between brothers and their sisters.
August 9: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE WORLD’S INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
Celebrates the richness of indigenous cultures and recognizes the challenges indigenous peoples face today, ranging from poverty and disease to dispossession, discrimination and denial of basic human rights.
August 12: INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY
Celebrates young people and the integral role they play in helping to create a world fit for children.
August 13 (or September 6): ULLAMBANA (also known as Obon) [Buddhist]
Ullambana, a Sanskrit term that means “hanging upside down and suffering,” honors the spirits of past ancestors and strives to relieve aching souls from suffering. It lasts about half of the month of August. Obon, the Japanese transliteration of Ullambana, is only three days and varies from region to region—July in the eastern region and August in the western region.
August 15: KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI (Also known as JAYANTI) [Hindu]
Celebrates Krishna’s birthday, Vishnu’s eighth incarnation on earth.
August 21: SENIOR CITIZEN DAY
Recognizes the many contributions older adults make in communities across the United States.
August 23: INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE REMEMBRANCE OF THE SLAVE TRADE AND ITS ABOLITION
Memorializes the tragedy of the transatlantic slave trade, coinciding with the anniversary of the uprising in Santo Domingo (today Haiti and the Dominican Republic) that initiated its abolition.
August 26: WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY
Commemorates the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote.
September 2025
DEAF AWARENESS MONTH
Raises awareness of the unique identity and communication needs of people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH
Celebrates the recovery community and highlights the importance of evidence-based treatment and recovery.
NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH
All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite.
September 1: LABOR DAY
Celebrated the first Monday in September in recognition of U.S. workers.
September 5: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CHARITY
Recognizes the role of charity in alleviating human suffering, as well as of the efforts of charitable organizations and individuals, including the work of Mother Teresa.
September 5: MAWLID AL-NABI (Also known as MILAD AL-NABI) [Islamic (Sunni)]
The observance of the birthday of Islam founder Prophet Muhammad, which is celebrated in Rabi’ al-awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar. Shi’a Muslims celebrate it five days later than Sunni Muslims.
September 7: GRANDPARENTS DAY
A day to honor our grandparents and their support for our families and community.
September 7 – September 21: PITRU PAKSHA [Hindu]
A 16 lunar day period in the Hindu calendar when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors.
September 8: INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY
Call to action for universal literacy.
September 15–October 15: NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Celebrates the contributions, heritage and culture of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
September 17: CONSTITUTION DAY AND CITIZENSHIP DAY
Commemorates the ratification of the United States Constitution in 1787. Also honors all who have become U.S. citizens.
September 21: MAWLID AL-NABI (Also known as MILAD AL-NABI) [Islamic (Shi’a)]
The observance of the birthday of Islam founder Prophet Muhammad, which is celebrated in Rabi’ al-awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar. Sunni Muslims celebrate it five days earlier than Shi’a Muslims.
September 22: AUTUMNAL EQUINOX
Marks the first day of the season of fall. The sun shines nearly equally on both hemispheres when it’s fall in the Northern Hemisphere and simultaneously spring in the Southern Hemisphere.
September 22-October 1: NAVARATRI [Hindu]
Nine-day festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil. It worships God in the form of the universal mother commonly referred to as Durga, Devi or Shakti, and marks the start of fall.
September 23: BI VISIBILITY DAY
Seeks to draw attention to public policy concerns and foster respect for bi+ individuals and communities.
September 26: GANESH CHATURTHI [Hindu]
Celebrates the birthday of Ganesha, the elephant-deity.
October 2025
FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the rich history, culture, and contributions of Filipino Americans to the United States. It is also the birth month of Filipino American labor leader Larry Itliong.
GERMAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Celebrates German-American heritage and commemorates the founding of Germantown, Pennsylvania, in 1683.
GLOBAL DIVERSITY AWARENESS MONTH
A reminder of the positive impact a diverse culture of people can have on society as a whole.
ITALIAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Honoring the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants living in the United States.
LGBT HISTORY MONTH
Marks and celebrates the lives and achievements of lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender people in the United States.
NATIONAL BULLYING PREVENTION MONTH
A campaign to unite communities nationwide to educate and raise awareness of bullying prevention.
NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH
Recognizes the contributions of workers with disabilities.
POLISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Recognizes the contributions of Polish Americans to the United States.
October 1: DUSSEHRA/DASSERA [Hindu]
Anniversary of the day when Rama killed the evil demon Ravana. Also known as Durga Puja, which celebrates the goddess Durga.
October 2: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF NON-VIOLENCE
Marked on the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of nonviolence, a U.N commemoration promoting the principle of non-violence and the desire to secure a culture of peace, tolerance and understanding.
October 2: YOM KIPPUR [Jewish]
The “Day of Atonement” marks the end of the Ten Days of Penitence that begin with Rosh Hashanah.
October 5: WORLD TEACHER’S DAY
Held annually to commemorate teacher organizations worldwide.
October 11: COMING OUT DAY
Encourages honesty and openness about being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. Commemorates October 11, 1987, when 500,000 people marched on Washington, DC, for gay and lesbian equality.
October 12: DIA DE LA RAZA
“Race Day” is commemorated on October 12th in recognition of the mixed Indigenous and European heritage in Mexico and among many Latin American communities.
October 13: COLUMBUS DAY
Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday in October. During four separate trips that started with the one in 1492, Christopher Columbus landed on various Caribbean islands that are now the Bahamas. He also explored the Central and South American coasts.
October 14: INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ DAY (Native American Day)
Celebrates and honors Indigenous American peoples and commemorates their histories and cultures. [The second Monday of October is also marked as a U.S. federal holiday, Columbus Day. Many people are opposed to the celebration of a man who led and committed atrocities against Indigenous people. Some states and cities in the U.S. have officially changed the day to Indigenous People’s Day. Similarly, it is celebrated as Día de la Raza, “Day of the Race”, in Spanish-speaking countries and communities.]
October 14: SHEMINI ATZERET [Jewish]
“The Eighth (Day) of Assembly” is observed on the day immediately following Sukkot.
October 15: INTERNATIONAL PRONOUNS DAY
Seeks to make respecting, sharing, and educating about personal pronouns commonplace.
October 15: SIMCHAT TORAH [Jewish]
“Rejoicing in the Torah” celebrates the conclusion of the public reading of the Pentateuch (first five books of the Hebrew Bible) and its beginning anew.
October 17: INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ERADICATION OF POVERTY
Call to action for the eradication of poverty and destitution worldwide.
October 20: DIWALI [Hindu]
Also called Deepavali, “Festival of Lights”, it celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
October 20: GUR-GADDI GURU GRANTH SAHIB [Sikh]
Since 1708, Sikhs have accepted Sri Guru Granth Sahib as their eternal Guru that holds the spirit of all Ten Gurus of the Sikhs. They consider Guru Granth Sahib to be a spiritual guide not only for Sikhs but for all of mankind; it plays a central role in guiding the Sikhs’ way of life.
October 21: BANDI-CHHOR DIWAS [Sikh]
A commemorative occasion having no fixed date which occurs in October or November and celebrates the release of the Sixth Guru Har Gobind Sahib from imprisonment and coincides with Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.
October 22: BIRTH OF THE BÁB [Bahá’í ]
Bahá’í observance of the anniversary of the birth in 1819 of Siyyid, “the Báb,” the prophet-herald of the Bahá’í Faith, in Shíráz, Persia.
October 23: BIRTH OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH [Bahá’í ]
Observance of the anniversary of the birth in 1817 of Bahá’u’lláh, prophet-founder of the Bahá’í Faith, in Núr, Persia.
October 24: UNITED NATIONS DAY
Commemorates the founding of the world organization in 1945.
October 26: INTERSEX AWARENESS DAY
Internationally observed awareness day designed to highlight human rights issues faced by intersex people.
October 31: HALLOWEEN
The eve of All Saints’ Day.
October 31: REFORMATION DAY [Christian]
Commemorates the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
November 2025
NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH
Adoptees, birth families, adoptive families and adoption professionals reflect on, educate and celebrate adoption practices.
NATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVERS MONTH
Honors and recognizes family caregivers. The month is a time to raise awareness of caregiving issues, increase support for caregivers, and educate communities.
NATIONAL AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Celebrates and honors the history and culture of Native Americans and indigenous people in the United States.
November 1: ALL SAINTS’ DAY [Western Christian]
Commemorates all known and unknown Christian saints. Eastern Christianity observes it on the first Sunday after Pentecost.
November 2: ALL SOULS’ DAY [Christian]
Commemoration of all faithful Christians who are now dead. In Mexican tradition it is celebrated as Dia de los Muertos between October 31 and November 2, and is an occasion to remember dead ancestors and celebrate the continuity of life.
November 3: BLACK SOLIDARITY DAY
Black Solidarity Day was founded in 1969 by playwright, historian, and activist Carlos E. Russell. Russell, who was born in Panama in 1934, created the day to unite African diasporic communities and people. The observance hopes to bring awareness to racial and economic inequality.
November 4: ELECTION DAY
A day set by U.S. law for the election of public officials.
November 5: GURU NANAK DEV JI’S BIRTHDAY [Sikh]
A very important holiday in the Sikh faith as Guru Nanak Dev’s was the First Guru of the Sikhs and the Founder of Sikhism. He was born in mid-November; the holiday is celebrated according to the lunar date.
November 9–10 KRISTALLNACHT
Also known as the Night of the Broken Glass, commemorates the 1938 pogrom against Jews throughout Germany and Vienna.
November 11: VETERANS DAY
Honors military veterans and the U.S. Armed Services.
November 16: INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR TOLERANCE
Emphasizes the dangers of intolerance and is a call to action for the advancement of human welfare, freedom and progress everywhere, as well as a day to encourage tolerance, respect, dialogue and cooperation among different cultures and peoples.
November 17–21: AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK
Celebrates public education and honors individuals who are making a difference in ensuring every child in the U. S. receives a quality education.
November 20: TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE
Memorializes those who were killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice.
November 25: DAY OF THE COVENANT [Bahá’í ]
Day of the Covenant is a festival observed to commemorate Bahá’u’lláh’s appointment of His son, Abdu’l-Baha, as His successor.
November 27: THANKSGIVING DAY
Following a 19th century tradition, it 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 28: NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY
Designated the Friday after Thanksgiving to honor American Indian and Alaska Native cultural heritage and tribal sovereignty.
November 30 – December 24: ADVENT [Western Christian]
Advent is a season of spiritual preparation in observance of the birth of Jesus Christ. In Western Christianity, it starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, the season is longer and begins in the middle of November.
December 2025
HIV/AIDS AWARENESS MONTH
A time to raise awareness and reflect on the impact that this epidemic has had on our communities and on the world.
December 1: WORLD AIDS DAY
International day of action on HIV and AIDS.
December 1-24: ADVENT [Western Christian]
Advent is a season of spiritual preparation in observance of the birth of Jesus Christ. In Western Christianity, it starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, the season is longer and begins in the middle of November.
December 3: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Raises awareness about persons with disabilities in order to improve their lives and provide them with equal opportunity.
December 8: BODHI DAY [Buddhist]
Also known as Rohatsu, commemorates the day that the Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, experienced enlightenment or spiritual awakening (bodhi). Celebrated on the eighth day either of December or the 12th month of the lunar calendar.
December 10: HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
On this day in 1948 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
December 12: OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE [Christian]
Celebrates the apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary (by her title, Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Patroness of Mexico and the Americas) before Juan Diego, an indigenous convert to Roman Catholicism, on the Mexican hill of Tepeyac in 1531.
December 14-22: HANUKKAH [Jewish]
Eight-day “Festival of Lights”, also known as Chanukah, celebrating the rededication of the Temple to the service of God in 164 BCE. Commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Greek King, Antiochus, who sought to suppress freedom of worship.
December 15: BILL OF RIGHTS DAY
Commemorates the signing into law of the ten original amendments of the United States Constitution in 1791.
December 21: WINTER SOLSTICE
Marks the first day of the season of winter. The length of time between sunrise and sunset is the shortest of the year with the sun shining closest to the Southern Hemisphere and the farthest from the Northern Hemisphere.
December 24: CHRISTMAS EVE [Christian]
Celebration of the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem for the birth of Jesus.
December 25: CHRISTMAS [Western Christian]
Commemorates the birth of Jesus.
December 26, 2023–January 1, 2024: KWANZAA
A seven-day celebration honoring African American heritage and its continued vitality. “Kwanzaa” means “first fruits (of the harvest)” in Swahili.
December 26: KWANZAA DAY 1, UMOJA
The first principle of Kwanzaa, Umoja strives for and maintains unity in the family, community, nation and race.
December 27: KWANZAA DAY 2, KUJICHAGULIA
The second principle of Kwanzaa, Kujichagulia celebrates self-determination.
December 28: KWANZAA DAY 3, UJIMA
The third principle of Kwanzaa, meaning “collective work and responsibility,” Ujima refers to uplifting your community.
December 29: KWANZAA DAY 4, UJAMAA
The fourth principle of Kwanzaa, meaning “cooperative economics,” Ujamaa refers to building businesses, controlling the economics of one’s own community and sharing in all its work and wealth.
December 29: WOUNDED KNEE DAY
On December 29, 1890 more than 200 Lakota Sioux were massacred by U.S. troops at Wounded Knee in South Dakota.
December 30: KWANZAA DAY 5, NIA
The fifth principle of Kwanzaa, meaning “purpose,” Nia honors making a collective vocation the building and developing of a community, in order to be restored to traditional greatness.
December 31: KWANZAA DAY 6, KUUMBA
The sixth principle of Kwanzaa, Kuuma celebrates creativity.
December 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE
In the Gregorian calendar, New Year’s Eve, the last day of the year, is on December 31. In many countries, New Year’s Eve is celebrated at evening social gatherings, where many people dance, eat, drink. etc.