We know that the myriad of identities carried by members of the Florida State community only strengthens our university— enhancing the richness of our collective culture, broadening our understanding, and enhancing our ability to create meaningful connections. We embrace and celebrate the complex identities of each individual, and we know how important it is for all people to have the opportunity to fully practice their own culture and traditions, including their spiritual and faith traditions.
“...we know how important it is for all people to have the opportunity to fully practice their own culture and traditions, including their spiritual and faith traditions.”
As such, members of the Florida State University community should not be penalized for observing religious holy days. Students are encouraged to notify instructors as soon as possible and at least two weeks before a potential absence to observe a religious holy day, and instructors shall make all reasonable accommodations for these students. While students are responsible for work missed during an excused absence, instructors shall provide reasonable time to make up assignments. Full policies on religious holy day accommodations can be found in the Faculty Handbook or the Academic Integrity and Grievance section of the General Bulletin.
In an effort to help the FSU community become more aware of the practices of various faith traditions and avoid unnecessary scheduling conflicts, we have compiled a list of major holidays and observances from a variety of sources. While we list these holidays by the primary date of the observance, it is important to remember that some faith traditions use lunar or other time measurement systems not based on the Gregorian calendar that is accepted as standard in the United States. In some cases, observances of listed holidays begin at sunset on the previous day rather than at the beginning of the date listed.
This list is not comprehensive, and we continue to amend it in an effort to honor and celebrate the spiritual practices of all members of our community. If you have questions or suggestions about a calendar entry, please fill out our calendar entry request form. For more resources and connections to the various faith communities present on our campus, we invite you to explore the Interfaith Council at FSU.
2022-2023 Religious Holidays
AUGUST
1
LAMMAS (Pagan)
Also referred to as Lughnasadh, this holiday is associated with abundance and growth in recognition of when the first crops of the year are harvested.
Also referred to as Lughnasadh, this holiday is associated with abundance and growth in recognition of when the first crops of the year are harvested.
6-7
TISH’A B’AV (Judaism)
A day of mourning of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. The observance, which includes fasting and other prohibitions, also marks the occurrence of a number of other disastrous events for the Jewish people throughout history.
A day of mourning of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. The observance, which includes fasting and other prohibitions, also marks the occurrence of a number of other disastrous events for the Jewish people throughout history.
8
ASHURA (Islam)
The Muslim holy day observed on the 10th of Muḥarram, the first month of the Muslim calendar, is commemorated as the day that Allah parted the Red Sea for Moses (Mūsā) and his followers to escape from the pharaoh.
The Muslim holy day observed on the 10th of Muḥarram, the first month of the Muslim calendar, is commemorated as the day that Allah parted the Red Sea for Moses (Mūsā) and his followers to escape from the pharaoh.
11
RAKSHA BANDHAN (Hinduism)
Also abbreviated to Rakhi, this is the Hindu festival that celebrates brotherhood and love. It is celebrated on the full moon in the month of Sravana in the lunar calendar.
Also abbreviated to Rakhi, this is the Hindu festival that celebrates brotherhood and love. It is celebrated on the full moon in the month of Sravana in the lunar calendar.
15
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Catholicism)
A holy day of obligation celebrating the bodily assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven
A holy day of obligation celebrating the bodily assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven
19
KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI (Hinduism)
Celebrates the birth of the god Krishna on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada (August–September).
Celebrates the birth of the god Krishna on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada (August–September).
31
GANESH CHATURTHI (Hinduism)
Celebrates the birth of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of prosperity and wisdom.
Celebrates the birth of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of prosperity and wisdom.
SEPTEMBER
22
MABON (Pagan)
This time is dedicated to reflecting on the year and giving gratitude to the dual nature of divinity, the Lord and the Lady. This date is the second harvest festival.
This time is dedicated to reflecting on the year and giving gratitude to the dual nature of divinity, the Lord and the Lady. This date is the second harvest festival.
26-27
ROSH HASHANAH (Judaism)
Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two “High Holy Days” in the Jewish religion.
Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two “High Holy Days” in the Jewish religion.
OCTOBER
5
YOM KIPPUR (Judaism)
This Day of Atonement marks the culmination of the 10 Days of Awe, a period of introspection and repentance. The holiday is observed with a 25-hour fast and a special religious service.
This Day of Atonement marks the culmination of the 10 Days of Awe, a period of introspection and repentance. The holiday is observed with a 25-hour fast and a special religious service.
5
DUSSEHRA/DASSERA (Hinduism)
Celebrates Rama's killing of the demon Ravana, symbolic of the triumph of good over evil. Also known as Durga Puja, which celebrates the goddess Durga.
Celebrates Rama's killing of the demon Ravana, symbolic of the triumph of good over evil. Also known as Durga Puja, which celebrates the goddess Durga.
8
MAWLID AL-NABI (Islam)
The Sunni observance of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad is the founder of Islam and is believed by Muslims to be the greatest and final prophet of God. Shi’a Muslims celebrate it five days later.
The Sunni observance of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad is the founder of Islam and is believed by Muslims to be the greatest and final prophet of God. Shi’a Muslims celebrate it five days later.
10-16
SUKKOT (Judaism)
Sukkot commemorates the years that the Jews spent in the desert on their way to the Promised Land. Sukkot is also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Feast of Booths.
Sukkot commemorates the years that the Jews spent in the desert on their way to the Promised Land. Sukkot is also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Feast of Booths.
13
MAWLID AL-NABI (Islam)
The Shi'a observance of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad is the founder of Islam and is believed by Muslims to be the greatest and final prophet of God. Sunni Muslims celebrate it five days earlier.
The Shi'a observance of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad is the founder of Islam and is believed by Muslims to be the greatest and final prophet of God. Sunni Muslims celebrate it five days earlier.
17
SHEMINI ATZERET (Judaism)
Shemini Atzeret, or “Eighth Day of the Solemn Assembly,” is celebrated at the end of Sukkot. Some consider it to be part of Sukkot, while others consider it to be an independent holiday that occurs immediately following the festival.
Shemini Atzeret, or “Eighth Day of the Solemn Assembly,” is celebrated at the end of Sukkot. Some consider it to be part of Sukkot, while others consider it to be an independent holiday that occurs immediately following the festival.
18
SIMCHAT TORAH (Judaism)
Simchat Torah, or "Rejoicing in the Law," celebrates the completion and restarting of the annual cycle of public readings from the Torah. In Israel, it is celebrated on the same day as Shemini Atzeret, but elsewhere it is celebrated independently on the following day.
Simchat Torah, or "Rejoicing in the Law," celebrates the completion and restarting of the annual cycle of public readings from the Torah. In Israel, it is celebrated on the same day as Shemini Atzeret, but elsewhere it is celebrated independently on the following day.
20
GURGADI GURU GRANTH SAHIB (Sikhism)
Celebrates the Guru Granth Sahib as the spiritual guide not only for Sikhs, but for all of mankind; it plays a central role in guiding the Sikhs’ way of life.
Celebrates the Guru Granth Sahib as the spiritual guide not only for Sikhs, but for all of mankind; it plays a central role in guiding the Sikhs’ way of life.
24
DIWALI (Hinduism)
Diwali, or Dipawali, is India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year. The festival gets its name from the row ( vail) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas holiday is to Christians.
Diwali, or Dipawali, is India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year. The festival gets its name from the row ( vail) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas holiday is to Christians.
24
BANDI-CHHOR DIWAS (Sikhism)
When Hindus and others celebrate Divali, the festival of lights, Sikhs remember the release from prison and return to Amritsar of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind in 1619. The name Bandi Chhor Divas means "liberation of prisoners day."
When Hindus and others celebrate Divali, the festival of lights, Sikhs remember the release from prison and return to Amritsar of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind in 1619. The name Bandi Chhor Divas means "liberation of prisoners day."
31
SAMHAIN (Pagan)
This is a time to honor the dead and pay respect to ancestors.
This is a time to honor the dead and pay respect to ancestors.
NOVEMBER
1
ALL SAINTS DAY (Western Christianity)
All Saints Day is a time for believers to commemorate all known and unknown saints and martyrs throughout Christianity. It is a day of obligation in the Catholic Church. It is more commonly observed by Eastern Christian churches on the Sunday after Pentecost.
All Saints Day is a time for believers to commemorate all known and unknown saints and martyrs throughout Christianity. It is a day of obligation in the Catholic Church. It is more commonly observed by Eastern Christian churches on the Sunday after Pentecost.
6
BIRTH OF THE BÁB (Bahá’í)
Celebration of the birth of Báb, a prophet and forerunner of the Bahá’í revelation. The day traditionally consists of prayers, devotional readings and social gatherings in a place of worship or the home.
Celebration of the birth of Báb, a prophet and forerunner of the Bahá’í revelation. The day traditionally consists of prayers, devotional readings and social gatherings in a place of worship or the home.
7
BIRTH OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH (Bahá’í)
This is a celebration of the founder of the Bahá’í faith. He is recognized and celebrated for his messages of universal peace, humanity coming together as one, and abandonment of prejudice.
This is a celebration of the founder of the Bahá’í faith. He is recognized and celebrated for his messages of universal peace, humanity coming together as one, and abandonment of prejudice.
7
AUTUMN PLATONEIA (Platonic Spiritual Tradition)
Part of the Dual Platoneia: During the Renaissance, the celebration of the Platoneia was observed by many, including the Platonic Academy of Florence, on November 7.
Part of the Dual Platoneia: During the Renaissance, the celebration of the Platoneia was observed by many, including the Platonic Academy of Florence, on November 7.
8
GURU NANAK DEV JI’S BIRTHDAY (Sikhism)
This day is important because Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev Ji is considered the first Sikh Guru.
This day is important because Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev Ji is considered the first Sikh Guru.
24-25
DAY OF THE COVENANT (Bahá’í)
This is a day to honor unity of their faith and all faiths. This is a day to recognize the broader covenant between God and humanity, which calls on each human being to recognize and accept all of the founders of the world’s greatest faiths as bringing different stages in one continuous spiritual educational system for all humanity.
This is a day to honor unity of their faith and all faiths. This is a day to recognize the broader covenant between God and humanity, which calls on each human being to recognize and accept all of the founders of the world’s greatest faiths as bringing different stages in one continuous spiritual educational system for all humanity.
25
Sabbath (Christianty)
The Sabbath is God's day of rest; Every Friday at sunset until Saturday at sunset.
The Sabbath is God's day of rest; Every Friday at sunset until Saturday at sunset.
26-Dec. 5
NAVARATRI (Hinduism)
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.
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.
26-Dec. 5
ADVENT (Christianity)
Advent is a season of spiritual preparation in observance of the birth of Jesus. In Western Christianity, it starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. In Eastern Christianity, the season is longer and begins in the middle of November.
Advent is a season of spiritual preparation in observance of the birth of Jesus. In Western Christianity, it starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. In Eastern Christianity, the season is longer and begins in the middle of November.
DECEMBER
8
BODHI DAY (Buddhism)
Celebrates the day in which Siddhartha Gautama sat underneath the Bodhi tree and attained enlightenment. It is a day on which followers can renew their dedication to Buddhism; reaffirm themselves to enlightenment, compassion, and kindness to other living creatures; and also understand the relevance of this religion as it applies to the modern world.
Celebrates the day in which Siddhartha Gautama sat underneath the Bodhi tree and attained enlightenment. It is a day on which followers can renew their dedication to Buddhism; reaffirm themselves to enlightenment, compassion, and kindness to other living creatures; and also understand the relevance of this religion as it applies to the modern world.
8
Immaculate Conception of Mary (Roman Catholic)
It is a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics and celebrates the conception of the Virgin Mary without sin by her mother, Saint Anne
It is a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics and celebrates the conception of the Virgin Mary without sin by her mother, Saint Anne
8
Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Catholicism)
Holy Day of Obligation in Catholicism. Catholics are required to attend mass. Celebrates the immaculate conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.
Holy Day of Obligation in Catholicism. Catholics are required to attend mass. Celebrates the immaculate conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.
8
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (Catholicism)
A holy day of obligation celebrating the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in her mother's womb without the stain of original sin.
A holy day of obligation celebrating the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in her mother's womb without the stain of original sin.
19-26
CHANUKAH (Judaism)
The Jewish Festival of Lights is an eight-day celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem. It is one of the most popular holidays in Judaism and is marked by the lighting of the menorah.
The Jewish Festival of Lights is an eight-day celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem. It is one of the most popular holidays in Judaism and is marked by the lighting of the menorah.
21
YULE (Pagan)
Also known as the Winter Solstice, this is the date in which daytime is shortest and nighttime is longest. It is a time to meditate on the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Also known as the Winter Solstice, this is the date in which daytime is shortest and nighttime is longest. It is a time to meditate on the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
24
CHRISTMAS EVE (Christianity)
The evening or entire day before Christmas Day, the festival commemorating the birth of Jesus.
The evening or entire day before Christmas Day, the festival commemorating the birth of Jesus.
25
CHRISTMAS (Western Christianity)
The anniversary of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form the basis of Christianity.
The anniversary of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form the basis of Christianity.
JANUARY
1
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Catholicism)
A holy day of obligation celebrating the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title Mother of God
A holy day of obligation celebrating the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title Mother of God
6
EPIPHANY (Western Christianity)
Epiphany commemorates the revelation of God incarnate, specifically the visit by the magi to the infant Jesus in Western traditions. It is also known as Three Kings Day, or Dia de los Reyes.
Epiphany commemorates the revelation of God incarnate, specifically the visit by the magi to the infant Jesus in Western traditions. It is also known as Three Kings Day, or Dia de los Reyes.
7
CHRISTMAS (Eastern Christianity)
The celebration of the Nativity using the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar.
The celebration of the Nativity using the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar.
15
WORLD RELIGION DAY (Bahá’í)
This is a day to promote interfaith understanding and harmony
This is a day to promote interfaith understanding and harmony
19
EPIPHANY (Eastern Christianity)
Also known as Theophany, Epiphany commemorates the revelation of God incarnate, specifically the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan in Eastern traditions.
Also known as Theophany, Epiphany commemorates the revelation of God incarnate, specifically the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan in Eastern traditions.
20
GURU GOBIND SINGH JI’S BIRTHDAY (Sikhism)
Guru Gobind Singh Ji is the tenth Sikh Guru and founder of the Order of the Khalsa. During his life he wrote many poems about love, worship of one god, equality and putting away superstition and idolatry.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji is the tenth Sikh Guru and founder of the Order of the Khalsa. During his life he wrote many poems about love, worship of one god, equality and putting away superstition and idolatry.
FEBRUARY
15
NIRVANA DAY (Buddhism)
The annual festival that remembers the death of the Buddha when he reached Nirvana at the age of 80. Nirvana is believed to be the end of the cycle of death and rebirth. Buddhism teaches that Nirvana is reached when all want and suffering is gone.
The annual festival that remembers the death of the Buddha when he reached Nirvana at the age of 80. Nirvana is believed to be the end of the cycle of death and rebirth. Buddhism teaches that Nirvana is reached when all want and suffering is gone.
21
SHROVE TUESDAY (Western Christianity)
A day of confession, penitence and absolution immediately preceding the beginning of Lent.
A day of confession, penitence and absolution immediately preceding the beginning of Lent.
22
ASH WEDNESDAY (Western Christianity)
The first day of Lent, occurring six and a half weeks before Easter (between February 4 and March 11, depending on the date of Easter). It is commonly observed with ashes and fasting.
The first day of Lent, occurring six and a half weeks before Easter (between February 4 and March 11, depending on the date of Easter). It is commonly observed with ashes and fasting.
25-March 2
AYYÁM-I-HA [INTERCALARY DAYS] (Bahá’í)
This is a time dedicated to giving generously to the poor and needy and is based on service to one another. It is also time to prepare for the coming month of fasting.
This is a time dedicated to giving generously to the poor and needy and is based on service to one another. It is also time to prepare for the coming month of fasting.
27
CLEAN MONDAY (Eastern Christianity)
The first day of Great Lent, occurring 46 days before Easter, or Pascha.
The first day of Great Lent, occurring 46 days before Easter, or Pascha.
MARCH
2-20
NINETEEN-DAY FAST (Bahá’í)
This is the 19-day fasting period immediately before the Bahá’í New Year. This is a period of spiritual preparation and regeneration for the new year.
This is the 19-day fasting period immediately before the Bahá’í New Year. This is a period of spiritual preparation and regeneration for the new year.
6
MAGHA PUJA DAY (Buddhism)
This day commemorates the spontaneous assembly of 1,250 enlightened Buddhist monks, each ordained personally by the Buddha. This day commemorates the important teachings of the Buddha focused on the Three Jewels of Buddhism, the Buddha, Sangha, and the Dharma.
This day commemorates the spontaneous assembly of 1,250 enlightened Buddhist monks, each ordained personally by the Buddha. This day commemorates the important teachings of the Buddha focused on the Three Jewels of Buddhism, the Buddha, Sangha, and the Dharma.
7
PURIM (Judaism)
English Feast of Lots, a joyous Jewish festival commemorating the survival of the Jews who, in the 5th century BCE, were marked for death by their Persian rulers. The story is related in the biblical Book of Esther.
English Feast of Lots, a joyous Jewish festival commemorating the survival of the Jews who, in the 5th century BCE, were marked for death by their Persian rulers. The story is related in the biblical Book of Esther.
8
HOLI (Hinduism)
The spring festival celebrated throughout North India on the full-moon day of Phalguna (February–March).
The spring festival celebrated throughout North India on the full-moon day of Phalguna (February–March).
8-10
HOLA MOHALLA (Sikhism)
This is a festival started by the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh as a gathering for military exercises following the festival of Holi. Today this three-day festival includes mock battles followed by music and poetry competitions.
This is a festival started by the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh as a gathering for military exercises following the festival of Holi. Today this three-day festival includes mock battles followed by music and poetry competitions.
13
BIRTHDAY OF L. RON HUBBARD (Scientology)
L. Ron Hubbard is the founder of the Church of Scientology in 1954.
20
OSTARA (Pagan)
Celebration of the Spring Equinox, a celebration from the season’s change from dark winter to a brightening spring.
Celebration of the Spring Equinox, a celebration from the season’s change from dark winter to a brightening spring.
21-22
NOWRÚZ (Zoroastrianism, Bahá’í)
A traditional ancient Iranian festival celebrating the first day of spring and the Iranian New Year. Also celebrated as New Year’s Day in Bahá’í tradition (Naw-Ruz). (This date may vary based on region or sect.)
A traditional ancient Iranian festival celebrating the first day of spring and the Iranian New Year. Also celebrated as New Year’s Day in Bahá’í tradition (Naw-Ruz). (This date may vary based on region or sect.)
22-April 21
RAMADAN (Islam)
Ramadan is a period of introspection, communal prayer (ṣalāt) in the mosque, and reading of the Qurʾān. God forgives the past sins of those who observe the holy month with fasting, prayer, and faithful intention.
Ramadan is a period of introspection, communal prayer (ṣalāt) in the mosque, and reading of the Qurʾān. God forgives the past sins of those who observe the holy month with fasting, prayer, and faithful intention.
26
KHORDAD SAL (Zoroastrianism)
This is the celebration of the birth of Zoroaster, the founder of the Zoroastrianism religion. The holiday is celebrated following the Persian new year, Nowrúz.
This is the celebration of the birth of Zoroaster, the founder of the Zoroastrianism religion. The holiday is celebrated following the Persian new year, Nowrúz.
APRIL
2
PALM SUNDAY (Western Christianity)
Also called Passion Sunday, it is the first day of Holy Week and the Sunday before Easter. It is associated with the blessing and procession of palms (leaves of the date palm or twigs from locally available trees).
Also called Passion Sunday, it is the first day of Holy Week and the Sunday before Easter. It is associated with the blessing and procession of palms (leaves of the date palm or twigs from locally available trees).
4
Carla Pierre (Christianity)
Once each year, Jehovah’s Witnesses commemorate the death of Jesus just as he commanded when he said: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.”—Luke 22:19. Please visit www.JW.org for more information.
Once each year, Jehovah’s Witnesses commemorate the death of Jesus just as he commanded when he said: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.”—Luke 22:19. Please visit www.JW.org for more information.
5-13
PASSOVER (Judaism)
Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the Jewish religion’s most sacred and widely observed holidays. Passover commemorates the story of the Israelites’ departure from ancient Egypt, which appears in the Hebrew Bible’s books of Exodus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, among other texts. Jews observe the weeklong festival with several important rituals, including a traditional Passover meal known as a seder, the removal of leavened products from their home, the substitution of matzo for bread and the retelling of the exodus tale.
Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the Jewish religion’s most sacred and widely observed holidays. Passover commemorates the story of the Israelites’ departure from ancient Egypt, which appears in the Hebrew Bible’s books of Exodus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, among other texts. Jews observe the weeklong festival with several important rituals, including a traditional Passover meal known as a seder, the removal of leavened products from their home, the substitution of matzo for bread and the retelling of the exodus tale.
6
MAUNDY THURSDAY (Western Christianity)
Also known as Holy Thursday, it is observed in commemoration of the Last Supper (the final meal shared by Jesus and his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem).
Also known as Holy Thursday, it is observed in commemoration of the Last Supper (the final meal shared by Jesus and his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem).
7
GOOD FRIDAY (Western Christianity)
The Friday before Easter, the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
The Friday before Easter, the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
9
EASTER (Western Christianity)
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion.
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion.
9
PALM SUNDAY (Eastern Christianity)
Also called Passion Sunday, it is the first day of Holy Week and the Sunday before Easter. It is associated with the blessing and procession of palms (leaves of the date palm or twigs from locally available trees).
Also called Passion Sunday, it is the first day of Holy Week and the Sunday before Easter. It is associated with the blessing and procession of palms (leaves of the date palm or twigs from locally available trees).
13
MAUNDY THURSDAY (Eastern Christianity)
Also known as Holy Thursday, it is observed in commemoration of the Last Supper (the final meal shared by Jesus and his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem).
Also known as Holy Thursday, it is observed in commemoration of the Last Supper (the final meal shared by Jesus and his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem).
14
GOOD FRIDAY (Eastern Christianity)
The Friday before Easter, the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
The Friday before Easter, the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
14
VAISAKHI [also spelled Baisakhi] (Sikhism)
This is the Sikh New Year and celebrates the founding of the Sikh community known as Khalsa (community of the initiated).
This is the Sikh New Year and celebrates the founding of the Sikh community known as Khalsa (community of the initiated).
16
EASTER (Eastern Christianity)
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion.
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion.
20-May 1
FESTIVAL OF RIDVÁN (Bahá’í)
Marks Bahá'u'lláh's time in the garden of Ridván in 1863 and his announcement that he was the prophet promised by the Báb.
Marks Bahá'u'lláh's time in the garden of Ridván in 1863 and his announcement that he was the prophet promised by the Báb.
MAY
1
BELTANE (Pagan)
A celebration of the peak of spring, the beginning of summer and the fertility of the coming year.
A celebration of the peak of spring, the beginning of summer and the fertility of the coming year.
5
VESAK DAY (Buddhism)
Commemorates the birth of the Buddha-to-be, Siddhattha Gotama, his Enlightenment at the age of 35 when he became the Buddha, and his final ‘passing’ into Nirvana at the age of 80, no more to be reborn. Buddhist scriptures relate that each of these three significant events occurred on a full moon of the Indian lunar month of Vesakha. (Date may vary each year as it follows the lunar calendar.)
Commemorates the birth of the Buddha-to-be, Siddhattha Gotama, his Enlightenment at the age of 35 when he became the Buddha, and his final ‘passing’ into Nirvana at the age of 80, no more to be reborn. Buddhist scriptures relate that each of these three significant events occurred on a full moon of the Indian lunar month of Vesakha. (Date may vary each year as it follows the lunar calendar.)
18
ASCENSION (Western Christianity)
Commemorates when Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after his resurrection.
Commemorates when Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after his resurrection.
22
EID AL-FITR (Islam)
Marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, and is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
Marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, and is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
23
DECLARATION OF THE BÁB (Bahá’í)
A commemoration of BÁB, as a Messenger of God, who heralded the coming of the latest Manifestation of God: Baha’u’llah.
A commemoration of BÁB, as a Messenger of God, who heralded the coming of the latest Manifestation of God: Baha’u’llah.
25
ASCENSION (Eastern Christianity)
Also known as Analepsis, it commemorates when Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after his resurrection.
Also known as Analepsis, it commemorates when Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after his resurrection.
25-26
SHAUVOT (Judaism)
Originally a harvest festival, Shauvot commemorates the giving of the law to Moses at Mt. Sinai.
Originally a harvest festival, Shauvot commemorates the giving of the law to Moses at Mt. Sinai.
25-27
SPRING PLATONEIA (Platonic Spiritual Tradition)
Part of the Dual Platoneia: An ancient celebration that honored the birthdays of Socrates and Plato. The Spring Platoneia is based on a lunar calendar, so the dates are subject to change each year.
Part of the Dual Platoneia: An ancient celebration that honored the birthdays of Socrates and Plato. The Spring Platoneia is based on a lunar calendar, so the dates are subject to change each year.
28
PENTECOST (Western Christianity)
Pentecost celebrates the arrival of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles during Shauvot, 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus and 10 days after his ascension. It marks the birth of the Christian Church.
Pentecost celebrates the arrival of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles during Shauvot, 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus and 10 days after his ascension. It marks the birth of the Christian Church.
29
ASCENSION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH (Bahá’í)
This date commemorates the anniversary of the death of Bahá'u'lláh and his teachings. This is considered a day of rest and is usually observed by reading or chanting from scriptures.
This date commemorates the anniversary of the death of Bahá'u'lláh and his teachings. This is considered a day of rest and is usually observed by reading or chanting from scriptures.
JUNE
4
PENTECOST (Eastern Christianity)
Pentecost celebrates the arrival of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles during Shauvot, 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus and 10 days after his ascension. It marks the birth of the Christian Church.
Pentecost celebrates the arrival of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles during Shauvot, 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus and 10 days after his ascension. It marks the birth of the Christian Church.
11
ALL SAINTS DAY (Eastern Christianity)
Also known as the Sunday of All Saints, this Sunday following Pentecost is a day to commemorate all saints and martyrs of the Christian faith, both known and unknown. It is celebrated on November 1 in Western Christian traditions.
Also known as the Sunday of All Saints, this Sunday following Pentecost is a day to commemorate all saints and martyrs of the Christian faith, both known and unknown. It is celebrated on November 1 in Western Christian traditions.
21
LITHA (Pagan)
Also known as the Summer Solstice, Midsummer or Gathering Day. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year. It is a time to give thanks for warmth.
Also known as the Summer Solstice, Midsummer or Gathering Day. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year. It is a time to give thanks for warmth.
JULY
9
MARTYRDOM OF THE BÁB (Bahá’í)
Commemorates the events surrounding the death of the Báb in 1850. On this day, special prayers are read at noon. This is also considered a day of rest in which no one should work.
Commemorates the events surrounding the death of the Báb in 1850. On this day, special prayers are read at noon. This is also considered a day of rest in which no one should work.
24
PIONEER DAY (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
The celebration of Mormon pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley in 1847 to escape religious persecution.
The celebration of Mormon pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley in 1847 to escape religious persecution.
28-29
EID AL-ADHA (Islam)
Marks the culmination of the hajj (pilgrimage) rites at Minā, Saudi Arabia, near Mecca but is celebrated by Muslims throughout the world. It is distinguished by the performance of communal prayer at daybreak on its first day. It begins on the 10th of Dhū al-Ḥijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar and continues for an additional three days (though the Muslim use of a lunar calendar means that it may occur during any season of the year)
Marks the culmination of the hajj (pilgrimage) rites at Minā, Saudi Arabia, near Mecca but is celebrated by Muslims throughout the world. It is distinguished by the performance of communal prayer at daybreak on its first day. It begins on the 10th of Dhū al-Ḥijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar and continues for an additional three days (though the Muslim use of a lunar calendar means that it may occur during any season of the year)
This calendar was compiled using a variety of resources, including the Anti-Defamation League, Encyclopædia Britannica, BBC Religions, History.