ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Lammas/

Lughnasadh (Wicca/

Neo-Pagan)

August 1

Description of Observance: 

Lughnasadh or Lughnasa is an official Irish holiday and Gaelic festival marking the beginning of the harvest season. Historically, it was widely observed throughout Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. The festival, named after the god Lugh, was originally said to have begun as a time to honor the earth goddess and agriculture, and to give offerings for a bountiful harvest throughout the coming autumn season. The festival has pagan origins and typically includes large gatherings with religious ceremonies, ritual athletic contests, feasting, matchmaking, and trading. Lammas is celebrated typically with feasts and rituals of thanks to the earth and respective deities for the initial harvest and the coming harvests of the autumn season. Since Lughnasadh is the time of “first fruits” there are often celebrations of and with seasonal fruits to commemorate this time and blessings. Lughnasadh/Lammas is seen as a time to give thanks to spirits and deities for the beginning of the harvest season.

Best Practice(s): 

Historically, this holiday is celebrated on a Sunday; however, depending upon the following of the Lunar or Gregorian calendar, practitioners may be spending time in reflection or with family and friends.

Customary Greeting(s): 

"Blessed Lammas/Lughnasadh." 

"Lammas Blessings."

International Day of World’s Indigenous People 

August 9

Description:

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed on 9 August each year to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world's indigenous population. This event also recognizes the achievements and contributions that indigenous people make to improve world issues such as environmental protection. Theme:  The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge

Best Practices:

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greetings:

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Obon (Buddhist / Shinto) 

August 13 - August 16

Description of Observance:

Obon is the Buddhist/Shinto day that commemorates one's ancestors returning to this world to visit their relatives. To celebrate Obon, huge fires are lit at the entrances of houses to guide the spirits to enter. At the end of the Obon festival, families help their ancestors' spirits return back to the grave by guiding them with their chochin lanterns. The ritual is called okuri-bon.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

Shochuu ominmai, moshiagemasu! It's a tradition to send best wishes for good health at Obon as summer in Japan can be extremely hot and therefore a time to fall ill.

Feast of the Assumption of Mary (Catholic / Christian) 

August 15

Description of Observance:

Assumption Day commemorates the belief that when Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, died, her body was "assumed" into heaven to be reunited with her soul, instead of going through the natural process of physical decay upon death. Assumption celebrations are accompanied by festivals, colorful street processions, fireworks, and pageantry. While a “feast” isn't actually required, there is a longstanding tradition of blessing the summer harvest. In the United States, mass is attended.

Best Practice(s):

Assumption Day is considered a Holy Day of Obligation, but if it falls on a Saturday or on a Monday, it is not obligatory by the church to attend mass. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Ghost Festival (Buddhist)

August 18

Description of Observance:

Ghost Festival is a day where Buddhists perform rituals to relieve the suffering of the ghost of those who've died, as well as to honor parents and ancestors. On Ghost Festival, celebrants will worship their ancestors, offer food (to monks as well as deceased), burn joss paper, and chant of scriptures. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Krishna Janmashtami (Hindu)

August 26

Description of Observance:

Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Krishna.  An incarnation of the God Vishnu, Krishna represents love and bravery. Hindus celebrate Janmashtami by fasting, singing, praying together, preparing and sharing special food, night vigils, and visiting Krishna or Vishnu temples. Major Krishna temples organize recitation of Bhagavata Purana and Bhagavad Gita.

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Krishna Janmashtami fast in observance of this holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

Jai Ho Murlidhar Gopal Ki. May this Janmashtami bring all the good luck and immense happiness to you and your family. Celebrate the birth of the ALMIGHTY! Spread the bliss of Janmashtami!

Women’s Equality Day

Aug 28

Description of Observance:

Women's Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex. 

•  Anniversary of 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Paryushan Parva (Jain)

August 31- September 7

Description of Observance:

Paryushana Parva is an eight-day long festival of forgiveness and self-discipline.This is the most important annual holy event for Jains. Followers are encouraged to practice according to their ability and desires. Paryushana Parva is a time when the Jains take on vows of study and fasting.  The five main vows are emphasized during this time. There are no set rules, and followers are encouraged to practice according to their ability and desires.  The festival ends with the celebration of Samvatsari or Kshamavani (forgiveness day).

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Paryushana Parva may be fasting in observance of this holiday.Special services are also occurring during this time, and followers may take off to observe or celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s): 

"Happy Paryushan Parva," "May this Paryushan Parv bring you happiness and prosperity." 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Ganesh Chaturthi (Hindu)

September 7

Description of Observance:

Ganesh Chaturthi is the birth day of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune, and the remover of obstacles. On Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha's devotees perform their religious duties by getting up early. Then, they take a bath, wear new clothes, clean the temple in their house, light a diya in the temple, place gangajal, offer laddoos and modaks to Lord Ganesha, and complete the worship with an aarti

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Ganesh Chaturthi may refrain from work in order to perform their religious duties in observance of this holiday. Some may fast at this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

Ganpati Bappa Morya!

Mawlid al-Nabi (Islam)

September 15*-16

Description of Observance:

Mawlid al-Nabi commemorates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. Often organized in some countries by the Sufi orders, Mawlid is celebrated in a carnival manner, large street processions are held and homes or mosques are decorated. Charity and food is distributed, and stories about the life of Muhammad are narrated with recitation of poetry by children.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Wishing a very Happy Mawlid Al Nabi to you." 

Mabon (Pagan / Wiccan)

September 21-29

Description of Observance:

Mabon is the Pagan/Wiccan day which celebrates the autumnal equinox through a ritual of thanksgiving for the fruits of the earth. Observers of this day might perform a ritual to restore balance and harmony to their lives, as this holiday celebrates a day with equal light and day. Another common ritual is to set up an altar with symbols of the season, such as apples, grapes, and other seasonal harvests.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"BlessedMabon/Mabon Blessings."

Bisexual Visibility Day

Sep 23

Description of Observance:

Celebrate Bisexuality Day (also called Bisexual Pride Day, Bi Visibility Day, CBD, Bisexual Pride and Bi Visibility Day, and Bisexuality+ Day) is observed annually on September 23 to recognize and celebrate bisexual people, the bisexual community, and the history of bisexuality

• Observed by Bisexual people along with their families, friends, allies and supporters
• Observances: Teach-ins, poetry reading, concerts, festivals, parties, picnics

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)

October 3*-4

Description of Observance:

Rosh Hashanah begins the Jewish New Year.  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's rabbinical customs include attending synagogue services and reciting special liturgy about teshuva, as well as enjoying festive meals. Eating symbolic foods is now a tradition, such as apples dipped in honey, hoping to evoke a sweet new year.

Best Practice(s):

Employees who observe Rosh Hashanah are not permitted to work on that day. Rosh Hashanah is a holiday during which work, electronics, and other restrictions are in place for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Rosh Hashanah, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

The common way to wish someone well during Rosh Hashanah is to say "Shana Tovah" (ShaNAH ToVAH), meaning "Good Year."

Navaratri (Hindu)

October 3-12

Description of Observance:

Navaratri is an annual Hindu festival observed in the honor of the goddess Durga also referred to as Adi Parashakti. It spans over nine nights, first in the month of Chaitra, and again in the month of Ashwin. Celebrations include worshiping nine goddesses during nine days, stage decorations, recital of the legend, enacting of the story, and chanting of the scriptures of Hinduism. The nine days are also a major crop season cultural event, such as competitive design and staging of pandals, a family visit to these pandals, and the public celebration of classical and folk dances of Hindu culture. 

Best Practice(s):

Employees may refrain from attending work in order to celebrate at home or in their place of worship.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

World Mental Health Day

Oct 10

Description of Observance:

World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries

The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

National Coming Out Day

Oct 11

Description of Observance:

National Coming Out Day is an annual LGBT awareness day observed on October 11 to support anyone "coming out of the closet". First celebrated in the United States in 1988, the initial idea was grounded in the feminist and gay liberation spirit of the personal being political, and the emphasis on the most basic form of activism being coming out to family, friends, and colleagues, and living life as an openly lesbian or gay person

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday

Myaamia Removal Day of Remembrance (ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University)

October 11

Description of Observance:

Myaamia Removal Day of Remembrance (Oxford, OH)- During the forced removal of the Myaamia people from their homelands, which began in Peru, IN on October 6, 1846, Myaamia people passed just east of Oxford and ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University on October 10 and 11, 1846 on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and Erie Canal, the closest they would come to the University chartered with their name 37 years earlier.    

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though some may request time off for reflection.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of reflection and remembrance.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Oct 12

Description of Observance:

Indigenous Peoples' Day is a holiday in the United States that celebrates and honors indigenous American peoples and commemorates their histories and cultures. It is celebrated across the United States on the second Monday in October, and is an official city and state holiday in various localities. It began as a counter-celebration held on the same day as the U.S. federal holiday of Columbus Day, which honors Italian explorer Christopher Columbus. 

Observances: Identify and acknowledge the Native land you live on. Attend a celebration hosted by an Indigenous organization that honors Indigenous people and cultures. Take part in an online or in-person event

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of reflection and remembrance.

Yom Kippur (Jewish)

October 12*

Description of Observance:

Yom Kippur is the most solemn religious fast of the Jewish year, the last of the ten days of penitence that begin with Rosh Hashanah. Primarily centered on atonement and repentance, Jewish tradition believes that on this day God places a seal upon the Divine decrees affecting each person for the coming year. Jewish congregations spend the eve of Yom Kippur and the entire day in prayer and meditation.

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Yom Kippur will abstain from work, food and drink. Yom Kippur is a holiday during which fasting takes place and work, electronics, and other restrictions are in place for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Yom Kippur, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

The best greeting to give to someone observing Yom Kippur in English is “have an easy fast.” For those who are not fasting, but are observing the Yom Kippur, you can wish them a “Good Yuntif,” or “Yom Tov,” which are Yiddish and Hebrew, respectively, for “Have a good holy day.”

Dussehra (Hindu)

October 12

Description of Observance:

Dussehra celebrates Lord Rama's triumph over evil King Ravana, also celebrates the conquest by the Goddess Chamundeshwari over demon King Mahishasura. Dussehra is celebrated throughout India with different rituals and activities. Celebrations last for many days and are marked by songs, dances and large processions. People visit family and friends, exchange sweets and gifts, and wear traditional outfits.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

May Goddess Durga grant all your wishes and bless you with good health, success and happiness. Good wishes for a joyous Vijayadashami! Just like the colours and lights of the festival, may your life be filled with all the joy and prosperity in the world. Happy Dussehra!

Sukkot (Jewish)

October 17*-23

Description of Observance:

Sukkot is the Jewish holiday celebrating the Feast of the Tabernacles and Harvest festival .In addition to its harvest roots, the holiday also holds spiritual importance with regard to its abandonment of materialism to focus on nationhood, spirituality, and hospitality, this principle underlying the construction of a temporary, almost nomadic, structure of a sukkah. Sukkot is celebrated by, first of all, building a sukkah. Sukkot is a holiday that speaks of the importance of compassion, spirituality, nationhood, and hospitality. During Sukkot, observers are called to build a sukkah to honor and commemorate the harvest season, along with the history of the pilgrimage holiday during with the Israelites would travel to the Temple and dwell in temporary homes. The sukkah structure is a call back to this history and a reminder of the significance of compassion for others and the importance of removing oneself from materialistic things to refocus priorities upon spirituality and community.

Best Practice(s):

Sukkot is a holiday during which work, electronics, and other restrictions are in place for observers during the first two and last two days, as these are holy days. Please be mindful of scheduling around Sukkot, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

The common way to wish someone well during Sukkot is to say "Chag Sameach" (khahg sah-MAy-akh)), meaning "Happy Holiday."

International Pronouns Day

Oct 20

Description of Observance:

International Pronouns Day seeks to make respecting, sharing, and educating about personal pronouns commonplace. Referring to people by the pronouns they determine for themselves is basic to human dignity.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of reflection and remembrance

Shemini Atzeret/ Simchat Torah (Jewish) 

October 24*-25

Description of Observance:

Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah, marks the end of Sukkot and celebrates the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings and the beginning of a new cycle. Interestingly, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah have no inherent mitzvot. They are observed by beginning the recitation of the prayer for rain (tefilat geshem), singing and dancing with the Torah, completing the yearly cycle of Torah readings and beginning the next cycle and refraining from work.

Best Practice(s):

Employees observing Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah are prohibited from working on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

The common way to wish someone well during Sukkot is to say "Chag Sameach" (khahg sah-MAy-akh)), meaning "Happy Holiday."

Samhain (Pagan / Wiccan)

October 31* - November 1

Description of Observance:

Samhain is a Pagan/Wiccan festival honoring endings, beginnings, and the dead. Samhain marked the Celtic New Year, the end of summer, and the end of the harvest season. It also signaled the beginning of winter, which they associated with death. On this day, the Celts believed the veil between the living and the dead was especially thin. This allowed spirits of the dead to visit the living. There are many rituals associated with Samhain today. These include dancing, feasting, taking nature walks, and building altars to honor their ancestors. There are many parts to the altars Wiccans build. To symbolize the end of the harvest, they include apples, pumpkins, or other fall crops.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Samhain Blessings."

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Diwali/ Deepavali (Hindu, Jain)

 November 1

Description of Observance:

Bandhi Chhor Divas (Sikh), Buddhist) - Known as the "Festival of Lights;" ("Day of Liberation") is a Sikh celebration that commemorates the day the sixth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind was released from Gwalior Fort and was able to secure the release of 52 kings. is one of the most important festivals in Indian religions. It symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance." It's a five-day celebration that includes good food, fireworks, colored sand, and special candles and lamps. Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live. But there's one common theme no matter where people celebrate: the victory of good over evil.  

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Shubh Deepavali” (pronounced “shope duh-VAH-lee”) is a customary greeting associated with Diwali. It means, “Have an auspicious Diwali.”

All Saints’ Day (Christian) 

November 1

Description of Observance:

Celebrate those who have reached spiritual maturity and honor all saints (known and unknown). During this holiday there are Church services, praying for the dead, and visiting cemeteries; people may also bring flowers to cemeteries and clean the graves, or even a priest blesses the graves. 

Best Practice(s):

In some place, people may take the day off to participate in cemetery and grave rituals. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greetings but people may say "Happy All Saints Day" or "Happy Saints Day."

Dia de los Muertos (Mexican)

November 1 - November 2

Description of Observance:

The ancient indigenous people of Mexico have practiced rituals celebrating the lives of past ancestors for around 3,000 years. The celebration that is now known as Day of the Dead originally landed on the ninth month of the Aztec calendar and was observed for the entire month. In the 20th century, the month-long festivities were condensed to three days called The Days of the Dead: Halloween on October 31, Day of the Innocents on November 1, and Day of the Dead on November 2. Plans for Day of the Dead are made throughout the year. Toys are offered to dead children and bottles of alcohol or jars of alote get offered to dead adults. Most families decorate their loved ones’ graves with ofrendas, which often includes marigolds. It’s said that these specific flowers attract the souls of the dead to the offerings, and the bright petals and strong scent guides the souls from the cemetery to their family’s home. Since the 1960s, when the Mexican government declared it a public holiday based on educational policy initiatives, Dia de Muertos has been observed throughout Mexico. The tradition was added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization’s Representative List of Humanity’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008.

Best Practice(s):

Some people may take the day off and visit the graves of those who have passed

Customary Greeting(s):

“Feliz día de los Muertos.”

All Soul’s Day
(Christian)

November 2

Description of Observance:

Commemorate those who have passed within the faith and a day of prayer for the dead. Individuals visit cemeteries, share memories of loved ones, honor traditions, and light candles to guide the dead. 

Best Practice(s):

Some people may take the day off and visit the graves of those who have passed

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy All Soul's Day.” 

Birth of the Báb (Bahá'í)

November 2

Description of Observance:

This day celebrates the birth of the Báb, one of the founders of the Bahá'í faith. The day of the Birth of the Báb begins with prayers and devotional readings. It continues with a festive social gathering either at home or in a place of worship. In keeping with the essence of Bahá'í, the celebrations are open to all.

Best Practice(s):

Employees may refrain from attending work in order to celebrate at home or in their place of worship.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Birth of the Báb” or “Happy Twin Birthdays.”

Birth of Bahá'u'lláh (Bahá'í)

Description of Observance:

This day celebrates the birth of Bahá'u'lláh, one of the founders of the Bahá'í faith. During the holy day the community should rejoice together to increase the unity of the community. Baháʼís usually observe the holy day with community gatherings where prayers are shared and the birth of Baháʼu'lláh is celebrated.

Best Practice(s):

Employees may refrain from attending work in order to celebrate at home or in their place of worship.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Birth of. Baha'u'llah” or “Happy Twin Holy Days.”

Veteran’s Day

November 11

Description of Observance:

Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11, for honoring military veterans of the United States Armed Forces. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

Thank you for the commitment you made (or are making) to serve this country

Thank you for your service

Gurpurab (Sikh)

November 15

Description of Observance:

Celebration of an anniversary related to the lives of the Sikh gurus, commemorating the birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib (the 10th Sikh Guru). People sing hymns in groups and play traditional musical instruments, dress-up in new traditional clothes, and offer prayers. 

Best Practice(s):

Special assemblies are held in gurdwaras as well as Sikh march processions that last up to 3 days causing an employee to either take the day off or display tiredness from the celebration. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greeting but people may say "Raj karega khalsa, aakee rehae naa koe, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Happy Gurpurab."

Birth of Guru Nanak (Sikh)

November 15

Description of Observance:

Celebrates the birth of the founder of Sikhism and the first of the Sikh Gurus. One of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, Sikh followers travel to the birthplace of Guru nanak to participate in the activities of the holy day and seek blessings. In the U.S., members of the Sikh community visit the Gurudwara which holds programs and prayer services. 

Best Practice(s):

Followers may take time off to make the journey to the birthplace of Guru Nanak or to visit gurudwaras. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greeting but people may say "May Wahe Guru shower his blessings on you!" "Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!" "Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru ji ki fateh."

Shichi-go-san (Shinto)

November 15

Description of Observance:

Traditional Japanese rite of passage and festival day for 3-7 year old girls and 5 year old boys celebrating the growth and well-being of young children. Modern families dress up and visit a shrine or temple, children receive gifts and families take group photos to commemorate the event. 

Best Practice(s):

Most people pay their respects on the weekend. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

International Day for Tolerance

November 16

Description of Observance:

The International Day for Tolerance is an annual observance day declared by UNESCO in 1995 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. It is observed on 16 November. Every year various conferences and festivals are organized in the occasion of International Day for Tolerance

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Lhabab Duchen (Buddhist)

November 22

Description of Observance:

Buddhist festival celebrated to observe the Buddha's descent from the Trāyastrimśa heaven down to Earth. Individuals make offerings, say mantras, prayers, and light butter lamps. The festival's main point is to pray. 

Best Practice(s):

May take the day off to pray and engage in virtuous activities as it is believed that both positive and negative actions are multiplied by 10 million on this day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say "Amituofo" (E-mi-tuo-fo), which is a kind greeting and form of well-wishing meaning immeasurable light and immeasurable life.

Niiname-sai / Labor Thanksgivings Day (Shinto)

November 23

Description of Observance:

Japanese harvest ritual, a thanks to the Shinto deities for a prosperous year and prays for a fruitful new year. The ritual is celebrated by the Emperor of Japan, who thanks the Shinto deities for a prosperous year and prays for a fruitful new year. It takes place near the Three Palace Sanctuaries of the imperial palace and several large Shinto shrines. During the ritual, the Emperor shows gratitude to the gods for Japan's harvest through offerings, non-religiously celebrated as Labor Thanksgiving Day. 

Best Practice(s):

People take the day off as it is considered a national holiday in Japan. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, tokens of thanks are often shared. 

Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib (Sikh) 

November 24

Description of Observance:

Every year November 24 is observed as the day of the Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. On this day in 1675, he was publicly Executed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in Delhi for refusing to accept Aurangzeb's authority. Sikh places of worship reverberate with the sounds of chanting of the composition called Bachittar Natak, which recounts his life and was recorded by his son, Guru Gobind Singh. A number of Sikh temples have been built in honor of Guru Tegh Bahadur. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Day of Covenant (Bahá'í)

November 24-25

Description of Observance:

Celebrate the appointment of 'Abdu'l-Bahá as the Centre of Baha'u'llah's Covenant; Baha’is celebrate the unity of their Faith — and the essential unity of all Faiths — on the Day of the Covenant. They also recognize, on this special day, the wider covenant that exists between God and humanity, which expresses itself in the singular purpose, common principles, and prophetic connections that link every Faith. Gather in prayer and worship in celebration of unity and acceptance, all are welcome to celebrate regardless of any difference in faith or beliefs. 

Best Practice(s):

The day is one of two Baháʼí holy days where work does not need to be suspended.

Customary Greeting(s):

A common greeting for this day is Allah-u-Abha – an Arabic phrase that means “God is the Most Glorious." "Allah-u-Abha" (All-LAH oo abha). 

Native American Heritage Day

November 24

Description of Observance:

Native American Heritage Day is a civil holiday observed on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States and is a day in honor of Native Americans. “During National Native American Heritage Month, people celebrate Indigenous peoples past and present and rededicate themselves to honoring Tribal sovereignty, promoting Tribal self-determination, and upholding the United States' solemn trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of Christ the King (Catholic / Christian)

November 24

Description of Observance:

Christ the King Day is a Catholic celebration that takes place on the last Sunday of the liturgical year in the Catholic faith. Originally a Roman Catholic feast, it is now observed by Christians of all denominations as a way to recognize and honor Jesus Christ as the ‘King of Kings.’ The church’s aim to remind the increasingly secular world of the importance of God and his teachings is one of the key reasons for the celebration. Christ the King Day was initiated in 1925 by Pope Pius XI as a response to the spread of secularism in the modern world and to remind the world of Jesus Christ’s rule on mankind. Initially a Roman Catholic holiday celebrated on the last Sunday of October, many Christian denominations have since adopted the holiday.

The holiday’s origins can be traced back to Pope Pius XI’s view that Jesus Christ is the eternal ruler of the world. This truth is underlined and outlined throughout history in gospels, novels, and art, where Jesus Christ is constantly shown at the center of compositions and is referred to in venerable, regal terms. According to legend, Jesus Christ is worshiped by all angels and mortals, and everyone is subject to him and must recognize his reign as a result of Christ’s hypostatic union with all creatures on Earth and beyond.

Thus, the celebrations remind Catholics and Christians of Jesus Christ’s eternal authority over the world, as it is the only kind of authority that is not temporal and fleeting. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops simplifies the solemn day as a reminder that while governments come and go, Christ reigns as King forever.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services and celebrations on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Christ the King Day." 

Birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Sahib (Sikh)

November 27

Description of Observance:

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav, celebrates the birth of the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak. One of the most celebrated and important Sikh gurus and the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev is highly revered by the Sikh community. Their birthdays, known as 'Gurpurab', are occasions for celebration and prayer among the community. Guru Nanak Jayanti is marked with prayer processions, hymns, free sweets, martial arts ('Gatka'), as well as services to the community. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate or for services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Ascension of ‘Abu’l-Bahá (Bahá'í) 

November 27-28

Description of Observance:

Holiday honoring ‘Abu’l-Bahá who succeeded Bahá'u'lláh, prophet-founder of the Bahá'ı Faith, and led the Bahá'ı community from 1892 to 1921 [commemorates the death of ‘Abu’l-Bahá in 1921]. Devotional readings and is held at 1:00 am as ‘Abu’l-Bahá passed away at about 1:00 am on November 28, 1921. Observances on this day generally include prayers, music, and readings, ideally at 1:00 am, the time of his passing. Work is not suspended. 

Best Practice(s):

Since the celebration of the holiday takes place in the early morning, people may take the day off or come in late. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. A common greeting for this day is Allah-u-Abha – an Arabic phrase that means “God is the Most Glorious." "Allah-u-Abha" (All-LAH oo abha). 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

World AIDS Day

Dec 1

Description of Observance:

World AIDS Day, designated on 1 December every year since 1988, is an international day dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and mourning those who've died of the disease.  The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The HIV virus attacks the immune system of the patient and reduces its resistance to other diseases. Government and health officials, non-governmental organizations, and individuals around the world observe the day, often with education on AIDS prevention and control

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

First Sunday of Advent (Christian) 

December 1

Description of Observance:

Marks the beginning of the Christian year across many western churches, Season of expectant waiting and preparation of the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. Followers start lighting their Advent wreaths and praying their Advent daily devotional to celebrate, people may also put up their Christmas tree, light their Christingle, or engage in other preparations for Christmas. 

Best Practice(s):

Takes place on the weekend. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greeting but people may say "Happy First Sunday of Advent." "May the holy and blessed occasion of Advent bring peace, joy, and warmth. May the joy and wonder of Advent – Refresh your spirit and light up your life. May the Advent Season bring to you peace, warmth, and cozy gatherings with loved ones."

Advent Season (Christian) 

December 1

Description of Observance:

Advent (from, "ad-venire" in Latin or "to come to") is the season encompassing the four Sundays (and weekdays) leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. People may light Advent candles or prepare Advent wreaths, hold special church services or read specific Scriptures each day, and some use an Advent calendar to build anticipation for Christmas. 

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services. Typically held on the weekend.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of St. Francis Xavier (Catholic) 

December 3

Description of Observance:

Commemorates and honors the commitment and service that St. Francis Xavier showed through his Christian missionary activity in Europe and Asia. To celebrate him and commemorate his journey to the afterlife, the town of Assisi lights oil lamps for two days. Religious services are held and some children even bring their pets to be blessed on this day. 

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Catholic)

December 8

Description of Observance:

Celebrates the sinless lifespan and Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on December 8, nine months before the feast of the Nativity of Mary, celebrated on September 8, Celebrates Mary's conception without sin. People celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in different ways around the world. Some use it as a day of prayer, whereas some countries host large festivals, parades, and have fireworks. People honor the Virgin Mary through kinship and celebration.

Best Practice(s):

Some Catholics might fast that day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say May your Christmas open with Mary’s grace and light. Best wishes for a happy Immaculate Conception. 

Bodhi Day (Buddhist)

December 8

Description of Observance:

Bodhi Day is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that Gautama Buddha (Shakyamuni) is said to have attained enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. According to tradition, Siddhartha had recently forsaken years of extreme ascetic practices and resolved to sit under a peepal tree, also known as a Bodhi tree, and simply meditate until he found the root of suffering, and how to liberate oneself from it. Services and traditions vary amongst Buddhist sects, but all such services commemorate the Buddha's achievement of Nirvana, and what this means for Buddhism today. Individuals may choose to commemorate the event through additional meditation, study of the Dharma, chanting of Buddhist texts (sutras), or performing kind acts towards other beings. Some Buddhists celebrate with a traditional meal of tea, cake and readingsBuddhists go to temple services and practice meditation. Some Buddhists decorate bodhi trees with lights and statues of Buddha. They also reflect upon the Noble Eightfold Path and the Four Noble Truths.

Best Practice(s):

Some Buddhists may choose to fast. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Bodhi Day or Blessed Bodhi Day.

International Human Rights Day

Dec 10

Description of Observance:

Human Rights Day is celebrated annually around the world on 10 December every year. The date was chosen to honor the United Nations General Assembly's adoption and proclamation, on 10 December 1948, of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the first global enunciation of human rights and one of the first major achievements of the new United Nations. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights plays a prominent role in coordinating worldwide efforts to celebrate the day, which routinely features cultural events and performances, public meetings and seminars, and other educational activities in promotion of human rights.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Catholic) 

December 12

Description of Observance:

This celebration commemorates the appearance of Mary to the Mexican peasant Juan Diego in 1531. The feast day is an important holiday in Mexico. It has also become an important day for Mexican Americans to celebrate their religious and cultural identity. Today, as a sign of their devotion to Mary, many pilgrims travel to the Basilica in Mexico City on their knees for many miles. They do this as a sign of their devotion to Mary and to show gratitude for favors received from her. Outside of the shrine there are groups of mariachis, folk musicians, and ethnic dancers who have come to celebrate. Inside, various priests and bishops from all over Mexico gather to celebrate Mass. In the evening, the entrance of the basilica is filled with pilgrims from different regions of the country. Many other fiestas or popular celebrations take place in honor of La Virgen Morena, or the dark-skinned Madonna, all over Mexico. Almost every household erects an altar to the Virgin Mary for the day and the faithful demonstrate their joy by lighting fireworks throughout their cities.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Yule (Pagan / Wiccan)

December 21 - January 1

Description of Observance:

This holiday is celebrated at the winter solstice as the rebirth of the Great horned hunter god, who is viewed as the newborn solstice sun [modern Paganism]. Yule was originally celebrated by the Norse and Scandinavian peoples.Today, many Pagans still celebrate Yule on the day of the Winter Solstice. Pagans celebrate the rebirth of the sun through gift exchanges, merriment, and deep spiritual reflection. For Pagans, this is a time of new beginnings, rebirth, transformation, getting rid of unwanted habits, and creativity. In most forms of Wicca, followers celebrate the Great horned hunter god who represents the newborn solstice sun. Some have group or private ceremonies. Yule is considered the Wiccan Sabbat. Yule celebrations included bonfires, decorating with holly, mistletoe, and the boughs of evergreen trees, ritual sacrifices, feasts, and gift-giving.

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to observe this holiday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Yule,” “Merry Yuletide,” or “Happy Solstice.”  

Srīmad Bhagavad Gītā Jayantī (Hindu)

December 22

Description of Observance:

Celebrates the birthday of Bhagavad Gita. Gita Jayanti is a very important day for Hindus. On this day, the holy book of Hindus, Bhagavad Gita was born, ie Gita Jayanti is the day when Lord Shri Krishna told the Gita to Arjuna. It is celebrated on Shukla Ekadashi on the 11th day of Margashirsha month of the Hindu calendar. The Bhagavad Gita was described by Lord Krishna himself before the Mahabharata war began. It is believed that in the Mahabharata, the seeds of the Pandavas and the Kauravas had decided to go to war even after every possible reconciliation effort. Followers read the Bhagavad Gita and talk about how it has benefitted them. The followers of Lord Krishna fast on the festival of Ekadashi, which is a day where one cleanses the body and focuses on rejuvenation. 

Best Practice(s):

It is an important fasting day, so they might feel fatigued or tired. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say "May this auspicious occasion of Gita Jayanti bring a lot of positivity, peace and harmony to your life." 

Vaikuntha Ekadashi (Hindu)

December 23

Description of Observance:

Hindu holiday and festival, Vaishnavas (Devotees of Vishnu) believe that the gate to Vaikuntha, Vaikunta Dvaram, is opened on this day. People fast the whole day and keep vigil. Special prayers are offered to Vishnu and devotees engage in chanting of Vishnu's name and meditation, Celebration occurs in Venkateswara temples across many regions, temple celebrations and rituals occur. 

Best Practice(s):

Since fasting takes place, employees may need special accommodations. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Vaikunta Ekadashi.” 

Hanukkah (Jewish) 

December 25-January 2

Description of Observance:

The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah or Chanukah commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Jewish people light one candle on the menorah each day, which represents the number of days that the Temple lantern blazed. People also traditionally play games of dreidel and eat Jewish foods. Religious rituals such as daily readings of Scriptures, recitations of Psalms, and singing are also held.

Best Practice(s):

Hanukkah is considered a minor Jewish holiday, so most people still go to work or school. Some people may choose to take time off to be with their friends and family. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Hanukkah sameach! (Happy Hanukkah!), Chag urim sameach! (Happy Festival of Lights!). 

Christmas (Christian)

December 25

Description of Observance:

Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. Popular customs in celebrating Christmas are exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, having meals with family and friends, and attending Christmas services. 

Best Practice(s):

Public holiday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

“Merry Christmas!” 

Zarathosht Diso (Zoroastrian)

December 26

Description of Observance:

Commemorates the death anniversary of Zarathushtra, founder of Zoroastrianism. Followers traditionally visit fire temples and pray in honor and remembrance of the holy prophet. Followers also pray to Fravashis, the guardian spirits. It is also considered a day of prayer, ritual, and reflection. It is an occasion of remembrance with lectures and discussions held on the life and works of the prophet. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to observe this holiday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, though one may say "Happy Holidays!" 

Kwanzaa (African Americans)

December 26 - January 1

Description of Observance:

Celebrates African heritage, unity, and culture.  Although Kwanzaa is primarily an African American holiday, it has also come to be celebrated outside the United States, particularly in Caribbean and other countries where there are large numbers of descendants of Africans. It was conceived as a nonpolitical and nonreligious holiday, and it is not considered to be a substitute for Christmas. Kwanzaa is celebrated by hosting daily ceremonies and eating traditional foods. They also light the kinara, which holds seven candles. Each candle represents one of the Seven principles of Kwanzaa. Red, green, and black are the most prevalent colors in decorating for and celebrating Kwanzaa.

Best Practice(s):

Some people abstain from eating meat or fast until the big Kwanzaa feast. 

Customary Greeting(s):

During Kwanzaa, participants greet one another with "Habari gani" which is Kiswahili for "how are you/ how's the news with you?" People can also say, “Happy Kwanzaa!” 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Oshogatsu (Japan)

January 1

Description of Observance:

Marking the beginning of a new calendar year, on the eve of the new year, temple bells ring 108 times: 8 times to ring out the old year and 100 times to usher in the new year. It is a tradition to visit a shrine or temple, thanking the spirits, asking for good fortune, and letting resolutions known in presence of the spirits. 

Best Practice(s):

In Japan, it is celebrated with time off of work, family reunions, and traditional rituals. 

Customary Greeting(s):

shinnen omedetô (gozaimasu) (新年おめでとう (ございます) ); or, akemashite omedetô (gozaimasu) (明けましておめでとう (ございます) ) Meaning Happy New Year and Congratulations for the New Year that is beginning. 

Gantan-sai (Shinto)

January 1

Description of Observance:

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. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time to attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of Mary Mother of God (Christian)

January 1

Description of Observance:

This holiday is a celebration of Mary's motherhood of Jesus. It is a reminder of the role she played in the salvation of humankind. The title “Mother of God” is a western derivation from the Greek Theotokos, which means “God-bearer.”  Honor Your Earthly Mama. Take her out to lunch, give her a call, send her flowers… show her you care about her and that you are praying for her! Remember her on a Marian feast day by having a Mass offered for her intentions, or lighting a candle in your local parish Church, asking Mother Mary to intercede for your mom!

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time to attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Epiphany (Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, Christians)

January 6

Description of Observance:

It commemorates how a star led the Magi, or the three wise men, to baby Jesus. The Magi had Hope in the Star that God placed before them. They followed that light of Hope until they found Jesus; hope and joyful revelation. People celebrate by baking a Kings' Cake, chalking the door, having one's house blessed, elaborating worship with lighted candle, and attending church service; Countries celebrate on the evening before and on the actual day with parades of decorative floats and people in costume as the kings bearing gifts. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time to attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say May the Epiphany remind us all that the divine light will unite us all. 

Orthodox Christmas (Orthodox Christian)

January 7

Description of Observance:

The Orthodox Church still chooses to celebrate the birth of Jesus as per the Julian calendar. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who many Christians believe is the son of God. His birth date is unknown because there is little information about his early life. Many Christians celebrate Jesus’ birthday on December 25 but there are some who hold tradition by observing the date on January 7. Followers go to church, then exchange gifts at a huge feast with friends and family, eating plenty of meat and pastries and enjoying each other's company. 

Best Practice(s):

Fasting takes place leading up to this date. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Merry Christmas. 

National Day of Human Trafficking Awareness

January 11

Description of Observance:

In 2007, the U.S. Congress designated January 11th as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. People who are trafficked are considered victims of a crime under international law. This day aims is to raise awareness about the plight of human trafficking victims, as well as to promote and protect their rights. 

Best Practice(s):

To raise awareness of human trafficking, many take photos of themselves, friends, family, and colleagues wearing blue clothing and share them on social media – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – along with our #WearBlueDay hashtag

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday

Makar Sankranti (Hindu) 

January 14

Description of Observance:

Celebration of the Sun god - The first festival of the calendar year, it marks the first day of the sun's transit into the Makara signaling the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. People worship the sun god, Surya, by going to temples and offering water and flowers. People also often eat sweets made of jaggery and sesame and participate in the kite festival; children fly kites. 

Best Practice(s):

Consumption of meat is strictly discouraged, some may choose to take the day off. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Hope you are blessed with peace, prosperity, and good harvest this Makar Sankranti. 

Birth of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti (Sikh)

January 20

Description of Observance:

Birthday of the tenth and last Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji, celebrates ; Sikhs revere Guru Gobind as a devout spiritual leader who made major contributions to the faith’s ideology and writing. Believers also view him as a fearless protector of all people from oppression and injustice. Sikhs celebrate the occasion with processions and singing, gathering at gurdwaras for prayer and spiritual discourse, and reciting poems and hymns. 

Best Practice(s):

In India, since it is a public holiday, people take the day off. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Gobind Singh Jayanti. 

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

January 27

Description of Observance:

The International Holocaust Remembrance Day, or the International Day in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, is an international memorial day on 27 January that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. January 27 was chosen to commemorate the date when the Auschwitz concentration camp was liberated by the Red Army in 1945. The day remembers the killing of six million Jews, two-thirds of Europe's Jewish population, and millions of others by the Nazi regime and its collaborators. It was designated by United Nations General Assembly resolution 60/7 on 1 November 2005.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no official greeting for the holiday.

Myaamia Winter Gathering (Myaamia Tribe)

Date determined annually by Myaamia Tribe

Description of Observance:

Winter Gathering is one of the major events each year that Myaamia citizens and friends of the community can come together in Noošonke Siipionki ‘ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, OK’ to celebrate Myaamia culture and hear about important news and developments within the community. A Myaamia winter-time gathering designed to bring Myaamia people together from across the country, with a special focus on aalhsoohkaana 'winter stories' and kiiwahtekaataawi koteenki 'stomp dance' 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Lailat al Miraj (Islam)

January 26*-27

Description of Observance:

Lailat al Miraj celebrates the Prophet Muhammad's nighttime journey from Mecca to Jerusalem, where he then ascended to heaven. While sleeping in the Ka'bah, the sacred shrine of Mecca, Muhammad was visited by the archangels Jibril and Mikal. The archangels purified his soul and filled him with wisdom. The story of Muhammad's nighttime journey is often read at mosques or at home to celebrate this day. Special additions can be made to nighttime prayers; Lailat Al Miraj can be celebrated in different ways, but most Muslims will either attend special services at a mosque or pray privately at home. The story of Muhammad's journey is often recited during prayer services. 

Best Practice(s):

May take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “May the Lailat al Miraj bring you blessing." 

Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year Chūnjié) (Chinese) 

January 29

Description of Observance:

The festival celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar and solar Chinese calendar. The main Chinese New Year activities include 1) putting up decorations, 2) offering sacrifices to ancestors, 3) eating reunion dinner with family on New Year's Eve, 4) giving red envelopes and other gifts, 5) firecrackers and fireworks, and 6) watching lion and dragon dances. 

Best Practice(s):

Celebrated over the weekend. 

Customary Greeting(s):

In Mandarin, the most common Chinese New Year greeting is Xīnnián hǎo (新年好), which directly translates as 'New Year Goodness'. A more formal greeting is Xīn nián kuài lè, literally meaning 'New Year happiness'.

Seollal (Korean New Year) (Korean)

January 29

Description of Observance:

A festival and national holiday commemorating the first day of the Korean calendar. It is one of the most important traditional holidays in both North and South Korea. Koreans usually perform ancestral rites, play folk games, eat traditional foods, listen to stories and talk well into the night; they also may visit their hometowns to pay respects. 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

새해 복 많이 받으세요. (Saehae bok mani badeuseyo.) “Please receive a lot of luck in the new year.”

Têt Nguyên Ðán (Vietnamese New Year) (Vietnamese)

January 29

Description of Observance:

Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations in Vietnamese culture, it celebrates the beginning of the new year; The phrase means 'the first morning of the first day of the New Year. Vietnamese people may return home to their families; many go to their family altars to worship or visit graves to honor their ancestors; children receive red envelopes filled with money from their elders. The first day is reserved for the nuclear family, then it is celebrated in large crowds. 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

The easiest and most commonly used greetings during Tet are "Chúc mừng Năm Mới!" (‘Happy New Year!’) and “Cung hỉ phát tài!” (‘Congratulations and prosper!’). 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

National Freedom Day

Feb 1

Description of Observance:

National Freedom Day is a United States Observance, honored on February 1. National Freedom Day represents President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of a joint House and Senate resolution which was later ratified as the Constitution’s 13th Amendment. On February 1, 1816, the Amendment abolishing slavery was signed, but it was not ratified until later. 

Best Practice(s): Many people privately reflect, many towns and cities may have small festivals or celebrations. 

Customary Greeting(s): N/A

Imbolc (Pagan / Wiccan)

Feb 1

Description of Observance:

Imbolc or Imbolg, also called Saint Brigid's Day, is a Gaelic traditional festival. It marks the beginning of spring, and for Christians, it is the feast day of Saint Brigid, Ireland's patroness saint. Celebrates the coming of Spring - symbolizes the halfway point between the winter solstice (Yule) and the spring equinox (Ostara); The word "imbolc" means "in the belly of the Mother," because the seeds of spring are beginning to stir in the belly of Mother Earth. Celebrate by setting up an altar with symbols of Brigid, white flowers, a bowl of milk, and candles; If there is a group gathering, they might cast a circle, and recite prayer to receive a blessing from Brigid; some people do house cleanings. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate.  

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Imbolc!”

Vasant Panchami (Hindu)

February 2

Description of Observance:

A festival that marks the preparation for the arrival of spring and the worship of goddess Saraswati, patron Goddess of knowledge, music, arts, science, and technology. People celebrate the day by wearing yellow (white), eating sweet dishes and displaying yellow flowers in homes. 

Best Practice(s):

Some employees may choose to take the day off on this day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Vasant Panchami!”

Setsubun-sai (Shinto)

Feb 3

Description of Observance:

Setsubun is celebrated in Japan on February 3rd, marking the day before spring with various traditions meant to drive away evil spirits and bad luck and cleanse the home and family for the coming year. Rituals vary throughout Japan, but one of the more common and well-known rituals is mamemaki (豆撒き, "bean throwing"). People throw roasted soybeans, or fukumame (福豆, "fortune beans"), out from the front door of their homes or shrines while shouting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" (鬼は外！福は内！, "Devils out! Fortune in!"). Often times, a family member will wear an oni (鬼, "demon or ogre") mask, acting as the devil while the rest of the family throw the beans. Afterwards, each individual will eat the number of beans that corresponds with their age. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

"Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" is the chanting phrase to sing at this time of the year. It symbolizes Japanese people's wish to chase away oni demons and attract happiness. 

Tu B’shevat (Jewish) 

February 12*-13

Description of Observance:

Tu B'Shevat is a Jewish holiday occurring on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. It is also called Rosh HaShanah La'Ilanot, literally "New Year of the Trees". Marks the beginning of spring in Israel. Tu B'Shevat is a celebration of the renewal of vision and awareness, a celebration of connections and connectedness - remember connection to the Earth. Celebrate by eating members of the 'seven species' the Torah links to the land of Israel - wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates; some also celebrate with a Tu B'Shevat seder, focusing on the symbolism of different kinds of fruits and trees. 

Best Practice(s):

Some observers may take this time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no official greeting for the holiday. The standard “Chag Sameach!” (Happy Holiday) may be said. 

Darwin Day (Atheist / Secular)

February 12

Description of Observance:

Darwin Day is a celebration to commemorate the birthday of Charles Darwin. The day is used to highlight Darwin's contributions to science and to promote science in general. People can visit a natural history museum, can attend exhibitions, exhibits on evolution, they can read The Origin of Species, his book and one of his famous inventions or theories. Used to inspire people to reflect and act on the principle of intellectual bravery, perpetual curiosity, scientific thinking, and hunger for truth. 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, though some may say "Happy Darwin Day." 

Magha Puja Day/Sangha Day (Buddhist)

February 13

Description of Observance:

Magha Puja Day commemorates when 1,250 enlightened Buddhist monks came to see the Buddha. They saw him without being summoned on the full moon of the 3rd lunar month. On this day, the Lord Buddha gave "Ovadha Patimokkha" (fundamental teaching) to all his disciples. Sangha Day is the second most important Buddhist festival. It celebrates the Buddhist community. This holiday allows people to prove or reaffirm their faith.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrations vary. Western Buddhists often exchange gifts, but Eastern Buddhists typically do now. People often chant, practice meditation, and light oil lamps. The day is celebrated with gift exchanges, lighting oil lamps, attending temple, and chanting/meditation. People give offerings to monks at lunch at temples, typically sweet or savory. The spiritual aims of Magha Puja are to do good things and purify the mind. Some practitioners may choose to fast at this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say "Amituofo" (E-mi-tuo-fo), which is a kind greeting and form of well-wishing meaning immeasurable light and immeasurable life. 

Shab-e-Barat (Islam)

February 14

Description of Observance:

Shab-e-Barat, Barat Night, Cheragh e Barat, Berat Kandili, or Nisfu Syaaban is a cultural celebration celebrated in many South Asian, Central Asian, South East Asian and Middle Eastern Muslim countries, on the 15th night of the month of Sha'ban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar.

Best Practice(s):

On the night, Muslims worldwide ask forgiveness for their sins from the all-merciful Allah. Additionally, the night can be used to seek mercy for the deceased and ill family members. Some practitioners may choose to take the day off work to celebrate their faith.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say “May the blessings of Shab e Barat fill your life with happiness and joy.”

Parinirvana - Buddha’s Passing (Buddhist)

Feb 15

Description of Observance:

Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha Gautama, who is commonly known as Buddha; Mahayana festival commemorating the death of the Buddha at the age of 80 and his attainment of parinirvana. Buddhists may celebrate the day by going to Buddhist temples or monasteries or with meditation. In monasteries, Parinirvana Day is a social occasion where food is shared and people exchange gifts such as money, household items or clothes. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take the day off in observance of this holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say "Amituofo" (E-mi-tuo-fo), which is a kind greeting and form of well-wishing meaning immeasurable light and immeasurable life. 

Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week

Feb 19-25

Description of Observance:

Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week celebrates the awareness and acceptance of individuals on the aromantic spectrum. Aromanticism is a romantic orientation that describes those whose experience of romance is disconnected from normative societal expectations (AROSPECWeek.org), often being that no romantic attraction is experienced. 

Best Practice(s): 

There are no employee restrictions on this date.

Customary Greeting(s): 

Happy Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week!

World Day of Social Justice

Feb 20

Description of Observance:

World Day of Social Justice was declared by the UN on June 8, 2008, as a step to promote continuous social justice and fair globalization. Annually, the UN hosts an event to celebrate World Social Justice Day to educate and spread awareness. 

Best Practice(s):

In schools, many teachers will teach their students about current social justice topics. The United Nations has lessons available by country regarding World Social Justice Day. Oxfam also has lesson plans and collections available for learners of any ages. 

Customary Greeting(s): 

N/A

Myaamia Lunar New Year (Myaamia Tribe)

Date determined annually by Myaamia Tribe

Description of Observance:

This is the primary winter-time gathering of Myaamia people in ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, OK.

Best Practice(s):

Myaamia people gather together to share food, tell Myaamia winter stories and participate in a Stomp Dance. 

Customary Greeting(s):

aya 'hello'

Maha Shivaratri (Hindu)

February 26

Description of Observance:

Mahashivratri is the day to honor and celebrate Lord Shiva—honor life and celebrate existence. Most people spend the day of Mahashivratri in prayer, meditation and celebration.

Best Practice(s):

The holiday is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting, and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva. Ardent devotees keep awake all night. Others visit one of the Shiva temples or go on pilgrimage to Jyotirlingas. Employees may partake in fasting or take the day off.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Maha Shivaratri.”

Ayyám-i-Há (Bahá’í)

February 26-28

Description of Observance:

Ayyám-i-Há means the "Days of Há" and commemorates the transcendence of God over his attributes since "Há" has been used as a symbol of the essence of God in the Baháʼí holy writings.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners and friends perform acts of charity, give gifts to friends and family and attend social gatherings, before a period of fasting begins.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however one may say “Happy Ayyám-i-Há.”

Losar (Tibetan New Year) (Tibetan / Buddhism)

February 28-March 2

Description of Observance:

The festival came into existence much before Buddhism was celebrated as a gesture of thanks to the Gods. Initially celebrated mostly among farmers, Losar went on to become a predominantly Buddhist festival celebrating the commencement of the New Year. Celebrated for 15 days, with the main celebrations on the first three days; Losar is celebrated with prayers, displaying prayer flags, religious ceremonies, folk dances, passing fire torches among gatherings, and family reunions. 

Best Practice(s):

May take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Losar Tashi Delek and Happy New Year to all who are celebrating.

Nineteen Day Fast (Bahá’í)

February 28-March 19

Description of Observance:

The Nineteen Day Fast celebrates reinvigorating the soul and bringing the person closer to God. The Nineteen-Day Fast is a nineteen-day period of the year during which members of the Baháʼí Faith adhere to a sunrise-to-sunset fast. Along with obligatory prayer, it is one of the greatest obligations of a Baháʼí, and its chief purpose is spiritual: to reinvigorate the soul and bring the person closer to God. The nineteen days of fasting happen right before the Baha'i New Year, on the vernal equinox. This can change every year.

Best Practice(s):

Adults fast every day. They practice praying, meditation and spiritual rejuvenation. They also abstain from drinking and smoking for the holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Ramadan (Islam)

February 28-March 29

Description of Observance:

Ramadan is the Arabic name for the 9th month in the Islamic calendar. It is considered a holy month of fasting and prayer. It is celebrated as the month during when Muhammad received the initial revelation of the Quran.

Best Practice(s):

Muslims fast for the whole month, from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is considered one of the 5 key principles of Islam. Muslims wake up at dawn for an early morning meal, called suhoor/sehri. They break fast at sunset known as iftar or fitoor. Many western Muslims prefer to work the day shift during Ramadan so they can break fast and pray with their families at home. They will be fasting for approximately 17 hours a day from sunrise to sunset, so employers should try and accommodate possible fatigue. Strict, devout Muslims may want to avoid work/school during the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak”

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Zero Discrimination Day

March 1

Description of Observance:

Zero Discrimination Day celebrates the right of everyone to live a full and productive life with dignity. The holiday was first celebrated in 2014 after a joint UN program on HIV and AIDS launched its Zero Discrimination Campaign. The symbol of the observance is a butterfly, which is used to strive towards positive development and discuss eradicating discrimination. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions on this day.

Customary Greeting(s): 

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Orthodox Lent (Eastern Orthodox)

March 3- April 19

Description of Observance:

Great Lent, or the Great Fast, is the most important fasting season of the church year within many denominations of Eastern Christianity. It is intended to prepare Christians for the greatest feast of the church year, Pascha.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may be fasting and may take time off or adjust their schedules to attend services during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Clean Monday (Eastern Orthodox)

March 3

Description of Observance:

Clean Monday comes to clean and purify the body and soul and prepare believers for Easter. Another name for Clean Monday is Koulouma; the first day of Great Lent throughout Eastern Christianity and is a movable feast, falling on the 6th Monday before Palm Sunday.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrated with outdoor excursions, the consumption of shellfish and other fasting food, a special kind of azyme bread, baked only on that day, named "lagana" (Greek: λαγάνα) and the widespread custom of flying kites. Some practitioners may take the day off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Clean Monday!”

International Women’s Day 

March 8

Description of Observance:

International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement. The holiday brings awareness to issues such as reproductive rights, violence and abuse, and gender inequalities. It is a public holiday in several countries and became mainstream in 1977. 

Best Practice(s):

Many countries will celebrate achievements of notable women from the area. The United Nations connects International Women’s Day with a particular issue regarding women’s rights. 

Customary Greeting(s): 

Happy International Women’s Day!

Ramakrishna (Hindu)

March 12

Description of Observance:

Ramakrishna Jayanti, Jayanti meaning 'birth anniversary,' celebrates the birth of the great sage, Ramakrishna. A staunch devotee of Goddess Kali, Ramakrishna was a religious leader and reformer.

Best Practice(s):

Religious prayers are conducted in many temples and the followers of Paramahamsa preach his teachings to others.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say  'Namaste' (na-mas-TAY), which is a traditional Hindu greeting meaning ‘I greet the divine within you.’

Purim (Jewish)

March 14*

Description of Observance:

Purim celebrates the survival of Jewish people who were marked for death by Persian rulers. It celebrates how they were saved by Esther, reflecting how Jewish people can find hope in times of oppression. Purim is a holiday that reflects the situation of a people in the Diaspora surviving by their own wiles within a world of moral uncertainty. Purim's customs include retelling the story of Purim, attending feasts, and going to Purim carnivals. Many communities perform plays/skits of the Purim stories. Around the world, people usually dress up to celebrate. The day prior to Purim is a fasting day, from sunrise to sunset.

Best Practice(s):

The day before Purim is a time of fasting for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Purim, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Purim” or “Purim Sameach” 

Holi (Hindu)

March 14-15

Description of Observance:

Holi is a holiday that welcomes the spring, and is seen as a new start for people. It has long been said that the gods turn a blind eye so devout Hindus may "let loose." It also celebrates the blossoming of love.

Best Practice(s):

Holi is celebrated by having a big festival. Huge crowds gather and people throw colored dye/powder, and have partying and dancing. Often, wheat sheaves/coconut/green chickpeas are given as symbolic offerings. The first day of Holi is spent fasting. Some practitioners may take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Holi.”

Holla Mohalla (Sikh)

March 14-16

Description of Observance:

Holla Mohalla celebrates brotherhood, fraternity, and valor. It was started by the Tenth Sikh leader, Guru Gobind Singh. The holiday also conveys a message of being prepared to defend yourself, and courage.

Best Practice(s):

Sikhs sing religious songs and pray. They traditionally eat vegetarian meals in Langars, and eat foods such as halwa and jalebi. People also attend Gatka martial arts performances. Some may choose to take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Holla Mohalla.”

Ostara (Wiccan/Pagan)

March 20

Description of Observance:

Ostara celebrates the spring equinox. It is a celebration of the German goddess Eostre, the goddess of fertility of humans as well as crops. The holiday also represents spring and new beginnings, warmth, sun, and the awakening of the earth.

Best Practice(s):

Symbols of Ostara include spring flowers, fairies, butterflies, renewal, and rebirth. In some communities, a woman and man are chosen to act as the Spring God and Goddess, which plant symbolic seeds. Festivals can take place during this time, and some practitioners may choose to take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Ostara” or “Ostara Blessings”

Norouz/Norooz/Naw Ruz (Baha'i, Zoroastrian)

March 21-22

Description of Observance:

Norouz marks the first day of spring, and has been celebrated for more than 3000 years. It is not considered a religious day, but has ties to Zoroastrianism. It is considered a universal celebration of new beginnings and wishes prosperity and a good future.

Best Practice(s):

Children are typically gifted toys, and play with painted colorful eggs. People gather and hold feasts and gatherings. On the last Tuesday before Nowruz, people build bonfires and jump over them, which symbolizes the renewal of life. Practitioners are fasting for the 19 days prior to the holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Nowruzetoon Pirouz!” or “Nowruz (no-rooz) Mubarak!”

Omnisexual Awareness Day

March 21

Description of Observance:

Omnisexual Awareness Day is an annual observance created to celebrate people who identify as omnisexual. It is also an opportunity to learn and share information about different gender identities and cultures! 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s): 

There is no traditional greeting for this date.

Feast of the Annunciation (Christian)

March 25

Description of Observance:

The Feast of the Annunciation is a celebration of the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. Solemnities in the Catholic Church are celebrations that are of the greatest importance. The Annunciation of the Lord refers to the time when the angel Gabriel visited the Blessed Virgin Mary to tell her that she would be the mother of the savior.

Best Practice(s):

The best way to celebrate the feast is by attending Divine Liturgy, receiving the Eucharist, listening to the Gospel being read, singing the hymns of the Church, and praying with the faithful. Some may choose to take time off to attend church services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

March 25 

Description of Observance:

This observance honors and commemorates the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade. The day is observed with activities and ceremonies at different UN offices around the world. 

Best Practice(s): 

There are numerous outreach programs that raise awareness for the observance with educational materials. 

Customary Greeting(s): 

N/A

Khordad Sal (Zoroastrian)

March 26

Description of Observance:

Khordad Sal is the birthday of Zoroaster, the prophet and founder. Sometimes it is referred to as the Greater Norouz. It is considered one of the most important celebrations in Zoroastrianism.

Best Practice(s):

Zoroastrians gather in Fire temples for prayer. They also hang fresh flowers in their homes and create vibrant colored drawings. People tend to wear new clothes as a blessing. The ritual Jashan is conducted, which are thanksgiving prayers. Families celebrate together to commemorate togetherness.. Some may choose to take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, though one may say "Happy Khordad Sal"

Laylat al Qadr (Islam)

March 27

Description of Observance:

Laylat al Qadr is the holiest night of the year in Islam. It translates to Night of Power in English. This holiday celebrates the night that Allah revealed the Quran to the prophet Muhammad.

Best Practice(s):

Muslims spend time reciting the Quran and asking for supplications. Laylat al Qadr is a night of charity, so many people donate to charities/those in need. Followers also offer duas while reflecting and praying. Some practitioners may attend services on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Laylat al Qadr Mubarak, or Happy Laylat al Qadr. 

Eid al-Fitr (Islam)

March 31-April 1

Description of Observance:

Eid al-Fitr, as it follows the fasting of Ramadan, is also seen as a spiritual celebration of Allah’s provision of strength and endurance. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate one of their major holidays called Eid al-Fitr or the “Festival of the Breaking of the Fast.” It is the feast that breaks the month-long fast of Ramadan.

Best Practice(s):

Eid is celebrated with a four-day feast. Muslims often will dress up in their best new clothes and decorate their houses to celebrate. Two of the days in Eid also include special morning prayers. Amid the reflection and rejoicing, Eid al-Fitr is a time for charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr. Eid is meant to be a time of joy and blessing for the entire Muslim community and a time for distributing one’s wealth.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Eid Mubarak" 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

International Asexuality Day

April 6

Description of Observance:

International Asexuality Day is a worldwide campaign to promote the “ace umbrella” including other ace identities. The four themes of IAD are advocacy, celebration, education, and solidarity.

Best Practice(s):

There are no customary organized celebrations. Sometimes local ACE pride events are hosted. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Rama Navami (Hindu)

April 6

Description of Observance:

Rama Navami commemorates the birth of Lord Rama, who is the 7th avatar of the deity Vishnu. It is also supposed to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Best Practice(s):

The festival starts with a jalam (water) offering in the morning to Surya, the sun god. People place statues of Buddhist figures in public areas and pray and sing hymns. Many communities perform the play Ramlila in public. Some practitioners will also dress up miniature Rama figures. Most followers of Lord Rama observe a whole day fast. It is not compulsory to abstain from water during this fast.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Jai Shri Ram (Victory to Lord Rama).

Memorial of Jesus' Death (Jehovah’s Witness)

April 12

Description of Observance:

The memorial of Jesus' death is celebrated to remember Jesus and show thankfulness for his sacrifice. Jehovah's witnesses do not celebrate national or religious holidays or birthdays, so this is considered very important to them.

Best Practice(s):

They observe the Lord's Evening Meal, which is unadulterated red wine and unleavened bread.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this day.

Hanuman Jayanti (Hindu)

April 12

Description of Observance:

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of the Lord Hanuman, who was an incarnation of Lord Shiva as well as a disciple of Lord Rama.

Best Practice(s):

Followers visit temples and present Hanuman religious offerings. Devotees receive gifts from the priests, such as sweets, flowers, coconuts, holy water and sacred ash. It is said that to celebrate this holiday the correct way, you need to fast for the full day. The day ends with vegetarian feasts. Some may choose to fast; others may take the day off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say May you have a Happy Hanuman Jayanti and receive the blessings of Bajrang Bali.

Palm Sunday (Christian)

April 13

Description of Observance:

Palm Sunday celebrates when Jesus entered Jerusalem with his disciples and was greeted by people waving palm branches. He was then seen as the savior/King. It is always held during the Sunday before Easter. Palm Sunday is the beginning of Holy Week, which is the most important week of the year for Christians.

Best Practice(s):

Most Christians attend Palm Sunday services, where palm leaves are distributed to the congregation. Some people choose to display their palm in their house to signify Jesus' importance, and some may fold them into crosses. Some may choose to fast.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting but people may say "Happy Palm Sunday"

Passover (Jewish)

April 13*-19

Description of Observance:

Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and the "passing over" of the forces of destruction from God in Exodus. Passover is about freedom, as Jewish people celebrate a group of people who escaped slavery and persecution. It’s about justice, redemption, and leaving behind our struggles—just as the Jews in Egypt did—in order to become who we all are meant to be. It’s about asking questions and figuring out identities. Passover is celebrated with a big ceremony. On the first night, a special family meal called a Seder is held. The seder foods symbolize Jewish liberation. People also recite traditional prayers. During Passover, Jews eat unleavened bread for seven days.

Best Practice(s):

Passover is celebrated with a big ceremony. On the first night, a special family meal called seder is held. The seder foods symbolize the Jewish liberation. People also recite traditional prayers. When providing food at functions, please consider Kosher and Kosher-for-Passover (non-leavened) food accommodations. We also recommend avoiding scheduling deadlines or activities on the first two and last two days of Passover, as these are holy days during which observers follow work and other restrictions.

Customary Greeting(s):

Chag Sameach,” which translates to “happy festival” and is the Hebrew equivalent of “happy holidays.” One can also say "Happy Passover"

Holy Thursday (Christian)

April 17

Description of Observance:

Holy Thursday is celebrated in commemoration of the institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper. It is considered one of the most important holidays in the Catholic Church. It is considered a ritual reenactment of the Last Supper at Mass.

Best Practice(s):

There are typically morning liturgies and evening liturgies, with a general communion. Followers typically wear all white as a symbol of purity. Catholics are supposed to abstain from meat and watching television. Some practitioners may attend services on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Holy Thursday!”

Good Friday (Christian)

April 18

Description of Observance:

Good Friday commemorates the day that Jesus was crucified and died. It is considered a day of mourning, and is a part of holy week. Even though it is a sad day, it is called Good Friday because it led to the victory over death and sin.

Best Practice(s):

Good Friday is celebrated by Christians honoring the way that Jesus suffered and died for their sins. Many services are held around midday which is the same hours that Jesus was hung on the cross. It is said that taking a bath or doing laundry is bad luck during Good Friday because water will turn into blood. Good Friday is an obligatory day of fasting and abstinence for Catholics.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, and it is recommended to avoid greetings, as it is a day of mourning and reflection.

Ridvan (Baha'i)

April 20-May 2

Description of Observance:

Ridvan celebrates the beginning of the Baha'i religion in 1863. It commemorates the Bahaullah’s declaration that he was a direct manifestation of God. It also celebrates the 12 days where the founder of the faith lived in paradise (Ridvan).

Best Practice(s):

Celebrations start two hours before sunset, because that was the same time that Bahaullah entered the garden. Work and school is prohibited, as it is a Holy Day. Followers gather together with friends and family and gather to celebrate and pray. Followers are prohibited from going to work or school because it is one of the Baha'i Holy Days.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Ridvan.

Easter (Christian)

April 20

Description of Observance:

Easter celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Three days after his crucifixion, he resurrected. For many Christians, Easter is positive because it is the end of the Lent season of fasting and penitence.

Best Practice(s):

Christians worldwide attend an Easter mass with special services, music, flowers, and ringing of church bells. The Easter Eggs symbolize rebirth and fertility. In countries around the world, people hold easter egg hunts, egg decorating events, or just giving them as gifts. Traditional catholics sometimes continue the Good Friday fast until the Easter Vigil.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Easter!” one may also say “He is Risen” with the reply “He is Risen Indeed”

Easter Monday (Christian)

April 21

Description of Observance:

Easter Monday is the second day of and a public holiday in some countries. In Western Christianity it marks the second day of the Octave of Easter; in Eastern Christianity, it marks the second day of Bright Week.

The holiday is prominent mostly in Catholic circles. For those in the Eastern Orthodox Church, Easter Monday, also called Bright Monday or Renewal Monday, is the beginning of Bright Week. Although there are ceremonies for the entire week following Easter, they are often condensed into Bright Monday. In areas influenced by Roman Catholicism, Easter Monday is the beginning of the Easter Octave. It is common to douse people in water, representing the new life of baptism, and play games with Easter eggs.

Recognized as a bank holiday in many countries, many traditional religious events, as open-air Masses and blessings with the Easter water happen on Easter Monday.

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may choose to take time off on this day to adhere to their observances.

Customary Greeting(s): 

“Happy Easter!”

Mahavir Jayanthi (Jain)

April 21

Description of Observance:

Mahavir Jayanthi celebrates the birth anniversary of the founder of Jainism. The purpose is to spread the teachings of Mahavira and observe key principles of faith and harmony. It is considered one of the most important Jainist holidays.

Best Practice(s):

Followers celebrate with prayers and religious rituals. They typically visit temples and do ceremonial baths called abhishek. Visiting the Jain temples is believed to help one seek Lord Mahavir's blessings. Jains typically fast for the whole day, and some devout followers will conduct a waterless fast.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Mahavir Jayanti.

Day of Silence

April 23

Description of Observance:

The Day of Silence is a student-led day of action standing up against anti-LGBTQ harassment and discrimination. The Day of Silence has been held each year since 1996.

Best Practice(s):

Many students will take a vow of silence for the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

N/A

Yom Ha'shoah (Jewish)

April 24*

Description of Observance:

Yom Ha'shoah means Holocaust Remembrance Day in Hebrew. It signifies the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. It also commemorates the bravery and heroism of survivors and rescuers.

Best Practice(s):

This is a relatively new holiday so rituals are still being developed. Most followers light candles in respect for Holocaust victims, and listen to stories from survivors. This is one of the most somber Jewish holidays.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this day, as it is a day of somber remembrance.

International Lesbian Visibility Day

April 26

Description of Observance:

Lesbian Visibility Day honors all individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. It was created by an American activist Amy Ellis to promote lesbian visibility and rights. Queer women have long been underrepresented in the LGBTQ+ community, so the holiday gives a space for queer women to empower and express themselves.

Best Practice(s):

Many organizations will have donations set up for LGBTQ+ rights organizations. Using queer hashtags on social media helps spread awareness for the observance.

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greeting

Ninth Day of Ridvan (Baha'i) 

April 28

Description of Observance:

The Ninth Day of Ridvan celebrates when Bahaullah was joined by family, and friends came to say goodbye to him. This happened 9 days after Bahaullah arrived at the Garden of Ridvan. This is considered the most holy festival and is very joyful.

Best Practice(s):

Baha'is often celebrate with outdoor activities that appreciate the beauty of nature. People pray and read from the Bahai' writings. Some may choose to take the day off in recognition of the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Ridvan.

Name of Observance

2023-2024

Observance Information

Beltane (Wiccan/Pagan)

May 1

Description of Observance:

Beltane celebrates the peak of spring and the coming summer. It is also called May Day in some cultures. It is associated with fertility for pagans. In some sects, it is seen as the start of the Celtic Summer. Traditionally one of four Gaelic festivals, Beltane marked the beginning of the pastoral summer season. Beltane was and is seen as a springtime festival of optimism and celebration.

Best Practice(s):

Beltane festivals are celebrated with bonfires, maypoles, dancing, and fertility rituals. It is customary to wear green as it symbolizes the Earth. Many people also walk around bonfires and jump over flames to gain protection, health, and wealth. The rituals are hoped to cast away darkness. Practitioners may celebrate in different ways depending on their individual practices.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Blessed Beltane/Have a Blessed Beltane." "Beltane Blessings"

Pascha (Orthodox Christian)

May 5

Description of Observance:

Pascha is the Orthodox Church's version of the feast of Easter. Pascha celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the feast celebrates the defeat of death.

Best Practice(s):

Pascha begins with a midnight service that commemorates Jesus' resurrection, and then there is a large feast during the day. The week before Pascha is a fasting week, with strict fasts being kept. 

Customary Greeting(s):

"Christos Anesti” or “Christ is risen” is a traditional greeting among Greek Orthodox Christians during their Pascha service.

Visakha Puja (Buddhist)

May 12

Description of Observance:

Visakha Puja celebrates Buddha's birthday. It commemorates the birth, death, and enlightenment of Buddha. For Buddhists, this is one of the most important holidays. According to Buddhist scriptures, all three of these events happened on the same day.

Best Practice(s):

In the morning of Visakha Puja, followers assemble in temples to offer food to the monks. They sing hymns in praise of the Buddha, the Dharma (his teachings) and the Sangha (Disciples). It is prohibited to consume alcohol on this day. Some followers set fish and birds free to release bad karma. Some may choose to take the day off in recognition of the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this day, but one may say “Happy Visakha Puja”

Lag B’Omer (Jewish)

May 16*

Description of Observance:

Lag B'Omer is a minor Jewish holiday. It occurs on the 33rd day of the Omer, which is the period between Passover and Shauvot. It commemorates the break in the plague that occurred during the days of Rabbi Akiva..

Best Practice(s):

Many people light Lag Ba'Omer fires, which are said to have mystical significance. They also signify the impact of Bar Yochai's spiritual teachings. Other key aspects of the holiday include holding Jewish weddings and getting haircuts, as this is a break in the semi-mourning of Omer. Some practitioners may recognize this holiday with a meal. Consider providing Kosher options at events that may be in occurrence.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may utilize the phrase "Chag Sameach" (KHAHG sah-MEY-akh), or "Happy Holiday".

International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, Biphobia 

May 17

Description of Observance:

IDAHOBIT was created to draw awareness to the violence and harassment that people of diverse sexual orientations face. Collaborations have brought together initiatives at global, regional, national and local levels. IDAHOBIT

Is celebrated in over 130 countries. 

Best Practice(s):

The UN pairs a theme for IDAHOBIT annually. Grassroots actions are coordinated in different countries across the world. 

Customary Greeting(s):

N/A

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogues and Development

May 22

Description of Observance:

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogues and Development is led by UNESCO, to highlight the world’s different cultures and facilitate intercultural dialogue. The day is often referred to as Diversity Day. 

Best Practice(s):

UNESCO encourages celebrating this day by attending cultural diversity events, seminars, workshops, etc. 

Customary Greeting(s):

N/A

Declaration of the Báb (Bahá'í) 

May 22-23

Description of Observance:

The Declaration of the Báb celebrates when Báb was announced in 1844 that he was the new messenger of God. He was the forerunner of Baha'u'llah. Báb was born Siyyid Ali-Muhammad on October 20, 1918, in Shiraz, Iran. He was the founder of Bábism, and one of the central figures of the Bahá'í Faith. In 1844, at the age of twenty-four, he claimed to be a messenger of God and took the name “Báb,” which means “gate” or “door” in Arabic to emphasize his role as the portal through which the revelation of God would enter. He served as a herald for Bahá’u’lláh, who is the central prophet of the Baha’i faith.

Best Practice(s):

Baha'is celebrate by gathering together and sharing prayers, stories, and reflections. It is considered to be a blessed day and the dawn of manifestation. It is one of the nine holy days in the Bahá'í Faith which means that work and school are suspended. Practitioners may need to take time off or adjust schedules during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

A common greeting for this day is Allah-u-Abha – an Arabic phrase that means “God is the Most Glorious." "Allah-u-Abha" (All-LAH oo abha).

Pansexual Visibility Day

May 24

Description of Observance:

Pansexual Visibility Day is a day to uplift, educate, and celebrate pansexual identities.

Best Practice(s):

Attend educational workshops/events that uplift pansexuals. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greetings.

Ascension of Bahá'ulláh (Bahá'í)

May 27-28

Description of Observance:

The Ascension of Baha'u'llah celebrates the death anniversary of Baha'u'llah, the founder of Baha'i. He died on May 29, 1892.

Best Practice(s):

The Ascension is celebrated by followers gathering together in devotion and prayers. It is somber and meditative, to honor Baha'u'llah.The Ascension is one of the 9 days where work and school is suspended.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of meditation and devotion.

Ascension Day (Christian)

May 29

Description of Observance:

Ascension Day celebrates the day that Jesus Christ ascended into heaven. This was said to be on the 40th day after his Resurrection.

Best Practice(s):

Ascension day is celebrated with a three day procession before the actual feast. It includes a procession of torches and banners to symbolize Jesus' journey to the Mount of Olives and entry into heaven. It is customary to eat some type of bird because Christ flew to Heaven. Ascension day typically consists of church services, a feast, and singing of hymns. Practitioners may be taking part in services on this day. Some practitioners may choose to fast from Ascension day to Pentecost.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, although people may say "Happy Ascension Day," or "Have a Blessed Ascension Day"

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Shavuot (Jewish)

June 2*-3

Description of Observance:

Commonly known as the Feast of Weeks, Shavuot commemorates the revelation of the Torah on Mt. Sinai to the Jewish people. In ancient times, it was a pilgrimage festival where Isreaelites brought offerings of the harvest to the Temple. Shavuot marks the conclusion of the Counting of the Omer. This counting of days and weeks is understood to express anticipation and desire for the giving of the Torah.

Best Practice(s):

Jewish people go to synagogues to hear the 10 Commandments being read. Shavuot is the only biblically ordained holiday that has no specific laws attached to it other than usual festival requirements of abstaining from creative work. The rabbinic observances for the holiday include reciting additional prayers, making kiddush, partaking of meals and being in a state of joy. Other customs include an all-night Torah study, different readings, and the decoration of homes and synagogues. Shavuot is a holiday where practitioners do not work. Services and celebrations will be attended on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

Chag Sameach (khahg sah-MAY-akh) meaning Happy Holidays

Day of Arafa/haj/Waqf of Arafa (Islam)

June 6

Description of Observance:

The Day of 'Arafah (Yawm Al-'Arafah), also called the Day of the Standing (Yawm Al-Waqf), is significant because it is the holiest day of the Islamic Hijri lunar year.

Best Practice(s):

On the Day of 'Arafah, from somewhat before noon until sunset, Pilgrims, observing the rules and symbolic dress of ritual pilgrim sanctity (iḥrâm), gather to the Plain of 'Arafât and take their stand (wuqûf) of faith before God, entreating His mercy and forgiveness. This day is called prayer day, specially for people who stand on Mount Arafat. On the Day of Arafah, those who cannot make it to Mecca will go to other holy places such as mosques to recite Arafah prayer.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, but one may say “May Allah shower His Blessings and Mercy on this blessed day of Arafa.”

Eid al Adha (Islam)

June 7-8

Description of Observance:

Eid al Adha celebrates the Quranic tale of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice Isamil as an act of obedience to Allah. It is also known as the feast of sacrifice.

Best Practice(s):

Muslims often sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow, or camel in their home in honor of Ibrahim's devotion. Ritual slaughtering livestock and distributing the meat is supposed to be a good deed. Part of their meat is consumed by the family which offers the animal, while the rest of the meat is distributed to the poor and the needy. Sweets and gifts are given, and extended family members are typically visited and welcomed. Feasting and prayers take place on this day, along with festivals. Practitioners may take time to attend these observances.

Customary Greeting(s):

Eid al-Adha Mubarak! Here's wishing you and your family, peace, harmony, happiness, good health and prosperity on the auspicious occasion of Eid. Eid al-Adha Mubarak to you and everyone at home.

Pentecost (Christian)

June 8

Description of Observance:

Pentecost celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and other disciples following the Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. It also celebrates the beginning of the Church's mission to the world.

Best Practice(s):

Catholic Priests often dress up in red robes and cover the altar in red cloth, which symbolize joy and the fire of the Holy Spirit. Families hold feasts together, services are attended, and some practitioners may choose to fast from Ascension day to Pentecost. Not all practitioners celebrate Pentecost, but those who do may partake in services, feasts, and devotions. Some practitioners may choose to fast from Ascension day to Pentecost.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Pentecost"

Loving Day

June 12

Description of Observance:

Loving Day is the anniversary of the court decision that legalized interracial marriage. It is a global day of visibility, education, and community. 

Best Practice(s): 

Many people will celebrate at home to observe this holiday, and it holds significance for those in interracial relationships or multi racial families. Many people will share photos on social media with the caption #lovingday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greeting.

Trinity Sunday (Christian)

June 15

Description of Observance:

Trinity Sunday celebrates the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, the three Persons of God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Best Practice(s):

Usually, the day is marked by special church services, while Sunday schools will likely focus on the Trinity. Scriptural readings for the Trinity Sunday ceremony could include Psalm 8, Second Corinthians 13:11-13, or Matthew 28:16-20. Practitioners may attend services. Held on the weekend.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say, "May the Lord bless us all on the holy occasion of Trinity Sunday."

Guru Arjan Martyrdom (Sikh)

June 16

Description of Observance:

Guru Arjan Martyrdom is celebrated to remember Guru Arjan Dev, who sacrificed his life for the Sikh people.

Best Practice(s):

Followers do a cover-to-cover reading of the Sikh Holy book. Celebrations end with hymns and lectures on Sikhism. There are often processions done outside that honor his life. Practitioners may attend services, attend processions, or attend readings on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is meant to be a day of remembrance.

Juneteenth

June 19

Description of Observance:

Juneteenth is a federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery. It is celebrated on the anniversary of the American Civil War when the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas was ordered. It is now a federal holiday, so people take time off. 

Best Practice(s):

Celebratory traditions include readings of the emancipation proclamation or singing traditional songs, such as Lift Every Voice and Sing. Festivals and celebrations take place across the United states. This is one of the longest running African American holidays, and some call it America’s second independence day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Happy Juneteenth!

Litha/Summer Solstice/Midsummer (Wiccan/Pagan)

June 20

Description of Observance:

Litha (also known as Midsummer) occurs on the summer solstice, and celebrates the beginning of summer. The Summer Solstice celebrates the return of light, life and fertility as well as the potential for a good harvest. The day of the Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Best Practice(s):

For modern day pagans, Litha is a day of inner power and brightness. Some people find a quiet spot and meditate about the light and dark forces in their world. Some other observers, particularly those with children, celebrate this holiday outside. Lastly, some observers choose to observe Litha more traditionally, and they would hold a fire ritual. This might include a large bonfire, or a small fire in a fire-safe pot in one’s house. Litha is also considered a good time to practice love magic or get married. The pagan version of this ceremony is called handfasting, and it includes many of the same practices one might find at a wedding. Practitioners may attend gatherings or celebrate individually.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Litha,” or “Happy Solstice/Solstice Blessings”

Islamic New Year (Islam)

June 26-27

Description of Observance:

The Islamic New Year, also called the Hijri New Year, is the day that marks the beginning of a new lunar Hijri year, and is the day on which the year count is incremented. The first day of the Islamic year is observed by most Muslims on the first day of the month of Muharram.

Best Practice(s):

They carry out prayers and rituals at the mosque and some public spaces that may hold historical significance. It is also common for Muslim families to gather together after prayer and eat a meal together. Muslims will often attend prayer sessions at their mosque and spend time with their friends and family.

Customary Greeting(s):

Muharram Mubarak! May Allah Almighty shower his blessing on the Muslim Ummah and all Islamic countries. May all praise and thanks be to Allah, who is in the heavens and on earth. Wishing you and your family Happy Hijri New Year.

Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Christian/Catholic)

June 27

Description of Observance:

The Feast of the Sacred Heart is a feast day in the liturgical calendar of the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church and certain Anglo-Catholic communities that is dedicated to the Sacred Heart.

Best Practice(s):

Holy mass and devotional prayers to the Sacred Heart are recited. The Sacred Heart feast day is a “solemnity,” the highest order of liturgical feast, meaning that Catholics are to observe it similar to a Sunday. It is a day of celebration, meaning any type of fasting or abstinence from meat is temporarily lifted on that day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this date.

Myaamia Annual Gathering (Myaamia Tribe)

Date determined annually by Myaamia Tribe

Description of Observance:

This is the primary summer-time gathering of Myaamia people in ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, OK.

Best Practice(s):

Myaamia people gather together as a community to participate in cultural events such as lacrosse.  Annual gathering also includes the meeting of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Nation General Council and Tribal elections.

Customary Greeting(s):

aya 'hello'

Nativity of St. John the Baptist (Christian/Catholic)

June 24 

Description of Observance:

The Nativity of St. John the Baptist is a Christian feast day celebrating the birth of John the Baptist.

Best Practice(s):

The Catholic church observes a solemn feast in honor of the birth or nativity of John the Baptist. Practitioners may take time off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Pride Day

June 28

Description of Observance:

Pride Day is a holiday that commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots in Greenwich Village, NYC. This was one of the first times in history that “non normative people'' fought back against an oppressive system for LGBTQ+ rights. In following years, the first pride marches took place in cities such as LA and NYC.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties/festivals, workshops and other events. Memorials are also held across the world to those who lost their life to a hate crime or HIV/AIDS. Pride festivals typically have a theme (NYC 2023 is “Strength in solidarity”. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Happy Pride Day!

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (Christian/Catholic)

June 29

Description of Observance:

The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul or Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul is a liturgical feast in honor of the martyrdom in Rome of the apostles Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

Best Practice(s):

Typically in the United States, it is celebrated by attending mass. In other parts of the world, festivals, bazaars, parades, and pageants may happen to celebrate. This is a holy day of obligation in most countries (but not in the United States).

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Ashura (Islam)

July 5-6

Description of Observance:

A day of commemoration in Islam. It occurs annually on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. Among Shia Muslims, Ashura is observed through large demonstrations of high-scale mourning as it marks the death of Husayn ibn Ali (a grandson of Muhammad), who was beheaded during the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Among Sunni Muslims, Ashura is observed through celebratory fasting as it marks the day of salvation for Moses and the Israelites, who successfully escaped from Biblical Egypt (where they were enslaved and persecuted) after Moses called upon God's power to part the Red Sea. While Husayn's death is also regarded as a great tragedy by Sunnis, open displays of mourning are either discouraged or outright prohibited, depending on the specific act.

Best Practice(s):

Fasting and shrine pilgrimages may take place for some practitioners, but there are varied practices to recognize this day depending upon how one practices. Some practitioners may practice fasting on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

As Ashura is a solemn event, greetings are not encouraged.

Martyrdom of the Báb (Bahá'í)

July 8-9

Description of Observance:

The Martyrdom of the Báb commemorates the 1850 execution of the cofounder of Bahá'í (the Báb). He was killed because his beliefs weren't approved by the leaders of Persia's state religion. A young follower begged to have the same fate, and he did.

Best Practice(s):

Baha'is commemorate the loss of the Báb with prayers and scripture, reading the Tablets of Visitation. It is one of the 9 holy days where work and school is suspended.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a day of rest and remembrance.

Feast of St. Benedict (Chritsian/Catholic)

July 11

Description of Observance:

The Feast of St. Benedict celebrates the 6th century abbot who gave Christian monasticism its lasting foundation. St. Benedict is said to protect you from curses, evil/vice, and disease.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrated with a feast and services. Practitioners may take time off to participate in feasts and services on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Feast Day" "Happy Feast Day of St. Benedict!"

Nonbinary People’s Day

July 14

Description of Observance:

Nonbinary People’s Day honors nonbinary people and aims to raise awareness and educate. This is a new observance, and has only been celebrated since 2012. The date was chosen because it is exactly halfway between International Men’s Day and International Women’s Day. 

Best Practice(s):

It is best to support nonbinary peers on this day. There are some celebrations but the observance is not widespread. Could not find much information. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Happy nonbinary people’s day!

Birthday of Emperor Haile Selassie (Rastafarian)

July 23

Description of Observance:

The Birthday of Emperor Haile Selassie celebrates Tafari Makonnen's birthday in Ethiopia. He served as Ethiopia's regent and emperor.

Best Practice(s):

Rastafari hold drumming sessions together and pray and sing hymns together. Some Rastafarians observe Haile Selassie's birthday by holding a binghi, a celebration that can include prayers, reggae music, and dancing. Rastafarians regard Haile Selassie I's birthday as the holiest of celebrations, closely followed by the anniversary of his coronation and the birth of Marcus Garvey.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

St. James the Great Day (Christian/Catholic)

July 25

Description of Observance:

St. James Day is celebrated because James was one of Jesus' first disciples. James was a martyr, as he was put to death in Jerusalem.

Best Practice(s):

St. James Day is celebrated with services, theater performances, concerts, and open air celebrations. Practitioners may participate in feasts and services on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

National Disability Independence Day

July 26

Description of Observance:

NDID commemorates the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities act, which forbade discrimination against disabled people. 

Best Practice(s):

Sponsor a disability awareness event/etc., volunteer with disability organizations, attend events or host fundraisers, support disabled-owned businesses

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greeting.

Feast of St. Ignatius Loyola (Christian/Catholic)

July 31

Description of Observance:

The Catholic church marks the feast day of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The Spanish saint is known for founding the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits, as well as for creating the “Spiritual Exercises” often used today for retreats and individual discernment.

Best Practice(s):

This holiday is typically celebrated by attending mass. Practitioners may take time off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Lammas/

Lughnasadh (Wicca/

Neo-Pagan)

August 1

Description of Observance: 

Lughnasadh or Lughnasa is an official Irish holiday and Gaelic festival marking the beginning of the harvest season. Historically, it was widely observed throughout Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. The festival, named after the god Lugh, was originally said to have begun as a time to honor the earth goddess and agriculture, and to give offerings for a bountiful harvest throughout the coming autumn season. The festival has pagan origins and typically includes large gatherings with religious ceremonies, ritual athletic contests, feasting, matchmaking, and trading. Lammas is celebrated typically with feasts and rituals of thanks to the earth and respective deities for the initial harvest and the coming harvests of the autumn season. Since Lughnasadh is the time of “first fruits” there are often celebrations of and with seasonal fruits to commemorate this time and blessings. Lughnasadh/Lammas is seen as a time to give thanks to spirits and deities for the beginning of the harvest season.

Best Practice(s): 

Historically, this holiday is celebrated on a Sunday; however, depending upon the following of the Lunar or Gregorian calendar, practitioners may be spending time in reflection or with family and friends.

Customary Greeting(s): 

"Blessed Lammas/Lughnasadh." 

"Lammas Blessings."

Tisha B’av 

(Jewish)

August 3*

Description of Observance:

Tisha B’Av is a day of mourning to commemorate many tragedies that have befallen Jewish people, many occurring on the ninth of Av. Tisha B'Av marks the end of the three weeks between dire straits and is regarded as the saddest day in the Jewish calendar, and it is thus believed to be a day which is destined for tragedy. Tisha B’Av is a solemn holiday, and Tisha B’Av has also become a day for mourning for other Jewish tragedies that occurred throughout history, many of which happened on this date. The observance of the day includes five prohibitions, the most notable of which is a 25-hour fast. The Book of Lamentations, which mourns the destruction of Jerusalem, is read in the synagogue, followed by the recitation of kinnot, liturgical dirges that lament the loss of the Temples and Jerusalem.

Best Practice(s):

Tisha B'av is a time of fasting and a time when work is prohibited for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Tisha B'Av, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

It is customary to avoid greeting people on Tisha B'av, due to the solemn nature of the day.

Raksha Bandhan (Hindu)

August 9

Description of Observance: 

A celebration of harmony. The tying of rakhi (woven bracelets) signifies a special bond of unity and affection between two individuals. "The festival of Raksha Bandhan is observed as a symbol of duty between brothers and sisters. The occasion is meant to celebrate any type of brother-sister relationship between men and women who may not be biologically related. On this day, a sister ties a rakhi around the wrist of her brother in order to pray for his prosperity, health and well-being. The brother in return offers gifts and promises to protect his sister from any harm and under every circumstance. The festival is also celebrated between brother-sister belonging to distant family members, relatives or cousins."

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Raksha Bandhan"

International Day of World’s Indigenous People 

August 9

Description:

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed on 9 August each year to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world's indigenous population. This event also recognizes the achievements and contributions that indigenous people make to improve world issues such as environmental protection. Theme:  The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge

Best Practices:

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greetings:

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Obon (Buddhist / Shinto) 

August 13 - August 16

Description of Observance:

Obon is the Buddhist/Shinto day that commemorates one's ancestors returning to this world to visit their relatives. To celebrate Obon, huge fires are lit at the entrances of houses to guide the spirits to enter. At the end of the Obon festival, families help their ancestors' spirits return back to the grave by guiding them with their chochin lanterns. The ritual is called okuri-bon.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

Shochuu ominmai, moshiagemasu! It's a tradition to send best wishes for good health at Obon as summer in Japan can be extremely hot and therefore a time to fall ill.

Feast of the Assumption of Mary (Catholic / Christian) 

August 15

Description of Observance:

Assumption Day commemorates the belief that when Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, died, her body was "assumed" into heaven to be reunited with her soul, instead of going through the natural process of physical decay upon death. Assumption celebrations are accompanied by festivals, colorful street processions, fireworks, and pageantry. While a “feast” isn't actually required, there is a longstanding tradition of blessing the summer harvest. In the United States, mass is attended.

Best Practice(s):

Assumption Day is considered a Holy Day of Obligation, but if it falls on a Saturday or on a Monday, it is not obligatory by the church to attend mass. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Krishna Janmashtami (Hindu)

August 16

Description of Observance:

Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Krishna.  An incarnation of the God Vishnu, Krishna represents love and bravery. Hindus celebrate Janmashtami by fasting, singing, praying together, preparing and sharing special food, night vigils, and visiting Krishna or Vishnu temples. Major Krishna temples organize recitation of Bhagavata Purana and Bhagavad Gita.

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Krishna Janmashtami fast in observance of this holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

Jai Ho Murlidhar Gopal Ki. May this Janmashtami bring all the good luck and immense happiness to you and your family. Celebrate the birth of the ALMIGHTY! Spread the bliss of Janmashtami!

Paryushan Parva (Jain)

August 21-28

Description of Observance:

Paryushana Parva is an eight-day long festival of forgiveness and self-discipline.This is the most important annual holy event for Jains. Followers are encouraged to practice according to their ability and desires. Paryushana Parva is a time when the Jains take on vows of study and fasting.  The five main vows are emphasized during this time. There are no set rules, and followers are encouraged to practice according to their ability and desires.  The festival ends with the celebration of Samvatsari or Kshamavani (forgiveness day).

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Paryushana Parva may be fasting in observance of this holiday.Special services are also occurring during this time, and followers may take off to observe or celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s): 

"Happy Paryushan Parva," "May this Paryushan Parv bring you happiness and prosperity." 

Ganesh Chaturthi (Hindu)

August 27

Description of Observance:

Ganesh Chaturthi is the birth day of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune, and the remover of obstacles. On Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha's devotees perform their religious duties by getting up early. Then, they take a bath, wear new clothes, clean the temple in their house, light a diya in the temple, place gangajal, offer laddoos and modaks to Lord Ganesha, and complete the worship with an aarti

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Ganesh Chaturthi may refrain from work in order to perform their religious duties in observance of this holiday. Some may fast at this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

Ganpati Bappa Morya!

Women’s Equality Day

Aug 28

Description of Observance:

Women's Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex. 

•  Anniversary of 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Mawlid al-Nabi (Islam)

September 4*-5

Description of Observance:

Mawlid al-Nabi commemorates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. Often organized in some countries by the Sufi orders, Mawlid is celebrated in a carnival manner, large street processions are held and homes or mosques are decorated. Charity and food is distributed, and stories about the life of Muhammad are narrated with recitation of poetry by children.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Wishing a very Happy Mawlid Al Nabi to you." 

Ghost Festival (Buddhist)

September 6

Description of Observance:

Ghost Festival is a day where Buddhists perform rituals to relieve the suffering of the ghost of those who've died, as well as to honor parents and ancestors. On Ghost Festival, celebrants will worship their ancestors, offer food (to monks as well as deceased), burn joss paper, and chant of scriptures. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Mabon (Pagan / Wiccan)

September 21-29

Description of Observance:

Mabon is the Pagan/Wiccan day which celebrates the autumnal equinox through a ritual of thanksgiving for the fruits of the earth. Observers of this day might perform a ritual to restore balance and harmony to their lives, as this holiday celebrates a day with equal light and day. Another common ritual is to set up an altar with symbols of the season, such as apples, grapes, and other seasonal harvests.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"BlessedMabon/Mabon Blessings."

Navaratri (Hindu)

September 22 - October 2

Description of Observance:

Navaratri is an annual Hindu festival observed in the honor of the goddess Durga also referred to as Adi Parashakti. It spans over nine nights, first in the month of Chaitra, and again in the month of Ashwin. Celebrations include worshiping nine goddesses during nine days, stage decorations, recital of the legend, enacting of the story, and chanting of the scriptures of Hinduism. The nine days are also a major crop season cultural event, such as competitive design and staging of pandals, a family visit to these pandals, and the public celebration of classical and folk dances of Hindu culture. 

Best Practice(s):

Employees may refrain from attending work in order to celebrate at home or in their place of worship.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)

September 22*-24

Description of Observance:

Rosh Hashanah begins the Jewish New Year.  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's rabbinical customs include attending synagogue services and reciting special liturgy about teshuva, as well as enjoying festive meals. Eating symbolic foods is now a tradition, such as apples dipped in honey, hoping to evoke a sweet new year.

Best Practice(s):

Employees who observe Rosh Hashanah are not permitted to work on that day. Rosh Hashanah is a holiday during which work, electronics, and other restrictions are in place for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Rosh Hashanah, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

The common way to wish someone well during Rosh Hashanah is to say "Shana Tovah" (ShaNAH ToVAH), meaning "Good Year."

Bisexual Visibility Day

Sep 23

Description of Observance:

Celebrate Bisexuality Day (also called Bisexual Pride Day, Bi Visibility Day, CBD, Bisexual Pride and Bi Visibility Day, and Bisexuality+ Day) is observed annually on September 23 to recognize and celebrate bisexual people, the bisexual community, and the history of bisexuality

• Observed by Bisexual people along with their families, friends, allies and supporters
• Observances: Teach-ins, poetry reading, concerts, festivals, parties, picnics

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Yom Kippur (Jewish)

October 2*

Description of Observance:

Yom Kippur is the most solemn religious fast of the Jewish year, the last of the ten days of penitence that begin with Rosh Hashanah. Primarily centered on atonement and repentance, Jewish tradition believes that on this day God places a seal upon the Divine decrees affecting each person for the coming year. Jewish congregations spend the eve of Yom Kippur and the entire day in prayer and meditation.

Best Practice(s):

Observers of Yom Kippur will abstain from work, food and drink. Yom Kippur is a holiday during which fasting takes place and work, electronics, and other restrictions are in place for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Yom Kippur, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

The best greeting to give to someone observing Yom Kippur in English is “have an easy fast.” For those who are not fasting, but are observing the Yom Kippur, you can wish them a “Good Yuntif,” or “Yom Tov,” which are Yiddish and Hebrew, respectively, for “Have a good holy day.”

Dussehra (Hindu)

October 2

Description of Observance:

Dussehra celebrates Lord Rama's triumph over evil King Ravana, also celebrates the conquest by the Goddess Chamundeshwari over demon King Mahishasura. Dussehra is celebrated throughout India with different rituals and activities. Celebrations last for many days and are marked by songs, dances and large processions. People visit family and friends, exchange sweets and gifts, and wear traditional outfits.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

May Goddess Durga grant all your wishes and bless you with good health, success and happiness. Good wishes for a joyous Vijayadashami! Just like the colours and lights of the festival, may your life be filled with all the joy and prosperity in the world. Happy Dussehra!

Sukkot (Jewish)

October 6*-13

Description of Observance:

Sukkot is the Jewish holiday celebrating the Feast of the Tabernacles and Harvest festival .In addition to its harvest roots, the holiday also holds spiritual importance with regard to its abandonment of materialism to focus on nationhood, spirituality, and hospitality, this principle underlying the construction of a temporary, almost nomadic, structure of a sukkah. Sukkot is celebrated by, first of all, building a sukkah. Sukkot is a holiday that speaks of the importance of compassion, spirituality, nationhood, and hospitality. During Sukkot, observers are called to build a sukkah to honor and commemorate the harvest season, along with the history of the pilgrimage holiday during with the Israelites would travel to the Temple and dwell in temporary homes. The sukkah structure is a call back to this history and a reminder of the significance of compassion for others and the importance of removing oneself from materialistic things to refocus priorities upon spirituality and community.

Best Practice(s):

Sukkot is a holiday during which work, electronics, and other restrictions are in place for observers during the first two and last two days, as these are holy days. Please be mindful of scheduling around Sukkot, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

The common way to wish someone well during Sukkot is to say "Chag Sameach" (khahg sah-MAy-akh)), meaning "Happy Holiday."

World Mental Health Day

Oct 10

Description of Observance:

World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries

The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

National Coming Out Day

Oct 11

Description of Observance:

National Coming Out Day is an annual LGBT awareness day observed on October 11 to support anyone "coming out of the closet". First celebrated in the United States in 1988, the initial idea was grounded in the feminist and gay liberation spirit of the personal being political, and the emphasis on the most basic form of activism being coming out to family, friends, and colleagues, and living life as an openly lesbian or gay person

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday

Myaamia Removal Day of Remembrance (ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University)

October 11

Description of Observance:

Myaamia Removal Day of Remembrance (Oxford, OH)- During the forced removal of the Myaamia people from their homelands, which began in Peru, IN on October 6, 1846, Myaamia people passed just east of Oxford and ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University on October 10 and 11, 1846 on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and Erie Canal, the closest they would come to the University chartered with their name 37 years earlier.    

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though some may request time off for reflection.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of reflection and remembrance.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Oct 12

Description of Observance:

Indigenous Peoples' Day is a holiday in the United States that celebrates and honors indigenous American peoples and commemorates their histories and cultures. It is celebrated across the United States on the second Monday in October, and is an official city and state holiday in various localities. It began as a counter-celebration held on the same day as the U.S. federal holiday of Columbus Day, which honors Italian explorer Christopher Columbus. 

Observances: Identify and acknowledge the Native land you live on. Attend a celebration hosted by an Indigenous organization that honors Indigenous people and cultures. Take part in an online or in-person event

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer may engage in some of the observances listed above.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of reflection and remembrance.

Shemini Atzeret/ Simchat Torah (Jewish) 

October 14*

Description of Observance:

Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah, marks the end of Sukkot and celebrates the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings and the beginning of a new cycle. Interestingly, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah have no inherent mitzvot. They are observed by beginning the recitation of the prayer for rain (tefilat geshem), singing and dancing with the Torah, completing the yearly cycle of Torah readings and beginning the next cycle and refraining from work.

Best Practice(s):

Employees observing Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah are prohibited from working on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

The common way to wish someone well during Sukkot is to say "Chag Sameach" (khahg sah-MAy-akh)), meaning "Happy Holiday."

Birth of the Báb (Bahá'í)

October 16

Description of Observance:

This day celebrates the birth of the Báb, one of the founders of the Bahá'í faith. The day of the Birth of the Báb begins with prayers and devotional readings. It continues with a festive social gathering either at home or in a place of worship. In keeping with the essence of Bahá'í, the celebrations are open to all.

Best Practice(s):

Employees may refrain from attending work in order to celebrate at home or in their place of worship.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Birth of the Báb” or “Happy Twin Birthdays.”

Birth of Bahá'u'lláh (Bahá'í)

October 16*-17

Description of Observance:

This day celebrates the birth of Bahá'u'lláh, one of the founders of the Bahá'í faith. During the holy day the community should rejoice together to increase the unity of the community. Baháʼís usually observe the holy day with community gatherings where prayers are shared and the birth of Baháʼu'lláh is celebrated.

Best Practice(s):

Employees may refrain from attending work in order to celebrate at home or in their place of worship.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Birth of. Baha'u'llah” or “Happy Twin Holy Days.” 

International Pronouns Day

Oct 20

Description of Observance:

International Pronouns Day seeks to make respecting, sharing, and educating about personal pronouns commonplace. Referring to people by the pronouns they determine for themselves is basic to human dignity.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though some may request time off for reflection.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of reflection and remembrance

Diwali/ Deepavali (Hindu, Jain)

October 21

Description of Observance:

Bandhi Chhor Divas (Sikh), Buddhist) - Known as the "Festival of Lights;" ("Day of Liberation") is a Sikh celebration that commemorates the day the sixth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind was released from Gwalior Fort and was able to secure the release of 52 kings. is one of the most important festivals in Indian religions. It symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance." It's a five-day celebration that includes good food, fireworks, colored sand, and special candles and lamps. Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live. But there's one common theme no matter where people celebrate: the victory of good over evil.  

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Shubh Deepavali” (pronounced “shope duh-VAH-lee”) is a customary greeting associated with Diwali. It means, “Have an auspicious Diwali.” 

Samhain (Pagan / Wiccan)

October 31* - November 1

Description of Observance:

Samhain is a Pagan/Wiccan festival honoring endings, beginnings, and the dead. Samhain marked the Celtic New Year, the end of summer, and the end of the harvest season. It also signaled the beginning of winter, which they associated with death. On this day, the Celts believed the veil between the living and the dead was especially thin. This allowed spirits of the dead to visit the living. There are many rituals associated with Samhain today. These include dancing, feasting, taking nature walks, and building altars to honor their ancestors. There are many parts to the altars Wiccans build. To symbolize the end of the harvest, they include apples, pumpkins, or other fall crops.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Samhain Blessings."

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

All Saints’ Day (Christian) 

November 1

Description of Observance:

Celebrate those who have reached spiritual maturity and honor all saints (known and unknown). During this holiday there are Church services, praying for the dead, and visiting cemeteries; people may also bring flowers to cemeteries and clean the graves, or even a priest blesses the graves. 

Best Practice(s):

In some place, people may take the day off to participate in cemetery and grave rituals. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greetings but people may say "Happy All Saints Day" or "Happy Saints Day."

Dia de los Muertos (Mexican)

November 1 - November 2

Description of Observance:

The ancient indigenous people of Mexico have practiced rituals celebrating the lives of past ancestors for around 3,000 years. The celebration that is now known as Day of the Dead originally landed on the ninth month of the Aztec calendar and was observed for the entire month. In the 20th century, the month-long festivities were condensed to three days called The Days of the Dead: Halloween on October 31, Day of the Innocents on November 1, and Day of the Dead on November 2. Plans for Day of the Dead are made throughout the year. Toys are offered to dead children and bottles of alcohol or jars of alote get offered to dead adults. Most families decorate their loved ones’ graves with ofrendas, which often includes marigolds. It’s said that these specific flowers attract the souls of the dead to the offerings, and the bright petals and strong scent guides the souls from the cemetery to their family’s home. Since the 1960s, when the Mexican government declared it a public holiday based on educational policy initiatives, Dia de Muertos has been observed throughout Mexico. The tradition was added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization’s Representative List of Humanity’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008.

Best Practice(s):

Some people may take the day off and visit the graves of those who have passed

Customary Greeting(s):

“Feliz día de los Muertos.”

All Soul’s Day (Christian)

November 2

Description of Observance:

Commemorate those who have passed within the faith and a day of prayer for the dead. Individuals visit cemeteries, share memories of loved ones, honor traditions, and light candles to guide the dead. 

Best Practice(s):

Some people may take the day off and visit the graves of those who have passed

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy All Soul's Day.”

Gurpurab (Sikh)

November 5

Description of Observance:

Celebration of an anniversary related to the lives of the Sikh gurus, commemorating the birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib (the 10th Sikh Guru). People sing hymns in groups and play traditional musical instruments, dress-up in new traditional clothes, and offer prayers. 

Best Practice(s):

Special assemblies are held in gurdwaras as well as Sikh march processions that last up to 3 days causing an employee to either take the day off or display tiredness from the celebration. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greeting but people may say "Raj karega khalsa, aakee rehae naa koe, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Happy Gurpurab."

Birth of Guru Nanak (Sikh)

November 5

Description of Observance:

Celebrates the birth of the founder of Sikhism and the first of the Sikh Gurus. One of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, Sikh followers travel to the birthplace of Guru nanak to participate in the activities of the holy day and seek blessings. In the U.S., members of the Sikh community visit the Gurudwara which holds programs and prayer services. 

Best Practice(s):

Followers may take time off to make the journey to the birthplace of Guru Nanak or to visit gurudwaras. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greeting but people may say "May Wahe Guru shower his blessings on you!" "Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!" "Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru ji ki fateh."

Lhabab Duchen (Buddhist)

November 11

Description of Observance:

Buddhist festival celebrated to observe the Buddha's descent from the Trāyastrimśa heaven down to Earth. Individuals make offerings, say mantras, prayers, and light butter lamps. The festival's main point is to pray. 

Best Practice(s):

May take the day off to pray and engage in virtuous activities as it is believed that both positive and negative actions are multiplied by 10 million on this day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say "Amituofo" (E-mi-tuo-fo), which is a kind greeting and form of well-wishing meaning immeasurable light and immeasurable life.

Veteran’s Day

November 11

Description of Observance:

Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11, for honoring military veterans of the United States Armed Forces. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

Thank you for the commitment you made (or are making) to serve this country

Thank you for your service

Shichi-go-san (Shinto)

November 15

Description of Observance:

Traditional Japanese rite of passage and festival day for 3-7 year old girls and 5 year old boys celebrating the growth and well-being of young children. Modern families dress up and visit a shrine or temple, children receive gifts and families take group photos to commemorate the event. 

Best Practice(s):

Most people pay their respects on the weekend. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

International Day for Tolerance

Nov 16

Description of Observance:

The International Day for Tolerance is an annual observance day declared by UNESCO in 1995 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. It is observed on 16 November. Every year various conferences and festivals are organized in the occasion of International Day for Tolerance

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Niiname-sai / Labor Thanksgivings Day (Shinto)

November 23

Description of Observance:

Japanese harvest ritual, a thanks to the Shinto deities for a prosperous year and prays for a fruitful new year. The ritual is celebrated by the Emperor of Japan, who thanks the Shinto deities for a prosperous year and prays for a fruitful new year. It takes place near the Three Palace Sanctuaries of the imperial palace and several large Shinto shrines. During the ritual, the Emperor shows gratitude to the gods for Japan's harvest through offerings, non-religiously celebrated as Labor Thanksgiving Day. 

Best Practice(s):

People take the day off as it is considered a national holiday in Japan. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, tokens of thanks are often shared. 

Feast of Christ the King (Catholic / Christian)

November 23

Description of Observance:

Christ the King Day is a Catholic celebration that takes place on the last Sunday of the liturgical year in the Catholic faith. Originally a Roman Catholic feast, it is now observed by Christians of all denominations as a way to recognize and honor Jesus Christ as the ‘King of Kings.’ The church’s aim to remind the increasingly secular world of the importance of God and his teachings is one of the key reasons for the celebration. Christ the King Day was initiated in 1925 by Pope Pius XI as a response to the spread of secularism in the modern world and to remind the world of Jesus Christ’s rule on mankind. Initially a Roman Catholic holiday celebrated on the last Sunday of October, many Christian denominations have since adopted the holiday.

The holiday’s origins can be traced back to Pope Pius XI’s view that Jesus Christ is the eternal ruler of the world. This truth is underlined and outlined throughout history in gospels, novels, and art, where Jesus Christ is constantly shown at the center of compositions and is referred to in venerable, regal terms. According to legend, Jesus Christ is worshiped by all angels and mortals, and everyone is subject to him and must recognize his reign as a result of Christ’s hypostatic union with all creatures on Earth and beyond.

Thus, the celebrations remind Catholics and Christians of Jesus Christ’s eternal authority over the world, as it is the only kind of authority that is not temporal and fleeting. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops simplifies the solemn day as a reminder that while governments come and go, Christ reigns as King forever.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services and celebrations on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Christ the King Day." 

Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib (Sikh) 

November 24

Description of Observance:

Every year November 24 is observed as the day of the Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. On this day in 1675, he was publicly Executed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in Delhi for refusing to accept Aurangzeb's authority. Sikh places of worship reverberate with the sounds of chanting of the composition called Bachittar Natak, which recounts his life and was recorded by his son, Guru Gobind Singh. A number of Sikh temples have been built in honor of Guru Tegh Bahadur. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Day of Covenant (Bahá'í)

November 24-25

Description of Observance:

Celebrate the appointment of 'Abdu'l-Bahá as the Centre of Baha'u'llah's Covenant; Baha’is celebrate the unity of their Faith — and the essential unity of all Faiths — on the Day of the Covenant. They also recognize, on this special day, the wider covenant that exists between God and humanity, which expresses itself in the singular purpose, common principles, and prophetic connections that link every Faith. Gather in prayer and worship in celebration of unity and acceptance, all are welcome to celebrate regardless of any difference in faith or beliefs. 

Best Practice(s):

The day is one of two Baháʼí holy days where work does not need to be suspended.

Customary Greeting(s):

A common greeting for this day is Allah-u-Abha – an Arabic phrase that means “God is the Most Glorious." "Allah-u-Abha" (All-LAH oo abha). 

Native American Heritage Day

Nov 24

Description of Observance:

Native American Heritage Day is a civil holiday observed on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States and is a day in honor of Native Americans. “During National Native American Heritage Month, people celebrate Indigenous peoples past and present and rededicate themselves to honoring Tribal sovereignty, promoting Tribal self-determination, and upholding the United States' solemn trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Sahib (Sikh)

November 27

Description of Observance:

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav, celebrates the birth of the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak. One of the most celebrated and important Sikh gurus and the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev is highly revered by the Sikh community. Their birthdays, known as 'Gurpurab', are occasions for celebration and prayer among the community. Guru Nanak Jayanti is marked with prayer processions, hymns, free sweets, martial arts ('Gatka'), as well as services to the community. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate or for services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Ascension of ‘Abu’l-Bahá (Bahá'í) 

November 27-28

Description of Observance:

Holiday honoring ‘Abu’l-Bahá who succeeded Bahá'u'lláh, prophet-founder of the Bahá'ı Faith, and led the Bahá'ı community from 1892 to 1921 [commemorates the death of ‘Abu’l-Bahá in 1921]. Devotional readings and is held at 1:00 am as ‘Abu’l-Bahá passed away at about 1:00 am on November 28, 1921. Observances on this day generally include prayers, music, and readings, ideally at 1:00 am, the time of his passing. Work is not suspended. 

Best Practice(s):

Since the celebration of the holiday takes place in the early morning, people may take the day off or come in late. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. A common greeting for this day is Allah-u-Abha – an Arabic phrase that means “God is the Most Glorious." "Allah-u-Abha" (All-LAH oo abha). 

First Sunday of Advent (Christian) 

November 30

Description of Observance:

Marks the beginning of the Christian year across many western churches, Season of expectant waiting and preparation of the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. Followers start lighting their Advent wreaths and praying their Advent daily devotional to celebrate, people may also put up their Christmas tree, light their Christingle, or engage in other preparations for Christmas. 

Best Practice(s):

Takes place on the weekend. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No traditional greeting but people may say "Happy First Sunday of Advent." "May the holy and blessed occasion of Advent bring peace, joy, and warmth. May the joy and wonder of Advent – Refresh your spirit and light up your life. May the Advent Season bring to you peace, warmth, and cozy gatherings with loved ones."

Advent Season (Christian) 

November 30

Description of Observance:

Advent (from, "ad-venire" in Latin or "to come to") is the season encompassing the four Sundays (and weekdays) leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. People may light Advent candles or prepare Advent wreaths, hold special church services or read specific Scriptures each day, and some use an Advent calendar to build anticipation for Christmas. 

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services. Typically held on the weekend.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

World AIDS Day

Dec 1

Description of Observance:

World AIDS Day, designated on 1 December every year since 1988, is an international day dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and mourning those who've died of the disease.  The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The HIV virus attacks the immune system of the patient and reduces its resistance to other diseases. Government and health officials, non-governmental organizations, and individuals around the world observe the day, often with education on AIDS prevention and control

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of St. Francis Xavier (Catholic) 

December 3

Description of Observance:

Commemorates and honors the commitment and service that St. Francis Xavier showed through his Christian missionary activity in Europe and Asia. To celebrate him and commemorate his journey to the afterlife, the town of Assisi lights oil lamps for two days. Religious services are held and some children even bring their pets to be blessed on this day. 

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Catholic)

December 8

Description of Observance:

Celebrates the sinless lifespan and Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on December 8, nine months before the feast of the Nativity of Mary, celebrated on September 8, Celebrates Mary's conception without sin. People celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in different ways around the world. Some use it as a day of prayer, whereas some countries host large festivals, parades, and have fireworks. People honor the Virgin Mary through kinship and celebration.

Best Practice(s):

Some Catholics might fast that day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say May your Christmas open with Mary’s grace and light. Best wishes for a happy Immaculate Conception. 

International Human Rights Day

Dec 10

Description of Observance:

Human Rights Day is celebrated annually around the world on 10 December every year. The date was chosen to honor the United Nations General Assembly's adoption and proclamation, on 10 December 1948, of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the first global enunciation of human rights and one of the first major achievements of the new United Nations. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights plays a prominent role in coordinating worldwide efforts to celebrate the day, which routinely features cultural events and performances, public meetings and seminars, and other educational activities in promotion of human rights.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Catholic) 

December 12

Description of Observance:

This celebration commemorates the appearance of Mary to the Mexican peasant Juan Diego in 1531. The feast day is an important holiday in Mexico. It has also become an important day for Mexican Americans to celebrate their religious and cultural identity. Today, as a sign of their devotion to Mary, many pilgrims travel to the Basilica in Mexico City on their knees for many miles. They do this as a sign of their devotion to Mary and to show gratitude for favors received from her. Outside of the shrine there are groups of mariachis, folk musicians, and ethnic dancers who have come to celebrate. Inside, various priests and bishops from all over Mexico gather to celebrate Mass. In the evening, the entrance of the basilica is filled with pilgrims from different regions of the country. Many other fiestas or popular celebrations take place in honor of La Virgen Morena, or the dark-skinned Madonna, all over Mexico. Almost every household erects an altar to the Virgin Mary for the day and the faithful demonstrate their joy by lighting fireworks throughout their cities.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Hanukkah (Jewish) 

December 14-22

Description of Observance:

The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah or Chanukah commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Jewish people light one candle on the menorah each day, which represents the number of days that the Temple lantern blazed. People also traditionally play games of dreidel and eat Jewish foods. Religious rituals such as daily readings of Scriptures, recitations of Psalms, and singing are also held.

Best Practice(s):

Hanukkah is considered a minor Jewish holiday, so most people still go to work or school. Some people may choose to take time off to be with their friends and family. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Hanukkah sameach! (Happy Hanukkah!), Chag urim sameach! (Happy Festival of Lights!). 

Yule (Pagan / Wiccan)

December 21 - January 1

Description of Observance:

This holiday is celebrated at the winter solstice as the rebirth of the Great horned hunter god, who is viewed as the newborn solstice sun [modern Paganism]. Yule was originally celebrated by the Norse and Scandinavian peoples.Today, many Pagans still celebrate Yule on the day of the Winter Solstice. Pagans celebrate the rebirth of the sun through gift exchanges, merriment, and deep spiritual reflection. For Pagans, this is a time of new beginnings, rebirth, transformation, getting rid of unwanted habits, and creativity. In most forms of Wicca, followers celebrate the Great horned hunter god who represents the newborn solstice sun. Some have group or private ceremonies. Yule is considered the Wiccan Sabbat. Yule celebrations included bonfires, decorating with holly, mistletoe, and the boughs of evergreen trees, ritual sacrifices, feasts, and gift-giving.

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to observe this holiday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Yule,” “Merry Yuletide,” or “Happy Solstice.”  

Srīmad Bhagavad Gītā Jayantī (Hindu)

December 22

Description of Observance:

Celebrates the birthday of Bhagavad Gita. Gita Jayanti is a very important day for Hindus. On this day, the holy book of Hindus, Bhagavad Gita was born, ie Gita Jayanti is the day when Lord Shri Krishna told the Gita to Arjuna. It is celebrated on Shukla Ekadashi on the 11th day of Margashirsha month of the Hindu calendar. The Bhagavad Gita was described by Lord Krishna himself before the Mahabharata war began. It is believed that in the Mahabharata, the seeds of the Pandavas and the Kauravas had decided to go to war even after every possible reconciliation effort. Followers read the Bhagavad Gita and talk about how it has benefitted them. The followers of Lord Krishna fast on the festival of Ekadashi, which is a day where one cleanses the body and focuses on rejuvenation. 

Best Practice(s):

It is an important fasting day, so they might feel fatigued or tired. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say "May this auspicious occasion of Gita Jayanti bring a lot of positivity, peace and harmony to your life." 

Vaikuntha Ekadashi (Hindu)

December 23

Description of Observance:

Hindu holiday and festival, Vaishnavas (Devotees of Vishnu) believe that the gate to Vaikuntha, Vaikunta Dvaram, is opened on this day. People fast the whole day and keep vigil. Special prayers are offered to Vishnu and devotees engage in chanting of Vishnu's name and meditation, Celebration occurs in Venkateswara temples across many regions, temple celebrations and rituals occur. 

Best Practice(s):

Since fasting takes place, employees may need special accommodations. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Vaikunta Ekadashi.” 

Christmas (Christian)

December 25

Description of Observance:

Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. Popular customs in celebrating Christmas are exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, having meals with family and friends, and attending Christmas services. 

Best Practice(s):

Public holiday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

“Merry Christmas!” 

Zarathosht Diso (Zoroastrian)

December 26

Description of Observance:

Commemorates the death anniversary of Zarathushtra, founder of Zoroastrianism. Followers traditionally visit fire temples and pray in honor and remembrance of the holy prophet. Followers also pray to Fravashis, the guardian spirits. It is also considered a day of prayer, ritual, and reflection. It is an occasion of remembrance with lectures and discussions held on the life and works of the prophet. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to observe this holiday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, though one may say "Happy Holidays!" 

Kwanzaa (African Americans)

December 26

Description of Observance:

Celebrates African heritage, unity, and culture.  Although Kwanzaa is primarily an African American holiday, it has also come to be celebrated outside the United States, particularly in Caribbean and other countries where there are large numbers of descendants of Africans. It was conceived as a nonpolitical and nonreligious holiday, and it is not considered to be a substitute for Christmas. Kwanzaa is celebrated by hosting daily ceremonies and eating traditional foods. They also light the kinara, which holds seven candles. Each candle represents one of the Seven principles of Kwanzaa. Red, green, and black are the most prevalent colors in decorating for and celebrating Kwanzaa.

Best Practice(s):

Some people abstain from eating meat or fast until the big Kwanzaa feast. 

Customary Greeting(s):

During Kwanzaa, participants greet one another with "Habari gani" which is Kiswahili for "how are you/ how's the news with you?" People can also say, “Happy Kwanzaa!” 

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Oshogatsu (Japan)

January 1

Description of Observance:

Marking the beginning of a new calendar year, on the eve of the new year, temple bells ring 108 times: 8 times to ring out the old year and 100 times to usher in the new year. It is a tradition to visit a shrine or temple, thanking the spirits, asking for good fortune, and letting resolutions known in presence of the spirits. 

Best Practice(s):

In Japan, it is celebrated with time off of work, family reunions, and traditional rituals. 

Customary Greeting(s):

shinnen omedetô (gozaimasu) (新年おめでとう (ございます) ); or, akemashite omedetô (gozaimasu) (明けましておめでとう (ございます) ) Meaning Happy New Year and Congratulations for the New Year that is beginning. 

Gantan-sai (Shinto)

January 1

Description of Observance:

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. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time to attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Feast of Mary Mother of God (Christian)

January 1

Description of Observance:

This holiday is a celebration of Mary's motherhood of Jesus. It is a reminder of the role she played in the salvation of humankind. The title “Mother of God” is a western derivation from the Greek Theotokos, which means “God-bearer.”  Honor Your Earthly Mama. Take her out to lunch, give her a call, send her flowers… show her you care about her and that you are praying for her! Remember her on a Marian feast day by having a Mass offered for her intentions, or lighting a candle in your local parish Church, asking Mother Mary to intercede for your mom!

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time to attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Epiphany (Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, Christians)

January 6

Description of Observance:

It commemorates how a star led the Magi, or the three wise men, to baby Jesus. The Magi had Hope in the Star that God placed before them. They followed that light of Hope until they found Jesus; hope and joyful revelation. People celebrate by baking a Kings' Cake, chalking the door, having one's house blessed, elaborating worship with lighted candle, and attending church service; Countries celebrate on the evening before and on the actual day with parades of decorative floats and people in costume as the kings bearing gifts. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time to attend services. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say May the Epiphany remind us all that the divine light will unite us all. 

Orthodox Christmas (Orthodox Christian)

January 7

Description of Observance:

The Orthodox Church still chooses to celebrate the birth of Jesus as per the Julian calendar. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who many Christians believe is the son of God. His birth date is unknown because there is little information about his early life. Many Christians celebrate Jesus’ birthday on December 25 but there are some who hold tradition by observing the date on January 7. Followers go to church, then exchange gifts at a huge feast with friends and family, eating plenty of meat and pastries and enjoying each other's company. 

Best Practice(s):

Fasting takes place leading up to this date. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Merry Christmas. 

Bodhi Day (Buddhist)

January 7

Description of Observance:

Bodhi Day is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that Gautama Buddha (Shakyamuni) is said to have attained enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. According to tradition, Siddhartha had recently forsaken years of extreme ascetic practices and resolved to sit under a peepal tree, also known as a Bodhi tree, and simply meditate until he found the root of suffering, and how to liberate oneself from it. Services and traditions vary amongst Buddhist sects, but all such services commemorate the Buddha's achievement of Nirvana, and what this means for Buddhism today. Individuals may choose to commemorate the event through additional meditation, study of the Dharma, chanting of Buddhist texts (sutras), or performing kind acts towards other beings. Some Buddhists celebrate with a traditional meal of tea, cake and readingsBuddhists go to temple services and practice meditation. Some Buddhists decorate bodhi trees with lights and statues of Buddha. They also reflect upon the Noble Eightfold Path and the Four Noble Truths.

Best Practice(s):

Some Buddhists may choose to fast. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Bodhi Day or Blessed Bodhi Day. 

National Day of Human Trafficking Awareness

January 11

Description of Observance:

In 2007, the U.S. Congress designated January 11th as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. People who are trafficked are considered victims of a crime under international law. This day aims is to raise awareness about the plight of human trafficking victims, as well as to promote and protect their rights. 

Best Practice(s):

To raise awareness of human trafficking, many take photos of themselves, friends, family, and colleagues wearing blue clothing and share them on social media – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – along with our #WearBlueDay hashtag

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday

Makar Sankranti (Hindu) 

January 14

Description of Observance:

Celebration of the Sun god - The first festival of the calendar year, it marks the first day of the sun's transit into the Makara signaling the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. People worship the sun god, Surya, by going to temples and offering water and flowers. People also often eat sweets made of jaggery and sesame and participate in the kite festival; children fly kites. 

Best Practice(s):

Consumption of meat is strictly discouraged, some may choose to take the day off. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Hope you are blessed with peace, prosperity, and good harvest this Makar Sankranti. 

Lailat al Miraj (Islam)

January 15*-16

Description of Observance:

Lailat al Miraj celebrates the Prophet Muhammad's nighttime journey from Mecca to Jerusalem, where he then ascended to heaven. While sleeping in the Ka'bah, the sacred shrine of Mecca, Muhammad was visited by the archangels Jibril and Mikal. The archangels purified his soul and filled him with wisdom. The story of Muhammad's nighttime journey is often read at mosques or at home to celebrate this day. Special additions can be made to nighttime prayers; Lailat Al Miraj can be celebrated in different ways, but most Muslims will either attend special services at a mosque or pray privately at home. The story of Muhammad's journey is often recited during prayer services. 

Best Practice(s):

May take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “May the Lailat al Miraj bring you blessing." 

Birth of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti (Sikh)

January 20

Description of Observance:

Birthday of the tenth and last Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji, celebrates ; Sikhs revere Guru Gobind as a devout spiritual leader who made major contributions to the faith’s ideology and writing. Believers also view him as a fearless protector of all people from oppression and injustice. Sikhs celebrate the occasion with processions and singing, gathering at gurdwaras for prayer and spiritual discourse, and reciting poems and hymns. 

Best Practice(s):

In India, since it is a public holiday, people take the day off. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Gobind Singh Jayanti. 

Vasant Panchami (Hindu)

January 23

Description of Observance:

A festival that marks the preparation for the arrival of spring and the worship of goddess Saraswati, patron Goddess of knowledge, music, arts, science, and technology. People celebrate the day by wearing yellow (white), eating sweet dishes and displaying yellow flowers in homes. 

Best Practice(s):

Some employees may choose to take the day off on this day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Vasant Panchami!”

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

January 27

Description of Observance:

The International Holocaust Remembrance Day, or the International Day in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, is an international memorial day on 27 January that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. January 27 was chosen to commemorate the date when the Auschwitz concentration camp was liberated by the Red Army in 1945. The day remembers the killing of six million Jews, two-thirds of Europe's Jewish population, and millions of others by the Nazi regime and its collaborators. It was designated by United Nations General Assembly resolution 60/7 on 1 November 2005.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no official greeting for the holiday.

Myaamia Winter Gathering (Myaamia Tribe)

Date determined annually by Myaamia Tribe

Description of Observance:

Winter Gathering is one of the major events each year that Myaamia citizens and friends of the community can come together in Noošonke Siipionki ‘ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, OK’ to celebrate Myaamia culture and hear about important news and developments within the community. A Myaamia winter-time gathering designed to bring Myaamia people together from across the country, with a special focus on aalhsoohkaana 'winter stories' and kiiwahtekaataawi koteenki 'stomp dance' 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday. 

Name of Observance

2023-2024

Observance Information

National Freedom Day

Feb 1

Description of Observance:

National Freedom Day is a United States Observance, honored on February 1. National Freedom Day represents President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of a joint House and Senate resolution which was later ratified as the Constitution’s 13th Amendment. On February 1, 1816, the Amendment abolishing slavery was signed, but it was not ratified until later. 

Best Practice(s): N/A- many people privately reflect, many towns and cities may have small festivals or celebrations. NOT a federal holiday.

Customary Greeting(s): N/A

Tu B’shevat (Jewish) 

February 1*-2

Description of Observance:

Tu B'Shevat is a Jewish holiday occurring on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. It is also called Rosh HaShanah La'Ilanot, literally "New Year of the Trees". Marks the beginning of spring in Israel. Tu B'Shevat is a celebration of the renewal of vision and awareness, a celebration of connections and connectedness - remember connection to the Earth. Celebrate by eating members of the 'seven species' the Torah links to the land of Israel - wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates; some also celebrate with a Tu B'Shevat seder, focusing on the symbolism of different kinds of fruits and trees. 

Best Practice(s):

Some observers may take this time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no official greeting for the holiday. The standard “Chag Sameach!” (Happy Holiday) may be said. 

Imbolc (Pagan / Wiccan)

Feb 1

Description of Observance:

Imbolc or Imbolg, also called Saint Brigid's Day, is a Gaelic traditional festival. It marks the beginning of spring, and for Christians, it is the feast day of Saint Brigid, Ireland's patroness saint. Celebrates the coming of Spring - symbolizes the halfway point between the winter solstice (Yule) and the spring equinox (Ostara); The word "imbolc" means "in the belly of the Mother," because the seeds of spring are beginning to stir in the belly of Mother Earth. Celebrate by setting up an altar with symbols of Brigid, white flowers, a bowl of milk, and candles; If there is a group gathering, they might cast a circle, and recite prayer to receive a blessing from Brigid; some people do house cleanings. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate.  

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Imbolc!”

Shab-e-Barat (Islam)

February 3

Description of Observance:

Shab-e-Barat, Barat Night, Cheragh e Barat, Berat Kandili, or Nisfu Syaaban is a cultural celebration celebrated in many South Asian, Central Asian, South East Asian and Middle Eastern Muslim countries, on the 15th night of the month of Sha'ban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar.

Best Practice(s):

On the night, Muslims worldwide ask forgiveness for their sins from the all-merciful Allah. Additionally, the night can be used to seek mercy for the deceased and ill family members. Some practitioners may choose to take the day off work to celebrate their faith.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say “May the blessings of Shab e Barat fill your life with happiness and joy.”

Setsubun-sai (Shinto)

Feb 3

Description of Observance:

Setsubun is celebrated in Japan on February 3rd, marking the day before spring with various traditions meant to drive away evil spirits and bad luck and cleanse the home and family for the coming year. Rituals vary throughout Japan, but one of the more common and well-known rituals is mamemaki (豆撒き, "bean throwing"). People throw roasted soybeans, or fukumame (福豆, "fortune beans"), out from the front door of their homes or shrines while shouting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" (鬼は外！福は内！, "Devils out! Fortune in!"). Often times, a family member will wear an oni (鬼, "demon or ogre") mask, acting as the devil while the rest of the family throw the beans. Afterwards, each individual will eat the number of beans that corresponds with their age. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take time off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

"Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" is the chanting phrase to sing at this time of the year. It symbolizes Japanese people's wish to chase away oni demons and attract happiness. 

Darwin Day (Atheist / Secular)

February 12

Description of Observance:

Darwin Day is a celebration to commemorate the birthday of Charles Darwin. The day is used to highlight Darwin's contributions to science and to promote science in general. People can visit a natural history museum, can attend exhibitions, exhibits on evolution, they can read The Origin of Species, his book and one of his famous inventions or theories. Used to inspire people to reflect and act on the principle of intellectual bravery, perpetual curiosity, scientific thinking, and hunger for truth. 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, though some may say "Happy Darwin Day." 

Parinirvana - Buddha’s Passing (Buddhist)

February 15

Description of Observance:

Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha Gautama, who is commonly known as Buddha; Mahayana festival commemorating the death of the Buddha at the age of 80 and his attainment of parinirvana. Buddhists may celebrate the day by going to Buddhist temples or monasteries or with meditation. In monasteries, Parinirvana Day is a social occasion where food is shared and people exchange gifts such as money, household items or clothes. 

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may take the day off in observance of this holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say "Amituofo" (E-mi-tuo-fo), which is a kind greeting and form of well-wishing meaning immeasurable light and immeasurable life. 

Maha Shivaratri (Hindu)

February 15

Description of Observance:

Mahashivratri is the day to honor and celebrate Lord Shiva—honor life and celebrate existence. Most people spend the day of Mahashivratri in prayer, meditation and celebration.

Best Practice(s):

The holiday is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting, and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva. Ardent devotees keep awake all night. Others visit one of the Shiva temples or go on pilgrimage to Jyotirlingas. Employees may partake in fasting or take the day off.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Maha Shivaratri.”

Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year Chūnjié) (Chinese) 

February 17

Description of Observance:

The festival celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar and solar Chinese calendar. The main Chinese New Year activities include 1) putting up decorations, 2) offering sacrifices to ancestors, 3) eating reunion dinner with family on New Year's Eve, 4) giving red envelopes and other gifts, 5) firecrackers and fireworks, and 6) watching lion and dragon dances. 

Best Practice(s):

Celebrated over the weekend. 

Customary Greeting(s):

In Mandarin, the most common Chinese New Year greeting is Xīnnián hǎo (新年好), which directly translates as 'New Year Goodness'. A more formal greeting is Xīn nián kuài lè, literally meaning 'New Year happiness'.

Seollal (Korean New Year) (Korean)

February 17

Description of Observance:

A festival and national holiday commemorating the first day of the Korean calendar. It is one of the most important traditional holidays in both North and South Korea. Koreans usually perform ancestral rites, play folk games, eat traditional foods, listen to stories and talk well into the night; they also may visit their hometowns to pay respects. 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

새해 복 많이 받으세요. (Saehae bok mani badeuseyo.) “Please receive a lot of luck in the new year.”

Têt Nguyên Ðán (Vietnamese New Year) (Vietnamese)

February 17

Description of Observance:

Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations in Vietnamese culture, it celebrates the beginning of the new year; The phrase means 'the first morning of the first day of the New Year. Vietnamese people may return home to their families; many go to their family altars to worship or visit graves to honor their ancestors; children receive red envelopes filled with money from their elders. The first day is reserved for the nuclear family, then it is celebrated in large crowds. 

Best Practice(s):

Some may take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

The easiest and most commonly used greetings during Tet are "Chúc mừng Năm Mới!" (‘Happy New Year!’) and “Cung hỉ phát tài!” (‘Congratulations and prosper!’). 

Losar (Tibetan New Year) (Tibetan / Buddhism)

February 18-20

Description of Observance:

The festival came into existence much before Buddhism was celebrated as a gesture of thanks to the Gods. Initially celebrated mostly among farmers, Losar went on to become a predominantly Buddhist festival celebrating the commencement of the New Year. Celebrated for 15 days, with the main celebrations on the first three days; Losar is celebrated with prayers, displaying prayer flags, religious ceremonies, folk dances, passing fire torches among gatherings, and family reunions. 

Best Practice(s):

May take the day off to celebrate. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Losar Tashi Delek and Happy New Year to all who are celebrating.

Ramadan (Islam)

February 18-March 19

Description of Observance:

Ramadan is the Arabic name for the 9th month in the Islamic calendar. It is considered a holy month of fasting and prayer. It is celebrated as the month during when Muhammad received the initial revelation of the Quran.

Best Practice(s):

Muslims fast for the whole month, from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is considered one of the 5 key principles of Islam. Muslims wake up at dawn for an early morning meal, called suhoor/sehri. They break fast at sunset known as iftar or fitoor. Many western Muslims prefer to work the day shift during Ramadan so they can break fast and pray with their families at home. They will be fasting for approximately 17 hours a day from sunrise to sunset, so employers should try and accommodate possible fatigue. Strict, devout Muslims may want to avoid work/school during the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak”

Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week

Feb 19-25

Description of Observance:

Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week celebrates the awareness and acceptance of individuals on the aromantic spectrum. Aromanticism is a romantic orientation that describes those whose experience of romance is disconnected from normative societal expectations (AROSPECWeek.org), often being that no romantic attraction is experienced. 

Best Practice(s): 

N/A- relatively new holiday

Customary Greeting(s): 

Happy Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week!

World Day of Social Justice

Feb 20

Description of Observance:

World Day of Social Justice was declared by the UN on June 8, 2008, as a step to promote continuous social justice and fair globalization. Annually, the UN hosts an event to celebrate World Social Justice Day to educate and spread awareness. 

Best Practice(s):

In schools, many teachers will teach their students about current social justice topics. The United Nations has lessons available by country regarding World Social Justice Day. Oxfam also has lesson plans and collections available for learners of any ages. 

Customary Greeting(s): 

N/A

Clean Monday (Eastern Orthodox)

February 23

Description of Observance:

Clean Monday comes to clean and purify the body and soul and prepare believers for Easter. Another name for Clean Monday is Koulouma; the first day of Great Lent throughout Eastern Christianity and is a movable feast, falling on the 6th Monday before Palm Sunday.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrated with outdoor excursions, the consumption of shellfish and other fasting food, a special kind of azyme bread, baked only on that day, named "lagana" (Greek: λαγάνα) and the widespread custom of flying kites. Some practitioners may take the day off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Clean Monday!”

Myaamia Lunar New Year (Myaamia Tribe)

Date determined annually by Myaamia Tribe

Description of Observance:

This is the primary winter-time gathering of Myaamia people in ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, OK.

Best Practice(s):

Myaamia people gather together to share food, tell Myaamia winter stories and participate in a Stomp Dance. 

Customary Greeting(s):

aya 'hello'

Ayyám-i-Há (Bahá’í)

February 25-28

Description of Observance:

Ayyám-i-Há means the "Days of Há" and commemorates the transcendence of God over his attributes since "Há" has been used as a symbol of the essence of God in the Baháʼí holy writings.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners and friends perform acts of charity, give gifts to friends and family and attend social gatherings, before a period of fasting begins.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however one may say “Happy Ayyám-i-Há.”

Nineteen Day Fast (Bahá’í)

February 28-March 19

Description of Observance:

The Nineteen Day Fast celebrates reinvigorating the soul and bringing the person closer to God. The Nineteen-Day Fast is a nineteen-day period of the year during which members of the Baháʼí Faith adhere to a sunrise-to-sunset fast. Along with obligatory prayer, it is one of the greatest obligations of a Baháʼí, and its chief purpose is spiritual: to reinvigorate the soul and bring the person closer to God. The nineteen days of fasting happen right before the Baha'i New Year, on the vernal equinox. This can change every year.

Best Practice(s):

Adults fast every day. They practice praying, meditation and spiritual rejuvenation. They also abstain from drinking and smoking for the holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Zero Discrimination Day

March 1

Description of Observance:

Zero Discrimination Day celebrates the right of everyone to live a full and productive life with dignity. The holiday was first celebrated in 2014 after a joint UN program on HIV and AIDS launched its Zero Discrimination Campaign. The symbol of the observance is a butterfly, which is used to strive towards positive development and discuss eradicating discrimination. 

Best Practice(s):

N/A

Customary Greeting(s): 

N/A

Purim (Jewish)

March 3*

Description of Observance:

Purim celebrates the survival of Jewish people who were marked for death by Persian rulers. It celebrates how they were saved by Esther, reflecting how Jewish people can find hope in times of oppression. Purim is a holiday that reflects the situation of a people in the Diaspora surviving by their own wiles within a world of moral uncertainty. Purim's customs include retelling the story of Purim, attending feasts, and going to Purim carnivals. Many communities perform plays/skits of the Purim stories. Around the world, people usually dress up to celebrate. The day prior to Purim is a fasting day, from sunrise to sunset.

Best Practice(s):

The day before Purim is a time of fasting for observers. Please be mindful of scheduling around Purim, as this is an important date for the Jewish community.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Purim” or “Purim Sameach” 

Holi (Hindu)

March 3-4

Description of Observance:

Holi is a holiday that welcomes the spring, and is seen as a new start for people. It has long been said that the gods turn a blind eye so devout Hindus may "let loose." It also celebrates the blossoming of love.

Best Practice(s):

Holi is celebrated by having a big festival. Huge crowds gather and people throw colored dye/powder, and have partying and dancing. Often, wheat sheaves/coconut/green chickpeas are given as symbolic offerings. The first day of Holi is spent fasting. Some practitioners may take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Holi.”

Orthodox Lent (Eastern Orthodox)

March 3-April 19

Description of Observance:

Great Lent, or the Great Fast, is the most important fasting season of the church year within many denominations of Eastern Christianity. It is intended to prepare Christians for the greatest feast of the church year, Pascha.

Best Practice(s):

Practitioners may be fasting and may take time off or adjust their schedules to attend services during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Magha Puja Day/Sangha Day (Buddhist)

March 4

Description of Observance:

Magha Puja Day commemorates when 1,250 enlightened Buddhist monks came to see the Buddha. They saw him without being summoned on the full moon of the 3rd lunar month. On this day, the Lord Buddha gave "Ovadha Patimokkha" (fundamental teaching) to all his disciples. Sangha Day is the second most important Buddhist festival. It celebrates the Buddhist community. This holiday allows people to prove or reaffirm their faith.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrations vary. Western Buddhists often exchange gifts, but Eastern Buddhists typically do now. People often chant, practice meditation, and light oil lamps. The day is celebrated with gift exchanges, lighting oil lamps, attending temple, and chanting/meditation. People give offerings to monks at lunch at temples, typically sweet or savory. The spiritual aims of Magha Puja are to do good things and purify the mind. Some practitioners may choose to fast at this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say "Amituofo" (E-mi-tuo-fo), which is a kind greeting and form of well-wishing meaning immeasurable light and immeasurable life. 

Holla Mohalla (Sikh)

March 4-6

Description of Observance:

Holla Mohalla celebrates brotherhood, fraternity, and valor. It was started by the Tenth Sikh leader, Guru Gobind Singh. The holiday also conveys a message of being prepared to defend yourself, and courage.

Best Practice(s):

Sikhs sing religious songs and pray. They traditionally eat vegetarian meals in Langars, and eat foods such as halwa and jalebi. People also attend Gatka martial arts performances. Some may choose to take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Holla Mohalla.”

International Women’s Day 

March 8

Description of Observance:

International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement. The holiday brings awareness to issues such as reproductive rights, violence and abuse, and gender inequalities. It is a public holiday in several countries and became mainstream in 1977. 

Best Practice(s):

Many countries will celebrate achievements of notable women from the area. The United Nations connects International Women’s Day with a particular issue regarding women’s rights. 

Customary Greeting(s): 

Happy International Women’s Day!

Ramakrishna (Hindu)

March 12

Description of Observance:

Ramakrishna Jayanti, Jayanti meaning 'birth anniversary,' celebrates the birth of the great sage, Ramakrishna. A staunch devotee of Goddess Kali, Ramakrishna was a religious leader and reformer.

Best Practice(s):

Religious prayers are conducted in many temples and the followers of Paramahamsa preach his teachings to others.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may say  'Namaste' (na-mas-TAY), which is a traditional Hindu greeting meaning ‘I greet the divine within you.’

Ostara (Wiccan/Pagan)

March 20

Description of Observance:

Ostara celebrates the spring equinox. It is a celebration of the German goddess Eostre, the goddess of fertility of humans as well as crops. The holiday also represents spring and new beginnings, warmth, sun, and the awakening of the earth.

Best Practice(s):

Symbols of Ostara include spring flowers, fairies, butterflies, renewal, and rebirth. In some communities, a woman and man are chosen to act as the Spring God and Goddess, which plant symbolic seeds. Festivals can take place during this time, and some practitioners may choose to take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Ostara” or “Ostara Blessings”

Eid al-Fitr (Islam)

March 20-21

Description of Observance:

Eid al-Fitr, as it follows the fasting of Ramadan, is also seen as a spiritual celebration of Allah’s provision of strength and endurance. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate one of their major holidays called Eid al-Fitr or the “Festival of the Breaking of the Fast.” It is the feast that breaks the month-long fast of Ramadan.

Best Practice(s):

Eid is celebrated with a four-day feast. Muslims often will dress up in their best new clothes and decorate their houses to celebrate. Two of the days in Eid also include special morning prayers. Amid the reflection and rejoicing, Eid al-Fitr is a time for charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr. Eid is meant to be a time of joy and blessing for the entire Muslim community and a time for distributing one’s wealth.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Eid Mubarak" 

Norouz/Norooz/Naw Ruz (Baha'i, Zoroastrian)

March 21-22

Description of Observance:

Norouz marks the first day of spring, and has been celebrated for more than 3000 years. It is not considered a religious day, but has ties to Zoroastrianism. It is considered a universal celebration of new beginnings and wishes prosperity and a good future.

Best Practice(s):

Children are typically gifted toys, and play with painted colorful eggs. People gather and hold feasts and gatherings. On the last Tuesday before Nowruz, people build bonfires and jump over them, which symbolizes the renewal of life. Practitioners are fasting for the 19 days prior to the holiday.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Nowruzetoon Pirouz!” or “Nowruz (no-rooz) Mubarak!”

Omnisexual Awareness Day

March 21

Description of Observance:

Omnisexual Awareness Day is an annual observance created to celebrate people who identify as omnisexual. It is also an opportunity to learn and share information about different gender identities and cultures! 

Best Practice(s):

N/A 

Customary Greeting(s): 

N/A

Feast of the Annunciation (Christian)

March 25

Description of Observance:

The Feast of the Annunciation is a celebration of the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. Solemnities in the Catholic Church are celebrations that are of the greatest importance. The Annunciation of the Lord refers to the time when the angel Gabriel visited the Blessed Virgin Mary to tell her that she would be the mother of the savior.

Best Practice(s):

The best way to celebrate the feast is by attending Divine Liturgy, receiving the Eucharist, listening to the Gospel being read, singing the hymns of the Church, and praying with the faithful. Some may choose to take time off to attend church services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

March 25

Description of Observance:

This observance honors and commemorates the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade. The day is observed with activities and ceremonies at different UN offices around the world. 

Best Practice(s): 

There are numerous outreach programs that raise awareness for the observance with educational materials. 

Customary Greeting(s): 

N/A

Khordad Sal (Zoroastrian)

March 26

Description of Observance:

Khordad Sal is the birthday of Zoroaster, the prophet and founder. Sometimes it is referred to as the Greater Norouz. It is considered one of the most important celebrations in Zoroastrianism.

Best Practice(s):

Zoroastrians gather in Fire temples for prayer. They also hang fresh flowers in their homes and create vibrant colored drawings. People tend to wear new clothes as a blessing. The ritual Jashan is conducted, which are thanksgiving prayers. Families celebrate together to commemorate togetherness.. Some may choose to take the day off in celebration.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, though one may say "Happy Khordad Sal"

Palm Sunday (Christian)

March 29

Description of Observance:

Palm Sunday celebrates when Jesus entered Jerusalem with his disciples and was greeted by people waving palm branches. He was then seen as the savior/King. It is always held during the Sunday before Easter. Palm Sunday is the beginning of Holy Week, which is the most important week of the year for Christians.

Best Practice(s):

Most Christians attend Palm Sunday services, where palm leaves are distributed to the congregation. Some people choose to display their palm in their house to signify Jesus' importance, and some may fold them into crosses. Some may choose to fast.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting but people may say "Happy Palm Sunday"

Memorial of Jesus' Death (Jehovah’s Witness)

March 30

Description of Observance:

The memorial of Jesus' death is celebrated to remember Jesus and show thankfulness for his sacrifice. Jehovah's witnesses do not celebrate national or religious holidays or birthdays, so this is considered very important to them.

Best Practice(s):

They observe the Lord's Evening Meal, which is unadulterated red wine and unleavened bread.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this day.

Trans Day of Visibility 

March 31

Description of Observance:

Trans Day of Visibility honors trans and non-binary people worldwide as well as the discrimination they face. The holiday was created by transgender activist Rachel Crandall after noticing a lack of trans visibility in LGBTQ+ spaces. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no customary celebrations but some places will put out information regarding Trans Day of Visibility.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Passover (Jewish)

April 2*-8

Description of Observance:

Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and the "passing over" of the forces of destruction from God in Exodus. Passover is about freedom, as Jewish people celebrate a group of people who escaped slavery and persecution. It’s about justice, redemption, and leaving behind our struggles—just as the Jews in Egypt did—in order to become who we all are meant to be. It’s about asking questions and figuring out identities. Passover is celebrated with a big ceremony. On the first night, a special family meal called a Seder is held. The seder foods symbolize Jewish liberation. People also recite traditional prayers. During Passover, Jews eat unleavened bread for seven days.

Best Practice(s):

Passover is celebrated with a big ceremony. On the first night, a special family meal called seder is held. The seder foods symbolize the Jewish liberation. People also recite traditional prayers. When providing food at functions, please consider Kosher and Kosher-for-Passover (non-leavened) food accommodations. We also recommend avoiding scheduling deadlines or activities on the first two and last two days of Passover, as these are holy days during which observers follow work and other restrictions.

Customary Greeting(s):

Chag Sameach,” which translates to “happy festival” and is the Hebrew equivalent of “happy holidays.” One can also say "Happy Passover"

Hanuman Jayanti (Hindu)

April 2

Description of Observance:

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of the Lord Hanuman, who was an incarnation of Lord Shiva as well as a disciple of Lord Rama.

Best Practice(s):

Followers visit temples and present Hanuman religious offerings. Devotees receive gifts from the priests, such as sweets, flowers, coconuts, holy water and sacred ash. It is said that to celebrate this holiday the correct way, you need to fast for the full day. The day ends with vegetarian feasts. Some may choose to fast; others may take the day off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say May you have a Happy Hanuman Jayanti and receive the blessings of Bajrang Bali.

Good Friday (Christian)

April 3

Description of Observance:

Good Friday commemorates the day that Jesus was crucified and died. It is considered a day of mourning, and is a part of holy week. Even though it is a sad day, it is called Good Friday because it led to the victory over death and sin.

Best Practice(s):

Good Friday is celebrated by Christians honoring the way that Jesus suffered and died for their sins. Many services are held around midday which is the same hours that Jesus was hung on the cross. It is said that taking a bath or doing laundry is bad luck during Good Friday because water will turn into blood. Good Friday is an obligatory day of fasting and abstinence for Catholics.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, and it is recommended to avoid greetings, as it is a day of mourning and reflection.

Easter Monday (Christian)

April 6

Description of Observance:

Easter Monday is the second day of and a public holiday in some countries. In Western Christianity it marks the second day of the Octave of Easter; in Eastern Christianity, it marks the second day of Bright Week.

The holiday is prominent mostly in Catholic circles. For those in the Eastern Orthodox Church, Easter Monday, also called Bright Monday or Renewal Monday, is the beginning of Bright Week. Although there are ceremonies for the entire week following Easter, they are often condensed into Bright Monday. In areas influenced by Roman Catholicism, Easter Monday is the beginning of the Easter Octave. It is common to douse people in water, representing the new life of baptism, and play games with Easter eggs.

Recognized as a bank holiday in many countries, many traditional religious events, as open-air Masses and blessings with the Easter water happen on Easter Monday.

Best Practice(s):

Some practitioners may choose to take time off on this day to adhere to their observances.

Customary Greeting(s): 

“Happy Easter!”

Rama Navami (Hindu)

April 6 

Description of Observance:

Rama Navami commemorates the birth of Lord Rama, who is the 7th avatar of the deity Vishnu. It is also supposed to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Best Practice(s):

The festival starts with a jalam (water) offering in the morning to Surya, the sun god. People place statues of Buddhist figures in public areas and pray and sing hymns. Many communities perform the play Ramlila in public. Some practitioners will also dress up miniature Rama figures. Most followers of Lord Rama observe a whole day fast. It is not compulsory to abstain from water during this fast.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Jai Shri Ram (Victory to Lord Rama).

Vaisakhi (Sikh)

April 14

Description of Observance:

Vaisakhi is a spring festival that celebrates the anniversary of Sikhism (founded in 1699). It also celebrates the birth of the Sikh community Khalsa. It is also celebrated by Hindus as the start of the solar New Year.

Best Practice(s):

Many Sikhs go to the Gurdwara temples to pray and attend services. Sikhs traditionally wear colorful clothes on Vaisakhi and attend street parades. Colors such as yellow symbolize happiness and a new start. Some practitioners may take the day off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say “Happy Vaisakhi to all! May Waheguru bless you with health, peace and prosperity on this festival of harvest!”

Ridvan (Baha'i)

April 20-May 2

Description of Observance:

Ridvan celebrates the beginning of the Baha'i religion in 1863. It commemorates the Bahaullah’s declaration that he was a direct manifestation of God. It also celebrates the 12 days where the founder of the faith lived in paradise (Ridvan).

Best Practice(s):

Celebrations start two hours before sunset, because that was the same time that Bahaullah entered the garden. Work and school is prohibited, as it is a Holy Day. Followers gather together with friends and family and gather to celebrate and pray. Followers are prohibited from going to work or school because it is one of the Baha'i Holy Days.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Ridvan.

Easter (Christian)

April 20

Description of Observance:

Easter celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Three days after his crucifixion, he resurrected. For many Christians, Easter is positive because it is the end of the Lent season of fasting and penitence.

Best Practice(s):

Christians worldwide attend an Easter mass with special services, music, flowers, and ringing of church bells. The Easter Eggs symbolize rebirth and fertility. In countries around the world, people hold easter egg hunts, egg decorating events, or just giving them as gifts. Traditional catholics sometimes continue the Good Friday fast until the Easter Vigil.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Easter!” 

Pascha (Orthodox Christian)

April 20

Description of Observance:

Pascha is the Orthodox Church's version of the feast of Easter. Pascha celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the feast celebrates the defeat of death.

Best Practice(s):

Pascha begins with a midnight service that commemorates Jesus' resurrection, and then there is a large feast during the day. The week before Pascha is a fasting week, with strict fasts being kept. 

Customary Greeting(s):

"Christos Anesti” or “Christ is risen” is a traditional greeting among Greek Orthodox Christians during their Pascha service.

Day of Silence

April 23

Description of Observance:

The Day of Silence is a student-led day of action standing up against anti-LGBTQ harassment and discrimination. The Day of Silence has been held each year since 1996.

Best Practice(s):

Many students will take a vow of silence for the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

N/A

Yom Ha'shoah (Jewish)

April 24*

Description of Observance:

Yom Ha'shoah means Holocaust Remembrance Day in Hebrew. It signifies the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. It also commemorates the bravery and heroism of survivors and rescuers.

Best Practice(s):

This is a relatively new holiday so rituals are still being developed. Most followers light candles in respect for Holocaust victims, and listen to stories from survivors. This is one of the most somber Jewish holidays.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this day, as it is a day of somber remembrance.

International Lesbian Visibility Day

April 26

Description of Observance:

Lesbian Visibility Day honors all individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. It was created by an American activist Amy Ellis to promote lesbian visibility and rights. Queer women have long been underrepresented in the LGBTQ+ community, so the holiday gives a space for queer women to empower and express themselves.

Best Practice(s):

Many organizations will have donations set up for LGBTQ+ rights organizations. Using queer hashtags on social media helps spread awareness for the observance.

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greeting

Ninth Day of Ridvan (Baha'i) 

April 28

Description of Observance:

The Ninth Day of Ridvan celebrates when Bahaullah was joined by family, and friends came to say goodbye to him. This happened 9 days after Bahaullah arrived at the Garden of Ridvan. This is considered the most holy festival and is very joyful.

Best Practice(s):

Baha'is often celebrate with outdoor activities that appreciate the beauty of nature. People pray and read from the Bahai' writings. Some may choose to take the day off in recognition of the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say Happy Ridvan.

Name of Observance

2023-2024

Observance Information

Beltane (Wiccan/Pagan)

May 1

Description of Observance:

Beltane celebrates the peak of spring and the coming summer. It is also called May Day in some cultures. It is associated with fertility for pagans. In some sects, it is seen as the start of the Celtic Summer. Traditionally one of four Gaelic festivals, Beltane marked the beginning of the pastoral summer season. Beltane was and is seen as a springtime festival of optimism and celebration.

Best Practice(s):

Beltane festivals are celebrated with bonfires, maypoles, dancing, and fertility rituals. It is customary to wear green as it symbolizes the Earth. Many people also walk around bonfires and jump over flames to gain protection, health, and wealth. The rituals are hoped to cast away darkness. Practitioners may celebrate in different ways depending on their individual practices.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Blessed Beltane/Have a Blessed Beltane." "Beltane Blessings"

Visakha Puja (Buddhist)

May 12

Description of Observance:

Visakha Puja celebrates Buddha's birthday. It commemorates the birth, death, and enlightenment of Buddha. For Buddhists, this is one of the most important holidays. According to Buddhist scriptures, all three of these events happened on the same day.

Best Practice(s):

In the morning of Visakha Puja, followers assemble in temples to offer food to the monks. They sing hymns in praise of the Buddha, the Dharma (his teachings) and the Sangha (Disciples). It is prohibited to consume alcohol on this day. Some followers set fish and birds free to release bad karma. Some may choose to take the day off in recognition of the day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this day, but one may say “Happy Visakha Puja”

Ascension Day (Christian)

May 14

Description of Observance:

Ascension Day celebrates the day that Jesus Christ ascended into heaven. This was said to be on the 40th day after his Resurrection.

Best Practice(s):

Ascension day is celebrated with a three day procession before the actual feast. It includes a procession of torches and banners to symbolize Jesus' journey to the Mount of Olives and entry into heaven. It is customary to eat some type of bird because Christ flew to Heaven. Ascension day typically consists of church services, a feast, and singing of hymns. Practitioners may be taking part in services on this day. Some practitioners may choose to fast from Ascension day to Pentecost.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, although people may say "Happy Ascension Day," or "Have a Blessed Ascension Day"

Lag B’Omer (Jewish)

May 16*

Description of Observance:

Lag B'Omer is a minor Jewish holiday. It occurs on the 33rd day of the Omer, which is the period between Passover and Shauvot. It commemorates the break in the plague that occurred during the days of Rabbi Akiva..

Best Practice(s):

Many people light Lag Ba'Omer fires, which are said to have mystical significance. They also signify the impact of Bar Yochai's spiritual teachings. Other key aspects of the holiday include holding Jewish weddings and getting haircuts, as this is a break in the semi-mourning of Omer. Some practitioners may recognize this holiday with a meal. Consider providing Kosher options at events that may be in occurrence.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday; however, one may utilize the phrase "Chag Sameach" (KHAHG sah-MEY-akh), or "Happy Holiday".

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogues and Development

May 22

Description of Observance:

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogues and Development is led by UNESCO, to highlight the world’s different cultures and facilitate intercultural dialogue. The day is often referred to as Diversity Day. 

Best Practice(s):

UNESCO encourages celebrating this day by attending cultural diversity events, seminars, workshops, etc. 

Customary Greeting(s):

N/A

Shavuot (Jewish)

May 22*-23 

Description of Observance:

Commonly known as the Feast of Weeks, Shavuot commemorates the revelation of the Torah on Mt. Sinai to the Jewish people. In ancient times, it was a pilgrimage festival where Isreaelites brought offerings of the harvest to the Temple. Shavuot marks the conclusion of the Counting of the Omer. This counting of days and weeks is understood to express anticipation and desire for the giving of the Torah.

Best Practice(s):

Jewish people go to synagogues to hear the 10 Commandments being read. Shavuot is the only biblically ordained holiday that has no specific laws attached to it other than usual festival requirements of abstaining from creative work. The rabbinic observances for the holiday include reciting additional prayers, making kiddush, partaking of meals and being in a state of joy. Other customs include an all-night Torah study, different readings, and the decoration of homes and synagogues. Shavuot is a holiday where practitioners do not work. Services and celebrations will be attended on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

Chag Sameach (khahg sah-MAY-akh) meaning Happy Holidays

Declaration of the Báb (Bahá'í) 

May 22-23

Description of Observance:

The Declaration of the Báb celebrates when Báb was announced in 1844 that he was the new messenger of God. He was the forerunner of Baha'u'llah. Báb was born Siyyid Ali-Muhammad on October 20, 1918, in Shiraz, Iran. He was the founder of Bábism, and one of the central figures of the Bahá'í Faith. In 1844, at the age of twenty-four, he claimed to be a messenger of God and took the name “Báb,” which means “gate” or “door” in Arabic to emphasize his role as the portal through which the revelation of God would enter. He served as a herald for Bahá’u’lláh, who is the central prophet of the Baha’i faith.

Best Practice(s):

Baha'is celebrate by gathering together and sharing prayers, stories, and reflections. It is considered to be a blessed day and the dawn of manifestation. It is one of the nine holy days in the Bahá'í Faith which means that work and school are suspended. Practitioners may need to take time off or adjust schedules during this time.

Customary Greeting(s):

A common greeting for this day is Allah-u-Abha – an Arabic phrase that means “God is the Most Glorious." "Allah-u-Abha" (All-LAH oo abha).

Pansexual Visibility Day

May 24

Description of Observance:

Pansexual Visibility Day is a day to uplift, educate, and celebrate pansexual identities.

Best Practice(s):

Attend educational workshops/events that uplift pansexuals. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greetings.

Day of Arafa/haj/Waqf of Arafa (Islam)

May 26

Description of Observance:

The Day of 'Arafah (Yawm Al-'Arafah), also called the Day of the Standing (Yawm Al-Waqf), is significant because it is the holiest day of the Islamic Hijri lunar year.

Best Practice(s):

On the Day of 'Arafah, from somewhat before noon until sunset, Pilgrims, observing the rules and symbolic dress of ritual pilgrim sanctity (iḥrâm), gather to the Plain of 'Arafât and take their stand (wuqûf) of faith before God, entreating His mercy and forgiveness. This day is called prayer day, specially for people who stand on Mount Arafat. On the Day of Arafah, those who cannot make it to Mecca will go to other holy places such as mosques to recite Arafah prayer.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, but one may say “May Allah shower His Blessings and Mercy on this blessed day of Arafa.”

Eid al Adha (Islam)

May 26-27

Description of Observance:

Eid al Adha celebrates the Quranic tale of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice Isamil as an act of obedience to Allah. It is also known as the feast of sacrifice.

Best Practice(s):

Muslims often sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow, or camel in their home in honor of Ibrahim's devotion. Ritual slaughtering livestock and distributing the meat is supposed to be a good deed. Part of their meat is consumed by the family which offers the animal, while the rest of the meat is distributed to the poor and the needy. Sweets and gifts are given, and extended family members are typically visited and welcomed. Feasting and prayers take place on this day, along with festivals. Practitioners may take time to attend these observances.

Customary Greeting(s):

Eid al-Adha Mubarak! Here's wishing you and your family, peace, harmony, happiness, good health and prosperity on the auspicious occasion of Eid. Eid al-Adha Mubarak to you and everyone at home.

Ascension of Bahá'ulláh (Bahá'í)

May 27-28

Description of Observance:

The Ascension of Baha'u'llah celebrates the death anniversary of Baha'u'llah, the founder of Baha'i. He died on May 29, 1892.

Best Practice(s):

The Ascension is celebrated by followers gathering together in devotion and prayers. It is somber and meditative, to honor Baha'u'llah.The Ascension is one of the 9 days where work and school is suspended.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a time of meditation and devotion.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Pentecost (Christian)

June 8 

Description of Observance:

Pentecost celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and other disciples following the Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. It also celebrates the beginning of the Church's mission to the world.

Best Practice(s):

Catholic Priests often dress up in red robes and cover the altar in red cloth, which symbolize joy and the fire of the Holy Spirit. Families hold feasts together, services are attended, and some practitioners may choose to fast from Ascension day to Pentecost. Not all practitioners celebrate Pentecost, but those who do may partake in services, feasts, and devotions. Some practitioners may choose to fast from Ascension day to Pentecost.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Pentecost"

Loving Day

June 12

Description of Observance:

Loving Day is the anniversary of the court decision that legalized interracial marriage. It is a global day of visibility, education, and community. 

Best Practice(s): 

Many people will celebrate at home to observe this holiday, and it holds significance for those in interracial relationships or multi racial families. Many people will share photos on social media with the caption #lovingday. 

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greeting.

Trinity Sunday (Christian)

June 15

Description of Observance:

Trinity Sunday celebrates the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, the three Persons of God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Best Practice(s):

Usually, the day is marked by special church services, while Sunday schools will likely focus on the Trinity. Scriptural readings for the Trinity Sunday ceremony could include Psalm 8, Second Corinthians 13:11-13, or Matthew 28:16-20. Practitioners may attend services. Held on the weekend.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday but one may say, "May the Lord bless us all on the holy occasion of Trinity Sunday."

Guru Arjan Martyrdom (Sikh)

June 16

Description of Observance:

Guru Arjan Martyrdom is celebrated to remember Guru Arjan Dev, who sacrificed his life for the Sikh people.

Best Practice(s):

Followers do a cover-to-cover reading of the Sikh Holy book. Celebrations end with hymns and lectures on Sikhism. There are often processions done outside that honor his life. Practitioners may attend services, attend processions, or attend readings on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is meant to be a day of remembrance.

Juneteenth

June 19

Description of Observance:

Juneteenth is a federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery. It is celebrated on the anniversary of the American Civil War when the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas was ordered. It is now a federal holiday, so people take time off. 

Best Practice(s):

Celebratory traditions include readings of the emancipation proclamation or singing traditional songs, such as Lift Every Voice and Sing. Festivals and celebrations take place across the United states. This is one of the longest running African American holidays, and some call it America’s second independence day. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Happy Juneteenth!

Litha/Summer Solstice/Midsummer (Wiccan/Pagan)

June 20

Description of Observance:

Litha (also known as Midsummer) occurs on the summer solstice, and celebrates the beginning of summer. The Summer Solstice celebrates the return of light, life and fertility as well as the potential for a good harvest. The day of the Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Best Practice(s):

For modern day pagans, Litha is a day of inner power and brightness. Some people find a quiet spot and meditate about the light and dark forces in their world. Some other observers, particularly those with children, celebrate this holiday outside. Lastly, some observers choose to observe Litha more traditionally, and they would hold a fire ritual. This might include a large bonfire, or a small fire in a fire-safe pot in one’s house. Litha is also considered a good time to practice love magic or get married. The pagan version of this ceremony is called handfasting, and it includes many of the same practices one might find at a wedding. Practitioners may attend gatherings or celebrate individually.

Customary Greeting(s):

“Happy Litha,” or “Happy Solstice/Solstice Blessings”

Myaamia Annual Gathering (Myaamia Tribe)

Date determined annually by Myaamia Tribe

Description of Observance:

This is the primary summer-time gathering of Myaamia people in ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, OK.

Best Practice(s):

Myaamia people gather together as a community to participate in cultural events such as lacrosse.  Annual gathering also includes the meeting of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Nation General Council and Tribal elections.

Customary Greeting(s):

aya 'hello'

Nativity of St. John the Baptist (Christian/Catholic)

June 24 

Description of Observance:

The Nativity of St. John the Baptist is a Christian feast day celebrating the birth of John the Baptist.

Best Practice(s):

The Catholic church observes a solemn feast in honor of the birth or nativity of John the Baptist. Practitioners may take time off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Ashura (Islam)

June 25-26

Description of Observance:

A day of commemoration in Islam. It occurs annually on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. Among Shia Muslims, Ashura is observed through large demonstrations of high-scale mourning as it marks the death of Husayn ibn Ali (a grandson of Muhammad), who was beheaded during the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Among Sunni Muslims, Ashura is observed through celebratory fasting as it marks the day of salvation for Moses and the Israelites, who successfully escaped from Biblical Egypt (where they were enslaved and persecuted) after Moses called upon God's power to part the Red Sea. While Husayn's death is also regarded as a great tragedy by Sunnis, open displays of mourning are either discouraged or outright prohibited, depending on the specific act.

Best Practice(s):

Fasting and shrine pilgrimages may take place for some practitioners, but there are varied practices to recognize this day depending upon how one practices. Some practitioners may practice fasting on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

As Ashura is a solemn event, greetings are not encouraged.

Islamic New Year (Islam)

June 26-27

Description of Observance:

The Islamic New Year, also called the Hijri New Year, is the day that marks the beginning of a new lunar Hijri year, and is the day on which the year count is incremented. The first day of the Islamic year is observed by most Muslims on the first day of the month of Muharram.

Best Practice(s):

They carry out prayers and rituals at the mosque and some public spaces that may hold historical significance. It is also common for Muslim families to gather together after prayer and eat a meal together. Muslims will often attend prayer sessions at their mosque and spend time with their friends and family.

Customary Greeting(s):

Muharram Mubarak! May Allah Almighty shower his blessing on the Muslim Ummah and all Islamic countries. May all praise and thanks be to Allah, who is in the heavens and on earth. Wishing you and your family Happy Hijri New Year.

Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Christian/Catholic)

June 27

Description of Observance:

The Feast of the Sacred Heart is a feast day in the liturgical calendar of the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church and certain Anglo-Catholic communities that is dedicated to the Sacred Heart.

Best Practice(s):

Holy mass and devotional prayers to the Sacred Heart are recited. The Sacred Heart feast day is a “solemnity,” the highest order of liturgical feast, meaning that Catholics are to observe it similar to a Sunday. It is a day of celebration, meaning any type of fasting or abstinence from meat is temporarily lifted on that day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this date.

Pride Day

June 28

Description of Observance:

Pride Day is a holiday that commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots in Greenwich Village, NYC. This was one of the first times in history that “non normative people'' fought back against an oppressive system for LGBTQ+ rights. In following years, the first pride marches took place in cities such as LA and NYC.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties/festivals, workshops and other events. Memorials are also held across the world to those who lost their life to a hate crime or HIV/AIDS. Pride festivals typically have a theme (NYC 2023 is “Strength in solidarity”. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Happy Pride Day!

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (Christian/Catholic)

June 29

Description of Observance:

The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul or Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul is a liturgical feast in honor of the martyrdom in Rome of the apostles Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

Best Practice(s):

Typically in the United States, it is celebrated by attending mass. In other parts of the world, festivals, bazaars, parades, and pageants may happen to celebrate. This is a holy day of obligation in most countries (but not in the United States).

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Martyrdom of the Báb (Bahá'í)

July 8-9

Description of Observance:

The Martyrdom of the Báb commemorates the 1850 execution of the cofounder of Bahá'í (the Báb). He was killed because his beliefs weren't approved by the leaders of Persia's state religion. A young follower begged to have the same fate, and he did.

Best Practice(s):

Baha'is commemorate the loss of the Báb with prayers and scripture, reading the Tablets of Visitation. It is one of the 9 holy days where work and school is suspended.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday, as it is a day of rest and remembrance.

Feast of St. Benedict (Chritsian/Catholic)

July 11

Description of Observance:

The Feast of St. Benedict celebrates the 6th century abbot who gave Christian monasticism its lasting foundation. St. Benedict is said to protect you from curses, evil/vice, and disease.

Best Practice(s):

Celebrated with a feast and services. Practitioners may take time off to participate in feasts and services on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Feast Day" "Happy Feast Day of St. Benedict!"

Nonbinary People’s Day

July 14

Description of Observance:

Nonbinary People’s Day honors nonbinary people and aims to raise awareness and educate. This is a new observance, and has only been celebrated since 2012. The date was chosen because it is exactly halfway between International Men’s Day and International Women’s Day. 

Best Practice(s):

It is best to support nonbinary peers on this day. There are some celebrations but the observance is not widespread. Could not find much information. 

Customary Greeting(s):

Happy nonbinary people’s day!

Birthday of Emperor Haile Selassie (Rastafarian)

July 23

Description of Observance:

The Birthday of Emperor Haile Selassie celebrates Tafari Makonnen's birthday in Ethiopia. He served as Ethiopia's regent and emperor.

Best Practice(s):

Rastafari hold drumming sessions together and pray and sing hymns together. Some Rastafarians observe Haile Selassie's birthday by holding a binghi, a celebration that can include prayers, reggae music, and dancing. Rastafarians regard Haile Selassie I's birthday as the holiest of celebrations, closely followed by the anniversary of his coronation and the birth of Marcus Garvey.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

St. James the Great Day (Christian/Catholic)

July 25

Description of Observance:

St. James Day is celebrated because James was one of Jesus' first disciples. James was a martyr, as he was put to death in Jerusalem.

Best Practice(s):

St. James Day is celebrated with services, theater performances, concerts, and open air celebrations. Practitioners may participate in feasts and services on this day.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

National Disability Independence Day

July 26

Description of Observance:

NDID commemorates the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities act, which forbade discrimination against disabled people. 

Best Practice(s):

Sponsor a disability awareness event/etc., volunteer with disability organizations, attend events or host fundraisers, support disabled-owned businesses

Customary Greeting(s):

No customary greeting.

Feast of St. Ignatius Loyola (Christian/Catholic)

July 31

Description of Observance:

The Catholic church marks the feast day of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The Spanish saint is known for founding the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits, as well as for creating the “Spiritual Exercises” often used today for retreats and individual discernment.

Best Practice(s):

This holiday is typically celebrated by attending mass. Practitioners may take time off to attend services.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Name of Observance

Dates

Observance Information

Lammas/

Lughnasadh (Wicca/

Neo-Pagan)

August 1

Description of Observance: 

Lughnasadh or Lughnasa is an official Irish holiday and Gaelic festival marking the beginning of the harvest season. Historically, it was widely observed throughout Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. The festival, named after the god Lugh, was originally said to have begun as a time to honor the earth goddess and agriculture, and to give offerings for a bountiful harvest throughout the coming autumn season. The festival has pagan origins and typically includes large gatherings with religious ceremonies, ritual athletic contests, feasting, matchmaking, and trading. Lammas is celebrated typically with feasts and rituals of thanks to the earth and respective deities for the initial harvest and the coming harvests of the autumn season. Since Lughnasadh is the time of “first fruits” there are often celebrations of and with seasonal fruits to commemorate this time and blessings. Lughnasadh/Lammas is seen as a time to give thanks to spirits and deities for the beginning of the harvest season.

Best Practice(s): 

Historically, this holiday is celebrated on a Sunday; however, depending upon the following of the Lunar or Gregorian calendar, practitioners may be spending time in reflection or with family and friends.

Customary Greeting(s): 

"Blessed Lammas/Lughnasadh." 

"Lammas Blessings."

International Day of World’s Indigenous People 

August 9

Description:

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed on 9 August each year to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world's indigenous population. This event also recognizes the achievements and contributions that indigenous people make to improve world issues such as environmental protection. Theme:  The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge

Best Practices:

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greetings:

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Obon (Buddhist / Shinto) 

August 13 - August 16

Description of Observance:

Obon is the Buddhist/Shinto day that commemorates one's ancestors returning to this world to visit their relatives. To celebrate Obon, huge fires are lit at the entrances of houses to guide the spirits to enter. At the end of the Obon festival, families help their ancestors' spirits return back to the grave by guiding them with their chochin lanterns. The ritual is called okuri-bon.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

Shochuu ominmai, moshiagemasu! It's a tradition to send best wishes for good health at Obon as summer in Japan can be extremely hot and therefore a time to fall ill.

Feast of the Assumption of Mary (Catholic / Christian) 

August 15

Description of Observance:

Assumption Day commemorates the belief that when Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, died, her body was "assumed" into heaven to be reunited with her soul, instead of going through the natural process of physical decay upon death. Assumption celebrations are accompanied by festivals, colorful street processions, fireworks, and pageantry. While a “feast” isn't actually required, there is a longstanding tradition of blessing the summer harvest. In the United States, mass is attended.

Best Practice(s):

Assumption Day is considered a Holy Day of Obligation, but if it falls on a Saturday or on a Monday, it is not obligatory by the church to attend mass. 

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Mawlid al-Nabi (Islam)

August 25-26

Description of Observance:

Mawlid al-Nabi commemorates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. Often organized in some countries by the Sufi orders, Mawlid is celebrated in a carnival manner, large street processions are held and homes or mosques are decorated. Charity and food is distributed, and stories about the life of Muhammad are narrated with recitation of poetry by children.

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Wishing a very Happy Mawlid Al Nabi to you." 

Ghost Festival (Buddhist)

August 27

Description of Observance:

Ghost Festival is a day where Buddhists perform rituals to relieve the suffering of the ghost of those who've died, as well as to honor parents and ancestors. On Ghost Festival, celebrants will worship their ancestors, offer food (to monks as well as deceased), burn joss paper, and chant of scriptures. 

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

There is no traditional greeting for this holiday.

Raksha Bandhan (Hindu)

August 28

Description of Observance: 

A celebration of harmony. The tying of rakhi (woven bracelets) signifies a special bond of unity and affection between two individuals. "The festival of Raksha Bandhan is observed as a symbol of duty between brothers and sisters. The occasion is meant to celebrate any type of brother-sister relationship between men and women who may not be biologically related. On this day, a sister ties a rakhi around the wrist of her brother in order to pray for his prosperity, health and well-being. The brother in return offers gifts and promises to protect his sister from any harm and under every circumstance. The festival is also celebrated between brother-sister belonging to distant family members, relatives or cousins."

Best Practice(s):

There are no employee restrictions during this time, though a devout observer of this holiday may request time off to celebrate.

Customary Greeting(s):

"Happy Raksha Bandhan"

Women’s Equality Day

Aug 28

Description of Observance:

Women's Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex.