Holidays
Juneteenth
Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. CLICK HERE for more information and activities.
Midsummer, Sweden
Midsummer is one of the most important Swedish holidays. This celebration of the summer solstice includes dancing around maypoles, making flower wreaths, and vacationing in the countryside.
Matariki
Matariki, also known as the Māori New Year, is a significant celebration in Aotearoa (New Zealand) marked by the appearance of the Pleiades star cluster. It is a time for Māori communities to come together, reflect on the past, celebrate new beginnings, and engage in cultural practices and festivities.
Canada Day
Canada Day marks the anniversary of the confederation of Canada in 1867 when the British North America Act came into effect. The day is observed with patriotic events, fireworks, parades, and various festivities across the country, symbolizing Canadian pride and unity. Click HERE for information and activities.
Independence Day, United States
U.S. Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, marking the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule. The day is observed with patriotic displays, fireworks, barbecues, parades, and various festivities that symbolize the nation's commitment to freedom and independence.
Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It begins at the first sighting of the lunar crescent new moon in the month of Muharram.
Bastille Day, France
Bastille Day is a French holiday celebrating the storming of the Bastille, a military fortress and prison. On July 14, 1789 this violent uprising helped spark the beginning of the French Revolution. Millions of French people all over the world celebrate this holiday to honor democracy and equality.
Baba Jie, Taiwan
Baba Jie is Father's Day in Taiwan. It is not an official holiday in Taiwan, but is observed and celebrated every August 8th. People honor their fathers by going out for dinner, giving gifts, and spending time together.
India’s Independence Day
Independence Day in India is celebrated every year on August 15th. It is a national holiday commemorating the country's independence from the United Kingdom in 1947.
Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is mostly celebrated in the northern and western parts of India. This festival signifies the special bond between brothers and sisters which is symbolized in the ritual of tying a rakhi (bracelet) on the others' wrist. It is celebrated on the full moon of the Hindu month 'Shravana'.