Indigenous Peoples’ Day, United States
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a U.S. state holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. This celebration coincides with the observance of Columbus Day. It is a day to pay tribute to the native indigenous people who lived and thrived before the arrival of Columbus.
Canadian Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving in Canada is celebrated on the second Monday of October every year. Canadians give thanks for a good harvest. Also known as Thanksgiving Day in English or Jour de l’action de grâce in French Canadian.
Sukkot
Sukkot is a week-long Jewish harvest festival that is celebrated five days after Yom Kippur. In 2024, Sukkot begins at sunset on October 16 and ends at nightfall on October 23.
World Food Day
World Food Day celebrates the founding of the U.N. Food & Agriculture Organization and is a day of action dedicated to tackling global hunger. Read more.
Oxi Day
Oxi Day, the “Day of No,” is an important part of Greek history that is celebrated each year on October 28th. It marks the day when General Metaxas said "no" (oxi) to an ultimatum given by Mussolini during World War II.
Halloween
Halloween is a holiday celebrated in many countries on October 31 each year. The tradition dates back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Read about some Halloween traditions from around the world.
World Cities Day
The United Nations designated October 31 as World Cities Day. The focus is to create awareness of the role of urbanization in global sustainable development and social inclusion.
Diwali
Diwali is a Hindu and Jain festival of lights that celebrates light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Read more.
Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a two-day celebration of life and death. While the holiday originated in Mexico, it is celebrated throughout Latin America. Discover the Traditions of Día de los Muertos.
Children’s Book Week in November
During Children's Book Week, bookstores, libraries, and schools participate in various events to celebrate children’s books and the joy of reading. Learn more at everychildareader.net