June Solstice
For the Northern Hemisphere, this marks the longest day of the year and the moment when the Sun reaches the Tropic of Cancer, its highest point. For the Southern Hemisphere, this is the shortest day of the year and the arrival of winter. The solstice happens at the same moment for everyone, everywhere on Earth.…
World Music Day
Make Music is a free celebration of music around the world every June 21st. Launched in 1982 in France as the Fête de la Musique, it is now held on the same day in more than 1,000 cities in 120 countries.
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.
World Rainforest Day
World Rainforest Day is a global initiative to raise awareness about the importance of rainforests and their role in maintaining ecological balance. The day encourages efforts to protect and conserve these vital ecosystems, which are home to diverse plant and animal species, and are crucial for the health of the planet.
Public Service Day
United Nations Public Service Day highlights the importance of public service within communities around the world. Click HERE for related activities.
Festival of the Sun, Peru
Inti Raymi is an ancient Incan festival celebrated in honor of the Sun God, Inti. Held on the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere, the festival involves elaborate ceremonies, processions, and rituals to express gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy and seek blessings for the upcoming year. Click HERE for information and resources.
Helen Keller Day
Helen Keller Day is celebrated every year on June 27th. As a presidential proclamation in 1980, along with international blind and deaf organizations, this holiday was designated to celebrate the life and work of the extraordinary Helen Keller.
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.
Tour de France
The Tour de France is an annual men's bicycle race. Primarily held in France, this multiple-stage race spans the course of 23 days. The race was first organized in 1903.
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.