Page 6 of 28
Religious Holiday, Christian; Ash Wednesday – Lent begins – First Week
January 4, 2018
In Western Christianity, Ash Wednesday marks the first day of the season of Lent, 40 days of preparation for Easter. Many Christians observe a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, and spiritual discipline.
Religious Holiday, Buddhist/Jain; Nirvana Day
January 4, 2018
Festival commemorating Buddha’s death at 80 when he attained Nirvana – the state at which all desires and afflictions are gone, and the cycle of death and rebirth ends.
Religious Holiday, Buddhist; Magha Puja Day
January 4, 2018
Magha Puja Day is a holy day of homage to The Buddha.
Religious Holiday, Lughnassad/Nature Traditions; Imbolc
January 4, 2018
The second of four great fire festivals, Imbolc (meaning “in milk”) recognizes a time of awakening, promise and hope for the spring.
Religious Holiday, Confucian/Taoist/Buddhist; Chinese New Year
January 4, 2018
The Chinese New Year remains the most important social and economic holiday in China. The holiday is a time to honor household and heavenly deities as well as ancestors, and includes feasting together as a family.
Religious Holiday, Orthodox Christian: Feast of the Nativity
January 3, 2018
Also known as the "incarnation of Christ," this Feast celebrates the day that Jesus became human and came into the world as a Savior.
Religious Holiday, Christian: Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, January 1, 2018
December 20, 2017
Liturgical feast of Mary celebrated by the Catholic Church.
Hanukkah (Jewish) – Dec. 12-20
September 20, 2017
Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days and nights of candle lighting. In Hebrew, the word "hanukkah" means “dedication,” and it commemorates the re-dedication of the holy Temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C.E.
Navaratri (Hindu) – Sept. 21-29
September 20, 2017
Festival of the divine mother which honors Durga, wife of Shiva, seeking her blessings. Also observed as a celebration recalling the days of Lord Krishna.
Hanukkah (Jewish) – Dec. 12-20
September 20, 2017
Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days and nights of candle lighting. In Hebrew, the word "hanukkah" means “dedication,” and it commemorates the re-dedication of the holy Temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C.E.