If you love getting in the festive and celebratory spirit all year round, our comprehensive guide to special days, holidays and observances each month allows you to do just that.
It’s also usually a great time to shop, with many brands and venues offering great offers and deals, on products including gifts, things to do and days out to commemorate these dates.
Don’t forget many special days coincide with school, bank and federal holidays our relative guides for these can be found on each relative link.
Jump to your favourite month
For our calendar-only view of these events, please visit our special days calendar for 2024 here.
Special Days in January
| 1 | January | New Year’s Day | Bank & Federal Holiday |
| 15 | January | Blue Monday | Shopping Event |
| 21 | January | National Hugging Day | Family Reminder |
| 25 | January | Dydd Santes Dwynwen (Welsh Valentine’s Day) | Observance |
| 25 | January | Burns Night | Observance |
| 26 | January | Australia Day | Observance – AUS |
01
New Year’s Day
This is the first day of the year, celebrated globally on January 1st. It marks the beginning of a new calendar year and is often observed with various festivities, parties, and optimism. Traditionally, individuals often make New Year’s resolutions, setting personal goals and intentions for the upcoming year, that can range from adopting healthier habits to pursuing personal or professional aspirations. The UK celebrate this day as a Bank Holiday and in the US as a Federal holiday.
15
Blue Monday
Blue Monday refers to the third Monday in January, believed by some to be the most depressing day of the year. This concept originated from a formula created in 2005, considering factors like weather, debt, and post-holiday blues. While the idea has become popular in culture, it also raises awareness about mental health and promotes self-care practices and even buying oneself a gift or having some me time.
21
National Hugging Day
National Hugging Day, celebrated on January 21st each year, is an observance dedicated to the simple yet powerful act of hugging. Founded by Kevin Zaborney in 1986, this day encourages people to openly express their affection through hugs. The goal is to promote warmth, kindness, and human connection. National Hugging Day serves as a reminder of the emotional and physical benefits that come from this universal gesture of care and support.
25
Dydd Santes Dwynwen (Welsh Valentine’s Day)
Dydd Santes Dwynwen is the Welsh equivalent of Valentine’s Day and is celebrated on January 25th every year. It honours Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. According to legend, Dwynwen was a 5th-century Welsh princess who fell in love but faced various challenges in her romantic life.
Dydd Santes Dwynwen is a day for people in Wales to express their love and affection. It is customary to exchange cards, gifts, and tokens of affection, similar to the traditions of Valentine’s Day. The day also has religious significance, with some visiting Dwynwen’s church ruins on Llanddwyn Island to pay their respects.
25
Burns Night
Burns Night is a celebration of the life and works of the Scottish poet Robert Burns, who is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. Typically, a Burns Night celebration involves a formal dinner known as a Burns Supper and may include toasts, speeches, readings of his poetry, and live music, often featuring bagpipes or traditional Scottish songs. It’s a celebration of Scottish culture, literature, and heritage, and it often involves participants wearing traditional Scottish attire, such as kilts.
26
Australia Day
Australia Day is the official national day of Australia, that commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788, marking the beginning of British colonization in Australia. Australia Day is marked by various events and activities across the country, including citizenship ceremonies, community festivals, barbecues, fireworks, and patriotic displays. Some Australians use the day as an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s diverse history and cultural heritage.
Special Days in February
| 10 | February | Chinese New Year | Observance | |
| 14 | February | Valentine’s Day | Observance | |
| 15 | February | Singles Awareness Day | Observance | |
| 13 | February | Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day | Observance | |
| 17 | February | Random Acts Of Kindness Day | Awareness Day | |
| 19 | February | Winter Half-Term School Holidays | School Holiday | |
| 19 | February | Family Day Canada | Family Reminder |
10
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the most significant traditional festival in Chinese culture. It marks the beginning of the Chinese lunar calendar and usually falls between January 21 and February 20, depending on the lunar calendar’s cycle. The festival lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.
Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, feasting, and the honouring of ancestors.
13
Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day
in some countries, is the day preceding Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent. The date of Shrove Tuesday varies each year. One of the customs associated with Shrove Tuesday is the consumption of pancakes. Pancakes became popular because they were a way to use up rich and indulgent ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar before the fasting period of Lent began. Hence, Pancake Day is often celebrated by making and enjoying pancakes, and various events including fun pancake races.
14
Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day, is a day dedicated to expressing love and affection between intimate companions. The day is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr from ancient Rome and has evolved into a celebration of romantic love. Common traditions include the exchange of cards, flowers (especially red roses), and gifts between romantic partners.
Valentine’s Day is not only for couples; it has also become a day to celebrate friendships and affection in various forms and different cultures may have unique customs associated with Valentine’s Day.
15
Singles Awareness Day 2024
“Singles Awareness Day” (SAD) is an informal observance that serves as an alternative to Valentine’s Day, particularly for those who are not in romantic relationships. It is often humorously referred to by the acronym SAD, reflecting a playful acknowledgement of single status. The day is typically celebrated on February 15th, the day after Valentine’s Day and individuals may use the day to spend time with friends, engage in self-care activities, or simply enjoy their independence.
17
Random Acts of Kindness Day
This is a day dedicated to encouraging and celebrating acts of kindness performed without any specific reason or expectation of reciprocity. It is an opportunity to promote goodwill, compassion, and generosity in various communities. Individuals are encouraged to engage in simple, spontaneous acts of kindness to make a positive impact on others’ lives. Acts of kindness can range from complimenting someone and helping a neighbour to more elaborate gestures like paying for someone’s coffee or volunteering for a charitable cause.
19 (Dates may vary)
Winter Half-Term School Holidays
The Winter Half-Term School Holidays usually fall in the middle of the academic term (dates vary), around February and is an opportunity for students to rest, recharge, and engage in various activities. Some families may use this time to travel, with Skiing being a popular option, while others may stay home and enjoy winter-themed activities around the UK and Europe.
19
Family Day Canada
Family Day is a public holiday observed in several provinces and territories across Canada. The exact date of Family Day varies depending on the region, but in general is celebrated on the third Monday of February. The holiday is intended to give people time to spend with their families and loved ones, emphasizing the importance of family values and work-life balance.
Special Days in March
| 1 | March | St David’s Day | Observance – Wales |
| 7 | March | World Book Day | Awareness Day |
| 8 | March | International Women’s Day | Awareness Day |
| 10 | March | Clocks Go Forward 2 am (US) | Clocks Change |
| 14 | March | White Day | Observance – Asia |
| 17 | March | St Patrick’s Day | Bank Holiday – NI |
| 10 | March | Mother’s Day UK | Observance |
| 20 | March | Spring Equinox | Season Change |
| 22 | March | Passover | Observance -Jewish |
| 28 | March | Spring School Holidays | School Holidays |
| 29 | March | Good Friday | Bank Holiday – E & W |
| 31 | March | Easter Sunday | Observance |
| 31 | March | Clocks Go Forward 1 am – British Summertime | Clocks Change (Daylight Saving) |
1
St David’s Day
St. David’s Day is the national day of Wales, that commemorates the life of Saint David, the patron saint of Wales, who was a 6th-century Welsh bishop. St. David’s Day is not only a religious observance but also a celebration of Welsh culture and identity. Welsh people express their pride in their heritage and celebrate their unique culture.
7
World Book Day
World Book Day is a global celebration of books and reading, with the main goal of World Book Day is to promote the joy of reading, encourage literacy, and highlight the importance of books in enriching our lives. The day serves as a reminder of the power of books to inspire, educate, and bring people together through the shared love of reading and the joy of storytelling.
8
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global observance dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. The day serves as a platform to recognize women’s contributions to various fields, address gender disparities, and promote the empowerment of women. The theme for each year’s International Women’s Day may vary, focusing on specific issues or challenges that women face globally.
10
Clocks Go Forward 2 am (US)
In the United States, daylight saving time typically begins on the second Sunday in March. Clocks are moved forward by one hour at 2:00 a.m., meaning that the time becomes 3:00 a.m. This change results in an extra hour of daylight in the evenings.
Daylight saving time is the adjustment of clocks forward by one hour during the warmer months to extend evening daylight and can encourage outdoor activities, reduce traffic accidents, and provide more outdoor recreation opportunities.
10
Mother’s Day UK
Mother’s Day serves as a time for families to express gratitude for the love and care mothers provide, and a special occasion dedicated to honouring mothers and maternal figures. Mother’s Day in the United Kingdom, is observed on the fourth Sunday of Lent, typically in March.
Celebrations involve heartfelt expressions of love through cards and gifts, including flowers and chocolates. Families often come together for special meals, whether at home or in restaurants, while some opt for homemade gifts or activities planned by children. Pampering treatments, spa days, and family outings are also popular ways to make mothers feel appreciated and cherished.
14
White Day
White Day is a holiday that originated in Japan and is also celebrated in some other Asian countries. It falls on March 14th, exactly one month after Valentine’s Day. White Day emphasizes the importance of reciprocity and expressing romantic interest. The colour white is symbolic of purity and sincerity in this context. The gifts given on White Day are often white-themed, hence the name. Common White Day gifts include white chocolate, cookies, flowers, and other white-colored treats. Jewellery and other small tokens of affection may also be given.
17
St Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day, observed on March 17th, honours the patron saint of Ireland and has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture. Celebrations include lively parades with music and dance, wearing green attire, and feasting on traditional Irish dishes. Religious services, cultural events, and the display of Irish pride contribute to the festive atmosphere. St. Patrick’s Day serves as a vibrant expression of Irish heritage, attracting participation and enjoyment from people worldwide.
20
Spring Equinox
The Spring Equinox, is an astronomical event that marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs around March 20th or 21st and days in the Northern Hemisphere gradually become longer than nights as the Earth continues its orbit around the Sun. The Spring Equinox is a significant event in various cultures and traditions, symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and the arrival of warmer and brighter days.
Many societies around the world celebrate this transition with festivals, rituals, and customs that highlight the changing seasons and the rejuvenation of nature.
22
Passover
Passover, also known as Pesach, is a Jewish festival commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Passover is observed for seven or eight days, depending on the tradition, and it usually falls in the spring.
In 2024, Passover is expected to begin before sundown on Monday, April 22, 2024, and ends after nightfall on April 30, 2024.
28 (May vary)
Spring School Holidays
Spring/Easter School Holidays, occurring around the spring season and often aligning with Easter, provide students with a break from the regular school routine. Celebrations vary based on cultural and regional practices but commonly include Easter festivities like egg hunts and crafts. Families often use the break for vacations and outdoor activities, taking advantage of milder spring weather.
29
Good Friday (Bank Holiday)
Good Friday is a Christian religious holiday observed during Holy Week, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In the United Kingdom, it holds additional significance as a public or bank holiday. This means that on Good Friday, businesses, schools, and many institutions are often closed, allowing people to participate in religious observances and spend time with family.
Good Friday and Easter Monday create a long weekend in many countries, as Easter Monday, is also observed as a public or bank holidaying the UK. Together, these days form a consecutive four-day weekend known as the “Easter long weekend.” The extended break allows for religious observances, family time, and various leisure activities.
31
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday is a Christian religious holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It typically falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. Observances include special religious services, Easter Vigils, and the lighting of a Paschal candle.
Easter eggs, often symbolizing new life, are exchanged, and the Easter Bunny is associated with hiding eggs for children to find. Families gather for festive meals, and in some regions, Easter parades and acts of charity are organized. The day is marked by family activities, children’s games, and decorations, including flowers like lilies, symbolizing joy and renewal.
31
Clocks Go Forward 1 am – British Summertime
In the UK the clocks go forward 1 hour at 1 am on the last Sunday in March and give us more sunlight for 1 hour less time in bed. Daylight saving time is the adjustment of clocks forward by one hour during the warmer months to extend evening daylight and can encourage outdoor activities, reduce traffic accidents, and provide more outdoor recreation opportunities.
Special Days in April
| 1 | April | April Fool’s Day | Observance |
| 1 | April | Easter Bank Holiday | Bank Holiday – E & W |
| 10 | April | National Siblings Day | Family Reminder |
| 11 | April | National Pet Day | Reminder |
| 13 | April | Vaisakhi | Religious Event – Sikh |
| 23 | April | St George’s Day | Observance |
1
April Fool’s Day
April Fool’s Day, observed on April 1st, is a playful and humorous tradition where people engage in practical jokes, pranks, and hoaxes to amuse each other. The day is dedicated to laughter and light-hearted fun, with individuals playing tricks on friends and family. Traditionally on April Fool’s Day, all pranks are supposed to stop at 12 noon sharp, with anyone playing a joke after midday then considered the ‘April Fool’.
1
Easter Bank Holiday (Bank Holiday)
Easter Bank Holiday. is a public holiday that falls on the day after Easter Sunday, typically making it the second day of the long Easter weekend. Easter Monday is recognized as a public or bank holiday, leading to the closure of banks, government offices, schools, and many businesses. It is a time when people may participate in various Easter-related events, attend church services, or simply enjoy the beginning of spring.
10
National Siblings Day‹
National Siblings Day is an informal celebration that recognizes and appreciates the special bond between siblings and even their fun rivalries. Siblings use this day to express love and gratitude to their brothers and sisters through various means, including sharing photos and heartfelt messages on social media, pranks and gifts.
11
National Pet Day
On National Pet Day, pet owners are encouraged to show appreciation for their pets by spending quality time with them, providing treats, and considering activities that enhance their well-being. Additionally, the day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the plight of animals in shelters and the benefits of adopting pets in need of homes. Pet lovers worldwide may also come together in pet activities and festivals to celebrate their furry, feathered, or finned friends on this occasion, along with lots of playful pet gifts.
13/14
Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi, also spelt Baisakhi, is a significant festival celebrated in the Sikh community and marks the Sikh New Year and commemorates the establishment of the Khalsa, the Sikh community’s collective identity, by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Vaisakhi falls on April 13 or 14 every year and holds historical and religious significance. On this day, Sikhs visit Gurdwaras (Sikh temples), participate in processions, and engage in special prayers and hymn singing. The festival is a time for reflection, gratitude, and community bonding with traditional folk dances, music, and various cultural activities. The festival symbolizes the spirit of joy, unity, and new beginnings.
23
St George’s Day
St. George’s Day is celebrated on April 23rd in honour of Saint George, the patron saint of England. It is a day to commemorate English culture and heritage. Traditionally associated with the legendary tale of St. George slaying a dragon, the day is marked with events like parades, festivals, and the display of the St. George’s Cross flag. While celebrations vary, the day serves as an occasion to celebrate national identity and pride in England.
Special Days in May
| 6 | May | Early May Bank Holiday | Bank Holiday – E & W |
| 12 | May | International Mother’s Day | Observance – US |
| 24 | May | Summer Half Term | School Holidays UK |
| 25 | May | International Day of Families | Awareness Day |
| 24 | May | Summer Half Term | School Holidays |
| 27 | May | Spring Bank Holiday | Bank Holiday – E & W |
6
Early May Bank Holiday
The Early May Bank Holiday in the United Kingdom typically falls on the first Monday of May and provides a day off for the public. The holiday has historical connections to May Day celebrations and is part of the broader tradition of observing bank holidays throughout the year.
12
International Mother’s Day
International Mother’s Day, typically observed on the second Sunday in May, is a global celebration honouring mothers and motherhood. It provides an opportunity for people worldwide to express gratitude and love for their mothers through various gestures, gifts, and quality time together. The day recognizes the universal significance of mothers and their contributions to families and communities. Celebrated with cultural variations, International Mother’s Day is a heartfelt occasion fostering appreciation for maternal figures and their impact on individuals and society.
24
Spring Half-Term School Holidays
Summer Half-Term refers to a break halfway through the summer term and enjoy a break before completing the remaining weeks of the term. With teh longer days and warmer weather its great oportunity for oiurdoor activities and trips abrooad. The specific dates for the Summer Half-Term can vary between schools and regions, so it’s advisable to check with local authorities for the exact timing of the break.
25
International Day of Families
The International Day of Families, observed annually on May 15th, is a United Nations initiative highlighting the importance of families in society. With a focus on different themes each year, the day aims to raise awareness about family-related issues, promote sustainable development goals, and address challenges faced by families globally. It also a big opportunity for families to spend quality time together and appreciate their roots and family history.
27
Spring Bank Holiday
The Spring Bank Holiday in the United Kingdom is typically observed on the last Monday of May, offering a day off for the public. Associated with the arrival of spring, it provides an extended weekend for relaxation and leisure activities with uptunr of warmer weather.
Special Days in June
| 8 | June | National Best Friends Day | Family Reminder |
| 16 | June | Father’s Day | Observance |
| 20 | June | Summer Solstice | Season Change |
| 22 | June | National Kissing Day | Family Reminder |
8
National Best Friends Day
National Best Friends Day, is an informal celebration dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the special bond of friendship and closest people in your circle of friends. National Best Friends Day encourages acknowledging and cherishing meaningful connections with close friends.
16
Father’s Day
Father’s Day is a special occasion celebrated to honour and appreciate fathers and father figures. Typically observed on the third Sunday of June in many countries, it involves expressions of love through gifts, cards, and quality time spent together. The day serves to recognize and celebrate the important role fathers play in the lives of their children and their journey through life.
20
Summer Solstice
The Summer Solstice is an astronomical event marking the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring when the Earth’s axis is most inclined towards the sun. Celebrated around June 20th or 21st, it holds cultural significance and is associated with various traditions symbolizing light, fertility, and the power of the sun.
22
National Kissing Day
National Kissing Day is an informal celebration that encourages people to express affection through kisses. The day aims to raise awareness about the health benefits of kissing and may involve public displays of affection or special events.
Special Days in July
| 1 | July | Wimbledon | Sporting Event |
| 1 | July | Canada Day | Observance |
| 4 | July | Independence Day | Federal Holiday |
| 25 | July | National Parents Day | Family Reminder |
| 26 | July | Summer School Holidays | School Holidays |
| 30 | July | International Friendship Day | Family Reminder |
1
Wimbledon
Wimbledon is a historic and prestigious tennis tournament held annually in London at the All England Lawn Tennis and is the quintessential event of the British summer. The tournament has a rich history, including the white dress code and its summer delicacy of strawberries and cream for spectators, contributing to its unique charm and it has to be summer.
1
Canada Day
Canada Day is the national day of Canada, celebrated on July 1st to mark the anniversary of the country’s confederation in 1867. It is a public holiday featuring patriotic events like parades, fireworks, and concerts, allowing Canadians to celebrate their national identity, history, and achievements with pride and unity.
4
Independence Day
Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on July 4th. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies free from British rule and establishing the United States. The day is marked by patriotic events such as parades, fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings, symbolizing American freedom and fostering a spirit of national pride.
25
National Parents Day
National Parents’ Day, observed on the fourth Sunday of July in the United States, is a day dedicated to honouring and appreciating parents for their crucial role in raising and nurturing their children. Although not a public holiday, it encourages expressions of gratitude through various means, fostering a sense of appreciation for the contributions, sacrifices, and love that parents bring to their families.
26 (May vary)
Summer School Holidays
“Summer School Holidays” is the extended break from regular school activities during the summer. The duration of the summer break varies, and it’s a period when families often plan summer holidays and students may participate in various summer camps or programs.
Special Days in August
| 5 | August | Summer Bank Holiday | Bank Holiday – Sco |
| 8 | August | World Photo Day | |
| 15 | August | A Level Results Day | School |
| 21 | August | Senior Citizens Day | Observance – US |
| 22 | August | GCSE Results Day | School |
| 26 | August | Summer Bank Holiday | Bank Holiday – E & W |
5
Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland)
In Scotland, the Summer Bank Holiday is a public holiday that typically falls on the first Monday of August. The Summer Bank Holiday marks the end of the summer season and provides Scottish locals with a long weekend, creating an opportunity for leisure activities, family gatherings, and community events.
8
World Photo Day
World Photo Day is an annual celebration that commemorates the announcement of the daguerreotype invention in 1839. It is a global initiative encouraging photographers and enthusiasts to celebrate the art and science of photography. Participants share their creativity through various means, such as taking photos, organizing exhibitions, and engaging in discussions about the impact of photography on society.
15
A Level Results Day
A Level Results Day is a crucial day in the UK, usually in August, when students receive their results for the Advanced Level (A Level) examinations taken at the age of 18. These results are significant as they impact university admissions and play a key role in determining future educational and career paths.
22
GCSE Results Day
GCSE Results Day is when students receive their exam results for the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) qualifications. The day marks an important milestone in the academic journey of students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and can determine students’ educational and career paths, determining whether they meet entry requirements for higher education.
26
Summer Bank Holiday (UK&I)
In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Summer Bank Holiday is a public holiday that typically falls on the last Monday of August. It is part of a series of bank holidays observed throughout the year. The Summer Bank Holiday marks the end of the summer season and provides people with a long weekend, creating an opportunity for leisure activities, family gatherings, and community events.
Special Days in September
| 1 | September | Start of New School Year | Family Reminder |
| 2 | September | Labor Day | Federal Holiday |
| 5 | September | International Day of Charity | Awareness Day |
| 22 | September | Autumn Equinox | Season Change |
| 29 | September | World Heart Day | Awareness Day |
1
Start of New School Year
The start of the new school year marks the commencement of the academic calendar, typically in late summer or early autumn. Celebrations vary but often include special events on the first day, orientation programs for new students, back-to-school shopping and traditions like first-day photos.
2
Labor Day
Labor Day is a public holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday of September. It honours the contributions of the American labor movement and the workforce, paying tribute to workers’ achievements. The day is often marked by rest, outdoor activities, family gatherings, and community events, serving as a farewell to the summer season.
5
International Day of Charity
The International Day of Charity observed annually on September 5th, is designated by the United Nations to promote and recognize charitable efforts. This day encourages individuals and organizations globally to engage in acts of kindness, philanthropy, and support for humanitarian causes.
22
Autumn Equinox
The Autumn Equinox, occurring around September 22nd or 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere, is an astronomical event when day and night durations are approximately equal. It marks the transition from summer to autumn as the Earth’s axis is not tilted towards or away from the sun. The event holds cultural and traditional significance, often associated with harvest festivals.
Special Days in October
| 4 | October | World Smile Day | Awareness Day |
| 8 | October | National Grandparents Day | Family Reminder |
| 27 | October | Clocks Go Back 2am | Clocks Change |
| 28 | October | Autumn Half Term | School Holidays |
| 31 | October | Halloween | Observance |
4
World Smile Day
World Smile Day, observed on the first Friday of October, promotes acts of kindness and spreading smiles globally. Originating from the iconic smiley face creator Harvey Ball, the day encourages people to engage in positive actions, share smiles, and perform acts of kindness to bring joy to others. The goal is to create a ripple effect of positivity and celebrate the universal language of a smile. Though not a public holiday, World Smile Day is widely embraced as a lighthearted occasion to make the world a happier place.
8
National Grandparents Day
National Grandparents Day, celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day honours and celebrates grandparents for their contributions to families. Initiated by Marian McQuade, the day is an opportunity for families to express love and gratitude to their grandparents through visits, calls, or gifts. The observance emphasizes the importance of inter-generational bonds and acknowledges the wisdom and love that grandparents provide.
27
Clocks Go Back 2 am UK
Clocks go back by one hour at 2:00 a.m. during the transition from daylight saving time to standard time. This adjustment, which typically occurs in the fall, aims to make better use of natural daylight during warmer months and save energy. The process results in shorter days and longer nights, marking the end of daylight saving time and the return to standard time.
28
Autumn Half-Term School Holidays
The Autumn Half-Term School Holidays is a one-week break in the academic calendar, usually occurring around mid to late October and also symbolizes the change from Summer to Autumn. This pause in the school term allows students and teachers to recharge and engage in recreational activities or seasonal celebrations. The exact timing and duration can vary by region and educational authorities.
31
Halloween
Halloween celebrated on October 31st, is a widely observed holiday featuring costumes, trick-or-treating, and various festive activities. People of all ages dress up in costumes, visit houses for treats, and decorate homes with spooky themes like pumpkins and ghosts. Pumpkin carving, haunted houses, parties, and themed foods are common during this time. The holiday is characterized by a mix of fun, excitement, and a hint of spookiness.
Special Days in November
| 1 | November | All Saint’s Day | Religious Event – Christian |
| 5 | November | Guy Fawkes Day | Observance |
| 11 | November | Singles Day (China) | Shopping Event |
| 11 | November | Remembrance Sunday | Awareness Day |
| 13 | November | World Kindness Day | Awareness Day |
| 28 | November | Thanksgiving | Federal Holiday |
| 29 | November | Black Friday | Shopping Event |
1
All Saint’s Day
All Saints’ Day, observed on November 1st in the Christian calendar, is a solemnity dedicated to honouring all saints, known and unknown, who have attained heaven. It is marked by liturgical services, prayers, and hymns in churches, with a focus on remembering the exemplary lives of saints and martyrs. Preceded by Halloween, All Saints’ Day emphasizes the Christian tradition of honouring and celebrating the sanctity of individuals who have lived virtuous lives.
1
Diwali
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Hindu and Sikh celebration symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Also known as Bandi Chhor Divas the Sikhcelebration commemorates the day the sixth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind and 52 Hindu Kings were released from prison. Lasting five days, it involves vibrant decorations with lights and rangoli, prayers elaborate firework displays, and the exchange of gifts and sweets. Diwali also includes feasting, cleaning and renovating homes, and cultural performances.
5
Guy Fawkes Day
Guy Fawkes Day, observed on November 5th in the United Kingdom, commemorates the foiled Gunpowder Plot of 1605, where a group of conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, attempted to blow up the English Parliament. The day is marked by bonfires, fireworks, and the burning of effigies, particularly effigies of Guy Fawkes. It is both a historical and cultural event, often associated with political and social commentary and is celebrated with public displays and private gatherings.
11
Singles Day (China)
Singles Day, observed on November 11th, originated in China as a day for unmarried individuals to celebrate being single. Over time, it has evolved into a major shopping event, particularly online, with retailers offering discounts and promotions. The date, 11/11, is chosen for its symbolism of singles, and the day has become one of the largest online shopping days globally, surpassing Black Friday and Cyber Monday in some regions.
28
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a traditional American holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It involves giving thanks for the blessings of the harvest and the preceding year. Families and friends typically gather for a festive meal, which often includes a roasted turkey and other traditional dishes. The day is marked by expressions of gratitude, parades, and various cultural customs and a time for reflection, appreciation, and spending time with loved ones.
29
Black Friday
Black Friday is a shopping event that originated in the United States and takes place the day after Thanksgiving, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November. It marks the unofficial beginning of the Christmas shopping season. On Black Friday, retailers offer significant discounts, promotions, and special deals, both in-store and online, to attract shoppers. The day is characterized by large crowds, long lines, and early store openings, with consumers seeking to take advantage of the best sales and discounts on a wide range of products. Black Friday has become a major retail phenomenon, with its influence extending to other countries and regions around the world.
Special Days in December
| 1 | November | All Saint’s Day | Religious Event – Christian |
| 5 | November | Guy Fawkes Day | Observance |
| 20 | December | Winter School Holday | School Holidays |
| 20 | December | Ugly Xmas Sweater Day | Family Reminder |
| 21 | December | Winter Solstice | Season Change |
| 24 | December | Christmas Eve | Observance |
| 25 | December | Christmas Day | Bank & Federal Holiday |
| 26 | December | Boxing Day | Bank & Federal Holiday |
| 31 | December | New Year’s Eve | Observance |
2
Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday is an online shopping event that occurs on the Monday following Thanksgiving in the United States. It features exclusive online discounts and promotions from retailers, attracting consumers to shop for various products, especially electronics. The day is known for high e-commerce activity and serves as a continuation of the holiday shopping season, with promotional campaigns and deals extending from Black Friday. Cyber Monday has gained popularity globally as a significant online shopping day, perfect for Xmas shopping.
20
Winter School Holidays
Winter Christmas School Holidays refer to the school break during the winter season, typically encompassing late December and often coinciding with Christmas, New Year’s, and winter festivities. Families use this time for rest, relaxation, and engaging in holiday traditions or travel. Various events and programs may also be organized to cater to the festive spirit of the season.
20
Ugly Xmas Sweater Day
Ugly Christmas Sweater Day is a playful holiday tradition celebrated on the third Friday of December. Participants intentionally wear gaudy, tacky, or humorous Christmas-themed sweaters featuring bold patterns and quirky designs. The day encourages creativity, humour, and inclusivity, with many people attending Ugly Christmas Sweater parties or events to showcase their uniquely unattractive holiday attire.
21
Winter Solstice
The Winter Solstice is an annual astronomical event around December 21st or 22nd, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs when the Earth’s axis is farthest away from the sun. Culturally significant, it is often associated with festivals and rituals symbolizing the return of longer days and the triumph of light over darkness. In the Southern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice occurs around June 21st or 22nd.
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Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve, observed on December 24th, is the evening before Christmas Day and is celebrated with various traditions worldwide. Common practices include attending religious services, gathering with family and friends for special meals, exchanging gifts, and participating in festive activities. Some cultures have specific meals or feasts, and many families engage in the tradition of leaving treats for Santa Claus.
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Christmas Day
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and characterized by a spirit of joy, generosity, and goodwill, and its customs may vary based on cultural and regional differences. Traditions include attending religious services, exchanging gifts, family gatherings, festive meals, decorations, and the figure of Santa Claus in many cultures.
26
Boxing Day
Boxing Day, observed on December 26th in several countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, is a public holiday with historical ties to employers giving “boxes” of gifts to employees and charitable giving. Modern observance involves activities such as shopping sales, sports events, outdoor activities, and socializing. The day is generally a time for relaxation, enjoyment, and, in some cases, acts of goodwill and charity.
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New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve, observed on December 31st, is a global celebration marking the end of the Gregorian calendar year. Key traditions include the countdown to midnight with fireworks, parties, and gatherings. People reflect on the past year, make resolutions for the New Year, and celebrate with special dinners and toasts. Live New Year’s Eve performances, the iconic Times Square Ball Drop, Sydney Harbour fireworks and cultural traditions like “first-footing” contribute to the festive atmosphere.