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Holidays and Observances

This guide provides information about diverse cultural celebrations and religious holidays. It includes calendars and brief descriptions of the events. This resource can assist in event planning and classroom activities.

Bahá'í holidays and observances

Individuals may require time away from campus for travel and observance.

Ascension of Abdu'l-Bahá – Anniversary of the death of Abdu'l-Bahá,  the son of Baha'u'lláh. It is a minor day and work is not suspended.

Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh – Anniversary of the death of Bahá'u'lláh, founder of the Bahá'í faith (May 29th at 3:00 a.m.).  It is a day of rest, along with readings or chantings of scripture. All work is suspended.

Birth of Báb – celebration of Báb's birth. He is the from before the founding of the Baha'i faith, and the Gate who was the herald of the coming manifestation of God.

Birth of Baha'u'llah – celebration of Baha'u'llah's birth, the Prophet-Founder of the Baha’i Faith.

 World Religion Day – officially the third Sunday in January. Interfaith celebration of religion.

Jain holidays and observances

Individuals may require time away from campus for travel and observance.

Divali – Festival of Lights; also celebrated by Hindus and Sikhs. Parents may give their children sweets. Some Jains may choose to fast for the two days of Divali.

Paryushana – To Stay in One Place. Time of reflection and repentance.  Eight days of intense fasting, repentance and pujas.

Pagan holidays and observances

Individuals may require time away from campus for travel and observance.

Beltane – This high holy day commemorates the Sacred Marriage of Goddess and God. The celebratory ritual includes maypole dances throughout the day.

Lughnasadh (Lammas) – A harvest festival and one of the Pagan festivals of Celtic origin which split the year into four.

Mabon – Autumn Equinox.  The celebration of when the day and night are of equal duration. Celebrations begin at sunset the previous day.

Samhain – (pronounced 'sow'inn') This high holy day commemorates the Feast of the Dead and practitioners show respect for those that have passed away. It may also be celebrated as the Old Celtic New Year. Celebrations usually start at sunset Oct. 31st and continue through November 1st. 

Spring Equinox (Eoster) – This day commemorates the coming of Spring.

Summer Solstice (Litha) – The longest day of the year.

Yule – A celebration of the Winter Solstice and one of the oldest winter celebrations worldwide.  Celebrations start at sunset on the previous day.

Sikh holidays and observances

Individuals may require time away from campus for travel and observance.

Diwali – Festival of Lights; also celebrated by Hindus and Jains. Parents may give their children sweets. Presents are exchanged.