International Day of Older Persons 

October 1

Celebrates and supports older adults.

• Recognizes the contributions and challenges faced by elderly individuals.

• Aging populations require support, dignity, and inclusion.

Child Health Day 

October 2

Focuses on child health, nutrition, and well-being.

• Focuses on children's well-being, health, and access to healthcare.

• Advocates for preventive measures and child-friendly policies.

International Day of Non-Violence 

October 2

Commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's principles of non-violence.

• Observed annually on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.

• Gandhi, a pioneer of non-violence, led India to independence.

• The day promotes the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.

• It commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.

• Let's celebrate how teachers transform education and support their vital role globally.

Breast Cancer Awareness 

October 3

A global campaign to raise awareness about breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. It emphasizes the importance of regular screenings and self-examinations.

• Breast cancer caused 685,000 deaths globally in 2020.

• Approximately 0.5–1% of breast cancers occur in men.

• Early detection and treatment are crucial.

• Let's raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support those affected by breast cancer.

World Teacher's Day 

October 5

Celebrates the critical role teachers play in achieving inclusive, quality education for all. This year's World Teacher's Day holds even greater significance due to the challenges teachers faced during the COVID-19 crisis. They contribute to continuity of learning and support students' mental health and well-being.

• Celebrates teachers worldwide.

• Commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.

• Reflects on the support teachers need to fully deploy their talent and rethink the profession globally.

Mental Health Awareness 

October 3

A day to promote understanding, reduce stigma, and raise awareness about mental health issues. Conversations about mental health can be life-changing, and this day encourages starting those conversations.

• Depression is a leading cause of disability.

• Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds.

• Effective treatment is essential, but treatment coverage remains low.

• Let's reduce stigma, promote awareness, and prioritize mental health care.

World Food Day 

October 16

Focuses on global hunger, food security, and sustainable agriculture. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of nutritious food for all.

• Commemorates the founding of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in 1945.

• Water scarcity affects food production.

• We must produce more food with less water, safeguard aquatic food systems, and ensure equal access to water for all.

Halloween 

October 31

Celebrated with costume parties and trick-or-treating. It's a time for spooky fun and creativity.

• Originated from ancient Celtic festival Samhain.

• Associated with costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky decorations.

• Celebrated in various cultures around the world.

All Saints' Day 

November 1

Honours all saints, known and unknown, in Christian tradition.

• Honours all saints, known and unknown.

• A Christian festival observed in many countries.

• Often involves visiting cemeteries and remembering departed loved ones.

All Souls' Day 

November 2

Remembers and prays for the souls of the departed.

•  Commemorates the souls of all the faithful departed.

•  A day to pray for those who have died.

•  Traditionally observed in the Catholic Church.

Black Friday 

Date varies

Known for shopping deals and discounts.

• An annual shopping event after Thanksgiving in the United States.

• Known for discounts and sales.

• Often marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season.

Cyber Monday 

Date varies

Focuses on online shopping promotions.

• Follows Black Friday.

• Focuses on online sales and deals.

• Popular for tech and electronic purchases.

World Children's Day 

November 20

Advocates for children's rights and well-being.

• Celebrated annually on November 20.

• Marks the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

• Focuses on promoting children's rights, well-being, and amplifying their voices.

• A day to raise awareness about children's education, healthcare, and safety globally⁷.

Advent 

December 3

Marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical season leading up to Christmas.

• Originates from the Latin word "adventus," meaning "arrival".

• A period of expectant waiting and preparation for Christmas.

• Traditionally begins on the Sunday four weeks before Christmas Day.

• Encourages fasting, prayer, and reflection to focus on repentance and hope.

International Special Needs Awareness 

December 3

Raises awareness about disabilities and inclusion.

• Celebrated to promote understanding and support for people with disabilities.

• Advocates for equal opportunities, inclusion, and accessibility.

• A day to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with special needs.

Human Rights Day 

December 10

Commemorates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

• Commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

• Celebrated globally to promote human rights and raise awareness.

• Themes vary each year, addressing different facets of upholding human rights.

Christmas Eve 

December 24

Christmas Eve ]is the day before Christmas, celebrated worldwide. It’s marked by family gatherings, feasts, caroling, church services, and anticipation of Christmas Day.

• The evening before Christmas Day.

• Traditionally a time for food preparation, relaxation, and anticipation.

• Midnight Mass celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

• Different traditions and customs worldwide, including hanging stockings and leaving treats for Santa.

Christmas Day 

December 25

Christmas is a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is also widely celebrated by many non-Christians as a secular, cultural festival.

• Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

• A time for family gatherings, feasting, and exchanging gifts.

• Traditions vary across cultures and regions.

Boxing Day 

December 26

Traditionally a day for giving to the less fortunate.

• Observed in several countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.

• Traditionally a day for giving gifts to service workers and the less fortunate.

• Also associated with post-Christmas sales and sports events.

New Year's Eve 

December 31

Celebrates the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.

• Celebrates the end of the current year and the beginning of the new year.

• Marked by parties, fireworks, countdowns, and festive gatherings.

• A time for reflection, resolutions, and hope for the future.

CLICK TO VIEW THE FULL LIST OF CELEBRATIONS