September 2022

Ramadan

Ramadan is a month of fasting (refraining from food or drink) from sunrise to sunset for members of the Muslim community. Ramadan is seen as one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, as it is believed that the Qur'an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad during this month. The end of each fasting day during Ramadan culminates in a prayer and breaking of fast. Source: Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2022, February 2). Ramadan. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ramadan

Nowruz

Nowruz is the Persian New Year, and means "new day." This is a day that can involve prayers and festivals, depending on the region and is observed by Zoroastrians, Baháʼís, some Muslim communities, and is considered a national holiday in Iran and Afghanistan. Source: Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2020, March 13). Nowruz. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Nowruz

Holi

A holy day celebrated by the Hindu community that signifies the arrival of the spring harvest season and the end of winter. Holi is typically celebrated over two days and signifies the triumph of good over evil. Source: Significance of Holi - Importance Cultural And Social Significance of Holi. (2005–2022). Society for the Confluence of Festivals in India. https://www.holifestival.org/significance-of-holi.html

Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri is a celebration of the Hindu God, Lord Shiva and his union to Devi Parvati. This is a significant holiday because Lord Shiva embodies mindfulness and Devi Parvati emboides nature; their union signifies the union of consciousness and energy, which facilitates creation. This day is celebrated through a day long fast, and all night religious observances. Source: Digital, T. N. (2022, February 25). Why do we celebrate Maha Shivaratri, and what is its significance? TimesNow.

Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year is celebrated by the Eastern cultures of China, Korea, Vietnam, and other countries. The Lunar New Year is referred by different names in China, Vietnam, and Korea; it is called Chūnjié in Mandarin, Seollal in Korean, and Tết in Vietnamese. This holiday signifies the start of a New Year and honors family ancestors and heavenly deities. Each community celebrates differently but this day can be is observed by a day of family gatherings and celebrations to mark the start of spring. Source: History.com Editors. (2022, February 1). Lunar New Year 2022.