Dussehra Culture/religion: Hindu Date: October 5 Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami (“victory on the tenth day”) is one of the major Hindu festivals celebrated at the end of Navaratri every year. The festival signifies good over evil, commemorating the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana. Though observed for different reasons and celebrated in a variety of … [Read more...] about Cultural and religious observances – October 3-9, 2022
Rosh Hashanah Culture/religion: Judaism Date: September 26-27 Rosh Hashanah (“Head of the Year”) is the birthday of the universe and the Jewish New Year. It is both a day of prayer and a day of joy when God is proclaimed King of the Universe. The central observance of Rosh Hashanah is the sounding of the shofar (the ram’s horn) on both days of the holiday and takes … [Read more...] about Cultural and religious observances – September 26-October 2, 2022
Ganesh Chaturthi Culture/religion: Hindu Date: August 31 Ganesh Chaturthi is a ten-day Hindu festival celebrating the anniversary of the birth of the elephant-headed god Ganesha. Ganesha is known as the god of wealth, sciences, knowledge, wisdom and prosperity, and many Hindus seek his blessing before beginning any important work. Four main rituals are performed … [Read more...] about Cultural and religious observances – August 29-September 4, 2022
Holy Thursday Culture/religion: Christianity Date: April 14 Holy Thursday is the Thursday before Easter and commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, when he established the sacrament of Holy Communion prior to his arrest and crucifixion, as well as his institution of the priesthood. Jesus celebrated the dinner as a Passover feast. The Last Supper was the final … [Read more...] about Cultural and religious observances – April 11-17, 2022
Qingming Festival Culture/religion: Chinese heritage Date: April 5 With a history of over 2,500 years, Qingming, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day is an important day of sacrifice for most people in honoring their ancestors. One of the most popular activities on this day is to show respect to one’s ancestors by visiting their graves, offering food, burning incense … [Read more...] about Cultural and religious observances – April 4-10, 2022