Religious Observances
First 100 matches found
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First of Núr (Light) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Services are held at synagogues. Jewish students or employees observing Shavuot may stay home from work during this period, and some may request schedule adjustments in order to observe. Begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day.
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The Christian holiday of Ascension Day, also known as the Feast of the Ascension, celebrates when Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after Pascha (Easter). It is celebrated by Roman Catholic, Episcopal and Lutheran churches. Ascension Day is observed on a Thursday.
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Commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru and the first Sikh Martyr.
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Occurring on the tenth day of the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son to God. It is tradition to sacrifice a goat and use it to feed your family, friends, and the poor. Muslim students or employees observing Eid al-Adha may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Summer Solstice. Litha is the longest day and the shortest night of the year, and a time for transition and planning. Light triumphs, but will now begin to fade into darkness as autumn approaches. This joyous holiday is a time of abundance for wildlife, including people!
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First of Rahmat (Mercy) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Islamic New Year starts on the 1st of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar, and historically marks the moment the prophet Mohammed [peace be unto him] fled from Mecca to Yathrib to escape religious persecution. It is considered the most holy Muslim holiday after Ramadan.
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The holy day commemorates the anniversary of the execution of the Báb (Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad), the herald of the Baha’i Faith. It is one of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First of Kalimát (Words) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The 10th day of the first month (Muharram) of the Islamic calendar marks a holy day (known as Ashura) whose significance varies among Islamic sects. Sunnis consider it the day that God parted the Red Sea to allow Moses and the Israelites to escape Egypt. For Shia and Sufi Muslims, Ashura is an important and solemn occasion marking the Remembrance or Mourning of Muharram.
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Asalha Puja is also known as "Dhamma Day" which celebrates the Buddha's first teaching on the full moon day of the 8th lunar month. The day is observed by donating offerings to temples and listening to sermons. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Fast commemorating breaching of the walls of Jerusalem before the destruction of the Second Temple. Begins at dawn and ends at sundown. Observed by fasting.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, from sunset of the first day until sunset of the last day, Bahá'ís observing the First of Kamal - Perfection gather for the 19-Day Feast. That is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Marking the beginning of harvest season, Lughnasadh or Lammas is a time of both hope and fear. At Lughnasad, modern Wiccans face their fears, concentrate on developing their own abilities, and take steps to protect themselves and their homes.
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The Feast of the Transfiguration commemorates when Jesus transfigured on the mountaintop which three of his disciples were permitted to witness. Moses and Elijah were also present and witness to Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. It is a day of solemn observation. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Ninth of Av - mourning the destruction of the ancient temples and Jersualem. Observed by fasting, mourning, and praying. Begins at sundown on the first day and ends at nightfall on the final day. Work is often prohibited. Jewish students or employees observing Tish'a B'Av may stay home from work during this period, and some may request schedule adjustments.
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The feast commemorates the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ. Episcopalians observing The Feast of Saint Mary the Virgin will take part in a solemn feast in the Episcopal Church. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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A celebration of the Lord assuming Mary into heaven, body and soul, at the end of her earthly life. Many Catholics observing Assumption of Mary attend Mass this day. Students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Jewish holiday of love (similar to Valentines Day). It is a great day for weddings, commitment ceremonies, renewal of vows, or proposing. Begins at sundown on the first day and ends at nightfall on the final day. Jewish students or employees observing Tish'a B'Av may stay home from work during this period, and some may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, from sunset of the first day until sunset of the last day, Bahá'ís observing the First of Asma (Names) gather for the 19-Day Feast. There is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion.
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The Bond of Protection. Raksha Bandhan celebrates the love and duty between brothers and sisters. Celebrations include sisters and brothers getting together, tying rakhi on wrists, performing aarti, and marking tilak. Brothers promise to protect sisters, sisters feed brothers, and brothers give gifts.
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Arbaeen is a Shia religious observance that occurs forty days after the Day of Ashura. It commemorates the martyrdom of Al-Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Muhammad, who was martyred on the 10th day of the month of Muharram.
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Hindu students or employees observing Krishna Janmashtami may participate in the two day festival which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.
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Paryushana is an eight-to-ten day Jain festival of coming together when lay adherents fast and pray, reciting their sacred texts and emphasizing their five ethical duties or vows. The festival ends with Samvatsari, a day of focused prayer and meditation, when forgiveness is asked for offenses committed during the previous year.
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10 day festival celebrating the birth of Ganesha, son of Shiva. Hindu students or employees may observe Ganesha Chaturthi by chanting of Vedic hymns and Hindu texts, prayers, martial arts, and on the last day with processions, and idol immersion.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, from sunset the day before the day listed until sunset of the day listed, Bahá'ís observing the First of Izzat (Might) gather for the 19-Day Feast. There is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion.
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Born in 570 CE, Prophet Muhammad’s [peace be upon him] birthday is commemorated by Muslims around the world during the month of Rabi’ Al-Awal. Mawlid an-Nabi – literally, The Birth of the Prophet – is often referred to as the Mawlid.
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Born in 570 CE, Prophet Muhammad’s [peace be upon him] birthday is commemorated by Muslims around the world during the month of Rabi’ Al-Awal. Mawlid an-Nabi – literally, The Birth of the Prophet – is often referred to as the Mawlid.
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The Autumn Equinox is a time for giving thanks and for reflection. At Mabon, the day and the night are equal in length, in sublime balance. For many locations, Mabon coincides with the final harvest of grain, fruits, and vegetables. Mabon, also called Harvest Home, is the time of thanksgiving.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First of Mashiyyat (Will) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Jewish students or employees often observe Leil Selichot by praying for forgiveness in preparation for the High Holidays.
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The Jewish New Year, celebrated by praying in synagogue, personal reflection, and hearing the shofar. Work is often prohibited. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Navratri commences on the first day (pratipada) of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Ashwin. The festival is celebrated for nine nights once every year during the beginning of October, although as the dates of the festival are determined according to the lunar calendar, the festival may be held for a day more or a day less.
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Fast of the Seventh Month. Many Jews who celebrate Tzom Gedaliah do so by fasting.
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Day of Atonement. For Jewish people observing Yom Kippur, the day is often observed by fasting, praying, abstaining from physical pleasures, and refraining from work. Begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Dussehra celebrations often include processions to a river or ocean front carrying clay statues, accompanied by music and chants, after which the images are immersed into the water for dissolution and a goodbye. The festival also starts the preparation for one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals, Diwali.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First Day of ‘Ilm (Knowledge) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Feast of Tabernacles. Actual holy days. Jewish individuals observing Sukkot may observe work restrictions during this period, and some may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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This day commemorates the birth of the central religious scripture of Sikhism, regarded by many Sikhs as the final, sovereign and eternal living Guru following the lineage of the ten human Gurus of the religion.
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Eighth Day of Assembly. Shmini Atzeret has duality as a holy day as it is simultaneously considered to be connected to Sukkot and also a separate festival in its own right. Those observing may do so with prayer. It is encouraged to refrain from work and school during this period. Some students or employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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From sunset of the first day to sunset of the last day, Samhain marks the Pagan New Year, a time for honoring the dead, cleansing, and releasing. For many Wiccans, Samhain is the most important Sabbat. It’s the time to remember the ancestors, and the time to celebrate the harvest and all that has been accomplished over the year
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A solemn feast that celebrates all of the saints, both known and unknown. Many Episcopal churches observe this feast on the first Sunday immediately following November 1. Catholics are often obligated to attend Mass this day.
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Diwali or The Festival of Lights is a major holiday. Extending over 5 days, it celebrates the victory of good over evil. Celebrations include millions of lights shining on housetops, outside doors and windows, around temples, and other buildings. Some students or employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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The Birth of the Báb and the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh occurred on consecutive days according to the Islamic lunar calendar. They are two of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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A feast day that commemorates the souls of the faithful departed. In Episcopal Churches, the names of those from the congregation who have died in the past year are read aloud during the service on this day, or on All Saints’ Sunday.
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The Birth of the Báb and the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh occurred on consecutive days according to the Islamic lunar calendar. They are two of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First Day of Qudrat (Power) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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This day – also known as Guru Nanak Gurpurab - celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Students or employees may request scheduling adjustments in order to observe.
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When the rivers and canals are full of water, this festival takes place in all parts of Thailand on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month. Bowls made with leaves, candles, and incense sticks, are placed in the water, and represent bad luck disappearing.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First Day of Qawl (Speech) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Sunday culminating the full, annual cycle of religious celebrations, marking the end of the liturgical year with a celebration of Jesus as King of all creation. Catholics celebrating the Solemnity of Christ the King usually do so with a feast.
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Sikhs observing the Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib gather to celebrate. At early morning there are hymns followed by an exposition of the Guru Granth Sahib. During the day there is food served, prayer, and joyous singing. Around sunset it is time for the evening prayers. Some students or employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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The Day of the Covenant is a festival that commemorates Bahá’u’lláh’s appointment of His eldest son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as the Center of His Covenant.
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Baha’is observe the anniversary of the death of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, son of Bahá’u’lláh and His appointed successor, on Nov 28, 1921 in Haifa, in what is now northern Israel. While this is not a day in which work and school should be suspended, some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Ethiopian Jewish holiday occurring 50 days after Yom Kippur. Many members of the community fast, recite Psalms, and gather in Jerusalem for readings. The ritual is often followed by the breaking of the fast, dancing, and general revelry. Some students or employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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The season of the Church year immediately preceding Christmas, featuring four solemn Sundays of worship. The season is often observed as an opportunity to prepare for both Christmas and the second coming of Christ as Judge at the Last Day.
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A celebration of God's unique redemption of Mary at the point of her conception in her mother's womb, preserving her from the burden of original sin and providing her with a holiness consistent with her destined role of bearing the Son of God. Catholics observing Immaculate Conception may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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Bodhi Day commemorates the Buddha's achievement of Nirvana, and what this means for Buddhism today. Those observing may do so through additional meditation, study of the Dharma, chanting of Buddhist texts (sutras), or performing kind acts towards other beings. Some Buddhists celebrate with a traditional meal of tea, cake, and readings.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First of Masá’il (Questions) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule accommodations in order to observe.
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Winter Solstice. Yule is the longest night and the shortest day of the year, and is the time to celebrate the return of the light. Some Wiccans consider Yule to be either the year’s beginning or the end. Yule is the solar turning of the tides, and the newborn Sun offers a fresh start and, literally, a new day. It’s a time of renewal and hope.
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Celebrates the Jewish rebellion against the Greeks and the rededication of the temple in Jerusalem. Celebrated by lighting candles each night, singing special songs, reciting prayers, eating foods fried in oil, playing the dreidel game, and giving Chanukah gelt. Begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day.
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The Feast of the Nativity of Jesus Christ, which celebrates the Incarnation of God taking on human flesh in the person of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated by erecting Christmas trees, decorating homes, visiting family and friends and exchanging gifts. Some students or employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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Kwanzaa is an annual seven-day African-American and pan-African holiday celebration that takes place from December 26 to January 1. For seven days, a principle (Nguzo Saba) is reflected upon such as unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
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At the beginning of each Bahá'í month, Bahá'ís gather for an observance called the 19-Day Feast. The First Day of Sharaf (Honour) begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. It is a three-part observance with devotions, community consultation, and a social portion. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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A celebration of the biblical event of the Magi visiting the Christ child and bearing gifts to him and his family. It is usually celebrated with a large feast.
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Commemoration of the Guru Gobind Singh, born in 1666, who was the tenth Sikh guru.
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Because the Eastern Orthodox use the Julian Calendar and the Western churches use the Gregorian Calendar, Eastern Orthodox Christmas falls on January 7 in the Gregorian (Western) calendar. Christians believe the conception and birth of Jesus is how the Son of God became a human.
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Also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival. Celebrated with a festival for families, decorating buildings with lucky red items, partaking in cultural activities, eating certain "lucky" foods, setting off firecrackers, and praying.
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Wiccans observing Brigid, or Imbolc, clean and organize their living environments, as well as their minds and hearts, in preparation for the upcoming season of growth (spring). It’s a time to shake off the doldrums of winter and light the fires of creativity and inspiration. Some employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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The last month in the Baha’i calendar, ‘Alá’ (Loftiness), is dedicated to the Baha’i Fast. During this time, Baha’is between 15 and 70 years of age do not eat or drink for 19 days from sunrise to sunset and set aside time for prayer and meditation. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day.
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The ninth month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad. Some Muslim employees and students observing Ramadan may request schedule adjustments in order to observe. Your department may find that more employees require space or time for prayer during this period.
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The first day of the forty day season of Lent. The service features penitential acts symbolized by the Imposition of Ashes on the foreheads of the congregation gathered. Some students or employees may request scheduling accommodations in order to observe.
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Purim celebrates being saved from a genocide in ancient Persia. Observances include listening to the Book of Esther in synagogue, sending food parcels, giving to charity, and dressing up in costume and eating festive meals. This observance begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day.
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Spring festival celebrated in India and Nepal, also known as the "festival of colours" or the "festival of love". Holi begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day. It is celebrated the night before with a Holika Bonfire and on the day of by spraying colors on others, dancing, partying and eating festival delicacies.
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The Baha’i New Year’s Day coincides with the spring equinox. Naw-Rúz is an ancient Persian festival celebrating the “new day” and for Bahá'is, it marks the end of the annual 19-Day Fast and is one of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day.
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Spring Equinox - Conception, Regeneration, New Beginnings. Winter is now over, and light is increasing. The day and night are equal in length at the equinox, and Spring has arrived or is coming soon. Eostara is the time of fertility, birth, and renewal. The ice is thawing, and the growing season for plants and animals begins. Growth is the theme of the day.
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In Islam, Laylat al-Qadr or Qadr Night is when the Quran was sent down from Heaven and revealed to the prophet Muhammad [peace be unto him.] The specific date is not mentioned in the Quran although it is believed to be one of the last ten days of Ramadan. Muslim holidays begin and end at sundown on the first and last days listed.
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In Islam, Laylat al-Qadr or Qadr Night is when the Quran was sent down from Heaven and revealed to the prophet Muhammad [peace be unto him.] The specific date is not mentioned in the Quran although it is believed to be one of the last ten days of Ramadan. Muslim holidays begin and end at sundown on the first and last days listed.
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Celebrates the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is common practice to give zakat (charity) on this day or during the month of Ramadan, and to attend a prayer in the morning, followed by celebration and food with friends and family. Muslim students or employees observing Eid al-Fitr may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Feast of Unleavened Bread. Celebrates the Jews being freed from slavery in Egypt and making the exodus from Egypt to the holy land of Israel. Begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day. Work is often prohibited the first two days and the last two days. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Friday before Easter. The Episcopal Church’s observance of this day of fasting and penitence features the Passion according to Saint John, and devotions before the cross. Other services held on Good Friday include The Stations of the Cross – which is a meditation on the last fourteen stations of Christ's Passion.
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Christians annually commemorate the death of Jesus Christ on this day, the Friday before Pascha (Easter). The (Eastern) Orthodox Christian Church does not use the term “Good Friday” but the term “Holy Friday” or “Great Friday” instead.
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Pronounced "Rezván," this annual Baha’i festival commemorates the 12 days when Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, publicly proclaimed His mission as God’s messenger for this age. Elections for Baha’i institutions are generally held during the Festival of Riḍván. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The Feast of the Resurrection of Christ. It is the greatest and oldest feast of the Christian Church. The Episcopal Church celebrates the Eucharist with great solemnity on this most holy of feast days. In addition to Easter Day services, it is often observed with family gatherings.
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On this day, Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead after 3 days in the grave (Holy Friday, Holy Saturday, and Pascha Sunday).
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Pronounced "Rezván," this annual Baha’i festival commemorates the 12 days when Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, publicly proclaimed His mission as God’s messenger for this age. Elections for Baha’i institutions are generally held during the Festival of Riḍván. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. Some students or employees may
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Pronounced "Rezván," this annual Baha’i festival commemorates the 12 days when Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, publicly proclaimed His mission as God’s messenger for this age. Elections for Baha’i institutions often occur during this period. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. Bahá'í students or employees observing the Twelft
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Beltane is the time of the marriage and union of the Goddess as Mother Earth and the God of the Greenwood. It is an ancient fertility festival marking the beginning of the planting cycle. The festival was to ensure a good growing season and a bountiful harvest. Beltane is light-hearted, joyful, and full of passion that fuels life, joy, and fertility.
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Vesak is the birthday of the Buddha and the most important festival in Buddhism. On the first full moon day in May, Buddhists all over the world celebrate the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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This Holy Day commemorates May 23, 1844, when the Báb, the herald of the Baha’i Faith, announced in Shiraz that He was the Herald of a new Messenger of God. It is one of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Baha’is observe the anniversary of the death in exile of Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Baha’i Faith. It is one of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day. Some students or employees may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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The 40th day of Easter and remembers the departure of Christ from Earth into the presence of God. It is a day of solemn observation in the Episcopal Church.
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The Christian holiday of Ascension Day, also known as the Feast of the Ascension, celebrates when Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after Pascha (Easter). It is celebrated by Roman Catholic, Episcopal and Lutheran churches. Ascension Day is observed on a Thursday.
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Commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Services are held at synagogues. Jewish students or employees observing Shavuot may stay home from work during this period, and some may request schedule adjustments in order to observe. Begins at sundown of the first day and ends at sundown of the last day.
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Occurring on the tenth day of the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son to God. It is tradition to sacrifice a goat and use it to feed your family, friends, and the poor. Muslim students or employees observing Eid al-Adha may request schedule adjustments in order to observe.
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Summer Solstice. Litha is the longest day and the shortest night of the year, and a time for transition and planning. Light triumphs, but will now begin to fade into darkness as autumn approaches. This joyous holiday is a time of abundance for wildlife, including people!
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The holy day commemorates the anniversary of the execution of the Báb (Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad), the herald of the Baha’i Faith. It is one of the nine holy days of the year when work is suspended and children are exempted from attending school. Begins at sunset of the first day and ends at sunset of the last day.
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Marking the beginning of harvest season, Lughnasadh or Lammas is a time of both hope and fear. At Lughnasad, modern Wiccans face their fears, concentrate on developing their own abilities, and take steps to protect themselves and their homes.
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The Ninth of Av - mourning the destruction of the ancient temples and Jersualem. Observed by fasting, mourning, and praying. Begins at sundown on the first day and ends at nightfall on the final day. Work is often prohibited. Jewish students or employees observing Tish'a B'Av may stay home from work during this period, and some may request schedule adjustments.