All - Leep Calendar

The Yuan Xiao Lantern Festival dates back to 100 BC and is one of the more colorful events in China. It occurs fifteen days after the Chinese New Year (usually in February or early March). Celebrations include family reunions, eating yuan Xiao (stuffed rice balls), fireworks, sparing with lantern riddles, performing folk dances, and releasing lanterns into the night air. The Lantern Festival is the first celebration of spring.

Africa

Feb

Yukon Heritage Day (CA-YT): February 21

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Yukon Heritage Day is a significant celebration in Canada, observed annually on the Friday before the last Sunday of February in the Yukon Territory. The holiday commemorates the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Yukon, a region with a unique historical tapestry that includes Indigenous cultures, the Klondike Gold Rush, and its evolution as a Canadian territory. History of Yukon Heritage Day: The establishment of Yukon Heritage Day is a testament to the territory's commitment to recognizing and honoring its distinct historical narrative. The day was officially designated as a holiday to allow Yukoners to reflect on and celebrate their shared heritage and history. The Yukon's history includes several significant events and eras, notably the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century, which profoundly impacted the region's development and demographic composition. Purpose of the Celebration: Yukon Heritage Day serves several purposes: Cultural Recognition: It recognizes the diverse cultural backgrounds of the people in Yukon, including the First Nations, whose history and traditions are deeply rooted in the territory. Historical Education: The day provides educational and awareness-raising activities about Yukon's history and heritage. Community Engagement: It fosters a sense of community and belonging among territory residents. Customs and Celebrations: Yukon Heritage Day includes a variety of activities and events that reflect the territory's history and cultural diversity: Cultural Performances: Traditional performances, including music and dance by the First Nations, showcase the rich indigenous culture. Historical Exhibitions: Museums and cultural centers often host exhibitions and displays that narrate the history of the Yukon, including its Gold Rush era. Educational Events: Schools and community groups organize educational programs and activities to teach children and adults about Yukon's heritage. Community Gatherings: Public gatherings, including festivals and fairs, bring together residents to celebrate with food, music, and art. Recognition of Heritage Sites: Visits to historical sites and landmarks are encouraged, offering a glimpse into the Yukon's past. Art and Craft Shows: Local artisans display and sell crafts that reflect the territory's history and cultural influences. Yukon Heritage Day is more than just a holiday; it celebrates the territory's identity, fostering pride and unity among its residents. It's a day that underscores the importance of preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Yukon for future generations.

Africa

Feb

Agriculture Day (CA): February 11

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Agriculture Day in Canada celebrates the businesses and products grown in the nation, including food, flora, and fauna. Its goal is to create a closer connection between consumers and those who produce it. The United States has its Ag Day in February as well. This event began in 2017.

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Feb

Apprenticeship Week, Ntl.(UK): February 10-16

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Britain's National Apprenticeship Week, inaugurated in 2008, is an annual event celebrating and promoting apprenticeships across the United Kingdom. The week serves as a focal point to bring together employers, apprentices, and educators, highlighting the impact and benefits of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses, and the broader economy. The primary purpose of National Apprenticeship Week is to encourage more people to choose apprenticeships as a fast track to a great career and to encourage employers to offer apprenticeship positions. The week provides a platform for sharing apprenticeship success stories, not only to inspire others but also to showcase the diverse range of opportunities available across various industries. Throughout the week, a variety of activities take place across the country. These include open days, events, workshops, and competitions organized by schools, colleges, employers, and apprenticeship providers. Potential apprentices can meet with current apprentices and employers, gaining a real insight into the world of apprenticeships and the careers they can lead to. Employers and training providers also promote apprenticeship vacancies and programs during this time. National Apprenticeship Service, part of the UK government, supports the week and works to ensure that apprenticeships are a respected and valued route into a range of professional careers. They provide resources and support for organizing events and activities during the week. TEN CAREER PATHS THAT INCLUDE APPRENTICESHIPS Electrician – Apprenticeship programs for electricians provide hands-on experience and technical instruction in electrical systems, wiring, safety protocols, and sometimes even renewable energy. Plumber – Apprenticeships in plumbing cover many skills, including pipe installation, system maintenance, and troubleshooting plumbing issues in residential and commercial buildings. Carpenter – Carpentry apprenticeships offer training in woodworking, construction methods, blueprint reading, and project planning. Welder – Welding apprenticeships focus on different welding techniques, metal properties, and safety procedures necessary for a welding and metal fabrication career. Automotive Mechanic – These apprenticeships provide practical experience in vehicle maintenance, repair, diagnostics and sometimes specialize in certain vehicles or systems. Chef – Culinary apprenticeships offer hands-on training in food preparation, kitchen management, menu planning, and cooking techniques in a professional kitchen environment. Hairdresser/Barber – Apprenticeships in hairdressing and barbering include training in hair cutting, styling, coloring, and various beauty treatments and customer service skills. HVAC Technician – Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) apprenticeships cover installing, maintaining, and repairing heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial buildings. IT Technician – Information Technology apprenticeships provide training in computer systems, network maintenance, and software development and sometimes specialize in specific areas like cybersecurity or data analysis. Masonry – Apprenticeships in masonry offer training in bricklaying, stonework, concrete finishing, and other construction techniques related to building and repairing structures with stone, brick, and concrete. National Apprenticeship Week has grown significantly since its inception, with each year seeing an increase in participation from all sectors. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future of apprenticeships in the UK, helping to break down stereotypes and expanding the apprenticeship model into new industries and sectors.

Africa

Feb

Bird Health Awareness Week, Intl: February 16-22

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International Bird Health Awareness Week promotes the health and well-being of birds globally, with a specific focus on foul. This week-long event focuses on raising awareness about the diverse health issues birds face. It encourages bird owners, avian enthusiasts, and conservationists to engage in practices that support and enhance bird health. International Bird Health Awareness Week began in recognition of the importance of birds in our ecosystems and the unique health challenges they face. With increasing bird species facing threats from habitat loss, climate change, and diseases, expanded conservation and health measures for worldwide bird populations are paramount. The week aims to educate the public about the health needs of birds, both in the wild and captivity. Activities and information sessions focus on proper nutrition, habitat conservation, disease prevention, and responsible pet ownership for those who keep birds. The week also serves as a platform for bird health professionals and researchers to share the latest findings and best practices in avian health and conservation. Historically, International Bird Health Awareness Week is supported by various wildlife organizations, veterinary associations, and conservation groups. These organizations often host workshops, webinars, and community events to disseminate information and engage the public in bird health-related activities. Social media campaigns and educational resources are also widely used to reach a broader audience. Over the years, the event has expanded its reach from bird owners and breeders to wildlife rehabilitators and researchers. Each year, the week focuses on different themes, reflecting the current issues and challenges in bird health and conservation.

Africa

Feb

Cornish Pasty Week (UK): February 24 - March 2

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The Cornish Pasty Association established the Cornish Pasty Week to celebrate and promote this culinary icon. This week-long event, usually held in late February or early March, is a relatively recent addition to Cornwall's cultural calendar. It features a range of activities, including pasty-making demonstrations, competitions, and tastings. Local bakeries and chefs showcase their versions of the classic pasty, often adding creative twists to the traditional recipe. One of the highlights of Cornish Pasty Week is the 'World Pasty Championships,' held at the Eden Project, a popular attraction in Cornwall. This competition attracts bakers across Cornwall and beyond, all vying for the best traditional and non-traditional pasties. The event celebrates the pasty's history and encourages innovation in pasty-making. Cornish pasty is a traditional British dish deeply intertwined with the culture and lifestyle of Cornwall, England, tracing to the 13th century. Initially, pasties were a luxury food in royal courts, but by the 18th century, they became a staple for Cornish miners. The pasty's unique design, with a thick, crimped edge, made it easy to eat with dirty hands, and its hearty filling provided much-needed sustenance for long hours underground. The classic Cornish pasty includes a stuffing of beef, swede (rutabaga), potato, and onion, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. This combination, baked inside a shortcrust pastry, is delicious and practical. The robust crust acted as a handle, which miners could discard after eating the rest of the pasty, avoiding ingesting toxic substances from the mines. As the Cornish mining industry waned, the pasty remained a beloved symbol of Cornish identity and culture. Recognizing its significance, the European Union awarded the Cornish pasty Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in 2011, meaning only pasties made in Cornwall according to traditional recipes may be labeled as "Cornish pasties."

Africa

Feb

Date Festival, Ntl. (US-CA): February 13- March 2

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A celebration of Arabia and Arabic culture, the National Date Festival at the Riverside County Fairgrounds features Arabic-themed music, ostrich races, camel rides, exhibits, shopping, and of course, lots of dates. Dates are the hospitality food of the Arabic world. Annually in February.

Africa

Feb

FBLA-PBL Week, Ntl.(US-CA): February 9-15

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The goals of National Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA-PBL) Week are to: 1. Develop competent, aggressive business leadership. 2. Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work. 3. Create more interest in and understanding of the American business enterprise. 4. Encourage members to develop individual projects that contribute to improving home, business, and community. 5. Develop character, prepare for valuable citizenship, and foster patriotism. 6. Encourage scholarship and promote school loyalty. 7. Assist students in establishing occupational goals. 8. Facilitate the transition from school to work.

Africa

Feb

Hong Kong Arts Festival (CH-HK): February 27 - March 28

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The Hong Kong Arts Festival, inaugurated in 1973, is an annual event that has become a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape. Each year, typically between February and March, the festival transforms Hong Kong into a hub of artistic activity, showcasing diverse performances and cultural events. The primary objective of the festival is to enrich Hong Kong's cultural life and promote the work of both local and international performing artists. It has grown to be one of Asia's most significant arts festivals, attracting thousands of artists and visitors from around the globe. The festival's programming is expansive, featuring a mix of music, dance, theatre, and opera with contemporary and traditional performances, showcasing talent and artistic disciplines. Several well-known artists have participated in the festival, including Cecilia Bartoli, José Carreras, Yo-Yo Ma, Philip Glass, and Mikhail Baryshnikov. Additionally, the festival actively promotes local creative talent. The art fair has commissioned and produced over 200 local productions, including theater, chamber opera, and contemporary dance, for successful local and overseas runs. In addition to live performances, the festival strongly emphasizes educational events and opportunities for young people to explore the performing arts. This commitment is evident in its "H.K.A.F Young Friends" program, which has connected with over 782,000 students of varying ages since 1992. The festival also supports local talent by commissioning and producing local works in theater, chamber opera, Cantonese opera, music, and contemporary dance. The Hong Kong Arts Festival showcases artistic excellence and serves as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. It is vital in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity by presenting artistic expressions from different traditions and backgrounds. The festival's impact extends beyond the performances, contributing significantly to the city's cultural tourism and providing a platform for emerging artists to shine alongside established performers. As a non-profit organization, the Hong Kong Arts Festival sustains itself through box office promotions, private donations, and a government matching scheme, which matches the funds raised by the festival. The festival's success is a testament to the dedicated team of organizers and volunteers working tirelessly to create an enriching experience for performers and audiences.

Africa

Feb

Jenadriyah Festival (SA): February 10-25 (est)

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Inaugurated in 1985, the Janadriya Festival is Saudi Arabia’s most prominent cultural and heritage event showcasing entertainment, art, history, and exhibits from throughout the Kingdom. One of the most popular features is the life-size heritage village, where visitors can walk through and experience the Kingdom’s past. This two-week event is held in Riyadh each year. We estimate the date based on similar years in the past. Actual date is announced a few weeks prior.

Africa

Feb

Jorvik Viking Festival (UK): February 17-23

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With over 40,000 visitors each year, get your Viking on and celebrate Viking contributions to English history. The Vikings first arrived in England during the seventh century. Jorvik Viking Festival is based upon the Jolablot celebration marking the ending of struggle through winter and the approach of spring. This event first ran in 1983.

Africa

Feb

La Poutine Week (CA): February 1-7

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La Poutine Week is an annual celebration dedicated to Quebec's iconic dish, poutine, which originated in Canada's predominantly French-speaking province. This gastronomic event, launched in 2012, was conceived by Na'eem Adam and Thierry Rassam, the same duo who initiated Le Burger Week. Their vision was to create a festival that celebrates but elevates poutine, a humble dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy, to new culinary heights. Poutine is a beloved Canadian dish, particularly famous in the province of Quebec, where it is widely considered a culinary staple. The dish has humble beginnings and a somewhat unclear origin story but has risen to iconic status over the years. HISTORY OF POUTINE Poutine originated in rural Quebec, Canada, in the 1950s. Its invention has several claims, but the prevailing legend is poutine was created in Warwick, Quebec, by a restaurant owner named Fernand Lachance. When a customer requested the addition of cheese curds to his fries, Lachance is said to have exclaimed, "Ça va faire une maudite poutine!" ("That's going to make a damn mess!"), thus giving the dish its name. Poutine was initially seen as a dish of the working class and shunned in haute cuisine circles. Over time, however, it gained popularity across all sectors of society. INGREDIENTS AND PREPARATION Poutine is a simple dish with three key ingredients: French Fries— the dish's base is traditionally made from fried hand-cut potatoes until they are crispy on the outside but still soft inside. Cheese Curds—Fresh cheese curds are essential for an authentic poutine. They should be soft, have a mild flavor, and are typically added while squeaky fresh. Gravy—A hot brown gravy, often made from beef and chicken stock, is poured over the fries and cheese curds. The gravy should be light enough not to make the fries soggy but thick enough to coat them. The dish is typically served hot, with the cheese curds partially melted by the heat of the gravy and fries. Poutine's appeal lies in its combination of textures and flavors: the crispiness of the fries, the chewiness of the cheese, and the rich, savory flavor of the gravy. CELEBRATING POUTINE Over the years, poutine has evolved, with numerous variations emerging. Restaurants and chefs have experimented with adding additional ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and different sauces, transforming it from a simple, fast food item into a gourmet dish. Despite these variations, the heart of poutine remains the unique combination of fries, cheese curds, and gravy. La Poutine Week's primary purpose is to showcase poutine's versatility and culinary potential. It encourages local restaurants and chefs to experiment with this traditional dish, creating unique and innovative variations. This event has become a platform for culinary creativity, where classic poutine is reimagined with diverse and sometimes unexpected ingredients, appealing to various tastes and preferences. Originally, La Poutine Week was a local event in Montreal, Quebec, where poutine maintains status in the province's culinary culture. However, its popularity quickly grew, and the event expanded to include other cities across Canada. La Poutine Week took a little while to gain international recognition, with restaurants worldwide participating in the festivities. During the event, which typically takes place in February, participating restaurants offer their unique poutine creations to the public. Customers sample various renditions and vote for their favorites. This interactive component engages the community and fosters a competitive spirit among chefs and restaurants. La Poutine Week also often incorporates a charitable element, with many restaurants donating some of their proceeds to local charities. This aspect of the event highlights the organizers' commitment to community involvement and social responsibility. In summary, La Poutine Week, originating in Quebec, Canada, is a testament to poutine's enduring popularity and cultural significance. What started as a celebration of a local dish has transformed into an international culinary event, drawing participants and enthusiasts from around the globe. It showcases the innovative spirit of chefs and restaurants while fostering community engagement and supporting charitable causes.

Africa

Feb

Muffin Day, Ntl.: February 23 (est)

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Muffin Day raises awareness about hunger and homelessness. Originally, Muffin Day was another superfluous food holiday created on the internet without sponsors, purpose, or reason. Enter attorney Jacob Kaufman, the "muffin man of San Francisco." Kaufman regularly distributed fresh muffins to the city's homeless on his way to work each morning. In 2015 he saw a chance to take a useless day, Muffin Day, and make it mean something. Reaching out to his colleague, Julia Levy of Atlanta, the two created a community-focused initiative centering on muffins in their cities. Volunteers, or muffineers, purchase muffins to raise money for homelessness and then give these muffins to the homeless to address hunger—two objectives accomplished with one muffin? Now that is an impressive quick bread! Kaufman's muffineering inspired others worldwide to do the same in their cities. The event moved from its fixed date of February 20 to a weekend nearest that date, thus allowing muffineers to take part in "spreading the muffin" over weekends globally. Are you interested in becoming a muffineer or creating a Muffin Day drive in your city? Try donuts, croissants, or breakfast strudels if muffins aren't your culture's thing. The principle is the same with something to sell that becomes something to eat. See https://nationalmuffinday.org for information.

Africa

Feb

Museum Advocacy Day: February 24-25

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DISCOVER YOUR LOCAL MUSEUMS: MUSEUM ADVOCACY DAY Museum Advocacy Day is a pivotal annual event that unites museum professionals, advocates, and supporters in Washington, D.C., to underscore the crucial role museums play in society. Organized by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), it typically takes place in late February and draws participants from across the United States, including museum directors, curators, educators, trustees, and volunteers. The primary purpose of Museum Advocacy Day is to advocate for policies and funding that support museums, ensuring their sustainability and growth. Participants meet with members of Congress and their staff to discuss the economic, educational, and cultural impact of museums in their communities. They highlight how museums contribute to local economies, support academic initiatives, and preserve cultural heritage. Museum Advocacy Day is crucial because it gives museums a unified voice in the nation's capital, advocating for federal funding, tax incentives, and educational programs. It also helps to counteract funding cuts, policy changes, and other threats impacting museums' ability to serve the public. Participation in Museum Advocacy Day includes various activities, from attending advocacy workshops and networking events to direct meetings with legislators. Advocates are also encouraged to participate virtually, using social media and other digital platforms to amplify their message. Your participation in Museum Advocacy Day, as a diverse stakeholder, is instrumental in strengthening the collective impact of the museum community. This ensures that museums remain vital resources for education, culture, and community engagement.

Africa

Feb

Optimists Day, World: February 6

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World Optimists Day, created in 2013, is a global celebration promoting positivity and an optimistic outlook, is observed annually. The event is a reminder to focus on the bright side of life and a call to action to spread hope and joy in communities worldwide. Optimists International, a service organization founded in 1919, founded the event to promote optimism and positive thinking. The primary purpose of World Optimists Day is to encourage individuals to look at life with a hopeful perspective and acknowledge the power of positive thinking and its impact on mental well-being, stress reduction, and overall quality of life. World Optimists Day is a reminder that, despite challenges and setbacks, a positive outlook can lead to improved coping strategies, resilience, and even improved health outcomes. It's also an opportunity for communities, schools, and organizations to engage in activities that promote optimism, such as sharing uplifting stories, hosting motivational talks, and engaging in community service. CELEBRATING WORLD OPTIMISTS DAY Celebrations of World Optimists Day vary globally, but common activities include: Community events focused on spreading joy and hope. Workshops on positive thinking. Social media campaigns encourage people to share messages of optimism. Schools and educational institutions may participate by organizing events that foster a positive student environment, such as gratitude exercises or acts of kindness challenges. Businesses and organizations often use this day to engage in team-building activities centered around positive thinking and to highlight the importance of a positive workplace culture. In summary, World Optimists Day celebrates the power and benefits of positive thinking. Its significance lies in its universal message of hope, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. The day provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to reflect on the positive aspects of life and to spread an optimistic outlook, which can profoundly affect both individual well-being and societal harmony.

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