All - Leep Calendar

Stargazing, wildlife watching, and even ghost walks are just some of the activities available during the United Kingdom's Dark Skies Festival in Yorkshire, England. It's a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature at night (and maybe see the Northern Lights as well). Locations vary, and visit the website for the best viewing locations.

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Feb

Darwin Day, Intl. (1809): February 12

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Today is the anniversary of the birth of Dr. Charles Robert Darwin on February 12, 1809, at The Mount, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, United Kingdom. He passed away on April 19, 1882, at 73. Darwin is renowned for his work on human evolution, and his best-known works are "Origins of the Species" and "The Decent of Man;" he is considered one of the most controversial scientists of all time. His thesis directly challenged the literal interpretation of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism's origins story on how man came to be and how long he has existed on this planet. Darwin's work does not challenge the parable or analogous interpretations of the faiths, which historically used storytelling to explain a complex idea in a language people 5500 to 170 years ago, absent our understanding of the sciences, could understand. Love his work or hate it, Dr. Darwin was unique in history. This day is about remembering his work and the power of thinking outside the box of perceived wisdom.

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Feb

Date Day, Medjool: February 4

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National Medjool Date Day celebrates fruit as a healthy snack and ingredient in salads, appetizers, entrees, and smoothies. Dates are nature's candy and a healthy alternative to confections. Eighty percent of Medjool dates are produced in the United States in the Bard Valley. Recipes are available on the website.

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Feb

Day of Ashakalia (XK)(2008): February 15

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Howdy! We're working on the description for this event. It's one of over two thousand events added to the calendar this year. We have verified it is an authentic event and have included the organization behind it for our members. In the meantime, we wanted to make sure you were able to include it in your search for events this month and in this category. We appreciate your patience!

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Feb

Day of Prayer for Autism, Intl.: February 9

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Feb

Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants, Intl.: February 20

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Feb

Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, Intl. (2003): February 6

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International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, also referred to as FGM/C Day, marks the anniversary of Nigeria's First Lady Stella Obasanjo's declaration on "Zero Tolerance to FGM" in Africa. She made this declaration during a conference organized by the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (IAC) on February 6, 2003.

Africa

Feb

Daylight Savings (BR), Ends: February 16

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Daylight Savings in Brazil’s southern states commences on the third Sunday in October (spring forward) and ends on the third Sunday in February (fall back). The saying, “spring forward, fall back,” is an excellent way to remember, and it works in the northern and southern hemispheres as the seasons reverse. On this day, Brazilians move the clock one hour ahead at 2 AM in October, or one hour back in February at 2 AM on Sunday. American Benjamin Franklin was the first to propose daylight savings time (DST) in 1784, and modern DST commenced in 1895. Throughout history, several variations of daylight savings ranged from 30 minutes to two hours. Only some nations observe DST, which can make setting appointments very challenging. The primary purpose of DST is to make better use of daylight hours for farming, early morning activities (such as children walking to school in daylight rather than darkness), and saving energy. The closer one lives to the north and south poles, the longer the period of daylight in the summer months. _______________________ DAYLIGHT SAVINGS ABOVE THE EQUATOR United Kingdom, Albania, Adorra, Austria, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guernsey, Holy See, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Jersey, Kosovo, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Western Sahara—Last Sunday of March (spring forward) and the last Sunday of October (fall back). United States, Bahamas, Canada, Cuba, Saint Pierre & Miquelon—Second Sunday of March; first Sunday of November Iran—Begins March 21/22; Ends September 20/21 Israel & Palestine—Friday before the last Sunday, March; last Sunday, October Jordan, Syria— Last Friday, March; last Friday, October Mexico—First Sunday, April; last Sunday, October _______________________ DAYLIGHT SAVINGS BELOW THE EQUATOR Australia—First Sunday of October (spring forward ); first Sunday in April (fall back). Brazil—Third Sunday in October; third Sunday in February. Chile—First or Second Sunday in September; first Sunday in April Fiji & Tonga—First Sunday of November; third Sunday of January. Namibia—First Sunday of September; first Sunday of April. New Zealand—Last Sunday of September; first Sunday of April. Paraguay—First Sunday of October; fourth Sunday of March. Samoa—Last Sunday of September; first Sunday of April.

Africa

Feb

Daytona 500: February 16

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Today is the annual running of the 500-mile race known as the Daytona 500, the most prestigious NASCAR auto race. NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) is a race of stock cars, that is, ordinary vehicles modified for racing (including the elimination of extras, the addition of rollbars, and other safety or weigh reducing modifications. The Daytona 500 began in 1959, with the first race won by Lee Petty, who was driving an Oldsmobile at an average speed of 135.521 MPH (218.0999 km/h). The fastest-ever car in the Daytona 500 was Bill Elliot, driving a Ford in 1987. He won the race averaging 176.263 MPH (283.6687 km/h)! Seven men died racing in the Daytona 500, including the legendary Dale Earnhardt, on February 18, 2001. NASCAR racing is second in popularity to American football in the United States.

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Feb

Declutter for a Cause Month: February

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Declutter for a Cause Month is observed in February and encourages people to declutter and sell the proceeds to support nonprofit organizations or volunteer to help an organization declutter in the name of efficiency. Sponsored by Simply Organizing, LLC of Baltimore.

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Feb

Decorating With Candy Day: February 1

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Decorating With Candy Day is an unofficial event focusing on the creative use of candy in various forms of decoration. This day encourages people to explore candy's artistic and playful side, not just as a treat to eat but as a medium for decorative expression. Using candy for decoration has a long and varied history across different cultures, and it brings versatility and joy to culinary and artistic contexts. Candy decoration evolves in several ways: Cake and Cupcake Decorating: Perhaps the most popular use of candy in decoration, candies add color, texture, and theme to cakes and cupcakes. From sprinkles and chocolate chips to elaborately shaped sugar confections, candy can turn simple baked goods into works of art. Holiday Decorations: During certain holidays, candy plays a significant role in decorations. For example, candy canes are synonymous with Christmas decor and are often used to adorn trees and wreaths. During Easter, candies like jelly beans and chocolate eggs adorn baskets, decorations, and egg hunts. Edible Crafts: Candy creates edible crafts, such as gingerbread houses, a staple during the holiday season. This activity combines culinary skills and artistic expression, using a variety of candies for intricate detailing. Tablescapes and Party Decor: Candy creates colorful and thematic tablescapes for parties and events. Candy placed in jars and dishes adds a visually appealing and edible decor. There are several notable examples of religious customs involving candy. In Mexico and other Latin American countries, "Día de los Muertos" or "Day of the Dead" celebrations often include sugar skulls and brightly decorated candies made of sugar, chocolate, or amaranth to honor deceased loved ones. In Jewish tradition, during the holiday of Hanukkah, chocolate coins known as "gelt" are often used in games and as decorations. Decorating With Candy Day can be celebrated in various ways, from hosting candy decoration parties and workshops to creating candy-based crafts at home. It's a day that appeals to people of all ages, encouraging creativity and bringing a touch of sweetness to the world of art and decor

Africa

Feb

Defender of the Fatherland Day (RU)(1918): February 23

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During the Russian civil war, on February 17, 1918, the first major draft of soldiers into the new Red Army occurred in Petrograd and Moscow. On February 23, the Red Army was established. This day marks that anniversary. It has had several different names over the years and has been celebrated on other days. President Vladimir Putin added the current Defender of the Fatherland holiday to the official Russian holiday calendar in 2002.

Africa

Feb

Democracy Day, Ntl. (NP)(1952): February 18

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Nestled between India and China, the mountain nation of Nepal ratified its constitution on February 18, 1952. National Democracy Day celebrates that anniversary.

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Feb

Desperation Day (2011): February 13

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Feb

Develop Alternative Vices Day, Ntl.: February 9

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Develop Alternative Vices Day, created in 2016, is an unofficial event encouraging individuals to replace harmful vices with healthier alternatives. The concept behind this day is rooted in the understanding that while everyone may have vices, some can be detrimental to physical and mental health. Therefore, the purpose of this day is to promote self-improvement and healthier lifestyle choices. The day reflects a growing awareness of the impact of lifestyle choices on overall well-being and the importance of making conscious, healthier decisions. Vices are habits or behaviors generally considered harmful or immoral by society. Some of the most common vices include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy eating, and drug abuse. These behaviors are often used as coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues. However, they can lead to serious health problems, addiction, and negative impacts on personal and professional life. Vices are considered harmful for several reasons: Health Risks: Many vices pose significant health risks. For example, smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer and heart disease, while excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage and other health issues. Addiction: Vices often become addictive, leading to a cycle of dependency that can be difficult to break. This addiction can overshadow other aspects of life, including relationships and careers. Financial Cost: Maintaining certain vices can be expensive over time, creating financial strain. Social and Ethical Concerns: Some vices can lead to behavior that is damaging to oneself and others, contributing to societal problems like drunk driving or substance abuse. Develop Alternative Vices Day encourages individuals to recognize their harmful habits and seek healthier alternatives like replacing smoking with exercise or meditation or choosing healthier food over junk food. The key is finding enjoyable and fulfilling alternative activities, helping to ease the transition away from harmful habits. The day can be observed in various ways, such as educational campaigns about the dangers of common vices, workshops on developing healthier habits, or personal commitments to making a change. Health professionals and wellness coaches often play a significant role in guiding and supporting those looking to create healthier lifestyles. In summary, Develop Alternative Vices Day is a call to action for individuals to reassess their lifestyle choices and replace harmful vices with healthier alternatives. It's a day highlighting the importance of self-care and making decisions that positively impact one's health and well-being. This observance aims to enhance the quality of life and promote long-term health by focusing on developing positive habits.

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