All - Leep Calendar

Feng Shui New Year is the time to reorder your home and surroundings to complement the Chinese New Year and its zodiac. During 2024's Year of the Dragon, spring green and royal yellow are considered particularly auspicious colors. Feng Shui New Year refers to the observance of the Lunar New Year through the principles of Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics and geomancy. This practice aims to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment through the arrangement and orientation of space. Below are some key components that outline the academic understanding of Feng Shui New Year: Feng Shui Principles: Feng Shui focuses on the balanced flow of Qi, or energy, within a space. During the Lunar New Year, these principles become highly significant as they are believed to affect the coming year's prosperity, health, and happiness. Preparation: The practice involves thoroughly cleaning and decluttering the living space to remove negative energy and make room for new, positive energy, including carefully positioning furniture, using specific colors, and the placing of symbolic objects. The Five Elements: Within Feng Shui, the five elements - Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water - must be balanced. For the New Year, these elements are typically represented through decorations, food, and rituals, aligning with the specific energies of the year. Yin and Yang: Balancing the dual forces of Yin (feminine, dark, soft) and Yang (masculine, bright, hard) is essential in Feng Shui. During the New Year, this balance is emphasized to ensure harmony in relationships, health, and other aspects of life. Symbolism: Various symbols are used during Feng Shui New Year to attract specific energies. For example, red wards off evil, and certain animals or objects may be displayed to attract luck, wealth, or other desired outcomes. Directional Energies: The orientation and direction of objects and structures play a significant role in Feng Shui. During the New Year, adjustments might be made based on the Chinese zodiac animal of the year and the specific energies associated with the changing annual cycles. Cultural Integration: Feng Shui New Year is a spiritual practice and a cultural phenomenon. It reflects a deep philosophical understanding of nature's balance and human's connection to their environment. Criticism and Interpretations: Academic study of Feng Shui also includes analysis of different interpretations, criticisms, and the integration of Feng Shui principles in modern urban planning and architecture. Some scholars argue that Feng Shui has evolved into a commercial practice rather than a true spiritual philosophy in some contexts. In conclusion, the practice of Feng Shui during the Lunar New Year is a multifaceted ritual encompassing aesthetics, philosophy, and spirituality. It is rooted in ancient Chinese cosmology and continues to be a significant aspect of cultural tradition, influencing personal spaces and broader architectural and urban planning concepts.

Africa

Feb

Ferris Wheel Day (1859): February 14

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Ferris Wheel Day honors George Washington Gale Ferris, Jr., the inventor of the Ferris Wheel. Ferris was born on February 14, 1859, graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute School of Engineering and died at age 37 in 1896. The first Ferris Wheel, built at the cost of $400,000, premiered at the Chicago Columbian Exhibition in 1893, just three years before his death. It had 36 cars, each fitted with 40 revolving chairs, and could carry up to 60 people. Upon the fair’s opening, the Ferris wheel carried 38,000 passengers daily, with each trip requiring 10 minutes to complete one full revolution. Each rider enjoyed two turns. The first Ferris wheel carried over 2.5 million people during its lifetime, grossing 1.25 million in sales throughout its 13-year history. It was demolished in 1906.

Africa

Feb

Festival de la Virgen de la Candelaria (PE): February 2-14

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The Festivity of Virgen de la Candelaria, held in Puno, Peru, is one of the most significant cultural events in the country. It has been declared a part of the world's cultural heritage by UNESCO and takes place every February, attracting large crowds worldwide. The festival honors the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of Puno, and the celebrations involve traditional music, colorful costumes, vibrant dances, and religious processions, bringing together Catholic traditions and indigenous Andean religious customs, making it a unique blend of cultures. Historical Background: This festival's origins intertwine with the Catholic faith and indigenous beliefs. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to the locals as a beautiful woman. When the locals tried to approach her, she disappeared and was replaced by a statue of the Virgin. This miraculous event led to the Virgin of Candelaria being proclaimed the patron saint of Puno. The festival also incorporates indigenous Andean traditions. Many of the dances performed during the festival illustrate stories about the spirits of the mountains (known as "Apus"), the devil ("Supay"), and various animals sacred to the indigenous peoples of the region. Experience of the Festival: The celebration begins on February 2nd, the Catholic feast day of the Virgin of Candelaria. Festivities start with a grand parade that includes different brotherhoods from various communities in and around Puno, each wearing unique costumes and dancing to traditional music. One of the most captivating parts of the festival is the dance competition, held in the main stadium of Puno. Different dance troupes compete, each performing a traditional dance, like the Diablada (Dance of the Devils), Morenada, or Caporales. These dances often tell stories or depict battles between good and evil. The festival peaks between February 10-12, with the day-long dance competition in the stadium. During this period, the city of Puno is awash with parades, parties, and processions, creating an atmosphere of festivity and celebration. For a visitor, the Festivity of Virgen de la Candelaria offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in Peruvian culture. It's a time when the city of Puno comes alive with vibrant colors, traditional music, and a sense of shared cultural pride. The festival is a testament to Peru's rich cultural heritage, uniquely combining Catholic and indigenous traditions.

Africa

Feb

Fettuccini Alfredo Day: February 7

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Alfredo Di Lelio owned a small restaurant in Rome in 1914. After his first son's birth, his wife Ines found it challenging to eat, and to help her, he created a dish of noodles, cheese, and butter. Ines loved the dish and insisted it be placed on the restaurant's menu; at the same time, their second son, named after his father, was born. Visit Rome today, and you can still eat the original Fettuccini Alfredo at Alfredo's restaurant, L' Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante.

Africa

Feb

Fiesta de los Vaqueros and Tucson Rodeo (US-AZ): February 15-23

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The first La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros (Celebration of the Cowboys) originated in 1925. Today, the event has grown to a nine-day celebration centered on the Tucson Rodeo, one of North America's top 25 professional rodeos. The Tucson Rodeo Parade is the world's longest non-motorized parade, a two-hour spectacle featuring western-themed floats and buggies, historic horse-drawn coaches, festive Mexican folk dancers, marching bands, and costumed riders. An estimated 200,000 spectators view the parade each year. Rodeo events include bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, and women's barrel racing. Also featured each day are kids' events: RAM Mutton Bustin', when four-to-six-year-olds test their riding skills on sheep, and the Justin Junior Rodeo for young cowpokes ages seven to twelve. Annually in February.

Africa

Mar

Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (AR): March 2-10

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La Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia, or the Mendoza Grape Harvest Festival, occurs annually in the Mendoza province of Argentina and is a celebration of the winemaking process and one of the most important festivals in the country. The link for this event is a live stream, allowing you to participate in the festivities during the event. The origins of the festival trace back to the late 19th century when local vineyard owners began to celebrate the grape harvest with festivities and parades. The first state-supported Mendoza Grape Harvest Festival took place in 1936. The event has grown in size and importance each year and now attracts tens of thousands of tourists annually. The celebration usually begins in January, with a series of local events throughout Mendoza province. In early March, the festivities move to the city of Mendoza itself. Typically the celebration includes: The Blessing of the Fruits occurs on the last Saturday of February and includes a religious ceremony to bless this year's grape harvest. Via Blanca de las Reinas occurs on the first Friday of March. It involves a night parade through the streets of Mendoza city, during which the Harvest Queens from each province of Mendoza present their departments with decorated carts. Carrusel Vendimial: Held the morning after the Via Blanca, this parade includes horses, gauchos (Argentine cowboys), traditional music and dance, Argentine folklore, and traditions.

Africa

Feb

Financial Aid Awareness Month: February

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Financial Aid Awareness Month recognizes the critical role of financial aid and the need for greater public understanding of it. February is the month to raise awareness as it precedes many college and university application deadlines. The month aims to educate students and families about the availability of financial aid, how to apply for it, and the various types available, including grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships. Colleges, universities, high schools, and financial aid organizations engage in outreach this month, hosting workshops, information sessions, and advising meetings to demystify the process of financial assistance and encourage timely application submission. The history of financial aid in the United States is a narrative of evolving policies and programs to ensure greater access to education. This journey, marked by significant legislative milestones, reflects the nation's growing recognition of the importance of higher education and its commitment to making it accessible to a broader population segment. The genesis of modern financial aid can be traced back to the post-World War II era, particularly with the enactment of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the GI Bill. This landmark legislation provided various benefits for returning World War II veterans, including significant educational subsidies, effectively opening the doors of higher education to a segment of the population that previously might not have had the opportunity. However, the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965 laid the foundation for the current financial aid system. Part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society programs, the HEA aimed to strengthen colleges and universities' educational resources and provide financial assistance for students in postsecondary and higher education. It introduced programs like the Educational Opportunity Grant (later renamed the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant) and the Guaranteed Student Loan program (now the Federal Stafford Loan). Over the ensuing decades, these programs expanded and evolved. In 1972, the HEA was reauthorized, leading to the creation of the Pell Grant, named after Senator Claiborne Pell. This program became a cornerstone of federal financial aid for college students, providing need-based grants to low-income undergraduates. Financial aid became increasingly crucial as the cost of higher education continued to rise. Subsequent amendments to the HEA and other legislative acts, such as the creation of the Federal Direct Student Loan Program in the 1990s, have sought to address the challenges of affordability and access. Financial Aid Awareness Month underscores a continuing effort to democratize access to higher education. It reflects the belief that education is a pathway to opportunity and should be accessible to all, regardless of financial background.

Africa

Feb

Finns Day (SE)(1796): February 24

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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!

Africa

Feb

Flag Day (CA)(1965): February 15

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The search for a new Canadian flag started in 1925 when a committee of the Privy Council began researching possible national flag designs. Forty years later, on February 15, 1965, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, officially proclaimed the Maple Leaf Flag the official banner of Canada.

Africa

Feb

Flag Day (MX)(1984): February 24

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Green represents independence, white honors the purity of the Roman Catholic faith, and red represents the blood of national heroes and Spanish ancestry; the Mexican flag includes an emblem of an eagle on a cactus with a snake honoring the Aztec people indigenous to the area. It became the official flag of Mexico, celebrating its heritage and people in 1821. Today's flag is similar, with the colors slightly brighter and the insignia more complex. The current flag was adopted for use officially on February 24, 1984. Flag Day (El Did de la Bandera) is a national holiday in Mexico.

Africa

Feb

Flamenco Festival, Jerez (ES): February 21 - March 8

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Since 1996, Jerez de la Frontera in Cadiz, Andalusia, Spain, has held a two-week festival, La Feria de Jerez, highlighting traditional and contemporary Flamenco dancing. The entire city participates in live theater, pubs, and Flamenco classes for anyone attending. Annually in late winter. PLEASE NOTE: Treat all televised and venue-specific events (sporting, concerts, trade shows, etc.) as estimated. Several factors can cause an event to move dates at the last minute, including weather, strikes, natural disasters, political upheaval, conflicting programming, pandemics, and current events. Because of this, always verify the event with the promotor before committing resources. LEEP often estimates dates based on the previous year's schedules, as the final dates are only a few months, weeks, or days before the event. If the date is known to be estimated, you will see an (est) following the date in the title.

Africa

Feb

Flannel Day, Ntl.: February 10

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National Flannel Day is an unofficial event dedicated to the appreciation and recognition of flannel, the warm, soft fabric known for its comfort and plaid patterns. This day encourages people to don their favorite flannel attire, celebrating the fabric's versatility and role in fashion and practical wear. Flannel's history dates back to the 17th century in Wales. The fabric was crafted from carded wool or worsted yarn. The fabric gained popularity for its warmth and durability, making it ideal for protecting against the damp, cold climate of the region. Flannel was not always synonymous with the plaid pattern it is often associated with today; originally, it was a warm, soft fabric. Flannel production expanded with the Industrial Revolution, which brought about advances in textile manufacturing, making the fabric more accessible and affordable. By the 19th century, flannel found favor in various products ranging from bed sheets to undergarments and outdoor wear. Flannel's association with plaid patterns began in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, symbolizing rugged outdoor workwear. The fabric became a symbol of masculinity and was popular among lumberjacks, farmers, and outdoorsmen. In the 1990s, flannel became popular as it became associated with the grunge music scene, further embedding it in popular culture. National Flannel Day celebrates this enduring and versatile fabric. The day is marked by wearing flannel clothing, sharing images on social media, and hosting themed events or promotions by clothing retailers. It's a day that highlights flannel's practicality and comfort and its cultural significance, from a symbol of the working class to an iconic fashion statement.

Africa

Feb

Flirting Week, Intl.: February 9-15

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Created by best-selling relationship author Robin Gorman Newman, International Flirting Week celebrates this ancient art. It recognizes its role in the lives of singles seeking a mate, couples looking to sustain their love, and those simply exchanging a playful glance with a stranger, acquaintance, or colleague. Flirting, though a natural response to the opposite sex, is not always considered a good thing. In fundamentalist religious groups within the major faiths of the Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Mormon, flirting can be seen as immoral and actively condemned or prosecuted.

Africa

Feb

Floral Design Day (1914): February 28

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The original idea behind Floral Design Day marked Carl Rittner's birthday. Mr. "R," as his students affectionately called him, founded The Rittners School of Floral Design in Boston over sixty years ago and was a pioneer in floral art education. Through the years, his humor, patience, and wealth of floral industry knowledge have markedly impacted thousands of students from all over the globe. It was significant when Governor Weld of Massachusetts proclaimed Floral Design Day as part of Mr. Rittner's special birthday celebration. The holiday celebrates floral design as an art form. Floral design spans thousands of years in diversity and style, reflecting various social, religious, and cultural trends. It plays a vital role in social interactions, decorating, and in establishing and maintaining relationships. The floral industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry that brightens, which peaks during Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Mother's Day.

Africa

Feb

Flu Season Peak, Northern: February

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In February, flu season peaks in the Northern Hemisphere, thus accounting for 50% of the sniffling, sneezing, coughing, and fevers. If you’ve made it this far without the flu, you may make it through the season flu-free!

Africa