All - Leep Calendar

Summer signals the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival. Established in 1971, the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival honors the life and works of Bix Beiderbecke, a world-renowned musician who died on August 6, 1931. Concerts are held in his hometown Davenport, Iowa featuring his works and compositions. Popularly known as “Bix Bash,” this event is sponsored by the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Society. The event gathers jazz artists from across the country.

Africa

Aug

Black August (1971): August

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Black August recognizes the contributions of living and past black freedom fighters, political prisoners, and black revolutionaries who challenge the status quo for equal rights. The month falls on the anniversary of the death of George Lester Jackson (September 23, 1941 – August 21, 1971). Jackson was a member of the Black Panther movement in the 1960s, a prison gang leader, a radical advocate for prisoner rights, and a murderer. He often used violence to make his points. Jackson died while holding and killing five hostages during an attempted prison escape at California's San Quentin prison. Jackson documented his time in Soledad Prison in the book "Soledad Brother: The Prison Letters of George Jackson," which brought him global attention.

Africa

Aug

Black Business Month: August

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Black Business Month honors the contributions of black-owned enterprises to the US economy. Each day focuses on a different business category.

Africa

Aug

Black Cat Appreciation Day, Ntl.: August 17

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BLACK CAT APPRECIATION DAY Black Cat Appreciation Day is an adoption awareness event. Due to superstition, black cats often have a hard time getting adopted. Islamic and Christian faiths (50% of the world's population) historically attribute black cats to witchcraft and evil. Of course, it is silly. They're just black. But the stereotypes endure. On August 17, the ASPCA and other animal advocates highlight black (and tuxedo) cats with special adoption incentives each year. Let a black cat cross your path and enter your home as part of the family. BLACK CAT SUPERSTITIONS Black cats have been the subject of myths and superstitions across various cultures and throughout history, often seen as either good luck or bad luck, depending on the region. Here are some common superstitions surrounding black cats: Bad Luck in Western Cultures: A black cat crossing your path is considered bad luck in many Western cultures, particularly in the United States and parts of Europe. This superstition dates back to the Middle Ages when black cats were often associated with witchcraft and evil. Good Luck in the UK and Japan: Conversely, black cats symbolize good luck in the United Kingdom and Japan. In the UK, a black cat crossing your path brings good fortune, while in Japan, black cats attract positive relationships and prosperity. Witches' Familiars: During witch hunts in some parts of Europe, black cats were believed to be familiars of witches or even witches themselves transformed into animal form. Owning a black cat could lead to accusations of witchcraft. Sailors' Companions: Sailors used to keep black cats on ships as a talisman against bad luck at sea. Families of sailors also kept black cats at home to protect their loved ones while at sea. Symbol of Prosperity: A strange black cat's arrival at your home signifies prosperity in Scotland. Financial Fortune: In France, black cats are referred to as "matagots" or "magician cats" and bring good luck and wealth to owners who feed and treat them well. The superstitions about black cats illustrate how cultural perspectives can vary dramatically from one place to another, with the same animal seen as either a harbinger of good luck or a bad omen.

Africa

Aug

Blackpool Illuminations (UK): August 28 - January 3, 2027 (est)

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Drawing 3.5 million visitors a year, the Blackpool Illumination is a major tourist attraction since 1879. The spectacle of lights features over 400,000 lamps covering approximately 5 miles of waterfront along the Promenade in Blackpool, Lancashire, in the NW United Kingdom. The first Friday of September typically includes a massive 'flip the switch' party, and the lights stay up until January 1.

Africa

Aug

Blueberry Month, Ntl. (CA): August

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The NABC and the Canadian Government recognize National Blueberry Month in August; the US version occurs in July. Celebrations of this month include family discounts at u-pick farms, recipe contests, promotions at supermarkets and farmer's markets, and blueberry festivals throughout the country.

Africa

Aug

Bonza Bottler Day™, Intl: August 8

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When the number of the month matches the number of the day, that's Bonza Bottler Day. It is a play on numbers. There are twelve Bonza Bottler Days a year. This event began in 1985. Bonza is Australian for "Super." Bottler is slang for "something excellent."

Africa

Aug

Book Lovers Day, Intl.: August 9

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Book Lover's Day encourages people to pick up a book and read it for the day. Celebrating Book Lovers Day is simple. Buy that book you've always wanted to read. Rearrange your home library or host a party around the theme of your favorite literary escape.

Africa

Aug

Boomers Making a Difference Month: August

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Until the 21st Century, Baby Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, were the largest generation the world had ever seen. They earned their name due to the 'baby boom' ensuing as soldiers worldwide returned home from WWII. Boomers are split into two groups: Premier baby boomers from 1945-1954 and secondary boomers from 1955-1964. Boomers Making a Difference Month, first run in 2010, highlights the contributions of the Baby Boomers to society.

Africa

Aug

Bow Day, Intl.: August 19

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International accessories retailer Claire's created International Bow Day before starting the school year. For centuries, bows have adorned clothes, hair, hats, and other accessories. Items like the bowtie are ubiquitous among men, while hair bows, varying in size and placement, often define women's and girls' fashions of the time. Check for special deals with Claire's on this day.

Africa

Aug

Bowling Day, Ntl.: August 8

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National Bowling Day in the U.S. celebrates bowling, a game involving lanes, balls, and pins. Various forms of bowling have existed since ancient times. However, the country that invented bowling as we know it today is Germany. Whether you’re a bowling enthusiast, a fan, or haven’t ever bowled, there is one great way to mark this day. Go bowling!

Africa

Aug

Bowtie Day, Ntl.: August 28

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The bowtie appears to have originated in Croatia during the 1600s. It was functional and decorative, keeping collars closed in much the same way we use cravats today. Of course, French aristocrats, always on the lookout for the following big fashion statement, took this more straightforward statement and evolved it into the bow tie. Later the standard necktie we're all familiar with today. Bowties come in three primary attachments: untied, pre-tied, and clip-on, and can be worn by men, women, and pets. Styles can vary from the common butterfly bowtie to the rare rounded club. Choose your favorite bowtie style today and strut your stuff. Annually in August. This event does not have an official champion.

Africa

Aug

Braham Pie Day (US-MN): August 7

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Braham is the homemade pie capitol of Minnesota, and Pie Day is how the state shows off. You'll find baking competitions, a lot of pies, a car show, live music and vendors from all over the state demonstrating products and services. The Braham Pie day draws over 5,000 people annually. 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 unknown until 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

Aug

Breastfeeding Month, Ntl.: August

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NATIONAL BREASTFEEDING MONTH: INSPIRING HEALTH AND SUPPORT Every August, the United States celebrates National Breastfeeding Month, a campaign endorsed by the United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC), a coalition of over 50 organizations committed to safeguarding, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding. The USBC, as a leading authority in this field, champions the event, which is designed to highlight the benefits of breastfeeding and provide support to nursing mothers. PURPOSE OF THE EVENT National Breastfeeding Month is dedicated to raising awareness about the crucial health benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers. The campaign underscores the significance of breastfeeding during the first six months of a child's life, a period recommended by health organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization. Breastfeeding during this time provides vital nutrients and antibodies that strengthen a baby's immune system, reducing the risk of infections, allergies, and chronic conditions later in life. For mothers, breastfeeding can aid in postpartum recovery and lower the risk of certain cancers and other health issues. National Breastfeeding Month is a month-long initiative that encourages mothers to seek out information, resources, and support to successfully breastfeed. This includes participating in educational programs, joining support groups, and accessing lactation consultants who can provide personalized assistance. However, the campaign's impact extends beyond individual support. It also advocates for workplace accommodations, public breastfeeding rights, and community support. By recognizing and addressing the needs of breastfeeding mothers, the campaign aims to create a more breastfeeding-friendly environment where mothers feel valued and supported. CHALLENGES FOR LACTATING MOTHERS Despite its benefits, breastfeeding mothers often encounter several obstacles. Common challenges include physical issues like latch difficulties, pain, and low milk supply. Additionally, societal factors such as lack of support from employers, inadequate parental leave policies, and public stigma can hinder a mother's ability to breastfeed. National Breastfeeding Month seeks to address these barriers by promoting policies that support breastfeeding mothers, such as paid family leave, flexible work schedules, and the establishment of lactation rooms in workplaces. Through various campaigns and events, the USBC and its partners play a crucial role in normalizing breastfeeding and ensuring that all mothers have the information and support they need to make informed decisions about infant feeding. This collective effort reassures mothers and caregivers that they are not alone in their breastfeeding journey. National Breastfeeding Month serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to support breastfeeding families and the long-term health benefits it fosters for both mothers and their children.

Africa

Aug

Breastfeeding Month, Ntl.: August

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Africa