All - Leep Calendar

National S'mores Day honors the three-ingredient camping treat made of graham crackers, toasted marshmallows, and melted chocolate. The recipe was first published 1927 in the Camping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts, the Girl Scout Handbook. Since that first publishing, s'mores have ascended to the status of campfire cooking legend. A personal story from Laura (LEEP’s founder): "I love s'mores, and thankfully they are halal. Soon after arriving in Saudi Arabia, I had about twenty co-workers over to my home for a party. In the weeks leading up, I collected supplies. After a lot of hunting, I found graham crackers in Bahrain, flat chocolate bars (Swiss), and to my surprise, jumbo marshmallows. Luckily, the company commissary had these in stock temporarily; I bought five bags. Supplied, I was ready to try out my new firepit! None of my international friends (Saudi, South Korea, Egypt, Portugal, Australia, United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa) knew what a s'more was. I trotted out the ingredients, converted several wire hangers into skewers, and started roasting marshmallows. Soon a crowd gathered. "What are you doing, Laura?" Mona, an Egyptian, asked. "Something American you are going to love. Grab the graham crackers and cut that chocolate bar in thirds," I instructed, pointing to the box and bars. Mona cut the bar, broke the graham cracker in half, placed the chocolate on top of one of the two pieces, and then motioned her to bring it to me on a plate. On my wire hanger, the giant marshmallow was turning golden brown. Motioning to the plate with the graham cracker halves and chocolate, I asked, "Bring that here." Removing the marshmallow from the flame, I used the top graham cracker to slide the toasted marshmallow off the wire onto the bottom cracker and chocolate. Viola! Graham cracker, chocolate, toasted marshmallow, graham cracker, or a s’more. “Taste it,” I suggested. She did, and…” Mash’allah! This is so good!” Very quickly, the rest of my wire hanger skewers were sporting large marshmallows over the flame. S’mores were a hit in every language you can imagine, and my five bags, chocolate, and graham crackers quickly disappeared. Food is the best ambassador. I think I might also be responsible for the Eastern Province peanut butter cookie addiction. That’s another story. I never was able to get giant marshmallows at the company commissary again. For some reason, Lulu sold out as soon as they came in.”

Africa

Aug

Shapewear Day, Ntl.: August 10

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Created by shapewear retailer The Pinkroom, National Shapewear Day celebrates the undergarments men and women use to create the perfect silhouette and minimize jostles and jiggles. Undergarments have been used for thousands of years to create the illusion of beauty or provide support during physically demanding activities. Their use and purpose ebbed and flowed with popular culture and the definitions of beauty at the time. National Shapewear Day is a nationally observed event. See your local and online retailers for specials on this day.

Africa

Aug

Afternoon Tea Week (UK): August 11-17 (est)

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AFTERNOON TEA—A BRITISH TRADITION The afternoon tea ritual holds a cherished place in British culture. This time-honored custom, often enjoyed between 3:30 and 5 PM, is more than just a meal; it reflects the nation's affinity for elegance and refinement. TEA TIDBITS Afternoon tea typically consists of a delightful assortment of sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries. Finger sandwiches cut in small squares or rectangles filled with cucumber smoked salmon, egg and watercress, or ham and mustard provide a savory start. Part two includes scones. Scones are broken in half and never cut. Next, dab a dollop of clotted cream and jam on the plate, never directly on the scone when serving. The final tier of tea presents an array of cakes and pastries, featuring everything from Victoria Sponge and Battenberg cake to delicate éclairs and macaroons. PREPARING THE PERFECT CUP OF ENGLISH TEA Properly preparing a cup of tea is an art form in England. The process begins with fresh, cold water brought to a rolling boil. Loose-leaf tea (2 grams per cup) is placed in a teapot and warmed with hot water before brewing. Boiling water is added to the damp tea leaves and set aside to steep for three to five minutes, depending on the desired strength. Next, milk and sugar (or lemon for some) are added to the cup if desired. This prevents the milk from scalding. Once added, situate a strainer over the teacup and pour the steeped tea into the stainer. The stainer will catch the loose tea leaves. After pouring the tea, stir it in a lateral motion from six to twelve back and forth with the concaved spoon facing you—not round and round, an action that splashes and fails to dissolve the sugar well. A HISTORICAL NECESSITY TURNED CULTURAL ICON Tea became the official court beverage in England around 1662 when the dowry of a Portuguese princess, Catherine of Braganza, included it upon her marriage to Charles II. The idea of afternoon tea originated with Anna Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, around 1840. The time between lunch and dinner (Noon and 8 PM) seemed forever, and afternoon tea provided the opportunity for a light snack and socializing. The Duchess found herself experiencing a "sinking feeling" in the late afternoon. She began inviting friends to join her for an additional meal of tea and light refreshments. The practice quickly gained popularity, evolving from a private social event into a widespread societal custom. Today, afternoon tea is celebrated both in homes and in upscale hotels, where it serves as a symbol of British hospitality and genteel leisure. Whether enjoyed in the lush settings of a country garden or the refined ambiance of a London tea room, afternoon tea remains a quintessentially British experience, embodying the nation's love for tradition and friendliness. This event first occurred in 2010 and was created by Keith Newton.

Africa

Aug

Allotments Week, Ntl. (UK): August 11-17 (est)

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National Allotments Week encourages each Brit to contribute to society by growing some of their food. Growing your food can be as simple as a kitchen herb garden or a full-scale backyard garden. However, if you choose to participate, enjoying the fruits of your labor is part of the fun.

Africa

Aug

Bargain Hunting Week, Ntl.: August 11-17

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National Bargain Hunting Week is a celebration founded by Debbie Keri-Brown, author of "Bargain Hunting In Central Ohio" and "Bargain Hunting In Columbus." The Great Recession (2008-2012) encouraged people to be more frugal and creative in saving money and reducing waste. Whether rummaging through boxes at a flea market, the clearance rack of a local business, the piles of items at a yard sale, the shelves at off-price stores, or surfing the internet, the hunt for bargains can be just as exciting as the item discovered. Shopping at resale, consignment, and thrift stores supports the recycling movement, and many charities operate. Catchy phrases such as "buy a lamp, create a job" can add deeper personal meaning to the shopping experience. Bartering and trading groups, or similar activities between acquaintances, have emerged as additional ways for people to save money. Created in 1996.

Africa

Aug

Heroes' Day (ZW): August 11

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For 15 years, the people of Zimbabwe fought for their liberation between 1964 and 1980. At the time, the nation was called Rhodesia. Heroes Day is a national holiday to remember all those who fought and died in the liberation struggle. Annually on the 2nd Monday of August.

Africa

Aug

Hip-Hop's Birthday (1973): August 11

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August 11 marks the anniversary of the birth of Hip-Hop. In 1973, DJ Kool Herc (Clive Campbell) and a sibling created a jam session in one of the rooms of their apartment at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the West Bronx. The first hip-hop party had a cover charge of $.25 for women and $.50 for men. Hip-hop's inspiration is urban renewal, which emerged from the neglect of the Nixon administration toward poor Hispanic and black communities. The 70s generation of youth expressed themselves by DJing, breakdancing, MCing, and graffiti, all elements of hip-hop. Fab Five Freddy first coined the term hip-hop to define the four pillars of the said movement.

Africa

Aug

Ingersoll Day (1833): August 11

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ngersoll Day is a historical anniversary commemorating the birth of Robert Green “Bob” Ingersoll, a political leader and a staunch defender of agnosticism in 1833. The Madison Trial of his father led Ingersoll to become a critic of Christianity. Being an attorney, he became involved with the Star Route Trials. He defended James Reavis, a famous con artist. Ingersoll was a noted public speaker whose more famous speeches touched on agnosticism, although he also orated many issues. Ingersoll died of heart disease at age 65 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Africa

Aug

Mountain Day, (JP): August 11

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Mountain Day became an official state holiday in Japan in 2016. It's a celebration of mountains, their ecosystem, and the impact they have on Japanese culture. It's also a day off work. How great is that?

Africa

Aug

Play in the Sand Day: August 11

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Play in the Sand Day is an excuse to head to the beach. Build sandcastles, bury their friends in the sand, and make sand angels. Whatever you do, make sure you’re having fun. Beaches throughout the United States observe this event. Check with your local beach for activities.

Africa

Aug

Presidential Joke Day (1984): August 11

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Presidential Joke Day marks the anniversary of a presidential comic faux pax. On August 11, 1983, the late President Ronald Reagan was doing a voice test using a microphone, and he did not realize it was hot. Ever the great communicator, Reagan laughed it off and declared August 11 henceforth to be a day for presidential humor. Celebrate by telling your best political joke.

Africa

Aug

Raspberry Bombe Day, Ntl.: August 11

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National Raspberry Bombe Day is a food holiday to celebrate the frozen dessert that is delicious and visually pleasing. Raspberry bombe consists of heavy cream, sugar, rum, sherbet, candied fruit, nuts, and frozen nuts.

Africa

Aug

Safe + Sound Week, Ntl.: August 11-17 (est)

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Safe + Sound Week is an annual event taking place every August across the United States, celebrating the accomplishments of workplace health and safety initiatives while providing resources and insights on maintaining a safe work environment for American employees. Reasons to Participate: Effective health and safety programs have the ability to identify and address potential workplace hazards before they result in injury or illness, enhancing sustainability and overall profitability. Involvement in Safe + Sound Week can assist in launching a new safety program, revitalizing an existing one, or offering an opportunity to acknowledge the successes of your organization's safety efforts.

Africa

Aug

Son and Daughter Day, Intl.: August 11

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International Son & Daughter Day is a day for parents to appreciate their children. The opposite of Father's Day and Mother's Day, today, kids rule.

Africa

Aug

Steelpan Day, World (1951): August 11

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A RUM-PA-PA-PUM! IT'S WORLD STEELPAN (DRUM) DAY World Steelpan Day, celebrated annually on August 11, is a global celebration dedicated to honoring the steelpan, also known as the steel drum. This day is a testament to the steelpan's cultural significance, promoting its rich musical heritage and recognizing its profound impact on global music. It's a day to celebrate the craftsmanship and artistry involved in its creation and performance, a cultural narrative that resonates with people worldwide. The steelpan, a percussion instrument from Trinidad and Tobago, is a marvel of musical ingenuity. Crafted from a 55-gallon industrial drum, traditionally used for storing oil, the steelpan is tuned to produce distinct pitches, creating a unique and melodic sound that is instantly recognizable. Played using rubber-tipped mallets, its music is a staple in Caribbean culture, particularly in genres such as calypso, soca, and reggae. HISTORY OF THE STEELPAN DRUM The steelpan's history dates back to the early 20th century in Trinidad and Tobago. During World War II, the colonial authorities banned traditional African drums. In response, the local musicians, often called pannists, began experimenting with metal objects, creating the first steelpans. The instrument evolved through the ingenuity and resourcefulness of these musicians, who crafted and tuned the steelpans to produce a wide range of musical notes. By the 1940s, the steelpan had gained popularity and became integral to Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival celebrations. Innovators like Winston "Spree" Simon, Ellie Mannette, and Anthony Williams made significant contributions to the design and tuning of the instrument, enhancing its musical range and versatility. The steelpan eventually gained international recognition and is now celebrated worldwide for its distinct sound and cultural importance. EVENT HISTORY World Steelpan Day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2023, following a resolution proposed by Trinidad and Tobago. The date, August 11, was chosen to commemorate the first documented steelpan competition anniversary in 1951. The international community's recognition of this day underscores the global appreciation for the steelpan and its cultural significance. The inaugural World Steelpan Day in 2023 saw widespread celebrations, with events held across the Caribbean and worldwide. The day was marked by performances, educational workshops, and cultural exchanges, highlighting the instrument's rich history and impact on global music. HOW TO PARTICIPATE Global Celebrations People worldwide participate in World Steelpan Day through various activities to celebrate and promote the steelpan. In Trinidad and Tobago, the day includes lively performances, parades, and competitions featuring local steel bands. These events showcase the talent and creativity of pannists, drawing large crowds of enthusiastic supporters. Educational Initiatives Schools and cultural institutions play a crucial role in World Steelpan Day by organizing workshops and seminars to educate the public about the steelpan's history and significance. These programs often include demonstrations by skilled pannists, interactive sessions, and hands-on opportunities for participants to try playing the instrument. They can also incorporate the steelpan into their music curriculum or organize field trips to local steel bands' performances. Community Events Community centers and music schools host open-air concerts, street performances, and cultural fairs. These gatherings provide a platform for local musicians to perform and serve as a testament to the steelpan's role in fostering a sense of community and cultural pride. They celebrate the instrument's rich history and its influence on the cultural landscape of Trinidad and Tobago. Online Engagement Social media campaigns and virtual events play a significant role in spreading awareness and engaging a global audience. Hashtags like #WorldSteelpanDay and #CelebrateSteelpan designate performances, stories, and educational content, connecting enthusiasts and musicians worldwide. World Steelpan Day celebrates the steelpan's legacy and contributions to the global musical landscape. By promoting the instrument and its cultural roots, the day significantly contributes to the preservation and elevation of Trinidad and Tobago's rich traditions. It also fosters a greater appreciation for the artistry and innovation behind the steelpan, ensuring its continued relevance and influence in contemporary music.

Africa