All - Leep Calendar

ABOUT THE 2026 WINTER OLYMPICS The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in the Italian cities of Milano and Cortina. It is a premier international sporting event that brings together athletes from around the globe to compete in various winter sports. Established in 1924 in Chamonix, France, the Winter Olympics were created to complement the Summer Olympics, focusing on sports played on snow and ice. The Winter Olympics is a truly global event, with athletes from over 90 countries participating and showcasing their skills in various disciplines. The Games are a platform to promote international friendship and cooperation through sport while celebrating the athletic prowess and competitive spirit of the world's best winter sports athletes. The Winter Olympics offer a diverse range of sports, including traditional events such as alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and ski jumping, as well as ice sports like figure skating, ice hockey, and speed skating. The Games also feature thrilling events such as bobsleigh, luge, and the newer snowboarding and freestyle skiing competitions, which have gained popularity in recent years. The Winter Olympics are a platform for sporting excellence and a showcase of cultural exchange and unity. Every four years, the Games provide a stage for athletes to achieve their dreams, set new records, and inspire future generations while fostering a sense of global community and shared passion for winter sports.

Africa

Feb

Friday the 13th: February 13

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Friday the 13th is an unlucky day in Western superstition, and it occurs when the 13th day of the month falls on a Friday in the Gregorian calendar. The superstition surrounding this day may have arisen in the Middle Ages, originating from the story of Jesus' last supper and crucifixion in which there were 13 individuals present in the upper room on the 13th of Nisan (Maundy Thursday), the night before his death on Good Friday. While there is evidence of Friday and the number 13 being considered unlucky, there is no record of the two being referred to as incredibly unfortunate before the 19th century. According to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, North Carolina, an estimated 17 to 21 million people in the United States are affected by a fear of this day, making it the most feared day and date in history. Some people are so paralyzed by fear that they avoid doing business, taking flights, or even getting out of bed. An estimated US$800 to $900 million is lost in business on Friday the 13th, although no scientific evidence exists.

Africa

Jan

College Football Playoff National Championship (US-FL): January 19

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AND THE WINNER IS... THE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP The College Football National Championship, a pivotal event in American college football, serves as the ultimate decider of the national champion of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Since its establishment in 2014, the championship has been the definitive conclusion to the college football season, showcasing the sport's top teams in a high-stakes battle for supremacy. The College Football Playoff (CFP) system was introduced as a replacement for the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), which had faced criticism for its reliance on computer algorithms and polls to determine the national championship game participants. The CFP, with its four-team playoff format selected by a committee of experts, was designed to ensure that the best teams in the nation would have the opportunity to compete for the title on the field. The first CFP National Championship game was held on January 12, 2015, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where Ohio State University defeated the University of Oregon 42-20. The championship is the culmination of a multi-week playoff, a thrilling journey that begins with two semifinal games held at rotating New Year's Six bowls: the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Peach Bowl. The winners of these semifinals advance to the national championship game, played at a different neutral site each year, ensuring widespread excitement and engagement from fans across the country. The importance of the CFP National Championship extends beyond crowning the national champion. It has significantly increased the visibility and revenue of college football, with substantial television ratings and sponsorship deals. The championship game has not just become a major cultural event, but a source of pride, drawing attention from die-hard college football fans and the broader public and enhancing the sport's popularity. Moreover, the CFP National Championship profoundly impacts its host cities, generating significant revenue through tourism, hospitality, and related sectors. The event also engages in various community initiatives and charitable activities, contributing positively to the local communities that host the games and fostering an optimistic outlook for the future. The College Football National Championship has revolutionized how college football's national champion is determined, providing a clear, competitive pathway to the title. Its blend of athletic excellence, economic impact, and cultural significance underscores its importance in American sports, making it a marquee event in the annual sports calendar.

Africa

Jan

Orange Bowl: January 1

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THE TANGIEST BOWL GAME: THE ORANGE BOWL The Orange Bowl, with its rich history dating back to 1935, is one of the most storied and celebrated college football bowl games in the United States. Held annually in Miami, Florida, it has become a vital fixture of the college football postseason, showcasing some of the sport's most memorable moments and legendary athletes. The Orange Bowl was created by Miami officials seeking to attract tourists to the city during the winter months. The inaugural game was played on January 1, 1935, with Bucknell University defeating the University of Miami 26-0. Originally held at the Miami Orange Bowl stadium, the game moved to the state-of-the-art Hard Rock Stadium in 1996, which drew large crowds and national attention. From its early days, the Orange Bowl has featured top-tier competition, initially pitting teams from the southern United States against highly-ranked national opponents. Over the years, the bowl has hosted numerous national champions and Heisman Trophy winners, solidifying its reputation for high-stakes and high-quality football. The Orange Bowl gained further prominence with the advent of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) in 1998, becoming one of the four major bowls that rotated hosting the national championship game. Its status was further elevated in 2014 when it became part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) system, a testament to its significance in the national championship landscape. It now hosts a semifinal game every three years and remains a New Year's Six bowl, ensuring it features marquee matchups annually. The Orange Bowl's significance extends beyond the football field. The game is a major economic driver for the Miami area, generating substantial revenue through tourism and related activities. However, its true impact lies in its vital role in the community. Through the Orange Bowl Committee's philanthropic efforts, it supports local charities and educational initiatives, inspiring others to do the same and making a tangible difference in the community. The Orange Bowl's rich tradition, spanning over eight decades, combined with its role in shaping the national championship landscape and its community impact, underscores its enduring importance. It remains a celebrated event that highlights the excitement, competition, and pageantry of college football, continuing to captivate fans and contribute to the sport's legacy.

Africa

Jan

Magha Puja (B)(531 BC): January 31

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Africa

Jan

Peach Bowl (US-GA): January 9

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THE JUCIEST BOWL GAME: THE PEACH BOWL The Peach Bowl, officially known as the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, is a prominent college football game held annually in Atlanta, Georgia. Since its inception in 1968, it has become a staple of the college football postseason, offering thrilling matchups and contributing to the sport's rich tradition. The Lions Clubs of Georgia founded the Peach Bowl as a fundraiser for local charities. The first game occurred on December 30, 1968, at Grant Field, with Louisiana State University (LSU) defeating Florida State University (FSU) 31-27. The game moved to Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium in 1971 and later to the Georgia Dome in 1992 before finding its current home at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017. Initially considered a minor bowl, the Peach Bowl steadily gained prestige, becoming one of the most well-regarded postseason games. 1993 Chick-fil-A became the title sponsor, significantly boosting the bowl's profile and financial stability. The game's alignment with the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) further elevated its status, often featuring top-ranked teams and high-stakes contests. The Peach Bowl's importance surged in 2014 when administrators included it in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rotation. Now, it hosts a CFP semifinal game every three years, solidifying its role in determining the national champion. This elevated status has brought even greater national attention and high-caliber matchups to the Peach Bowl. Beyond the game itself, the Peach Bowl substantially impacts Atlanta's economy, drawing thousands of visitors and generating significant revenue for local businesses. The bowl also engages in philanthropic efforts, contributing millions of dollars to charitable organizations and scholarships. The Peach Bowl's legacy includes thrilling games, legendary performances, and its evolution from a charitable event to a critical college football playoffs event. Its athletic excellence, economic contribution, and community support underscore its lasting significance in college football.

Africa

Jan

CES (Consumer Electronics Show), Intl. Las Vegas: January 6-9

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Africa

Jan

Fiesta Bowl (US-AZ): January 8

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THE SPICY BOWL GAME: THE FIESTA BOWL The Fiesta Bowl, a cornerstone of college football's postseason, has captivated fans and showcased elite competition since its inception in 1971. It has evolved into one of the sport's most prestigious and influential bowl games, held annually in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The Fiesta Bowl was established by the Arizona Sports Foundation to provide a postseason berth for Western Athletic Conference (WAC) champions who were often overlooked by other bowl games. The inaugural match occurred on December 27, 1971, at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona, where Arizona State University triumphed over Florida State University 45-38. The bowl's success quickly grew, and in 2007, it moved to its current home, State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The Fiesta Bowl differentiated itself from its early years by embracing innovation and high-profile matchups. It was the first bowl game to offer a significant payout to attract top teams, breaking the traditional bowl tie-ins and significantly elevating its status. This strategy paid off, as the Fiesta Bowl hosted its first national championship game in 1987, where Penn State University defeated the University of Miami in a historic clash. The Fiesta Bowl's prominence was further cemented with the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) creation in 1998, making it one of the four major bowls to rotate hosting the national championship game. In 2014, it became part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) system, hosting a semifinal game every three years and continuing as a New Year's Six bowl, ensuring it features premier matchups annually. Beyond the gridiron, the Fiesta Bowl plays a significant role in the community and local economy. Tourism, hospitality, and related activities generate substantial revenue for the Phoenix area. The Fiesta Bowl organization also engages in extensive philanthropic efforts, supporting numerous charities, scholarships, and community programs in Arizona. The Fiesta Bowl's combination of athletic excellence, innovative spirit, and community involvement underscores its enduring importance in college football. Its legacy includes legendary games, national champions, and a commitment to enriching the local community, making it a celebrated and vital part of the sport's postseason tradition.

Africa

Jan

Laba Festival (CN): January 26

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WELCOMING THE NEW YEAR: CHINA'S LABA FESTIVAL The Laba Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday, marks the start of preparations for the Lunar New Year. Celebrated on the eighth day of the twelfth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, the festival has deep historical and cultural significance, blending ancient agricultural customs with Buddhist traditions. The Laba Festival's origins date back over two thousand years to the early dynasties of China. Initially, it was a time to give thanks for the harvest and offer sacrifices to ancestors and deities. With the advent of Buddhism in China, the festival took on additional meanings, commemorating the day Prince Siddhartha, who later became Buddha, attained enlightenment. One of the most important customs of the Laba Festival is the preparation and consumption of Laba congee, a special porridge made from various grains, beans, dried fruits, nuts, and sometimes meat. The ingredients symbolize wealth, health, and harmony. According to legend, when Prince Siddhartha was meditating under the Bodhi tree, a kind woman offered him a bowl of mixed congee, which sustained him on his path to enlightenment. Today, families across China prepare this porridge, sharing it with relatives, neighbors, and the less fortunate, reflecting themes of charity and community. Another key feature of the Laba Festival is the offering of Laba garlic, especially in northern China. Garlic cloves are soaked in vinegar and turn a vibrant green color by the Lunar New Year. This tangy condiment is believed to cleanse the palate and is often served with dumplings during the festive season. In addition to culinary customs, the Laba Festival involves various religious and cultural activities. Buddhist temples hold special ceremonies and prayers, inviting the community to participate in chanting and meditation. It is a time for reflection and renewal, setting intentions for the coming year. The Laba Festival, with its deep historical roots, serves as a significant cultural bridge, connecting modern Chinese society with its rich heritage. It fosters a sense of unity and continuity, reminding people of the values of gratitude, compassion, and togetherness. This aspect of the festival is particularly important, as it plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the unique cultural identity of China, making us all feel the festival's cultural significance. In recent years, the Laba Festival has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity. Cities across China are organizing public events, food fairs, and educational activities to celebrate and preserve this ancient tradition. This resurgence is a testament to the enduring appeal of the festival, with its blend of culinary delights, religious significance, and communal spirit, making it a cherished and significant part of China's cultural landscape.

Africa

Jan

Rangeland and Pastoralists, International Year of: 2026

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2026 IS THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE RANGELANDS AND PASTORALISTS The United Nations (UN) has named 2026 the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, highlighting the vital role that thriving rangelands play in fostering a sustainable environment, bolstering economic growth, and supporting resilient livelihoods in communities globally. On 28 February 2022, during its Plenary Meeting, the UN General Assembly, a key authority in global matters, endorsed the resolution initiated by Mongolia and backed by 60 Member States from every region across the world, officially recognizing 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. The International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists aims to promote awareness and champion the significance of robust rangelands and sustainable pastoralism. It also emphasizes the necessity of enhancing the abilities of and escalating conscientious investment in the pastoral livestock sector. The initiative encompasses sustainable land administration, improving or restoring ecosystems, fair access to markets, livestock well-being, and breeding. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will oversee the implementation of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists as the principal agency."

Africa

Jan

Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival (UK): January 16-18

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Africa

Jan

Sugar Bowl: January 1

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THE SWEETEST BOWL GAME: THE SUGAR BOWL The Sugar Bowl is among the oldest and most prestigious college football games in the United States. Established in 1935, the game is played annually in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has been held at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome since 1975. The Sugar Bowl began to boost tourism in New Orleans during the winter months. Col. James M. Thomson, publisher of the New Orleans Item, and sports editor Fred Digby first proposed the idea. His vision was to create a football classic akin to the Rose Bowl, attracting visitors to the city and providing an economic boost. His efforts paid off when the first game was played on January 1, 1935, with Tulane University defeating Temple University 20-14. Over the years, the Sugar Bowl has grown in prominence and is now a vital part of the college football postseason landscape. It was one of the original members of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) and is now part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) rotation, hosting a semifinal game every three years. The game traditionally features top teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big 12 Conference, though its matchups have varied. The Sugar Bowl's impact transcends the field, making it a significant event for New Orleans. It plays a pivotal role in the local economy, contributing substantially through tourism and related activities. The game's rich tradition of showcasing high-stakes, competitive football, often influencing national championship outcomes, further solidifies its place in the sport's lore. Moreover, the Sugar Bowl organization's commitment to community involvement is a shining example of its positive influence. By supporting youth sports and educational initiatives in the New Orleans area, it demonstrates a dedication that goes beyond the game. This combination of athletic excellence, economic impact, and community support underscores the enduring importance of the Sugar Bowl in the landscape of American college football.

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