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

Oct

Witch Hazel Day, Ntl: October 21

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National Witch Hazel Day originated with Dickenson Brands, Inc. in 2021.

Witch hazel, a plant with a rich history and versatile uses, has long fascinated people with its unique properties. Indigenous peoples used witch hazel, native to North America, for its medicinal qualities long before European settlers arrived. They recognized its value in treating skin ailments and swelling, using the bark and leaves to create poultices and teas.

The European settlers quickly adopted witch hazel for their medicinal uses, intrigued by its astringent properties. By the 19th century, it became a household remedy in the United States. Distilled witch hazel extract, often combined with alcohol, gained popularity for its soothing effect on skin irritations, minor cuts, and bruises.

Today, witch hazel remains a staple in natural medicine and skincare. Its extract, rich in tannins, is renowned for reducing inflammation and tightening skin. It's a common ingredient in toners, aftershaves, and hemorrhoid treatments, prized for its ability to soothe and heal.

Moreover, witch hazel's role extends beyond medicine. In the realm of spirituality and folklore, it is often associated with protection and healing. Some cultures use the branches of the witch hazel plant for dowsing, a practice to locate water or minerals underground.

In the skincare industry, witch hazel's natural astringent qualities make it a preferred choice for managing acne and oily skin. Its gentle, natural properties appeal to those seeking eco-friendly and sensitive skin-friendly alternatives to harsh chemicals.

As research continues, the potential of witch hazel expands. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can be used in broader medicinal applications, underlining the plant's enduring appeal and versatility.

From its indigenous roots to modern-day uses, witch hazel remains a testament to the enduring wisdom of natural remedies and the ongoing quest for holistic health solutions.

Africa

Nov

Doge Day, Intl.: November 1

06:20 AM | -

Do Only Good Everyday, or "DOGE," is the founding principle behind International Doge Day, created in 2023 by the municipality of Sakura, Japan, and championed by grassroots NFT (Non-fungible token) collectors known as Own the Doge.

The day marks the 18th birthday of meme dog Kobusa, better known as Doge, on November 2 each year. A festival of fans is held in Sakura. The expressive pooch's NFT sold for a whopping $4.8 million in 2021 at the height of the cryptocurrency and NFT enthusiasm.

Africa

Jul

Sebeiba Festival (DZ): July 29 - August 7

06:20 AM | -

The Sebeiba festival, an enchanting tradition rooted in the heart of Djanet, an oasis town in the Tassili N'Ajjer National Park of southeastern Algeria, is a vibrant expression of the region's cultural heritage. This 3,000-year-old annual ten-day festival is a cornerstone of the Tuareg community's social and cultural life. In 2014, the festival became a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity event. It begins on the full day of Ashura, an Islamic holiday, and concludes after ten days. Originating from a historic peace agreement between rival Tuareg tribes centuries ago, the festival celebrates peace and unity. It commences with a solemn ritual called "Takaraket," symbolizing the end of hostilities and the beginning of the festivities. The heart of Sebeiba lies in its dramatic reenactments of ancient battles. Participants, dressed in traditional indigo robes and brandishing handmade swords and shields, engage in mock fights, showcasing their equestrian skills and martial prowess. This symbolic warfare is a reminder of the past struggles and the value of the peace they now cherish. Music and dance are integral to the festival. The "Tinde," a rhythmic beat produced by women using mortar and pestle, accompanied by melodic chants, creates a mesmerizing ambiance. Men perform the "Tahaggart," a dance characterized by slow, deliberate movements, reflecting the stoic nature of the Tuareg people. Throughout Sebeiba, there's a vibrant display of Tuareg crafts and cuisine. Artisans showcase their skills in silverwork, leatherwork, and textile weaving. At the same time, traditional dishes like "Taguella," a type of flatbread, and "Eghajira," a hearty soup, are savored by participants and visitors alike. The festival also serves as a social nexus, fostering community bonds and providing a platform for young people to learn about their heritage. Including modern elements, such as soccer matches and camel races, adds a contemporary twist to this ancient festival, ensuring its relevance and appeal to younger generations. As the festival concludes with a day of rest and reflection, participants don their finest attire and gather to share stories, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and community. The Sebeiba festival not only preserves the rich cultural legacy of the Tuareg people but also symbolizes their resilience and unity in the face of historical adversities.

Africa

Jul

Sebeiba Festival (DZ): July 17 - 26

06:20 AM | -

Africa

Nov

Doge Day, Intl.: November 1

06:20 AM | -

Africa

Nov

Forget-me-not-Day, Ntl (1918): November 10

06:20 AM | -

Forget-me-not-Day is one of two days in the calendar with the same name. The Spring event focuses on Alzheimer's Disease. This event focuses on caring for veterans.

Judge Robert S. Marx, a prominent figure in American veterans' affairs history, played a pivotal role in establishing Forget-me-not Day, which is observed annually on November 10. This day, deeply rooted in the aftermath of World War I, is dedicated to remembering and supporting disabled veterans.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Marx served in World War I and was seriously wounded in battle. His war experiences and injury profoundly influenced his life's work. After the war, Marx, a respected jurist, advocated for injured veterans, recognizing their challenges in reintegrating into society.

In the early 1920s, Marx was instrumental in founding the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), an organization committed to bettering the lives of America's disabled veterans. Under his leadership, the DAV became significant in advocating for veterans' rights and benefits.
The inception of Forget-me-not Day directly resulted from Marx's vision and leadership. He proposed raising public awareness and funds to support disabled veterans. The choice of the forget-me-not flower as a symbol was intentional; its enduring beauty and resilience mirrored the qualities Marx saw in the veterans he sought to help.

First observed in 1921, Forget-me-not Day precedes Veterans Day in the United States. This timing is significant, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers before the nation celebrates their service on Veterans Day.

On Forget-me-not Day, volunteers distribute these tiny blue flowers nationwide in exchange for donations to aid disabled veterans. The funds raised support medical care, rehabilitation programs, and advocacy efforts to secure veterans' benefits.

Judge Robert S. Marx's legacy lives through Forget-me-not Day and his enduring impact on veterans' advocacy. His efforts helped bring national attention to the challenges faced by those wounded in service, ensuring they are not forgotten.

Africa

Nov

Forget-me-not-Day, Ntl (1918): November 10

06:20 AM | -

Africa

Nov

World NET Cancer Awareness Day: November 10

06:20 AM | -

Worldwide NET Cancer Awareness Day, observed annually on November 10 since 2010, is a global initiative to raise awareness about neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). It promotes understanding of this relatively rare and often misdiagnosed type of cancer, as well as advocating for better treatment and care for those affected.

Neuroendocrine tumors are a diverse group of tumors that arise from neuroendocrine cells in various body organs. They can occur in the lungs, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, and other areas. Due to their varied symptoms and rarity, NETs are challenging to diagnose, often leading to delays in treatment.

Worldwide NET Cancer Awareness Day began to address these challenges by the International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA), a global non-profit organization comprising various NET patient groups. Over the years, it has gained momentum, with numerous countries and organizations participating in awareness and advocacy activities.
The primary objectives of this awareness day are to increase public and medical awareness of NETs, promote timely diagnosis and treatment, and highlight the need for more research into these cancers. Activities on this day often include educational seminars, media campaigns, and community events, all aimed at shedding light on NETs.

Healthcare professionals, patients, and advocacy groups are crucial in this initiative by sharing information about the signs and symptoms of NETs, available treatment options, and the latest research findings. Personal stories from NET patients and survivors provide insight into living with this condition and the importance of support networks.

Another significant aspect of Worldwide NET Cancer Awareness Day is its focus on advancing research and garnering support for clinical studies and trials to develop more effective treatments and improve the quality of life for NET patients.

Africa

Nov

World NET Cancer Awareness Day: November 10

06:20 AM | -

Africa

Oct

Bird of the Century Contest (NZ): October 30 - November 12

06:20 AM | -

New Zealand's Bird of the Year contest (Bird of the Century in 2023 to mark the non-profit's 100-year birthday) is a unique and much-anticipated annual event and significant cultural phenomenon in the country (and now around the world), quickly catching up in popularity to Katmai National Parks' Annual Fat Bear Contest.

Bird of the Year highlights the nation's diverse and often endangered avian species. Organized by Forest & Bird, the country's leading independent conservation organization, the non-profit created the event in 2005 to serve a dual purpose: to raise awareness about New Zealand's native birds and their habitats and to engage the public in conservation efforts.

Each year, a wide array of native birds, from the well-known Kiwi to lesser-known species like the Kakapo and Tūī, are nominated and campaigned for by their passionate supporters. Each voter chooses their five favorite birds and ranks them 1-5. The contest is a lively mix of light-hearted banter and heated discussion about conservation issues and who advocates for the most deserving bird, with creative campaigning, celebrity and politician endorsements, and various organizations campaigning for different birds. Campaigns for the birds often include witty slogans, humorous videos, and imaginative social media strategies. This approach has succeeded in engaging a broad audience, including younger generations, in conversations about biodiversity and conservation. The attention and fun engage voters in the challenges faced by New Zealand's native birds, such as habitat loss, predation by introduced species, and environmental changes.

The contest also serves as an educational platform. Through the various campaigns, the public learns about the distinctive features of each Bird, their role in the ecosystem, and the specific threats they face. This awareness-building is crucial in a country like New Zealand, which boasts a remarkable array of endemic bird species, many of which are threatened or endangered.

New Zealand's Bird of the Year contest is more than just a competition; it's a successful and innovative blend of conservation advocacy, education, and public engagement. Its playful yet purposeful approach has made it a beloved annual event highlighting the importance of preserving New Zealand's precious bird species and their natural habitats.

Africa

Jul

Sebeiba Festival (DZ): July 17-26

06:20 AM | -

The Sebeiba festival, an enchanting tradition rooted in the heart of Djanet, an oasis town in the Tassili N'Ajjer National Park of southeastern Algeria, is a vibrant expression of the region's cultural heritage. This 3,000-year-old annual ten-day festival is a cornerstone of the Tuareg community's social and cultural life. In 2014, the festival became a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity event. It begins on the full day of Ashura, an Islamic holiday, and concludes after ten days.

Originating from a historic peace agreement between rival Tuareg tribes centuries ago, the festival celebrates peace and unity. It commences with a solemn ritual called "Takaraket," symbolizing the end of hostilities and the beginning of the festivities.

The heart of Sebeiba lies in its dramatic reenactments of ancient battles. Participants, dressed in traditional indigo robes and brandishing handmade swords and shields, engage in mock fights, showcasing their equestrian skills and martial prowess. This symbolic warfare is a reminder of the past struggles and the value of the peace they now cherish.

Music and dance are integral to the festival. The "Tinde," a rhythmic beat produced by women using mortar and pestle, accompanied by melodic chants, creates a mesmerizing ambiance. Men perform the "Tahaggart," a dance characterized by slow, deliberate movements, reflecting the stoic nature of the Tuareg people.

Throughout Sebeiba, there's a vibrant display of Tuareg crafts and cuisine. Artisans showcase their skills in silverwork, leatherwork, and textile weaving. At the same time, traditional dishes like "Taguella," a type of flatbread, and "Eghajira," a hearty soup, are savored by participants and visitors alike.

The festival also serves as a social nexus, fostering community bonds and providing a platform for young people to learn about their heritage. Including modern elements, such as soccer matches and camel races, adds a contemporary twist to this ancient festival, ensuring its relevance and appeal to younger generations.

As the festival concludes with a day of rest and reflection, participants don their finest attire and gather to share stories, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and community. The Sebeiba festival not only preserves the rich cultural legacy of the Tuareg people but also symbolizes their resilience and unity in the face of historical adversities.

Africa

Jul

Sebeiba Festival (DZ): July 29 - August 7

06:20 AM | -

The Sebeiba festival, an enchanting tradition rooted in the heart of Djanet, an oasis town in the Tassili N'Ajjer National Park of southeastern Algeria, is a vibrant expression of the region's cultural heritage. This 3,000-year-old annual ten-day festival is a cornerstone of the Tuareg community's social and cultural life. In 2014, the festival became a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity event. It begins on the full day of Ashura, an Islamic holiday, and concludes after ten days.

Originating from a historic peace agreement between rival Tuareg tribes centuries ago, the festival celebrates peace and unity. It commences with a solemn ritual called "Takaraket," symbolizing the end of hostilities and the beginning of the festivities.

The heart of Sebeiba lies in its dramatic reenactments of ancient battles. Participants, dressed in traditional indigo robes and brandishing handmade swords and shields, engage in mock fights, showcasing their equestrian skills and martial prowess. This symbolic warfare is a reminder of the past struggles and the value of the peace they now cherish.

Music and dance are integral to the festival. The "Tinde," a rhythmic beat produced by women using mortar and pestle, accompanied by melodic chants, creates a mesmerizing ambiance. Men perform the "Tahaggart," a dance characterized by slow, deliberate movements, reflecting the stoic nature of the Tuareg people.

Throughout Sebeiba, there's a vibrant display of Tuareg crafts and cuisine. Artisans showcase their skills in silverwork, leatherwork, and textile weaving. At the same time, traditional dishes like "Taguella," a type of flatbread, and "Eghajira," a hearty soup, are savored by participants and visitors alike.

The festival also serves as a social nexus, fostering community bonds and providing a platform for young people to learn about their heritage. Including modern elements, such as soccer matches and camel races, adds a contemporary twist to this ancient festival, ensuring its relevance and appeal to younger generations.

As the festival concludes with a day of rest and reflection, participants don their finest attire and gather to share stories, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and community. The Sebeiba festival not only preserves the rich cultural legacy of the Tuareg people but also symbolizes their resilience and unity in the face of historical adversities.

Africa

Sep

Bird of the Year Contest (NZ): September 2-16

06:20 AM | -

NEW ZEALAND'S BIRD OF THE YEAR CONTEST AND FUNDRAISER

New Zealand's Bird of the Year contest is a unique and much-anticipated annual event and significant cultural phenomenon in the country (and now worldwide), quickly catching up in popularity to Katmai National Parks' Annual Fat Bear Contest.

Bird of the Year highlights the nation's diverse and often endangered avian species. Organized by Forest & Bird, the country's leading independent conservation organization, the non-profit created the event in 2005 to serve a dual purpose: to raise awareness about New Zealand's native birds and their habitats and to engage the public in conservation efforts.

Each year, a wide array of native birds, from the well-known Kiwi to lesser-known species like the Kakapo and Tūī, are nominated and campaigned for by their passionate supporters. Each voter chooses their five favorite birds and ranks them 1-5. The contest is a lively mix of light-hearted banter and heated discussion about conservation issues and who advocates for the most deserving bird, with creative campaigning, celebrity and politician endorsements, and various organizations campaigning for different birds. Campaigns for the birds often include witty slogans, humorous videos, and imaginative social media strategies. This approach has succeeded in engaging a broad audience, including younger generations, in conversations about biodiversity and conservation. The attention and fun engage voters in the challenges faced by New Zealand's native birds, such as habitat loss, predation by introduced species, and environmental changes.

The contest also serves as an educational platform. Through the various campaigns, the public learns about the distinctive features of each Bird, their role in the ecosystem, and the specific threats they face. This awareness-building is crucial in a country like New Zealand, which boasts a remarkable array of endemic bird species, many of which are threatened or endangered.

New Zealand's Bird of the Year contest is more than just a competition; it's a successful and innovative blend of conservation advocacy, education, and public engagement. Its playful yet purposeful approach has made it a beloved annual event highlighting the importance of preserving New Zealand's precious bird species and their natural habitats.

Africa

Oct

Bird of the Century Contest (NZ): October 30 - November 12

06:20 AM | -

Africa