All - Leep Calendar

The Conconully Outhouse Races are the original wooden privy races and an annual winter event in the town of Conconully, Washington. They offer a unique, whimsical take on traditional winter sports.

Characterized by camaraderie, competition, and a good dose of humor, the event is as much a part of the town's identity as its mining history. The tradition started in 1983 and continues annually over the Martin Luther King weekend.

In this peculiar race, teams consisting of two pushers and one rider compete against each other on a snow-covered Main Street, propelling homemade outhouses mounted on skis. The outhouses are uniquely designed and decorated according to specific rules.

Each racing privy must have a toilet seat and a roll of toilet paper and be at least six feet tall from the base to the structure's highest point. However, these requirements leave room for creativity, creating various colorful and imaginative outhouses. The race is split into several categories: Men's, Women's, and Co-Ed, with trophies and bragging rights up for grabs. The pushers' speed, the rider's skill, and the quality of the outhouse's construction all play a role in determining the victors. Despite the chilly weather, spectators line the race route, enjoying the spectacle, local food, and winter festivities.

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

Oct

Big Year of Heliophysics: October 2023 - September 2024

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October 2023 through September 2024 is NASA's Big Year of Heliophysics.

In the vast expanse of our solar system, where the Sun reigns supreme, a remarkable event is underway that invites us all to look skyward and celebrate our nearest star. It's called the Heliophysics Big Year, and it promises a year filled with solar science, citizen participation, and an array of engaging activities to connect us with the wonders of the Sun.

What is Heliophysics?

Heliophysics is the branch of science that delves into the intricate study of our Sun and its interactions with everything in our solar system. From solar flares to the solar wind that sweeps through space, from sunspots to the auroras that light up our polar skies, heliophysics is the science of understanding the Sun's influence on the cosmos.

What is a Big Year?

The bird-watching community first popularized the concept of a "Big Year." In a Big Year, birders embark on a quest to observe and study as many bird species as possible within a calendar year. Inspired by this spirit of exploration and discovery, the Heliophysics Big Year challenges us all to do the same but with a celestial twist – focusing on our Sun.

Embracing the Heliophysics Big Year

During the Heliophysics Big Year, participants are encouraged to immerse themselves in the captivating world of solar science. The event offers a plethora of activities, ranging from watching solar eclipses and experiencing the mesmerizing auroras to actively participating in citizen science projects and engaging in other delightful Sun-related endeavors.

Inclusivity Beyond NASA

One of the most exciting aspects of the Heliophysics Big Year is its inclusivity. While spearheaded by NASA, this cosmic celebration extends an open invitation to individuals, groups, and organizations worldwide that share a passion for heliophysics' science, art, and beauty. The aim is to unite the entire heliophysics community under a unified banner.

Featured Activity: How to Host A Sun Party

One of the standout ways to immerse yourself in the Heliophysics Big Year is by hosting a "Sun Party." These gatherings offer a fun and educational way to celebrate the Sun. During a Sun Party, participants can safely observe and appreciate our star while engaging in creative activities and games. It's an opportunity to combine learning with enjoyment, making the study of the Sun accessible and exciting for all.

Get Involved!

As the Heliophysics Big Year unfolds, there has never been a better time to explore the celestial marvels surrounding us. Whether you're an aspiring scientist, a casual stargazer, or someone simply curious about the cosmos, this event welcomes you to participate and share in the awe-inspiring beauty of our Sun.

So, mark your calendars and join the global heliophysics community in this remarkable adventure. Whether counting bird species or studying the Sun's secrets, the Heliophysics Big Year offers a chance to connect with the universe's wonders from your backyard. Let's embark on this cosmic journey together!

Africa

Mar

Tomorrowland Winter (est)

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Tomorrowland added Tomorrowland Winter in the Alpe d'Huez, France, in 2019.

Tomorrowland is the biggest electronic music festival in the world. Held in Belgium, it includes electronic shows, live music, and one-of-a-kind shows. The event is simulcast to local venues in Abu Dhabi, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Mexico, Spain, and Taiwan. If you're in these nations, see the website for details on how you can participate.

In 2018, the event moved to two weekends in July.

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

Nov

Programmatic Advertising Day, Ntl.: November 7

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National Programmatic Advertising Day was created in 2019 by Adelphic, a division of Viant. Programmatic advertising has revolutionized the way advertising is bought and sold online. Automated technology allows advertisers and publishers to make quick, data-driven decisions.

Here's a look at digital advertising's evolution.

Early 2000s - The Beginning:

2000: The birth of the first ad networks. They gathered unsold inventory from publishers and offered it to advertisers at discounted prices.

2005: The rise of ad exchanges, platforms where publishers and advertisers could buy and sell ad space, took place. Google's acquisition of DoubleClick in 2007 propelled the growth of these platforms.

2010s - Rapid Growth and Evolution:

2010: Real-time bidding (RTB) emerged, enabling advertisers to bid on individual impressions based on user data, leading to greater efficiency and targeting precision.

2012: Demand-side platforms (DSPs) and supply-side platforms (SSPs) grew popular. DSPs let advertisers buy ad space efficiently, while SSPs help publishers sell to the highest bidder.

2014: Mobile programmatic surged as mobile device usage skyrocketed. Advertisers sought ways to target users across devices.

2015: The adoption of header bidding emerged. Now, publishers can offer inventory to multiple ad exchanges simultaneously.

2016: Issues like ad fraud, viewability, and transparency became hot topics. The industry sought solutions to ensure quality and trustworthiness.

2018: General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) became the norm in Europe, requiring greater transparency and user consent for data collection.

2020s - The Age of Privacy and Integration:

2020: Third-party cookies will be phased out in Chrome by 2022, pushing the industry towards first-party data and privacy-first solutions.

2021: Contextual advertising, which targets users based on the content they're viewing rather than personal data, saw a resurgence as a privacy-friendly alternative.

2022: Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning further optimized ad placements, targeting, and bid strategies.

From its early days of simple ad exchanges to the sophisticated AI-driven platforms of today, programmatic advertising has continuously evolved to meet the demands of a digital world. As privacy concerns dominate the discourse, the industry stands at another pivotal moment, looking for innovative ways to connect with audiences respectfully and effectively.

Africa

Nov

Programmatic Advertising Day, Ntl.: November 7

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Africa

Oct

No Bra Day, Intl.: October 13

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No Bra Day, observed annually on October 13th, is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and supporting those affected by it. The day encourages women to go without a bra to appreciate the freedom of going natural and promote awareness of breast health.

No Bra Day began in 2011, initiated by (Anastasia Doughnuts), a pseudonym for the person who started the campaign on social media platforms—the day quickly gained traction, with women worldwide participating by sharing their pictures and stories online through hashtags like #NoBraDay.

The primary goal of No Bra Day is to raise awareness about breast cancer, a disease affecting millions worldwide. By going braless or wearing purple on this day, participants aim to draw attention to the importance of regular breast self-examinations, screenings, and mammograms.

Many breast cancer survivors undergo mastectomies, a surgery that removes one or both breasts. No Bra Day serves as a gesture of solidarity and support for these survivors, emphasizing that their physical appearances do not define them and highlighting the beauty in every survivor.

On a broader scale, the day challenges societal norms and expectations about women's bodies. Women embrace their natural bodies by choosing to go braless, emphasizing comfort and personal choice over societal expectations.

While many view No Bra Day as a positive initiative, it has not been without criticism. Some argue that the event oversimplifies the complexities and struggles associated with breast cancer. Others feel that the campaign may inadvertently sexualize a serious health issue.

No Bra Day helps increase awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It serves as a symbol of solidarity with survivors and a call for increased awareness and early detection. Like many awareness campaigns, its effectiveness and reception vary among audiences, but its primary message remains clear: the importance of breast health and support for those affected by breast cancer.

Africa

May

BEST Photography Awards, Intl.: May 30

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Photography, inherently a medium reliant on audiences, finds new avenues for growth and recognition through competitions. The recently unveiled international contest, the International BEST Photography Awards, emphasizes that the heart of such competitions isn't merely the prospect of prizes but the unique opportunities they provide.

Awards are announced on May 30 annually. Submissions open on July 1 and close on April 30 annually.

Notably, these opportunities go beyond just accolades. Achieving recognition in a competition can boost a photographer's visibility among influential entities in the industry, such as galleries, journalists, magazine editors, and private collectors.

However, the BEST Photography Awards approaches the competitive sphere with a twist. Contrary to what one might assume from its ambitious title, the word "BEST" in this competition is not just a superlative. Instead, the organizers interpret it as an ethos of self-improvement, emphasizing the journey of becoming the best version of oneself. The overarching message is clear: even without clinching the top spot, participating photographers have embarked on a valuable, enriching journey.

The award's mission is clear-cut: to shine a spotlight on the world's "BEST" photographers and integrate them into the broader creative community. Another noteworthy aspect is the event's commitment to fostering strong ties between photographers and organizations championing photographic arts.

The competition boasts a judging panel comprising seasoned professionals from photography, art, and media, ensuring that every submission receives a balanced evaluation.

Participation falls into two sections: Professional and Amateur photographers. With ten diverse categories spanning from photojournalism to art photography, the contest aims to be inclusive, offering every photographer a fitting category for their work.

The competition welcomes submissions from photographers worldwide. Aspiring participants can apply easily via the official website, which takes minutes.

The Best Photography Awards presents a platform for promising photographers seeking victory, growth, visibility, and an enriching experience.

Categories include:

Architectural photography
BPA awards
BPA Winners Interview
Digital Art Photography & NFT
Fashion & Advertising Photography
Learning Photography
Nature Photography
Nude Photography
Photography Business
Photojournalism / Documentary Photography
Wildlife Photography

Africa

May

BEST Photography Awards, Intl.: May 30

06:20 AM | -

Photography, inherently a medium reliant on audiences, finds new avenues for growth and recognition through competitions. The recently unveiled international contest, the International BEST Photography Awards, emphasizes that the heart of such competitions isn't merely the prospect of prizes but the unique opportunities they provide.

Awards are announced on May 30 annually. Submissions open on July 1 and close on April 30 annually.

Notably, these opportunities go beyond just accolades. Achieving recognition in a competition can boost a photographer's visibility among influential entities in the industry, such as galleries, journalists, magazine editors, and private collectors.

However, the BEST Photography Awards approaches the competitive sphere with a twist. Contrary to what one might assume from its ambitious title, the word "BEST" in this competition is not just a superlative. Instead, the organizers interpret it as an ethos of self-improvement, emphasizing the journey of becoming the best version of oneself. The overarching message is clear: even without clinching the top spot, participating photographers have embarked on a valuable, enriching journey.

The award's mission is clear-cut: to shine a spotlight on the world's "BEST" photographers and integrate them into the broader creative community. Another noteworthy aspect is the event's commitment to fostering strong ties between photographers and organizations championing photographic arts.

The competition boasts a judging panel comprising seasoned professionals from photography, art, and media, ensuring that every submission receives a balanced evaluation.

Participation falls into two sections: Professional and Amateur photographers. With ten diverse categories spanning from photojournalism to art photography, the contest aims to be inclusive, offering every photographer a fitting category for their work.

The competition welcomes submissions from photographers worldwide. Aspiring participants can apply easily via the official website, which takes minutes.

The BEST Photography Awards presents a platform for photographers seeking victory, growth, visibility, and an enriching experience.

Categories include:

Architectural photography
BPA awards
BPA Winners Interview
Digital Art Photography & NFT
Fashion & Advertising Photography
Learning Photography
Nature Photography
Nude Photography
Photography Business
Photojournalism / Documentary Photography
Wildlife Photography

Africa

May

BEST Photography Awards, Intl.: May 30

06:20 AM | -

Photography, inherently a medium reliant on audiences, finds new avenues for growth and recognition through competitions. The recently unveiled international contest, the International BEST Photography Awards, emphasizes that the heart of such competitions isn't merely the prospect of prizes but the unique opportunities they provide.

Awards are announced on May 30 annually. Submissions open on July 1 and close on April 30 annually.

Notably, these opportunities go beyond just accolades. Achieving recognition in a competition can boost a photographer's visibility among influential entities in the industry, such as galleries, journalists, magazine editors, and private collectors.

However, the BEST Photography Awards approaches the competitive sphere with a twist. Contrary to what one might assume from its ambitious title, the word "BEST" in this competition is not just a superlative. Instead, the organizers interpret it as an ethos of self-improvement, emphasizing the journey of becoming the best version of oneself. The overarching message is clear: even without clinching the top spot, participating photographers have embarked on a valuable, enriching journey.

The award's mission is clear-cut: to shine a spotlight on the world's "BEST" photographers and integrate them into the broader creative community. Another noteworthy aspect is the event's commitment to fostering strong ties between photographers and organizations championing photographic arts.

The competition boasts a judging panel comprising seasoned professionals from photography, art, and media, ensuring that every submission receives a balanced evaluation.

Participation falls into two sections: Professional and Amateur photographers. With ten diverse categories spanning from photojournalism to art photography, the contest aims to be inclusive, offering every photographer a fitting category for their work.

The competition welcomes submissions from photographers worldwide. Aspiring participants can apply easily via the official website, which takes minutes.

The BEST Photography Awards presents a platform for photographers seeking victory, growth, visibility, and an enriching experience.

Categories include:

Architectural photography
BPA awards
BPA Winners Interview
Digital Art Photography & NFT
Fashion & Advertising Photography
Learning Photography
Nature Photography
Nude Photography
Photography Business
Photojournalism / Documentary Photography
Wildlife Photography

Africa

Oct

testing by Yahya

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This is just testing.

Africa

Sep

Titu Fair (RO): September 16

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In 2023, the traditional autumn Titu Fair in Romania triumphantly returned, drawing large crowds after being on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Located near the central city of Titu, northwest of Bucharest, the nearly 200-year-old fair serves as a critical community gathering point. Set up in the small village of Hagioaica, the fair features various attractions, including carousels, toys, and live music, offering a brief respite from daily challenges for some of Romania's poorest citizens.

While the event maintains its original goal of bringing the community together, it also serves as an economic opportunity. Locals set up stalls to sell toys, vegetables, and other household items in preparation for winter. Although prices at the fair are generally lower than in stores, attendees noted increased costs due to the pandemic and ongoing war in Ukraine, one of Romania's neighbors.

Despite Romania's progress as a European Union member state, many among its 19 million population still face economic hardships. The Titu Fair, therefore, not only preserves a tradition but also provides a temporary escape and financial relief for its attendees.

Africa

Sep

Palestine Writes Festival (US-PA): September 22-23

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Palestine Writes Literature Festival stands as the sole North American event exclusively spotlighting Palestinians' literary and artistic contributions. The festival was created in response to the widespread marginalization or token representation of Palestinian artists in mainstream literary settings. It aims to amplify voices often drowned out or overlooked.

Uniting Palestinian writers, artists, and scholars from Historic Palestine and its global Diaspora, the festival also brings together individuals from other marginalized communities in the United States. Experts in diverse fields participate in dialogues about art, politics, climate change, human rights, and more. The festival's rich programming includes panel discussions, workshops, musical performances, children's activities, readings, dance, theatre, cooking sessions, and storytelling.

Palestinians are the indigenous inhabitants of a region rich in history and steeped in suffering. The fabric of Palestinian culture, from folklore, poetry, and cuisine to traditional clothing and architecture, was cultivated over several millennia. Palestine Writes serves as a sacred space where the richness of this indigenous heritage is cherished and shared at a time when concerted political efforts continue to negate or erase Palestinian identity and history.

The inaugural festival in 2020 was hailed as a landmark event that celebrated the formidable artistic and literary prowess of Palestinians and their allies. Echoing the words of iconic Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, the festival is a testament that Palestinians "have the right to smell autumn's fragrances and ask the night for a dream."

In essence, Palestine Writes is not merely a festival; it's a potent act of cultural preservation and a bridge connecting Palestine with the world. The festival resists erasure and fosters global solidarity through art and dialogue, ensuring the Palestinian narrative remains vivid in global literature and art.

The 2023 event is sold out. Attendance is 3000-5000 per year. #PalestineWrites

Africa

Sep

Negroni Week, Intl.: September 18 - 24

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Negroni Week celebrates the classic Italian cocktail known for its distinctively bitter flavor profile, which some find to be an acquired taste. The Negroni has become a staple in the craft cocktail scene, often used as a benchmark to assess the quality of a bar or bartender. The week's activities benefit the non-profit Slow Food, a global movement in 160 countries of local communities and activists seeking to change the world through healthy food and beverage that is good for the planet.

The exact origin of the Negroni is debated, with the most widely accepted story originating the drink in Florence, Italy, around 1919. According to the tale, Count Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his favorite drink, the Americano, by replacing the soda water with gin. The bartender also added an orange garnish rather than the traditional lemon garnish of the Americano to signify that it was a different drink. From there, the Negroni was born.

Recipe:

The Negroni is a simple cocktail with equal parts of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

Combine the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth into an ice-filled cocktail shaker to make a Negroni. Shake and strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange peel or slice.

Variations of the Negroni include the:

Boulevardier—bourbon or rye whiskey replaces gin.
Negroni Sbagliato—prosecco or sparkling wine replaces the gin.
White Negroni—uses Lillet Blanc or Cocchi Americano instead of vermouth and Suze in place of Campari.

With its beautiful red hue and distinctive flavor, Negroni remains a beloved classic in the cocktail world. Whether you enjoy it as an aperitif or a digestif, its bold and balanced flavors will leave an impression.

Africa

Sep

Derna Flood (LY)(2023): September 10

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On September 10, 2023, a powerful storm named Daniel and two dams collapsing caused catastrophic flooding in the eastern Libyan city of Derna and its surrounding villages, including Bayda, Sousse, Shahat, Omar al-Mokhtar, and Marj.

The devastation in Derna followed the collapse of two aging dams, resulting in the rapid release of river water that washed away an entire neighborhood. Online footage shows whole residential areas obliterated, with apartment buildings partially sinking into the mud. Four bridges collapsed, and utilities were wiped out. In its wake, the flood has killed over 5,000 people, with thousands more still missing as of this writing two days later. Derna and the surrounding villages remain largely inaccessible, prompting local leaders to describe the situation as a "catastrophe" and hampering international aid efforts.

Despite a population of 100,000, Derna has no hospitals. The region has few public services, and its infrastructure was already in ruins. Add in the ongoing decade-long conflict between two rival federal governments, each supported by their respective militias, and efforts to render aid and get supplies to those that need them are futile.

Historically, Libya has faced governance challenges, especially after the 2011 uprising that led to the downfall of Moammar Gadhafi. This instability has resulted in limited investment in infrastructure and public services.
The storm impacted not only Derna but other regions, including Benghazi. The United Nations and various international leaders have expressed condolences and readiness to assist.

Africa

Aug

Comedy Pet Photography Awards: August 11

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Founded in 2019 by professional photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam as an offshoot of The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, The Comedy Pet Photography Awards celebrates the humorous and endearing moments of pets from around the world. The contest is not only about laughter and fun; it carries a significant message regarding pet welfare and the humane treatment of animals.

The competition's underlying aim is to highlight the joy pets bring into people's lives and promote animal welfare. By emphasizing the character and quirks of pets, the awards shed light on the importance of treating animals with kindness and compassion.

Professional and amateur photographers submit photos across multiple categories. Whether it's dogs, cats, horses, or even reptiles, the contest seeks those perfect comedic moments that capture the essence of our furry, feathered, or scaled companions.

Open to participants worldwide, the competition has seen a surge in popularity, with entries from numerous countries. Winning images tickle the funny bone and testify to the bond between pets and their owners.

Each year culminates in an awards ceremony where category winners are recognized, and the coveted title of "Comedy Pet Photographer of the Year" is awarded.

The Comedy Pet Photography Awards remains an essential platform for photographers passionate about pets. Beyond the laughter it generates, the contest plays a vital role in promoting a message of love, care, and respect for all animals.

Africa