National Knife Day seeks to appreciate the vital use and function of knives. Whether as a tool for hunting, eating, or a weapon of defense, knives have been essential throughout human history.

Africa

Aug

Peach Pie Day, Ntl.: August 24

06:20 AM | -

National Peach Pie Day celebrates the peach pie, made with sugar, cinnamon, butter, and peaches, then covered in a flaky crust. Harvested between June and August are the two best-known varieties of peaches, the Clingstone and the Freestone, most often used. Peaches originated in China. National Peach Pie day is celebrated across the country in restaurants. The Washington House in Sellersville, Pennsylvania, promotes this day with free mini peach pies to those with reservations.

Africa

Aug

Strange Music Day, Intl.: August 24

06:20 AM | -

Created by Juilliard graduate and musician Patrick Grant, Strange Music Day encourages people to get out of their comfort zone and discover new sounds and music. Listen to a genre you've never heard before. Have your parents or grandparents share their favorite songs from their youth. Whatever you choose to listen to, use today to discover something new!

Africa

Aug

Vesuvius Eruption (IT)(79AD): August 24

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On this day in 79AD that Italy's Mount Vesuvius erupted, violently destroying the city of Pompeii and several surrounding towns. The mountain remained active for the next 1500 years, erupting periodically. Vesuvius is perhaps the most famous volcanic eruption in history. It happened so quickly that residents in the city of Pompeii were encased in ash and the outline of their bodies remained intact. They were discovered in 1748 by a surveying engineer and have provided a unique look into life during Roman times.

Africa

Aug

Waffle Day, Ntl. (1869): August 24

06:20 AM | -

National Waffle Day marks the anniversary of the first viable patent for a waffle iron on August 24, 1869, to Cornelius Swartwout, #US 94043 A.

Africa

Aug

William Wilberforce Day (1759): August 24

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William Wilberforce was a slavery abolitionist in England who spearheaded that nation’s first bill to end slavery in the British Parliament. His birthday, August 24, 1759, is noted around the world. In Ohio, at Wilberforce University, the day is marked with a conference celebrating his life.

Africa

Aug

Little League World Series (US-PA): August 14-25

06:20 AM | -

Over 29 days, over 900 Little Leaguers®, ages 10 to 16, from nearly 80 baseball and softball teams worldwide compete yearly to determine the seven World Series division champions. These are the best of the best child baseball and softball players in the world. World Series Championship divisions fall into the following age divisions. Baseball Little League: ages 10-12 Intermediate League: ages 11-13 Junior League: ages 13-14 Senior League: ages 13-16 Softball: Little League: ages 10-12 Junior League: ages 12-14 Senior League: ages 13-16 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

Healthy Bones Action Week (AU): August 19-25 (est)

06:20 AM | -

Healthy Bone Action Week is an annual awareness campaign in Australia sponsored by Dairy Australia. Its purpose is to encourage positive health practices that support bone health and mitigate the risk of osteoporosis. Each day during the week, people are encouraged to: Do 20 minutes of weight-bearing exercise Get out in the sun each day Eat calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt. Bones are the body’s frame, and keeping them healthy is essential to leading a full life.

Africa

Aug

Festival Mode & Design, Montreal (CA-QC): August 22-25 (est)

06:20 AM | -

The Fashion & Design Festival celebrates creativity and culture through the works of Canadian designers, retailers, and international trendsetters. The event includes fashion shows, live creative sessions, design showcasing, and musical performances and attracts nearly 550,000 visitors.

Africa

Aug

Reading and Leeds Festivals (UK): August 21-25

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If you're into rock, indie, punk, and metal, the Reading and Leeds Festival is the place to be. It's two cities, on in the north (Leeds) and one in the south (Reading), with simultaneous festivals. The Reading Festival is one of the oldest popular music festivals in the world. It originated in the early 1960s as the National Jazz Festival, but the focus shifted to rock and alternative music over time. The Leeds Festival is a bit younger and was added in 1999 due to the high demand and the Reading Festival's capacity limitations. They're held simultaneously over the bank holiday weekend in August, and they share the same bill, alternating the lineup between the two sites. Over the years, these festivals have hosted some of the biggest names in rock and alternative music, including Nirvana, Metallica, Arctic Monkeys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. The lineups are always solid. Like most festivals, camping is a big part of the experience. The fields around each are filled with tents, music blasting from multiple stages, and groups of friends laughing, singing, and just having a good time. The festivals span three days, from Friday to Sunday, with campers able to arrive from the Wednesday before. Most festival-goers choose to camp on-site. Food options are pretty varied. You've got your typical festival food stands, but there's also a decent selection of international cuisines, vegan and vegetarian options. Both Reading and Leeds Festivals offer an unforgettable weekend of music and camaraderie. Cute note from the writer: When I first visited the UK, I stayed in Devon. We traveled down the M4 and passed the "Reading rest area." My comment to my friend was, "Oh, that is so sweet! You have reading rest stops in England, so you can stop a bit and enjoy a novel." He nearly died laughing. Of course, in England, Reading is pronounced "Redding" and has nothing to do with books. But this West Coast US girl didn't know that at the time. I still smile every time I hear the city's name. 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

Aug

World Hip Hop Awards (US-NV): August 23-25 (est)

06:20 AM | -

WORLD HIP-HOP AWARDS

The 2024 venue is tentatively set for Las Vegas. 2025 in Dubai. The actual date is set a few weeks out and is currently unknown. See the event champion's website above for the latest information.

In 2023, the World Hip Hop Awards (WHHA) premiered, marking the first global award to honor the five core elements of Hip Hop: MCs, DJs, break dancers, graffiti artists, and knowledge. The award celebrates signed and independent talent nominated by fans worldwide in the five disciplines on a single stage in New York.

The WHHA aims to restore respect for Hip-Hop as an unbiased platform acknowledging true artistic excellence and create the most coveted Hip-Hop award internationally. Anticipated to rival the Grammys with its music and performances, the event is broadcast and live-streamed to millions of fans worldwide.

In addition to the awards, a two day Hip-Hop festival accompanies the event.

Africa

Aug

Bat Nights, Intl: August 23-24

06:20 AM | -

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL BAT NIGHT

International Bat Night occurs in late August and aims to educate people on bats' environmental importance. Bats are pollinators, control insect populations, and are vital parts of the ecosystem. As part of International Bat Night, there are bat walk events and bat talks, usually near dusk.

Various global bat groups and the Bat Conservation Trust sponsor International Bat Night. UNEP/EuroBats created the original event in 1996 in Bonn, Germany, which is now celebrated worldwide. Additional sites include http://www.eurobats.org and http://www.batcon.org.

Africa

Aug

Ducasse d'Ath (BE): August 24-25

06:20 AM | -

DUCASSE D'ATH—BELGIUM'S WEDDING OF THE GIANTS

Nestled in the heart of Ath, Belgium, the Ducasse d'Ath unfolds annually as a captivating tapestry of tradition, folklore, and community spirit embodying mythical and historical figures cherished by the local populace. In addition to parades and plays, several late-night music raves dot the city during the festival.

WHAT IS DUCASSE D'ATH?

Initially conceived in medieval times, the Ducasse d'Ath pays homage to legendary giants who play pivotal roles in the town's folklore and religious customs. These towering figures, meticulously crafted and animated by dedicated performers, symbolize Ath's enduring cultural heritage.

The festival's association with giants stems from Ath's deep-rooted reverence for these monumental characters, each with its narrative and significance. Goliath, his marriage, and his battle with David are central to the pageantry.

DAVID AND GOLIATH

The biblical tale of David and Goliath, a triumph against all odds, unfolds through the seven towering giants that parade through the streets of Ath. The giant figures are meticulously crafted and imbued with symbolic significance. Each represents characters from local folklore and mythological and historical figures that resonate deeply with the community. Goliath is a towering symbol of strength and challenge, embodying the daunting obstacles communities like Ath have historically faced and overcome.

During the festival's processions, the presence of Goliath and other giants invokes a sense of historical continuity and communal identity. The story of David and Goliath serves as a symbolic backdrop, reminding participants and spectators alike of the enduring themes of courage, resilience, and the underdog's triumph.

FRENCH REVOLUTION

Historically, the French Revolution threatened the survival of the Ducasse d'Ath. Revolutionaries destroyed many of the giants. However, Ath's resilience and commitment to its cultural heritage ensured the festival's continuity, a testament to its enduring nature and cultural significance.

UNESCO YES. UNESCO NO.

The Ducasse d'Ath's recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage is a testament to its global importance and cultural significance. This status underscores the festival's significance beyond mere spectacle, recognizing its role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

The Ducasse d'Ath is a celebration that beautifully blends solemnity with festivity. It features colorful processions, traditional costumes, and spirited performances that bring the town to life. Locals actively participate in the festivities, reaffirming the festival's role as a communal celebration of identity and heritage.

UNESCO rescinded the Intangible Cultural Heritage acknowledgment for the Ducasse d'Ath in Belgium in 2022 due to complaints over one of the main characters, Le Sauvage (The Wild), who wears blackface. The character offended some people despite his representation of Belgium's involvement in colonialism as part of its history and being a tradition for over 300 years. The controversy prompted UNESCO to request the character and his float be removed from the celebration. When the city refused, UNESCO withdrew the designation, reflecting broader debates about the balance between cultural authenticity, historical accuracy and personal feelings in intangible heritage listings.

CONCLUSION

Today, the Ducasse d'Ath is a testament to Ath's enduring cultural vitality, captivating visitors and locals alike with its timeless charm and vibrant displays. The festival celebrates local traditions and connects them to universal narratives that resonate across cultures. The inclusion of David and Goliath among the giants underscores the festival's crucial role in preserving and reinterpreting heritage, making it relevant and meaningful to contemporary audiences.

Africa

Aug

Banana Split Day (1904): August 25

06:20 AM | -

Banana Split Day celebrates one of the most decadent desserts of all time, the banana split. The Banana Split was introduced at the Tassell Pharmacy in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, on August 25, 1904, it is believed. Whether this is the actual date cannot be confirmed. What is known is that 23-year-old pharmacist David Evans Strickler created the banana split that summer for the pharmacy's soda fountain to out-sundae other soda shops. It sold for a whopping 10 cents, twice the cost of other fountain treats. The original banana split continues to be served in Latrobe restaurants (long after soda fountains faded from glory) courtesy of Valley Dairy restaurants since 1938. A banana split is assembled on a dish called a boat. A banana is split into two lengthwise and placed on each side. Scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream are added in the middle. Toppings like pineapple on the strawberry ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup on the vanilla, and strawberry toppings on chocolate are the usual add-ons. Garnishes include slivers of almonds, whipped cream, and cherries complete the whole thing. The banana split had its 100th birthday in 2004.

Africa

Aug

Founder's Day, National Park Service (1916): August 25

06:20 AM | -

On August 25, 1916, the Organic Act passed, establishing the United States National Park Service. The service is responsible for maintaining and protecting Federal parks, including national parks, monuments, and reservations, and defending the animals and plants within them for the enjoyment of this and future generations.

Africa