All - Leep Calendar

Yarn bombing, also known as guerrilla knitting, knit graffiti, and urban knitting, is a form of street art that uses colorful knitted or crocheted yarn or fiber rather than paint or chalk. Yarn bombing began in the early 2000s. One of the earliest known acts was by Magda Sayeg, a boutique owner from Houston, Texas. In 2005, she decided to cover the door handle of her shop with a custom-made cozy, which garnered attention and sparked interest among locals. As she continued to create more installations, Magda found that her work brought warmth and a sense of playfulness to urban landscapes. This inspiration led her to form the Knitta Please Group, a collective of artists committed to bringing unexpected warmth to urban spaces. As the idea took off, yarn bombing became a global phenomenon. Artists worldwide began to adorn public spaces with colorful, knitted creations, from lampposts and mailboxes to statues and even buses. This form of street art quickly grew in popularity due to its non-permanent, non-destructive nature and its ability to transform cold, impersonal urban environments into inviting and cheerful spaces. International Yarn Bombing Day emerged in 2011 to encourage people worldwide to participate in this unique form of street art. Groups and individuals come together to create installations that range from small and subtle to grand and intricate. While yarn bombing is generally non-destructive, it's worth noting that it hasn't been without controversy. Some critics argue that it can be wasteful, as the yarn used can become damaged or dirty when exposed to the elements, rendering it unusable for other purposes. Others have raised concerns about potential damage to trees and plants. Whether seen as a political statement, a form of community building, or simply a way to beautify the surroundings, yarn bombing continues to captivate the public imagination with its blend of traditional craft and contemporary expression.

Africa

Jun

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival (US-TN): June 15-18

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Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, began in 2002, taking inspiration from music festivals of the 60s and 70s like Woodstock. "Bonnaroo" is Creole slang for "a really good time." The festival lives up to its name. The lineup is exceptionally diverse, featuring multiple music genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, country, bluegrass, jazz, electronic, and folk. Over the years, some of the biggest names in music have graced the Bonnaroo stages, from Elton John to Paul McCartney, from Eminem to Radiohead. Entering the festival site is like entering a different world. Thousands of tents are pitched on every available space, creating a colorful patchwork across the fields. The sense of community in these camps is incredible. Everyone is your friend at Bonnaroo. Multiple activities provide entertainment throughout the four days. There's the Comedy Tent if you want to catch some laughs and the Cinema Tent, where you can chill and watch some films. They even have yoga classes and a mini-parade! Bonnaroo features a fantastic array of food, including festival classics like burgers and pizzas, gourmet fare, vegan options, and everything in between. They also host a special Bonnaroo-themed beer. The festival's motto is "Radiate Positivity," precisely your mood throughout the event. 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

Jun

PinkPop (NL): June 16-18

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PinkPop Festival began in 1970 and has been held annually in Landgraaf, Limburg, The Netherlands. It got its name from its original date on Pentecost Monday (which is called "Pinksteren" in Dutch). Today the festival occurs in June and spans three days. This festival has hosted many of the world's biggest music acts, including the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Pearl Jam, Coldplay, Bruce Springsteen, and Radiohead. Music played is a mix of pop, electronic, hip-hop, folk, rock—you name it. PinkPop hosts three stages. There's the Main Stage (the biggest one), the North Stage, and the Garden Stage, which is the smallest and has a more intimate vibe. They're all spaced out so that the sound doesn't overlap. The Dutch sure know how to have a good time. Attendees are relaxed, friendly, and excited about the music. Their spirit of camaraderie is infectious. The festival becomes a pop-up town for a weekend, with tens of thousands of festival-goers camping in the nearby fields. The camping experience is part of the fun, with people from all over the world sharing stories, drinks, and laughs. Food stalls and trucks offer traditional Dutch fries and pancakes to burgers and vegan options. PinkPop is one of those festivals that every music lover should experience at least once. It's more than just about the music. It's about the people, the location, and the incredible atmosphere. 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

Jun

Gnaoua World Music Festival (MA): June 22-24

06:20 AM | -

Christians have Gospel music, and Islam in North Africa has Gnaoua. The Gnaoua World Music Festival, also known as Festival Gnaoua et Musiques du Monde, is an annual celebration in the coastal town of Essaouira, Morocco. The festival explores and promotes the musical genre of Gnaoua and a variety of spiritual world music styles. The festival began in 1998 to celebrate the Gnaoua musical tradition and its influence. Gnaoua music has its roots in sub-Saharan Africa, and it was brought to Morocco centuries ago through the trans-Saharan slave trade. Over the years, it has evolved into a unique Moroccan musical genre known for its hypnotic rhythm and spiritual undertones. The Gnaoua people often are described as mystical musicians and storytellers, and their music plays a significant role in Moroccan culture. During the late June festival, Essaouira comes alive with music performances citywide. The festival features a mix of local Gnaoua musicians (known as Maâlems) and international artists, resulting in a fascinating fusion of styles. While Gnaoua music is the main highlight, the festival includes jazz, blues, pop, rock, soul, and global folk music performances, which can lead to some truly unique and exciting musical collaborations. One of the festival's most captivating aspects is the Lila, a traditional, all-night ritual concert that starts in the evening and goes on until dawn. These performances are spiritual experiences filled with music, dancing, and chanting, creating a trance-like state central to the Gnaoua tradition. Apart from the music, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Essaouira itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its 18th-century seaport and ancient Arabic medina. The Gnaoua World Music Festival is a cultural and spiritual journey that offers a deep insight into the unique Gnaoua tradition and its place in the world music scene. 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

Jun

Calcio Storico Fiorentino (IT): June 24

06:20 AM | -

The Calcio Storico Fiorentino, often called Calcio Fiorentino, can be considered sport's answer to anger management. This traditional sport of Florence, Italy, dates back to the 16th century and combines soccer, rugby, and wrestling in an exciting, violent, and vibrant spectacle. It originated from the Roman sport of harpastum, which Roman generals used to keep legionnaires fit and in top fighting condition beginning in 59 BC. The game is played in the Piazza Santa Croce, on a field of sand, twice a year in June as part of the San Giovanni celebrations, honoring St. John the Baptist, the city's patron saint. Four teams represent the four quarters of the city: Santa Croce (Blue), Santo Spirito (White), Santa Maria Novella (Red), and San Giovanni (Green). Each team comprises 27 players. Once the players are on the field, a historic cannon fires to begin the match. The game's objective is to throw the ball over a designated spot on the opponent's side of the field. Players employ a free-for-all strategy of violence and technique, using any means necessary to achieve victory. A lack of rules leads to extreme scrambling, pushing, and tackling that would be considered illegal in most modern contact sports. The most famous game was held in 1530 during the siege of Florence, seen as an act of defiance against the attacking forces. Today, Calcio Storico Fiorentino is a source of immense local pride. The annual games draw large crowds, including a parade of participants dressed in historical costumes. The tournament winners are awarded a white calf, keeping with centuries of tradition. 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

Jun

Glastonbury Festival (UK): June 21 - 26

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The Glastonbury Festival, created in 1970 and drawing over 250,000 people a year, is like stepping into a magical wonderland where music, art, and good vibes come together in the heart of the English countryside. Created by Michael Eavis on his farm in Pilton, Somerset, England, the humble gathering would evolve into something truly extraordinary. Glastonbury, or Glasto, is a five-day extravaganza that celebrates music, creativity, and community, including big-name headliners from a diverse lineup with genres ranging from rock, pop, and indie to electronic, folk, and world music. Attendees dance to their favorite bands, discover new artists, and lose themselves in the rhythm and melodies that fill the air. In addition to music, the sprawling green fields transform into a colorful tapestry of tents, stages, and art installations. Attendees explore various themed areas, from the iconic Pyramid Stage (the festival's centerpiece) to the intimate acoustic performances in the legendary Stone Circle. Wander through the bustling markets filled with unique crafts, clothes, and delicious global food. Circus acts, theater performances, poetry readings, and even a dedicated Kidz Field for the little ones round out the electric atmosphere. Over the years, Glastonbury has hosted some of the greatest artists of all time, including legends like David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Radiohead, and Beyoncé. Tickets sell out in a matter of minutes! Glastonbury, in addition to music and art, focuses on social and environmental causes, actively promoting sustainability and green initiatives through "Green Fields" focused on eco-friendly living, renewable energy, and holistic well-being. The Glastonbury Festival is an experience where new friendships are forged, dreams come alive, and music reigns supreme. 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

Jun

Lightning Safety Day, Intl. (2011): June 28

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International Lightning Safety Day was created in 2015 to mark the anniversary of the June 28, 2011, lightning strike that killed 19 people. On June 28, 2011, a lightning strike at Runyanya Primary School in western Uganda killed 18 students and their teacher, sparking concern among officials due to a recent spate of deadly lightning strikes in the country. The incident occurred around 1630 local time while students waited inside classrooms for a downpour to cease. The police reported that the victims included 15 girls and three boys, with another 36 students admitted to the hospital for injuries. The absence of lightning rods atop several buildings, including schools and health centers, is the believed cause of the high casualty rate. Uganda's Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Musa Ecweru, labeled the omission of lightning arrestors during construction as "negligent." He pledged to rectify the issue moving forward. Marx Kabi, a specialist at Uganda's National Forestry Authority (UNFA), highlighted another major cause of increased lightning strikes: deforestation. He noted that with fewer trees to absorb or channel lightning, most areas now covered by shrubs were more vulnerable to strikes. The incident brought the total lightning-related fatalities that week to 28.

Africa

Jun

Inti Rami (PE/EC): June 24-29

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nti Raymi, often spelled as Inti Rami in English, is a traditional Incan festival that honors Inti, the sun god. Today, Inti Rami occurs in several Andean countries, including Ecuador and Peru. Historical Background: Inti Raymi dates back to the time of the Inca Empire. It takes place on the winter solstice when the sun is furthest from the Earth's Southern Hemisphere and honors the god Inti and pleads for his return. In Inca mythology, Inti was considered the ancestral father of the Inca people, so the festival held significant religious importance. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived, they suppressed Inti Raymi and other indigenous ceremonies as they sought to convert the local population to Christianity. The festival was banned for many years and only survived in some remote communities. The modern-day revival of Inti Raymi began in the mid-20th century. In 1944, Faustino Espinoza Navarro organized a historical reconstruction of the Inti Raymi in Cusco, Peru. Since then, the festival has grown in popularity and is now a major event attracting thousands of visitors yearly. Experience of the Festival: In Peru, the main Inti Raymi event occurs at Sacsayhuamán, an Inca ruin near Cusco. The celebration starts in the morning at Qorikancha, the ancient Inca temple of the sun. The procession then moves to the main square of Cusco before ending at the large, open amphitheater of Sacsayhuamán. Theatrical performances and reenactments of traditional Inca ceremonies highlight the festival. These include an Inca ritual of the sun, offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), the coca leaf ceremony, and the ceremonial lighting of the fire. The performance ends with a procession back to Cusco. The participants, dressed in traditional Inca costumes, create a vibrant and captivating spectacle. The combination of the setting, the ceremony, and the feeling of being connected to a tradition thousands of years old form a unique and moving experience for spectators. In Ecuador, Inti Raymi is often combined with the Catholic celebration of Corpus Christi, reflecting the blending of indigenous and Catholic traditions. The celebrations last several days and involve music, dancing, and feasting. In certain communities, men fight ritualistically (Tinku) to ensure a good harvest. Visitors to either Peru or Ecuador during the time of Inti Raymi will find themselves immersed in a cultural experience that blends history, tradition, and spirituality. The festival provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Andean peoples and their enduring connection to the natural world.

Africa

Jun

Bomb Pop Day, Ntl: June 29

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National Bomb Pop Day celebrates the frozen six-sided treat, the Bomb Pop. The dessert originated in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1955 and is a common sight at American Fourth of July celebrations.

Africa

Jun

Cybersecurity Education Month, Ntl.: June

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Unmasking the Cybersecurity Workforce Shortfall: US Senate Initiates National Cybersecurity Education Month In response to the escalating prevalence of cyber threats, the United States Senate has designated June "National Cybersecurity Education Month." This initiative acknowledges the importance of cybersecurity knowledge and the need for a more robust workforce to tackle the growing cyber challenges. As the world becomes increasingly connected, the likelihood of cyberattacks threatening individuals and organizations increases, impacting the nation's security and prosperity. The pressing urgency to develop and maintain a proficient cybersecurity workforce remains a priority in the public and private sectors. According to data from CyberSeek.org, as of June 2022, there are over 714,000 unfilled jobs in the cybersecurity field in the US, despite a workforce of more than a million individuals. This significant gap showcases the importance of dedicated efforts to cultivate this sector, as proposed in a 2017 report by the Secretaries of Commerce and Homeland Security. Efforts to bolster the cybersecurity workforce must begin early. Implementing cybersecurity education across K-12 classrooms is critical to addressing the workforce shortage and equipping the nation for ongoing and future threats. Not only does this provide learning and career opportunities for students, but it also strengthens the domestic workforce's capacity to secure the nation's economy and defense. In support of this vision, Congress authorized the Cybersecurity Education Training Assistance Program (CETAP), a Homeland Security initiative, as part of the 2021 William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act. CETAP aims to provide cybersecurity career awareness, curricular resources, and professional development to elementary and secondary schools. CETAP grantee CYBER.ORG has already introduced cybersecurity concepts to over 3.4 million students and provided resources to more than 25,000 K-12 educators across all 50 States and four US territories. Moreover, the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) champions the mission to promote and coordinate a robust community advancing an integrated cybersecurity education, training, and workforce development ecosystem. Several federal programs support cybersecurity education, including the NICE Community Coordinating Council, the Advanced Technological Education program, and the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service Program. Efforts extend from the National Science Foundation and the Department of Defense to the Department of Labor's Registered Apprenticeship Program. By ensuring access to cybersecurity education for all students, irrespective of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sex, or geographic location, the Senate aims to expand opportunities for high-earning jobs in this high-demand field.

Africa

Jun

Asian Kabaddi Championships (KR): June 27-30

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Asian Kabaddi Championships returned in 2023 after a multi-year hiatus. The last time the event was held was in 2017. Kabaddi is a contact team sport that originated in South Asia and is especially popular in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Iran. The sport involves two teams sending a "raider" into the opponent's half of the court to tag members of the opposing team while chanting "kabaddi, kabaddi," all in one breath. The objective for the defenders is to either evade the raider or tackle them before they can return to their half of the court. The Asian Kabaddi Federation governs the Asian Kabaddi Championships and usually features teams from various countries participating in men's, women's, and sometimes junior categories. The tournament has been a stepping stone for many players to gain international exposure and has played a vital role in developing and popularizing the sport in Asia. Over the years, countries like India, Pakistan, Iran, and South Korea have been strong contenders in the tournament, showcasing high skill levels and strategy. The championships often serve as a precursor to other international events like the Kabaddi World Cup and the Asian Games, where Kabaddi is also featured.

Africa

Jun

Roskilde Festival (DK): June 24 - July 1

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Denmark's eight-day Roskilde Festival began in 1971 when a couple of high school students, Mogens Sandfær and Jesper Switzer Møller, with promoter Carl Fischer, decided they needed a reason to party and hear great music. Over the years, the festival has grown exponentially in size and its cultural and societal impact. With over 100,000 attendees annually, it's one of Europe's biggest festivals driven by non-profit ideals. All profits from the festival go to social and cultural charities. What's it like? Picture a city of tents sprawling as far as you can see, filled with people from all walks of life gathered in one place to celebrate music, art, and community. The music is diverse, featuring international stars to local Scandinavian talent, and nearly every genre is represented, including punk, electronic, jazz, hip-hop, rock, and folk performances. The Art Zone is another feature highlighting the work of innovative and talented artists. The Science Pavilion presents exploration, talks, and workshops on sustainability and technology. It's a real fusion of different cultures and ideas. And then there is the food. Food stalls serve a wide range of cuisines that promote sustainability, including organic and vegan options. The Roskilde Festival is for anyone who loves music, arts, and a vibrant community atmosphere. It's more than a festival; it's an experience. 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

Jun

Montreal International Jazz Festival (CA-QC): June 29 - July 8

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The Montreal International Jazz Festival was founded in 1980 by Alain Simard, André Ménard, and Denys McCann. The inaugural event was a bit of a gamble, with jazz legends like Ray Charles and Chick Corea performing on a budget funded by loans and government grants. But it was a huge success, and since then, the festival has grown into the largest jazz festival in the world, as noted by the Guinness World Records. Typically held in late June to early July, it's a celebration of jazz, blues, reggae, world music, and even pop and rock. Big names like Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and Prince have graced the stages along with up-and-coming talent. The festival takes place in the heart of Montreal's Quartier des Spectacles, an arts and entertainment district in the city. The streets are closed off to traffic, and there are multiple outdoor stages where you can watch free performances. Indoor concerts occur in venues around the city, some requiring tickets. There's also plenty of food to sample, from food trucks serving local fare to the nearby restaurants offering festival specials. In Montreal, you'll discover its rich history, culture, and fantastic places to visit when you're not enjoying the music. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or just a casual fan, it's an experience you will remember. The whole city celebrates jazz, and it's truly magical! 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

Jun

The Ashes, Cricket (UK/AU): June 16 -July 31

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The Ashes is a cricket competition every two years between England and Australia and is one of the most celebrated rivalries in international cricket. The name "Ashes" began during an 1882 match at the Oval when Australia beat England on English soil (scandalous!) for the first time. A British newspaper, The Sporting Times, published a satirical obituary lamenting the death of English cricket, noting, "the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia." Two years later, England visited Australia, with team captain Ivo Bligh vowing to return with "the ashes" of English cricket. England won two out of three matches, prompting a group of Melbourne women to present Bligh with a small urn, rumored to contain the ashes of a burnt cricket ball, and the mythical "Ashes" trophy was born. Each year a replica of that urn is presented as the trophy (though the original has remained at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London, regardless of who wins the series). The Ashes consist of five or more test matches in venues alternating between England and Australia. Each game occurs over five days, with six hours of play daily. Each team gets two innings (turns at bat), and the team with the most total runs at the end of the match is declared the winner. The match is declared a draw if no clear winner emerges at the end of five days. 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

Jun

Haemochromatosis Week, World: June 3-9

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World Hemochromatosis Week addresses the issue of too much iron in the body. The disease most often appears in men and women over 40 and can be instigated through heredity, diet, vitamin pills with iron, and alcohol consumption. This advocacy week urges people worldwide to get tested and provides resources for those affected by the disease.

Africa