All - Leep Calendar

Chaitra is the first month of the Hindu year. It corresponds to March or April of the Gregorian calendar. Lord Vishnu governs this month, and it commences upon the conclusion of the Hindu festival, Holi. Chaiti Chhath is observed on the sixth day of this month. Many vital festivals occur in Chaitra, including Navratri, Ram Navami, and Hanuman Jayanti. In the Hindu religion, Chaitra is an auspicious month believed to mark the period when the universe was created.

Africa

Mar

Cesar Chavez Day (1927): March 31

06:20 AM | -

On March 31, 1927, Cesar Chavez was born. Cesar Estrada Chavez came of age as a migrant farm worker, witnessing the injustice that pervaded fields and vineyards across California. Facing discrimination, poverty, and dangerous working conditions, laborers toiled for little pay without access to even the most basic necessities. Yet amidst hardship and abuse, Cesar Chavez saw the promise of change — the unlimited potential of a community organized around a common purpose. Today, we celebrate his courage, reflect on his lifetime of advocacy, and recognize our power to lift up lives and pursue social justice. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and other visionary leaders, Cesar Chavez based his campaign on principles of nonviolence, which he called 'the quality of the heart.' Through boycotts, fasts, strikes, and marches that demanded both endurance and imagination, he drew thousands together in support of 'La Causa' — a mission to ensure respect, dignity, and fair treatment for farm workers. Alongside Dolores Huerta, he founded the United Farm Workers of America (UFW), an organization tasked with defending and empowering the men and women who feed the world. President Barack Obama declared Cesar Chavez Day official in 2012. The Trump administration did not renew this event. However, the Biden administration reenacted it in 2021. As it is a historical anniversary of merit, we will continue to acknowledge it on LEEP Calendar, regardless of who is president.

Africa

Mar

Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month: March

06:20 AM | -

Preventing and Treating CP during Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, observed annually in March, is dedicated to increasing public understanding and awareness of cerebral palsy (CP). This month-long observance focuses on educating the public about CP, advocating for better care and treatment options, and supporting individuals and families affected by this condition. Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, often before birth. Symptoms vary widely but generally include: Problems with movement, coordination, and posture. Muscle stiffness or floppiness. Difficulty with speech and eating. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood. Preventing cerebral palsy is challenging because many factors contributing to its development occur before or during birth, and some are beyond control. However, some preventative steps include: Proper Prenatal Care: Regular medical check-ups during pregnancy can help manage health issues and reduce the risk of premature birth, a risk factor for CP. Preventing Infections During Pregnancy: Certain infections in pregnant women can increase the risk of CP in the baby. Avoiding these infections through vaccination and safe practices is essential. Avoiding Head Injuries in Infants: Protecting young children from accidents or falls that could result in head injuries may reduce the risk of CP. The treatment for cerebral palsy is multifaceted and personalized, focusing on improving each individual's quality of life. Treatments can include: Physical Therapy: Aims to improve motor skills, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility and balance. Occupational Therapy: Helps develop everyday skills and promote independence. Speech Therapy: Assists with communication challenges and speech difficulties. Medication: Can be used to manage muscle spasms, seizures, and pain. Surgical Interventions: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to manage muscle problems or other related conditions. Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month includes various activities such as educational campaigns, fundraising events, and community support gatherings. These efforts aim to foster a better understanding of CP, advocate for robust support systems, and celebrate the achievements of those living with the condition.

Africa

Mar

Celery Month: March

06:20 AM | -

Catch the crunch during Celery Month Celery Month, an annual unofficial event sans sponsor, is an observance highlighting celery, a versatile vegetable known for its crisp texture and distinctive flavor. This month focuses on promoting its various uses in cooking and its health benefits. Celery is a marshland plant in the family Apiaceae, commonly used as a vegetable. It has long fibrous stalks tapering into leaves. Rich in vitamins and low in calories, celery is praised for its health benefits, which include aiding digestion and providing antioxidants. Celery is used in the culinary world for its distinctive taste and crunchy texture. It's a staple in soups, salads, and stews and is also popular as a snack, often paired with dips like peanut butter or cream cheese. Additionally, celery seeds and leaves inform seasonings in various cuisines. FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN TO AMERICA Celery (Apium graveolens) originated in the Mediterranean region. Its history dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations. Historical evidence suggests that celery, or a similar plant, was cultivated for medicinal purposes in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Italy. The ancient Greeks used celery and its leafy relative, wild celery (known as "smallage"), in various ways, including as a medicinal plant, a flavoring in cooking, and even in their mythology and athletic games (such as the crowning of winners at the Nemean Games, similar to the use of laurel wreaths at the Olympic Games). Over time, selective breeding led to the development of the celery we are familiar with today, which has larger, more palatable stalks than its wild ancestors. This cultivation and refinement likely occurred in the 17th century in Europe, after which celery's popularity as a food item increased, spreading to various parts of the world. Celery Month is an opportunity to educate people on the versatility of celery in cooking, from traditional uses in dishes like chicken noodle soup and Waldorf salad to more creative culinary applications. Throughout Celery Month, promotional events, recipe sharing on social media, and educational campaigns about the nutritional value of celery may occur. These activities aim to inspire people to incorporate more of this healthy vegetable into their meals and to appreciate its role in a balanced diet.

Africa

Mar

Cereal Day, Ntl.: March 7

06:20 AM | -

Granola is the first cereal, and it was created in 1863 by James Caleb Jackson. A vegetarian, Jackson operated Our Home on the Hillside, which the Jackson Sanatorium later replaced in Dansville, New York. In 1906, the Kellogg brothers entered the mass-produced cereal market with cornflakes. At the time, there were 42 competing brands in Michigan. The Kellogg Brothers were savvy marketers and disguised their cornflakes from others by signing the box and stating theirs were "The Original." They were on the cusp of a massive shift in consumer eating. A few years later, the process for pasteurizing milk was perfected, thus allowing it to last longer when refrigerated. Concurrently, with people now working and living in cities, the heavy protein and calorie breakfast of the past began to give way to a lighter carbohydrate breakfast. Cereal quickly became the preferred choice economically and for time. The Kellogg Brothers were able to build the business with various innovations to their packaging, marketing, and product offerings. In the 1920s, cereal became an exported product to the rest of the world. By the 1930s, with the world engulfed in the Great Depression, cereal became a meal substitute with added vitamins and minerals. Today cereal is an 11-billion-dollar-a-year business with a wide variety of tastes, flavors, and consistencies. Walk into any modern supermarket and see an entire row dedicated to cereal: 250 different types. Honey Nut Cheerios by General Mills continues to be the top-selling cereal in the world. Granola Day is an unofficial event with no sponsor.

Africa

Mar

Celebrate Your Name Week: March 1-7

06:20 AM | -

The first whole week of each March is Celebrate Your Name Week. Every year it's meant to remind us to honor our names and their significance. Each day has its focus. Sunday is the Namesake Day; Monday is Fun Facts About Names Day; Tuesday is Unique Names Day; Wednesday is Discover What Your Name Means Day; Thursday is Nametag Day; Friday is Middle Name Pride Day; Saturday is Descendants Day.

Africa

Mar

Catholic Sisters Week: March 8-14

06:20 AM | -

Catholic Sisters Week, observed annually from March 8-14, is a celebration dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the contributions of Catholic sisters. This event, part of National Women's History Month, focuses on recognizing the vital role played by Catholic nuns in communities worldwide through their commitments to education, healthcare, social justice, and spiritual support. The event was initially known as National Catholic Sisters Week and began as part of National Women's History Month in 2014. The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, in coordination with Saint Catherine University in Saint Paul, Minnesota, launched the event to bring greater visibility to Catholic sisters, showcasing their lives and contributions and encouraging young women to consider a vocation in religious life. THE WORK OF CATHOLIC NUNS Catholic nuns engage in various work, reflecting their commitment to serving God and their communities. Their activities span from spiritual roles to social, educational, and healthcare services. How their work manifests depends on their religious order's charism (spiritual focus) and the needs of the communities they serve. Areas of focus include: Educational Services: Many nuns work in educational institutions, such as schools, colleges, and universities. They serve as teachers, administrators, and counselors, providing education and guidance to students of all ages. Healthcare Services—Nuns also play significant roles in healthcare, working in hospitals, clinics, hospices, and community health workers, offering medical care, counseling, and support to the sick and suffering. Social Services—They are involved in various social service projects, including running orphanages, homeless shelters, and soup kitchens assisting the poor, homeless, and marginalized members of society. Spiritual and Pastoral Work—Nuns often engage in spiritual and pastoral work, such as leading prayer and worship services, providing spiritual direction, and engaging in retreat ministry. Missionary Work—Many orders have an international presence, with nuns serving as missionaries in different parts of the world, often in areas of poverty, conflict, or natural disasters. HISTORY OF THE ORDER The formal establishment of monastic communities for women, or nunneries, began to develop more fully in the 4th century with the rise of monasticism in the Christian East and West. Notable early figures include Saint Macrina, sister of Saint Basil the Great, who established a community for women in the 4th century, and St. Scholastica, sister of Saint Benedict, believed to have founded a Benedictine community for women in the 6th century. Over the centuries, numerous religious orders for women emerged, each with its unique charism and mission. These include well-known orders like the Benedictines, Dominicans, Franciscans, Carmelites, and later, the Sisters of Charity, founded by St. Vincent de Paul, and the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa. WHY WOMEN CHOOSE TO BECOME NUNS Women choose to become nuns for various reasons, often stemming from a deep spiritual calling or vocation and a desire to dedicate one's life to God and to serve others in a religious context. The decision to become a nun often involves a desire for a life of prayer, community living, and a commitment to living out the values of poverty, chastity, and obedience, which are the evangelical counsels embraced by religious life. Many are also motivated by a commitment to social justice, a desire to help the needy, or a passion for educational or missionary work. Catholic Sisters Week serves multiple purposes. Primarily, it's a time to celebrate and give thanks for the selfless service of these women. Events during the week typically include open houses at convents, educational programs, service activities, and prayer services. These events offer a glimpse into nuns' lives, highlighting their dedication and challenges. The week also aims to inspire a new generation of women to consider a life of religious service. By showcasing the diverse ways Catholic sisters contribute to society, the event seeks to dispel misconceptions about religious life and highlight its relevance in the modern world.

Africa

Mar

Careers Week, Ntl.(UK): March 2-7

06:20 AM | -

National Careers Week in the United Kingdom is an annual event designed to teach children and young adults (elementary through university) about career paths and options. The program reaches over 1 million students a year.

Africa

Mar

Care Sunday (C)(UK): March 22

06:20 AM | -

Care Sunday is part of the Lent observances in the Church of England, and it occurs on the fifth Sunday of Lent and initiates the high holy week of Passiontide.

Africa

Mar

Cape Town International Jazz Festival (ZA): March 27-28

06:20 AM | -

Sub-Saharan Africa basks in a fantastic mix of artists from all over the globe—the Cape Town International Jazz Festival is fondly known as "Africa's Grandest Gathering" for good reason. The festival began in 2000, so it's relatively young compared to other jazz festivals. But don't let its age fool you; it has rapidly grown to become the fourth-largest jazz festival worldwide, a real testament to its quality and the hard work of the organizers. The festival is held annually, usually around the last weekend of March or the first weekend of April, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The festival is an eclectic mix of jazz from across the spectrum, so there's something for everyone. The diversity is incredible, from the more traditional jazz styles to African jazz, hip-hop, and funk elements. The festival typically features over 40 artists performing on multiple stages over two days, so you're spoilt for choice. But it's not just about the music. The festival also includes a free community concert in Greenmarket Square, right in the heart of the city, which allows everyone to enjoy the music, even if they can't attend the main festival. And then there's the Jazz Festival's Sustainable Training & Development program that offers workshops, photojournalism projects, and music business classes for young talents, which is fantastic for promoting and nurturing local talent. 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

Mar

Canberra Day (AU)(1913): March 9

06:20 AM | -

Canberra Day in Australia is the second Monday in March and commemorates the official naming of Australia’s capital city, Canberra, on March 12th, 1913. Multiple events occur at The Canberra Festival and The Chief Minister’s Canberra Day Awards Ceremony, including sporting events, music, film, and theater. Families traditionally picnic and celebrate in the park. Canberra has a long history beginning with Indigenous Australians known as the Ngunnawal people, who arrived nearly 21,000 years ago.

Africa

Mar

Canadian Bacon Day, Ntl.: March 3

06:20 AM | -

This is another one of those confusing foods with multiple origin stories. It's one of these two. Option one—National Canadian Bacon Day celebrates Canadian bacon, an American deli-style smoked round or oval-shaped ham that is leaner than belly strip bacon ("steaky" in Brit) and does not require cooking. This style (commonly found alongside pineapple on pizza) has nothing to do with Canada besides its name. Option two—since this event was created by the producers of America's largest Bacon Festival (annually in Des Moines, Iowa), which attracts global bacon connoisseurs, it is more likely it celebrates the original Canadian style bacon, a wet-cured pork loin from the back, rolled in crushed cornmeal and fried called Peameal bacon, a Canadian breakfast delicacy. Created in Toronto, Canada (and a reason for the city's nickname "Hogtown"), Peameal is trimmed of all fat, soaked in brine, juicy, and much lower in fat and cholesterol than the pork belly strips of traditional bacon. It looks more like the tenderloin with a yellow halo. Peameal bacon must be cooked as it isn't cured. Peameal bacon sandwiches are the official sandwich of Toronto (just like Cheesesteaks are the official sandwich of Philadelphia); if you want to try the original, drop into the Carousel Bakery at Toronto's Saint Lawrence Market. Origin story one or two? Nobody said this would be logical. Therefore, you win if you choose to celebrate National Canadian Bacon Day with US-named Canadian bacon that isn't Canadian or bacon or with Canadian peameal bacon, which isn't bacon but it is Canadian. Enjoy!

Africa

Mar

Campfire Girls Day (1912): March 17

06:20 AM | -

The Camp Fire Girls organization was incorporated on March 17, 1912, by Mrs. Charles Farnsworth of Vermont with Luther Gulick M.D. and his wife, Charlotte Vedder Gulick of Maine. Campfire Girls were created to be a sister organization to the Boy Scouts of America. Girl Scouts were started two years later. In 1975 the Camp Fire Girls was renamed to Camp Fire Boys and Girls to include both genders. The Camp Fire program includes various after-school programs, environmental education, camping, and other small-group experiences.

Africa

Mar

California Strawberry Day: March 21

06:20 AM | -

The California Strawberry Commission's California Strawberry Day celebrates the state's rich history and ongoing success as a leading producer of strawberries in the United States. The day focuses on appreciating strawberries' versatility, flavor, and nutritional benefits while acknowledging the hard work of farmers and workers in the strawberry industry. The purpose of California Strawberry Day is to promote strawberry consumption among the public, highlight the economic importance of strawberry farming to California's agriculture, and educate consumers about the health benefits of strawberries. California, known for its ideal growing conditions, produces over 90% of the nation's strawberry crop, making this day an important celebration for the state's agricultural community. STRAWBERRY DAY PROMOTIONS Typical activities on California Strawberry Day include: Strawberry Tasting Events: Farms, farmers' markets, and grocery stores may host tasting events, allowing people to sample different varieties of strawberries and learn about their distinct flavors and uses. Cooking Demonstrations: Chefs and culinary experts might conduct cooking demonstrations, showcasing innovative and traditional ways to incorporate strawberries into meals and desserts. Educational Workshops: These may focus on strawberries' nutritional benefits, sustainable farming practices, or tips for growing strawberries at home. Community Festivals: Some communities celebrate with festivals that include strawberry-themed contests, such as baking competitions, eating contests, and best strawberry dish awards. Promotions and Discounts: Retailers and restaurants often offer promotions, discounts, or special menu items featuring strawberries to encourage people to enjoy and purchase more. YUMMY FOODS THAT USE STRAWBERRIES Strawberries are celebrated for their versatility in cuisine and accent a variety of dishes, including: Desserts: Strawberries are a staple in desserts, such as shortcakes, pies, tarts, and ice creams, complimenting their natural sweetness and vibrant color. Salads: Fresh strawberries can add a sweet and tangy flavor to green salads, pairing well with ingredients like spinach, nuts, and goat cheese. Beverages: Strawberries are commonly used in smoothies, cocktails, and mocktails, providing a refreshing and fruity element. Sauces and Jams: Strawberries can serve as a delicious accompaniment to desserts, breakfast dishes, and even savory entrees. Fresh Snacks: Served fresh, strawberries are a nutritious snack, rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. California Strawberry Day serves as a reminder of the state's significant contribution to strawberry cultivation and the fruit's cultural and nutritional value. It encourages the public to celebrate and enjoy strawberries in all their forms, supporting local farmers and the economy.

Africa

Mar

Caffeine Awareness Month: March

06:20 AM | -

Caffeine Awareness Month seeks objective, evidence-based information, and advice to reduce caffeine abuse and addiction's health, social, and economic harm. The Caffeine Awareness Association, a non-profit organization, is committed to the physical, mental, and emotional wellness of the public whose lives have been affected by their misuse of or dependency on caffeine. Caffeine Awareness Month was created in 2005. The website has stagnated since 2015, but many organizations continue to observe this unsponsored event.

Africa