All - Leep Calendar

How to Make a Friend Day is an unofficial holiday that came about through word-of-mouth. In researching this, we attempted to find a national or global non-profit dedicated to helping people nurture interpersonal relationships that could be used as a source for story ideas. There does not seem to be one, yet friendships and the ability to build them remain one of the top indicators of a happy and healthy life. The closest we could come was the Dale Carnegie Institute, which focuses more on business and networking than learning friend-making and maintaining skills early in life.

Africa

Feb

Man Day: February 8

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Created in 2002 by C. Daniel Rhodes, Man Day is an international celebration of all things authentically male, guy, and hombre. Annually on the Sunday before Valentine's.

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Feb

Mardi Gras (US-LA): February 13-17

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Mardi Gras is a celebration during the five days leading up to Lent. Technically, Mardi Gras is the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The date range given covers the major festivities leading up to Lent. European celebrations originally centered on Kings' Day (Twelfth Night or Epiphany), which falls on January 6 each year and celebrates the three kings' arrival at Jesus' birthplace, thus ending the Christmas season. The festival known as Mardi Gras (Carnaval in Brazil and Italy) combines Christianity with pagan celebrations of the impending spring, dating back more than 5,000 years. Pope Gregory XIII made Mardi Gras a Christian holiday when in 1582, he added it to the Gregorian calendar (the 12-month one we still use today). He placed Mardi Gras on the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. That way, all the debauchery, merry-making, lust, and silliness would be out of people's systems so they could focus on fasting and praying for the next 40 days. Today Mardi Gras is a five-day event, with the Tuesday prior referred to as Fat Tuesday. Mardi Gras arrived in North America with the LeMoyne brothers, Iberville and Bienville, in the late 17th century. The brothers were sent by King Louis XIV (Versailles) to defend France's claim on the territory of Louisiana. The parade of krewes (groups of people who danced together as a unit) would come a little later. DAWN OF A LEGEND On Ash Wednesday of 1838, The Commercial Bulletin read: "The European custom of celebrating the last day of the carnival by a procession of masked figures through the streets was introduced here yesterday," declared the New Orleans newspaper. It is the city's first appearance of a Mardi Gras parade, though hardly the last. Allow me to diverge just a tad here. If you've ever been to the United States for any major celebration, you've probably noticed that booze, bawdiness, and some obnoxious behavior generally accompany any celebration—which leads us to the Mardi Gras that almost weren't. Due to rowdiness, excessive intoxication, and general disorderly conduct, the annual Mardi Gras celebration barely escaped cancelation in 1857. By the 20th century, the citywide-festival ran into other issues. In 1988 anti-discrimination laws required krewes to open their ranks to people of all colors and religions, or get off public streets. In response, three of the four oldest krewes, Comus (1857), Momus (1873), and Proteus (1882), took their floats and went home. Post Katrina (2005), Mardi Gras took on a whole new meaning as a reminder of the resiliency and spirit of New Orleans. Find out more about Mardi Gras fat: http://www.nola.com/mardigras/index.ssf/2009/01/the_history_of_carnival.html#incart_river 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

Feb

Marfan Syndrome Awareness Month: February

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Marfan Syndrome Awareness Month raises awareness of this disorder and the need to raise funds for a cure. Approximately 140 million people worldwide are affected by the genetic disorder known as Marfan syndrome. Marfan syndrome attacks cell structure. Connective tissue holds the body's cells, organs and tissue together. Healthy connective tissue is essential in ensuring a body grows and develops appropriately. This disease affects all areas of a person's body, from what we see to the internal organs, including the heart and lungs.

Africa

Feb

Margarita Day, Ntl.: February 22

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Which woman named Margarita is responsible for the Margarita (tequila, triple sec, and lime) is debated. What is known is the drink is Mexican and was created sometime in the late 1930s or early 1940s, depending upon which story you believe. It is named after a woman, and its main ingredient is tequila. There are three varieties of Tequila: Gold Tequila, Tequila Anejo, and White Tequila. Gold and Anejo are aged in oak, like wine. Most tequila is produced in Mexico. It is made from the Blue Agave (century) plant and must contain 51 percent of Blue Agave under Mexican law to be considered tequila. Blue Agave is grown in Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, Tamaulipas, and Guanajuato. The Best Premium Tequila containing 100 percent Agave are: 1. Jose Cuervo 250 Aniversario ($2,000+/bottle) 2. Asom Broso (aged 11 years and over $1,200+ per bottle) 3. Gran Patron Burdeos ($500+/bottle) 4. Don Julio Real ($375/bottle) 5. Milagro Unico ($350/bottle) 6. Casa Dragones (around $300/bottle) 7. Don Julio 1942 ($150/bottle) 8. Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia ($140/bottle) 9. Avión Silver (averaging $50) 10. Maestro Dobel ($50/bottle) Todd McCalla created this event to celebrate his favorite drink.

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Feb

Marijuana Awareness Month: February

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Marijuana Awareness Month, observed in February, is a period designated to raise awareness about the use of marijuana, its potential effects, and the evolving legal and social landscape surrounding it. Though it is unofficial without a specific champion, it has gained relevance amidst the changing legal status of marijuana in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States. The origin of Marijuana Awareness Month can be traced to health organizations, advocacy groups, and educational institutions recognizing the need for informed discussion and education about marijuana. As debates and policies regarding the legal status of marijuana have evolved, there has been an increasing need for public awareness and understanding of the substance. Marijuana Awareness Month aims to educate the public about the effects of marijuana use, both medical and recreational. This includes understanding the potential health benefits and risks, the legal implications of its use, and the societal impact of marijuana legalization. The observance also seeks to dispel myths and misconceptions about marijuana, promoting a more evidence-based understanding of the substance. Marijuana has been used for centuries for both medicinal and recreational purposes. However, in the 20th century, many countries, including the United States, criminalized its use, leading to significant legal and social consequences. In recent years, there has been a shift, with some states and countries legalizing or decriminalizing marijuana, especially for medical use. This changing legal landscape has prompted a need for increased public awareness and education. Marijuana Awareness Month typically involves a range of educational initiatives and events. These can include seminars, workshops, informational campaigns, and community discussions led by healthcare professionals, legal experts, and advocacy groups. These activities aim to provide balanced and factual information about marijuana, addressing topics such as health effects, responsible use, and the impact of legalization. Marijuana Awareness Month highlights the importance of understanding the complex issues related to its use and the societal implications of its legalization.

Africa

Feb

Marmot Day: February 2

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In the lower 48, we celebrate Groundhog Day. In Alaska, it is known as Marmot Day (an animal part of the same family. This event was established in 2009 by the state of Alaska. Marmots, native to the Northern Hemisphere, are charismatic rodents about the size of a house cat. They are hunted for their fur and meat, a delicacy in some parts of the world. The town of Owosso, Michigan, also celebrates Marmot Day in July.

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Feb

Marriage Day, World: February 8

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World Marriage Day originated in Baton Rouge during the winter of 1981. It was created by conservative groups alarmed at escalating divorce rates and other interpretations of marriage. They successfully petitioned the Mayor, state Governor and Catholic Bishop to proclaim St. Valentines Day as "We Believe in Marriage Day," specifying marriage exists solely between a man and woman. Marriage is one of the seven holy sacraments in Christianity. By 1982, 43 State Governors officially proclaimed the day, and celebrations spread to U.S. military bases in several foreign countries. In 1983, We Believe in Marriage Day was changed to "World Marriage Day," celebrated globally on the second Sunday in February. In 1993, Pope John Paul II's Holiness imparted his Apostolic Blessings on World Marriage Day. WMD celebrations continue growing and spreading to more countries and faith expressions yearly. Though the event originated with Christians, it is recognized worldwide by people of all faiths. With the increasing approval of homosexual unions, it now includes non-traditional married couples in nations where such marriages are legal.

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Feb

Marriage Week (UK/EU/US): February 7-14

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Marriages have long been the bedrock of society. Statistics show that married people live longer and are often more content with their lives. Of course, living with someone else isn’t easy, and divorce statistics prove that. Marriage Week in the United Kingdom focuses on nurturing relationships and giving couples the tools they need to grow stronger. Marriage Week is a massive memoir to the nation that says, “If you are fortunate enough to be in a marriage, then you should look after it.” Marriage Week is honored annually in the following countries and continues to grow globally. Germany Czech Republic Switzerland Hungary Belgium Australia Northern Ireland United States Romania Slovakia Ukraine

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Feb

Martyrs Day (BD)(1952): February 21

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Like many societies, the Bengalese seek to preserve their language and heritage. Student protesters were killed on this day in 1952 when Urdu was declared the official language of neighboring Pakistan. Ultimately Bengalese won the right to speak and have their language (spoken by over 250 million people) as the official state language. February 21 honors those who died to preserve the language, and the United Nations International marks it as Mother Language Day in honor of the student's sacrifice.

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Feb

Maslenitsa (RU): February 16-22

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Maslenitsa, also known as Pancake Week, is the Christian Orthodox faith's version of Carnival in the days leading up to the Lenten Fast in Russian and Slavic countries. This celebration has roots in both pagan and Christian traditions and is characterized by folk rituals, performances, games, and, most notably, the making and eating of pancakes. Maslenitsa evolved from pagan rituals honoring the Slavic deity Veles, the patron of cattle and farming. The celebration symbolized the end of winter, the anticipation of spring, fertility, new life, and a struggle between the passing winter and the coming spring. This struggle is represented through various competitive games and activities. CELEBRATING MASLENITSA One of the most symbolic aspects of Maslenitsa is the preparation and consumption of blini (Russian pancakes). These pancakes are significant because their round, warm, golden appearance symbolizes the sun. Russian pancakes feature different toppings, including caviar, mushrooms, jam, or sour cream. In vintage Russian culture, blini represents the sun and the cycle of birth and death. The week-long celebration of Maslenitsa involves different activities each day. For instance, Monday welcomes Maslenitsa by making a straw figure representing winter; Tuesday involves games and performances, and Wednesday opens feasts with blini and other dishes. Thursday is known for revelry and fistfights, while Friday and Saturday are reserved for family gatherings and honoring in-laws. Sunday is Forgiveness Sunday, where people seek forgiveness to cleanse themselves before Lent. WHY PANCAKES? Pancakes are a symbol of pre-Lent festivities. In many cultures, the period leading up to Lenten fast in the Christian liturgical year. Celebrations include feasting on foods that the faithful will give up during Lent. Pancakes, rich in eggs, butter, and milk (traditionally restricted during Lent), are a fitting choice for this final indulgence. In Western Christian traditions, particularly in the United Kingdom and Ireland, Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Tuesday) is celebrated by making and eating pancakes. In 2002, Moscow reinvigorated the celebration of Maslenitsa with large festivals, attracting numerous visitors. The celebration includes public festivities like sledding, tug-of-war, and the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy, symbolizing the farewell to winter and the welcoming of spring. Today, Maslenitsa is a celebration of spring and a cultural event that showcases Russian traditions and customs.

Africa

Feb

Meal Monday (UK): February 9

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Meal Monday, also known as Oatmeal Monday, is a traditional Scottish holiday observed by the ancient universities of Scotland on the second Monday of February. Originating in the 17th century, it emerged from the need for students, who lived in basic accommodation and were required to bring their fuel, to return home to replenish their supplies. Initially, these universities scheduled regular Meal Mondays, but by 1896, the University of Edinburgh established just one official holiday in February. The tradition, once a regular event for students to fetch supplies, including oatmeal, has evolved and is no longer an official holiday at most universities. However, the University of St. Andrews still maintains it as a statutory holiday for manual staff.

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Feb

Meatfare Sunday (C): February 15

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Meatfare Sunday is the final day leading up to Lent, when Orthodox Christians can eat meat. From this point until Easter, fish may be eaten, but beef, pork, lamb, and poultry cannot.

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Feb

Mend a Broken Heart Month, Ntl.: February

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Non-profit My Stuff Bags created National Mend a Broken Heart month to call attention to children who have been abused and neglected. Often these children must be removed from their homes and end up in foster care or within the system. During National Mend a Broken Heart month, people are encouraged to volunteer at their local shelters and support children's mental health and safety programs.

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