All - Leep Calendar

This is one for the Bucket List. Everyone in the world should experience Brazil's Carnaval (Yes, it is spelled with an 'a', not an 'i') at least once in their lifetime. Carnaval is about living large and getting all your partying out of your system in preparation for Lent, which is the 40-day-long fasting and reflection period in Christianity leading up to Easter. ____________ A personal note from Laura: Carnaval is six days and five nights of dancing, drinking, eating, and celebrating. It is the largest party in the world, with Rio de Janeiro at its center. In Rio, samba schools of scantily clad women and men in very ornate costumes compete. Especially for the poor, this is the one time of the year they get to shine, and many will spend the entire year (and most of their savings) creating the perfect Carnaval costume. I remember sitting with my brother at home, watching the schools (parade groups) pass by on television. He was waiting for the inevitable wardrobe malfunctions with the women. There were quite a few live broadcasts. Let's say Carnaval is a teenage boy's dream. In towns and cities away from Rio, local clubs (for the wealthy. I attended Carnaval at the Marília Tennis Club in the state of Sāo Paulo) or neighborhood streets host Carnaval dances. Everyone sleeps during the day and dances through the night, and Carnaval ends at sunrise on Ash Wednesday. When I attended, I was sixteen, and it was magical. I had a new costume every night, and it was one of the few times you had us kids mixed in with the adults for a full-on party. I recall the last night having to sit and watch. My feet were covered in blisters from dancing so much over the first four nights! ______________ In the United States, Carnaval is celebrated in New Orleans as Mardi Gras. Venice, Italy, is also renowned for its celebration. However, there is nothing else on earth like Carnaval in Brazil. 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

Carnaval de Ponce (US-PR): February 11-17

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The island territory of Puerto Rico hosts one of the largest and best Carnaval celebrations in the northern hemisphere. The annual party of parades, costumes, merrymaking, and food was first held in 1858. It's everything a reveler could want, situated sweetly on a tropical island. Annually the week leading up to Lent. 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

Carnival (VE): February 16-17

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Carnival in Venezuela is a vibrant and lively event, reflecting the country's rich cultural tapestry. As in other Latin American countries, Carnival celebration is deeply rooted in a mixture of indigenous, African, and European traditions. The customs and the reasons for celebrating Carnival in Venezuela include: VENEZUELAN CARNIVAL CUSTOMS Parades and Costumes: The colorful parades are one of the most visually striking aspects of the Venezuelan Carnival. Participants often wear elaborate costumes, masks, and headdresses. These parades typically feature a mix of dance, music, and, often, thematic floats. Music and Dance: Music is a central part of the celebrations, with genres like Salsa, Merengue, and local folk music dominating the scene. Dancing in the streets is common, with everyone from children to the elderly participating. Water Fights: In some regions of Venezuela, it's customary for people to engage in friendly water fights during Carnival. This can involve everything from water balloons to buckets of water, and it's trendy among children. Beauty Pageants: Beauty pageants are a significant aspect of the Carnival, where local towns often elect a "Carnival Queen." Food: Traditional Venezuelan foods are enjoyed during Carnival. Dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and hallacas are popular, as well as sweet treats like 'quesillo' (a type of flan) and 'arroz con leche' (rice pudding). WHY VENEZUELANS CELEBRATE CARNIVAL Religious Roots: Originally, Carnival in Venezuela, as in many other Catholic countries, was a way to indulge in festivities and excesses before the somber period of Lent, the 40 days of fasting and penance before Easter. Cultural Expression: Carnival has evolved to become a celebration of Venezuelan culture, showcasing the country's diverse musical styles, dance traditions, and culinary heritage. Community Bonding: It's a time for communities to unite, put aside their daily routines and differences, and enjoy the festivities. Preservation of Traditions: The event also serves to preserve and pass down various cultural traditions and folklore to younger generations. Carnival in Venezuela is a festive, colorful, and joyous event that blends religious, cultural, and social elements. It's a time for celebration, indulgence, and cultural expression, deeply cherished by Venezuelans.

Africa

Feb

Carnival of Binche (BE): February 15-17

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Carnival of Binche falls on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday prior to Ash Wednesday in Binche, Belgium. Hailed by UNESCO as a "Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity," dancing, food, and music are all part of the festivities. The highlight of the festivities is the Gilles. The Gilles are male performers dressed as clowns in wax masks, wooden shoes, and colorful costumes. In the afternoon, they change costumes donning large hats with ostrich feathers, and distribute oranges to the crowds; oranges are considered good luck. 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

Carrot Cake Day, Ntl.: February 3

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Carrot Cake is a favorite dessert with a long history. Known initially as carrot pudding, the first carrot cake recipe was published in 1591 in "A Booke of Cookrye." It next appears in John Evelyn's "Discourse of Sallets" in 1699. American President George Washington is rumored to have served a version of carrot pudding to guests on November 25, 1783, to celebrate British Evacuation Day. The first time carrot pudding was referred to as carrot cake occurred in the 'Art of French Cookery' by AB Beauvilliers in 1827. Carrot Cake Day is an unofficial event without a sponsor. Research from the Carrot Museum, United Kingdom.

Africa

Feb

Cat Health Month, Ntl.: February

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Cats need vaccinations every 2-3 years. If you can't remember the last time your cat saw a vet, National Cat Health Month is a gentle reminder to keep up on your feline's health. It is also the month before 'Kitten Season' when most cats go into heat. Throughout February, many organizations offer reduced-cost spaying and neutering. Dental exams are just as important for cats as for people. Brushing your cat daily helps reduce the effect of hairballs and keeps your kitty's coat clean and shiny.

Africa

Feb

Catchers Day, Ntl.(1876): February 2

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Howdy! We're working on the description for this event. It's one of over two thousand events added to the calendar this year. We have verified it is an authentic event and have included the organization behind it for our members. In the meantime, we wanted to make sure you were able to include it in your search for events this month and in this category. We appreciate your patience!

Africa

Feb

Change Your Password Day: February 1

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Africa

Feb

Chastity Week: February 8-14

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Chastity Week promotes abstinence and purity for young Christians during Valentine's Day. The American Life League, an organization that believes sexual relations should only occur within the bonds of heterosexual marriage, champions the event. To prevent pre-marital sex, the organization encourages activities and discussions centered on abstinence, purity, and related moral or ethical principles, including educational workshops, seminars, pledges, community gatherings, and various forms of outreach and awareness campaigns.

Africa

Feb

Cheddar Day, Ntl (1909): February 13

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Marking the anniversary of the founding of Tillamook Creamery, February 13, 1909, National Cheddar Cheese Day celebrates the company's most favorite product, the Tillamook Cheddar Brick. Cheddar is an orange-colored cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar, Somerset, England. It was first crafted during the 1300s AD. National Cheddar Cheese Day began in 2019.

Africa

Feb

Cheesefare (Forgiveness) Sunday (C): February 15

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Cheesefare Sunday in the Orthodox Christian Church is the last Sunday before the season of Lent. It is the last day one can eat cheese or fish prior to the upcoming 40 days of fasting, and it is traditionally a day to grant forgiveness to friends and family.

Africa

Feb

Cherry Month, Ntl.: February

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National Cherry Month most likely came into being due to the story of George Washington and the cherry tree. There is no official sponsor of this event. However, several associations and collectives of cherry growers throughout the United States offer specials on cherries and cherry products at local farmer's markets and supermarkets.

Africa

Feb

Cherry Pie Day: February 20

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Sweet and tart, the cherry pie is a favorite. There is no specific reason for this day being Cherry Pie Day other than its proximity to George Washington's birthday (February 22) and the legend of Washington chopping down the cherry tree and refusing to tell a lie. Enjoy Cherry Pie Day. Cut yourself a piece, and slather on some vanilla ice cream. Yum!

Africa

Feb

Childhood Cancer Day, Intl.: February 15

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International Childhood Cancer Day brings attention to childhood cancers, supporting their families and focusing on finding a cure. Within the United States, approximately 12 million cancer survivors are under 21. Seventy-five percent of these children survive ten or more years after treatment. The most common cancers in children are: Leukemia: 34% Brain Tumors/Central Nervous System Tumors: 27% Lymphoma (Hodgkin & Non-Hodgkin): 8% The American Society of Clinical Oncology reports: “Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for developing late effects, which are side effects that occur more than five years after treatment. These can result from both cancer itself and cancer treatment. Because more than 80% of children treated for cancer survive five years or more after treatment and are presumably cured, preventing and recognizing both physical and emotional late effects is an important part of cancer care.”

Africa

Feb

Childhood Heart Disease Awareness Month (AU): February

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Childhood Heart Disease Awareness Month is an awareness campaign and fundraising event during February, sponsored by HeartKids. HeartKids is Australia's charity focused on funding the research, information, and care that provide constant support for children, teens, and adults from diagnosis throughout their life journey with CHD.

Africa