All - Leep Calendar

International Children of Alcoholics Week celebrates recovery. Thousands of children (of all ages) have received the help they needed to recover from the pain and losses suffered in their childhood due to a parent’s abuse of alcohol or drugs. The week offers hope to those still suffering from the adverse impact of parental alcohol and drug addiction through educational programs, proclamations by mayors and governors, poster contests in schools, and radio, television, and print media. Tools and suggestions are available on the website at: http://www.nacoa.org/coaweek_tools.html.

Africa

Feb

Children's Authors and Illustrators Week: February 1-7

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During this annual event, acclaimed authors and illustrators from Children’s Authors Network (CAN!) visit schools, libraries, and children’s shelters all over the country. Lively storytelling, fascinating presentations, and hands-on writing workshops bring books to life and inspire a lifelong love of reading and writing.

Africa

Feb

Children’s Dental Health Month, Ntl.: February

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National Children's Dental Health Month draws attention to the need for children to receive dental care beginning at a young age to ensure healthy development, habits, and development.

Africa

Feb

Children’s Mental Health Week (UK): February 9-15

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Children’s Mental Health Week occurs annually in the United Kingdom, featuring a different theme each year. Schools, charities, and organizations nationwide come together to help children and families create a positive self-image and navigate the complexities of growing up.

Africa

Feb

Chili Day, Ntl.: February 26

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Chili is a spicy stew of chili peppers, meat, tomatoes, and often beans that originated in San Antonio, Texas, during the 1880s. Beans were added to chili in the 20th century, and the original recipes were hot mole, beef, and a variety of hot chilies. It's become an American (and now international) phenomenon to create the "best chili." As long as the stew includes the base ingredients, you're good to go. A personal note from Laura: My recipe (pictured in the masthead) includes four types of chilies: roasted green, red flake, lion chilies, and two habanero chilies; four types of meat (Portuguese sausage, bacon, ground turkey, and sliced tri-tip), two types of beans (black and kidney), mushrooms, black olives, garlic, lemon, cinnamon, cilantro, bay leaves, liquid smoke, green onions, V-8 juice (base), dried tomatoes and tomato paste. I simmer it for 12 hours in the crockpot. It is amazing! Top it with extra sharp cheese, sesame seeds, and/or sour cream. It makes about 25 servings. Chili is an equal-opportunity dish. You make it what you will, and it freezes beautifully. There is no right or wrong way to make chili—as long as it includes chilies, you've got the stew called chili. Enjoy National Chili Day. Also, see the Great American Chili Cook-off week, which occurs in October.

Africa

Feb

Chinese New Year (Horse) (CN): February 17

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Chinese New Year is a significant holiday in China and Chinese communities worldwide. It is treated much like Christmas in the west or the Eid holidays in the Islamic world. Festivities last 15 days and are now known as the Spring Festival in China. Red packets with money in even number denominations and gift exchange remain favorite traditions. Families travel far and wide to be together. Preparation of holiday foods specific to the event occurs the night before the Chinese New Year. This reunion dinner is the primary feast. Retailers pile on the specials leading up to and during the festivities. Activities culminate on the 15th day with the Lantern Festival, marking the end of the annual Chinese New Year Celebration. Chinese companies typically shut down for the two weeks of the Chinese New Year. This time is about celebrating.

Africa

Feb

Chinese Year of the Horse, 4724: February 17, 2026 - February 5, 2027

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THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE A FIERY GALLOP On February 17, 2026, the Chinese lunar calendar ushers in the year 4724, the Year of the Fire Horse, marking a time characterized by passion, ambition, and dynamic energy. In Chinese astrology, the Horse symbolizes vitality, independence, and a zest for life. These traits intensify when paired with the Fire element, promising a year where bold actions and spirited endeavors are favored. Individuals born under this sign are charismatic, adventurous, and driven, though they may also exhibit impulsiveness and a desire for freedom that can challenge conventional boundaries. The Fire Horse year heralds significant movement and transformation. It's a period where taking calculated risks could lead to substantial rewards, especially in areas requiring leadership and innovation. However, the fiery nature of this sign also calls for mindfulness; without balance, the same energy that propels success can lead to burnout or conflict. For those navigating relationships during this time, the Fire Horse's influence suggests passionate connections and a strong desire for autonomy. Maintaining open communication and mutual respect will be key to harmonious interactions. As the Fire Horse gallops through 2026, embracing its spirited essence with awareness and intention can lead to a year of remarkable growth and memorable experiences.

Africa

Feb

Chip Week, Ntl. (UK): February 16-22

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It's National Chip Week in the United Kingdom. Each country is known for at least one signature food; for the United Kingdom, it's Fish & Chips. An island country, England has always survived and thrived by the sea. In the 19th century, trawl fishing in the North Sea made haddock and cod affordable to the working classes. From this plentiful catch, fish and chips were born. Potatoes were first brought to England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and quickly caught on. The spuds grew well in English and Irish soil and complemented the diet, being inexpensive and filling. Chips made English style (called steak fries or Jojos in the United States) became a staple and favorite food. The first shop selling Fish and Chips was opened in 1860 by young entrepreneur Joseph Malin in London. This event runs the last Monday - Sunday full week of February.

Africa

Feb

Chocolate Covered Nuts Day: February 25

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Chocolate Covered Nuts Day is an unofficial food holiday celebrating nuts of various varieties covered in milk, dark or white chocolate. What is the best way to celebrate this day? Have a blind taste testing of the multiple types: macadamia, almond, walnut, pecan, cashew, hazelnuts, peanuts, and pine nuts, and see if you can guess which "nut" is in the chocolate. Just note, though, peanuts are not nuts but legumes. Pine nuts, pecans, and walnuts are seeds, and cashews are drupes. However, we'll pretend they're nuts for the day since they all taste good with chocolate.

Africa

Feb

Chocolate Fondue Day: February 5

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Chocolate fondue is an American invention from 1966, and Chalet Suisse in New York City created it. The restaurant ceased to exist after the late 1980s, but the delicious social dessert has become popular within the past five years (all those Gen Xers like myself who grew up with fondue in the 1970s). The story goes that when Chalet Suisse relocated to fifth and 49th in New York City, the Swiss chocolate manufacturer of a new product called Toblerone was looking for a way to market the chocolate bar. Their publicist Beverly Allen made a sweet fondue from the candy bar. The Swiss people thought she was nuts. Knorad Egi, the Swiss-born chef of Chalet Suisse, didn’t think it was a crazy idea, and chocolate fondue was born.

Africa

Feb

Chocolate Lover's Month: February

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Chocolate Lover's Month likely came about due to the association of chocolate hearts with Valentine's Day. Chocolate beans first appeared around 1900 BC in Central America, usually as a bitter drink, often alcoholic or spiced with red peppers. It is quite a treat if you've never tried hot chocolate with red peppers using hot water instead of milk! It would take Christopher Columbus, on his fourth voyage, to bring this delicious bean to Europe. He noted his first encounter with chocolate in his ship's log on August 15, 1502. a few decades later, Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés brought the bean back in bulk for European markets. He was only 17 when Columbus became aware of chocolate. However, it wasn't the sweet treat we see today in its Central American form. That required several inventions: John Baker's process of grinding cocoa beans between millstones to create a cocoa powder in 1764 is the first. Conrad Van Houten's method for extracting the cacao liquor from the fat in the cocoa bean in 1828 made chocolate affordable. And finally, the development of conching by Swiss chocolatier Rodolphe Lindt in 1879. The rest is sweet history. There are several different types of cocoa beans. Though native to the Americas, today, nearly two-thirds of cocoa production occurs in Africa. Ivory Coast is the largest producer. There is no official sponsor of this event. However, many trade organizations, restaurants, and retailers host promotions throughout February.

Africa

Feb

Chocolate Mint Day, Ntl.: February 19

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Raise your hand if you’re addicted to mint chocolate M&M’s, you know, the ones that come out at Christmas. We are! There are fewer more delightful combinations of flavor than chocolate and mint, whether drunk, eaten, or smelled. This holiday has no specific origin, but the celebration is relatively easy. Simply pick up your favorite mint chocolate candy and enjoy!

Africa

Feb

Chocolate Soufflé Day, Ntl.: February 28

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National Chocolate Soufflé Day is an unofficial food holiday created by culinary enthusiasts and chocolate lovers as an opportunity to indulge in the delicate and luxurious dessert known as the chocolate soufflé. This day is dedicated to appreciating the art and skill involved in creating this classic French dish, which stands as a testament to the finesse of pastry chefs and home cooks around the world. A soufflé, French for "puffed up," is a baked egg-based dish from France in the early 18th century. It's known for its light, airy texture, and rich flavor, achieved through a meticulous cooking process. The base of a soufflé is a creamy mixture, often flavored with chocolate, cheese, or fruit. This base combines stiffly beaten egg whites gently folded to incorporate air and achieve the soufflé's signature rise. Making a chocolate soufflé begins with creating a smooth chocolate base, typically a combination of melted chocolate, butter, and a roux made from flour and milk. Separately, egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks, often with a bit of sugar to add sweetness and stability. The egg whites are then carefully folded into the chocolate mixture, ensuring that the air bubbles are not deflated. This light, airy batter is poured into ramekins, often dusted with sugar or cocoa powder to prevent sticking and add a subtle crunch to the finished dessert. The soufflé's history dates back to the early 1700s when French cooks experimented with new egg preparation methods. The dish gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in Parisian cuisine, becoming a symbol of French gastronomic excellence. Over time, variations of the soufflé, including the chocolate soufflé, emerged, allowing this classic dish to remain a favorite in both fine dining establishments and home kitchens. National Chocolate Soufflé Day is an opportunity to enjoy this exquisite dessert and recognize the culinary history and technique that go into its creation. From its humble beginnings in France to its status as a staple in dessert menus worldwide, the chocolate soufflé continues to captivate the palates of those who appreciate its delicate balance of flavor and texture.

Africa

Feb

Chocolates Day, Ntl. Cream-Filled: February 14

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Chocolates and flowers are traditional Valentine's gifts, which may be why National Cream-Filled Chocolates Day is today. Of course, the name for these chocolates in heart-shaped boxes with various fillings is truffles. Whatever you call them, enjoy eating your way through Valentine's Day.

Africa

Feb

Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month: February

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Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month seeks to raise awareness about cholangiocarcinoma, a form of cancer that arises from the cells within the bile ducts, both inside and outside the liver. This rare and often aggressive cancer is relatively unknown compared to other types of cancer, which is why awareness efforts are crucial. Awareness campaigns during this month focus on the importance of funding for research, patient support initiatives, and the need for improved diagnostic and treatment methods. Cholangiocarcinoma is characterized by the growth of malignant cells in the bile ducts, which carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. This disease can be classified based on the location of the tumors: intrahepatic if they occur within the liver and extrahepatic if they are found in the bile ducts outside the liver. The observance of Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month aims to shine a light on the condition, inform the public about the signs and symptoms of the disease, and promote research efforts. Signs and symptoms often do not appear until the later stages, including jaundice, itching, abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. Cholangiocarcinoma can affect anyone but is more commonly diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50. Certain factors can increase the risk of developing this cancer, including primary sclerosing cholangitis, chronic liver disease, hepatitis, liver fluke infection, and exposure to caustic chemicals. Preventive measures against cholangiocarcinoma are unclear. However, maintaining liver health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, moderation in alcohol consumption, and avoiding known liver toxins may help reduce the risk. Additionally, monitoring for liver diseases and seeking regular medical check-ups can lead to the early detection of problems in the bile ducts.

Africa