The EXCLUSIVE LIST of 24+ International and Regional Themed Years, Trends and Observances for 2024

There are 24 individual international-themed years and trends for 2024 listed here, not including a few subsets. It's a lot, so let's dive in! This is my favorite issue to create each year of LEEP Ink. It's also the hardest to put together because many themed and international years are announced later, and finding them requires months of research.

Let's start with the global sporting events: the Summer Olympics between July 26 and August 11 and the Paralympics from August 28 through September 8, both in Paris. These two events will dominate June through mid-September.

2024 RELIGIOUS THEMES

Globally, we'll witness a significant build-up in Roman Catholic Christianity for the Year of Jubilee in 2025; the preparation began in 2023. In the lead-up, June 11, 2023 - June 2, 2024, is the Year of Parish Revival, and December 24, 2023- December 23, 2024 is the Year of Prayer.

• Muslims will enter Hirj Year 1446, July 7, 2024-June 25, 2025;
• Jewish people will be living Jewish Year 5785, October 3, 2024 - September 22, 2025;
• Sikhs will enter Nanakshahi Year 556, March 14, 2024- March 13, 2025;
• Buddhists embrace Losar 2151, February 10 - February 27, 2025;
• Finally, Hindus head into Panchanga 2081, March 26, 2024 - March 14, 2025.

2024 MAJOR POLITICAL EVENTS

Circus is the only word that aptly describes election-year insanity, and we're heading into one. Perhaps it is fitting that Charlie Chaplin's 1928 film "The Circus" will become public domain on January 1, 2024. We'll all need a laugh by November 6, given the impact of the United States elections on world affairs.

Back to elections. Due to the number of people these voting countries represent, governance will be a big theme in 2024, and several critical nations could see dramatic changes in their governments. Nearly 40% of the world's population will elect its next government leaders. That is significant.

2024 features significant PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS in multiple countries, including the United States on November 5, Mexico on June 2, Russia on March 17, and Indonesia (February 14), with India sometime in April or May. Bangladesh (January 7) and Pakistan (February 8) will also hold defining elections in 2024.

The European Union will hold its parliamentary elections on June 6-9. In summary, 40 countries, 18% of nations and territories, hold elections this year.

GENERAL FOCUS FOR 2024, THE YEAR OF...

Click the text links for more detailed event information. I edited the descriptions significantly due to the length of this article.

      
Color themes for 2024 by the leading paint and décor companies.

2024 DÉCOR COLORS OF THE YEAR

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Multiple Paint and Décor Companies

 Pantone is the leader in choosing the year’s color, something they announce in mid-December. However, they started a trend, and now the major paint and home décor companies also announce their colors of the year. Based on the choices for 2024, colors have gone conservative and masculine. The sole holdout is Krylon with its cyan-colored Blue Bird. Otherwise, the colors are reminiscent of the estate houses of England during the turn of the last century with their warm studies, libraries, traditional muted earth tones, and deep colors. Here are the top colors you’ll see in home decor in 2024

• C2 Paint = Thermal
• Sherwin-Williams = Persimmon
• Dutch Boy = Ironside
• Valspar = Renew Blue
• Behr = Cracked Pepper
• Glidden = Limitless
• Minwax = Bay Blue
• Graham & Brown = Viridis
• Krylon = Bluebird
• Rust-Oleum = Chocolate Cherry

   
  Peach Fuzz #13-1023 is the 2024 Pantone Color of the Year.

2024 PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Pantone

2024's Pantone color of the Year is Peach Fuzz #13-1023. The Pantone Color of the Year tradition began in 2000 with the Pantone Color Institute, a consulting service within Pantone that forecasts global color trends. Their annual selection of a specific color intends to capture the spirit of the time, reflecting what is taking place in the global culture at a particular moment. The chosen color often influences various industries, including fashion, home furnishings, industrial design, product packaging, and graphic design.

The impact of the Pantone Color of the Year on modern design and trends is considerable. It often sets the tone for product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries. Designers and manufacturers look to the Pantone Color of the Year for inspiration and use it to guide their creative processes. The color can influence the entire product development cycle, from concept to consumer goods.

       
  Still life of squashes—promptography LD Lewis

2024: THE YEAR OF SQUASH

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: National Garden Bureau

2024 is the Year of Squash. Squash has been a staple in diets and agriculture for centuries and is known for its remarkable diversity. It is indigenous to the Americas and belongs to the genus Cucurbita, which encompasses multiple species and varieties cultivated and cherished in numerous cultures.

Squash traces back thousands of years, with its earliest cultivation believed to have occurred in Mesoamerica. Archaeological evidence suggests that squash is one of the first cultivated crops, originating more than 10,000 years ago in the Americas. Currently, hundreds of different types of squash are cultivated globally, traditionally in two groups: summer squash and winter squash.

• Summer squashes are harvested when immature, and their skin is tender and edible; zucchini and yellow squash are well-known examples.
• Winter squashes are harvested when fully mature, featuring hard, thick skins and a longer storage potential; examples include some pumpkins, acorn, spaghetti, and butternut squashes.

   
2024 is the Year of Yarrow Achillea—photo Dids

2024: HERB OF THE YEAR—YARROW ACHILLEA

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: International Herb Association

Yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus receives its name from the Greek mythological hero Achilles, who is said to have used yarrow to treat his soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War.

Yarrow plants are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Yarrow is a hardy perennial herb known for its feathery, aromatic leaves and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. The flowers can be white, yellow, pink, or red, depending on the species and cultivar. In folklore and symbolism, yarrow has been associated with divination, love, and protection and has been used in various rituals and ceremonies throughout history.

   
 Children in school uniforms in Africa—photo Armstrong Opulency.

2024: AFRICAN YEAR OF EDUCATION

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: African Continent
Champion: African Union

The African Union designated 2024 as the African Year of Education. In past decades, the continent has struggled to meet the needs of its citizens. Primary and secondary education access remains a significant hurdle, particularly in rural areas. Schools are often far away, leading to long travel distances for students. Lack of transportation and financial constraints compound these problems.

Even where schools are accessible, the quality of education may be inadequate. Overcrowded classrooms, poorly trained teachers, lack of materials, and outdated curricula are common challenges. However, Africa has made significant advances in education over the past decade. Enrollment in primary and secondary schools within multiple nations has increased, boosting enrollment rates significantly. Initiatives to provide free or subsidized education, school meals, and uniforms have contributed to getting more children into classrooms.
   
2024 is the Chinese Year of the Dragon—promptography LD Lewis.

2024: CHINESE YEAR OF THE DRAGON

Date: February 10, 2024 - January 28, 2025
Location: China
Champion: Chinese Astrology

The Chinese zodiac calendar is the backdrop of the Chinese year. It is based on the moon's phases and runs in 12-year cycles, each year denoting a different animal in the Chinese astrological lineup. 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. Numerically, it is Chinese Year 4722.

The Dragon is the fifth animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle and is considered one of the most influential and auspicious of the twelve. The Dragon symbolizes strength, good fortune, and power in Chinese culture. People born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to inherit these characteristics as they are often seen as confident, ambitious, and charismatic individuals with natural leadership qualities.  
   
Ruffled edge African Violet. Photo National Garden Bureau.

2024: THE YEAR OF THE AFRICAN VIOLET

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: National Garden Bureau

African violets, scientifically known as Saintpaulia, are a popular genus of houseplants originating from Tanzania and southeastern Kenya in East Africa. Discovered in 1892 by Baron Walter von Saint Paul-Illaire, they have since captivated plant enthusiasts worldwide.

The appeal of African violets lies in their vibrant blooms and lush, velvety leaves, making them a prized addition to indoor gardens. The violet's popularity as houseplants began to surge in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, where they became a fixture in homes due to their year-round blooming potential and compact size, suitable for indoor spaces.

African violets are known for their temperamental nature, making them challenging to grow. Perhaps due to their nature and difficulty, this engendered the lovely plant and entered popular culture as the plant for green thumbs. Not everyone could keep them alive. If you could, your reputation as the ultimate gardener skyrocketed with your friends.  Gardeners rejoice! 2024 is also

• the Year of the Lily,
• the Year of the Angelonia,
• and the Year of the Buddleia (aka The Butterfly Bush).

   
Cyclists in Europe—photo Nubia Navarro.

2024: EUROPEAN YEAR OF CYCLING

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: European Union
Champion: European Cyclists' Federation

 Europe is on the brink of becoming a continent where cycling is a significant mode of transportation, not just in a few places. Numerous EU countries are adopting national cycling strategies, municipalities are improving cycling infrastructure, and Europeans are cycling billions of kilometers yearly. More businesses are utilizing cargo bikes for deliveries.

The 2024 European Year of Cycling aspires to be the spark that will encourage millions of Europeans to cycle. Europe needs cycling more than ever. One hundred cities are pledging to be climate-neutral by 2030. New EU policies are projected to urge European cities toward Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans to reduce transport sector carbon emissions.

 
  Expert sandal maker in Athens, Greece—photo LD Lewis.

2024: EUROPEAN YEAR OF SKILLS

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: European Union
Champion: European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA)

European Year of Skills focuses on non-formal adult learning and education, which teaches and provides training and professional development designed to advance careers and improve society as part of life-long learning. This event is a continuation of 2023's Year of Skills.

   
Hosta is the perfect plant for shady areas and indoors—photo National Garden Bureau.

2024: THE YEAR OF HOSTA

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: National Garden Bureau

Hostas, known for their lush foliage and shade-loving nature, are a popular perennial plant in many gardens. Originally from northeast Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Korea, hostas have become a staple in temperate gardens worldwide. Their ability to thrive in shaded areas, where many other plants struggle, has contributed significantly to their popularity.

There are approximately 70 species of hostas.
   
Camels in Saudi Arabia—photo LD Lewis.

2024: INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE CAMELIDS

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: United Nations

Camelids are a family of mammals that includes several species: camel, llama, alpaca, guanaco, and vicuña. These animals are native to the arid regions of South America and parts of Asia and have been domesticated for various purposes for thousands of years.

• Camels: Camels are primarily found in the Middle East and Central Asia.
• Llamas: Llamas are domesticated camelids found in the Andean region of South America.
• Alpacas: Alpacas are smaller and more delicate than llamas and are selectively bred for their soft and luxurious coats in South America.
• Guanacos and Vicuñas: Guanacos and vicuñas are wild camelid species found in South America.

   
 Salads are a culinary tradition dating to antiquity—photo Gil Goldman.

2024: INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF SALAD

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Fleuroselect Home Garden Association

Salad, a dish consisting of a mixture of small pieces of food, usually featuring vegetables, has a history that spans many centuries and cultures. Ancient Romans and Greeks ate mixed greens with salt, oil, and vinegar dressings. The word "salad" comes from the Latin "sal" (salt), which was a main ingredient in the dressings.

By the Middle Ages in medieval Europe, salads evolved to include raw, cooked, and preserved vegetables mixed with various meats and fish. In modern cuisine, salads can be hot or cold and include virtually any combination of ingredients, from vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, meat, or fish. Dressings and seasonings have also become more varied, with chefs continually experimenting with flavors and textures.

   
  Sunflowers are valued for their beauty, taste, and medicinal properties—photo RT Hakimi.

2024: INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE SUNFLOWER

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Fleuroselect Home Garden Association

Sunflowers signify strength and prosperity in folklore and are prized for their bright and cheerful appearance. These large and tall flowers have a rich history in food and medicine that spans various cultures and centuries. The journey of the sunflower as a beneficial plant begins with the indigenous tribes of North America. They were the first to recognize the value of sunflowers, using them for food, oil, dyes, and as a base for medicinal ointments.

   
 Leap Years include one extra day—promptography LD Lewis.

2024: LEAP YEAR

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Astronomical Numerical Correction

The purpose of a Leap Year with a leap day added to the calendar is to keep the calendar year in sync with the astronomical year, which is the time it takes for the Earth to complete one orbit around the sun. The astronomical year is approximately 365.24 days long, which means that the calendar year, which is 365 days long, is slightly shorter.

Leap Day (February 29) is traditionally associated with various customs and superstitions. In many cultures, it is considered unlucky to be born on leap day, and people born then earn the nickname "leaplings" or "leap year babies."

   
Sunburst on the surface of the sun—photo NASA.

NASA'S BIG YEAR OF HELIOPHYSICS

Dates: October 1, 2023 - September 30, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NASA's Big Year of Heliophysics promises a year filled with solar science, citizen participation, and engaging activities to connect us with the wonders of the Sun.

What is Heliophysics?

Heliophysics is the branch of science that delves into the intricate study of our Sun and its interactions with everything in our solar system. From solar flares to the solar wind that sweeps through space, from sunspots to the auroras that light up our polar skies, heliophysics is the science of understanding the Sun's influence on the solar system and cosmos.

 
 Go for it! The world is yours in 2024 if you have the guts to fulfill your dreams—promptography LD Lewis.

2024: YEAR OF INTUITION AND REALIZED DREAMS

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Numerology

Numerology places 2024 as the Year of Intuition and Realized Dreams. It is a year to listen to your inner voice, trust it, and channel your ambition into taking action toward fulfilling your greatest desire. If you have the courage in love, career, family, education, or finances, this is the year to focus on your passion and put the work in. The numbers are in your favor to succeed and achieve your dream.

2024 is an angel number in numerology circles—basically, a guardian angel supporting you in making intelligent decisions and moving forward.   Overall, the underlying message of 2024 is that you are the best arbiter of your success. Go with your gut and reach for your dreams; this is the year your sincere dreams can come true.

   
The 30th anniversary of the first International Year of the Family is an opportunity to build on its past success.

2024: IYF +30—INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE FAMILY

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: International Federation for Family Development; United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs

This is an interesting entry in the calendar backed by seven family-centered non-government organizations and other stakeholders in Europe and the Middle East. I say interesting because the group isn't creating a new year; they're marking the anniversary of the original United Nations International Year of the Family from 1994 and putting forth 2024 as a year dedicated to multiple action-based initiatives to address and refocus on four key issues and trends impacting families today. Their declaration, seeking like-minded organizations globally to focus on families this year, is impressive.

They identify four key areas to address and allocate resources:

• Urbanization and International Migration
• Climate Change
• New Technologies
• Demographic Shifts

One highlight is the need to acknowledge and support unpaid care and domestic work, advocating for policies promoting shared household responsibilities. It calls for greater attention to caregivers' and care recipients' well-being and mental health, with additional resources focused on the pandemic's social impact on families.

By re-establishing the International Year of Family on its 30th anniversary, the group seeks to support families as critical agents in recovery, governance, cohesion, protection, education, care, and development. It recognizes the family's crucial role in societal development and the importance of creating an empowering family environment.

 
2024 is a race between nations for a new moon landing in 2025—photo 2024 Image (C) NASA: Crew of Artemis II.

2024: YEAR OF THE SECOND RACE TO THE MOON

Date: January 1 - December 31, 2024
Location: Worldwide
Champion: Current Events

2024 will see a new race to the Moon, focusing on space and Earth's only natural satellite.

BACKGROUND

On July 14, 2023, India launched Chandrayaan-3, which landed on the Moon's South Pole, making India the fourth nation, behind the US, Russia,and China, to land on the Moon. On August 11, 2023, Russia launched Luna 25, an unmanned lunar spaceship set to explore the Moon's surface for water. The last such touchdown for Russia was on August 18, 1976. If successful, cosmonauts may follow. Only one nation, the United States, has ever landed people on the Moon. Unfortunately, Russia's Luna 25 exploded in August 2023, leaving a 10-meter crater on the moon during its landing. 

China and the European Union have robust space programs. Italy, Japan, France, Australia, Brazil, Iran, Israel, Kenya, South Korea, North Korea, and Ukraine all have active space programs that have conducted launches. The African Union is creating a space program based on its Vision 2063 objectives. All of this brings us to 2024 and the United States.

TODAY

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has stated it will launch a new manned expedition to the Moon as early as Fall 2024. Artemis II will circle the satellite with three men and a woman aboard. Artemis III will launch in 2025 and be the first manned spaceship to land on the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972. It will explore the South Pole region, an area in the dark that has never been seen or touched by man for billions of years.

Though not an official year with NASA, the activity ahead of the event and focus on landing on the Moon make 2024 the Year of the Second Race for the Moon. 2025 will be the Year of the Moon Landing, with the first woman in history stepping on the surface. ____________________________

 The above-highlighted 2024 international and themed years are those announced as of December 7, 2023. I will add to this article as new declarations become known. Therefore, bookmark this issue. It may grow throughout the year!    
LEEP Frog is the mascot for LEEP Calendar. There is just one more issue in 2023: January 2024 events, which will be out the week between Christmas (December 25) and New Year's Eve (December 31).

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Last updated: Dec 28th 2023