Ramayana – Hindu Ramayana week begins nine days before Ramanavami, the birthday of Lord Rama. The reading of this epic is done in such a way that the reading ends on the last day of the Karkidakam Month. Fasting during this period is considered highly auspicious.
Obon – Shinto Japanese Buddhist festival to honor deceased ancestors. Involves lighting of bonfires, traditional meals, paper lanterns, and folk dances.
Dormition of the Mother of God – Orthodox Christian Begins the Orthodox Christian 14 day fasting period in preparation for the celebration of the Great Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
