Ramadan Begins – Islam Holiest period of the Islamic Year. Commemoration of Muhammad’s reception of the divine revelation recorded in the Qur’an. Authorities in Saudi Arabia sight the new moon of the 9th month of the Islamic calendar.
Holy (Maundy) Thursday –Christian (Western Church) The Thursday before Easter commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with the Apostles as described in the gospels. Mass or services may include the symbolic washing of the feet. Note: The Eastern Church observe this holiday on April 21st.
Easter – Christian (Western Church) Easter is the central feast in the Christian liturgical year and includes a joyous celebration of Mass or a Service of Christ’s Resurrection. Note: The Eastern Church observes this holiday on May 2nd.
Lalat ul Qadr – Islam Islamic Night of Destiny. First revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Mohammed. Observed during the last ten days of Ramadan. Prayers to Allah for a good destiny.
Eid al Fitr – Islam Islamic event marking the close of Ramadan. It is a festival of thanksgiving to Allah for enjoying the month of Ramadan. It involves wearing the finest clothing, saying prayers, and fostering understanding with other religions.
Vaisakhi – Sikh The anniversary of the birth of the Khalsa and is important for Sikhs because on this day in 1699, the clerical system was removed from Sikhism.
Rama Navami – Hindu Hindu celebration of the birth of Lord Rama, the hero of the religious epic poem, The Ramayana. It involves telling stories and going to the temple.
First day of Ridvan – Baha’i Baha’i commemoration of the twelve-day period in 1863 when Baha’u’llah declared that he was God’s messenger for this age. Work is to be suspended on days 1, 9, and 12 of the festival.
Mahavir Jayanti – Jain Festival honoring Lord Mahavira on the founder’s birthday. Shrines are visited and teachings are reviewed and reflected upon.
Pesach (Passover) – Jewish Pesach, which means to pass through, commemorates the Exodus from Egypt and the Holy One passing over the Jewish homes when the first-born Egyptians were slain.
Hanuman Jayanti – Hindu This event celebrates Hanuman, one of the most popular Hindu idols, the ape that helped Lord Rama fight evil. Hanuman represents the inherent and rarely used power that lies within all.
Theravadin New Year – Buddhist Buddhists of the Theravada tradition celebrate the New Year with symbolic elements often found at the beach: sand and water.
