Celebrating Cultures across the University of Birmingham
Maslenitsa is an Eastern Slavic religious and folk holiday, which has retained a number of elements of Slavic mythology in its ritual, celebrated during the last week before Great Lent. It celebrates the end of winter chills and the start of spring, of warmth, of hope, of growth. It is mostly celebrated by Eastern Slavs, … Continue reading “Maslenitsa 28 February-6 March”
Also known as Shri Panchami/Saraswati Panchami, this is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Goddess Saraswati. The festival marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring – Vasant Panchami means the fifth day (‘Panchami’) of Spring (‘Vasant’). It takes place 40 days before Holi and marks the start of preparations for that festival. On this day … Continue reading “Saraswati Puja/Vasant Panchami 5 February”
Time to Talk Day is about creating supportive communities by having conversations with family, friends, or colleagues about mental health. We all have mental health. By talking about it, we can support ourselves and others. One in four of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year. Don’t forget the wealth of … Continue reading “Time to Talk Day 3 February”
In France and Belgium, crêpes are traditionally served on La Chandeleur (Candlemas). This day was originally Virgin Mary’s Blessing Day but became known in France as “Le Jour des Crêpes” (“The Day of the Crêpes”), referring to the tradition of offering crêpes. The tradition dates back to 472, when Pope Gelasius I offered crêpes to French … Continue reading “La Chandeleur 2 February”
1-28 February LGBT+ History Month is annual month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements. The overall aim of LGBT+ History Month is to promote equality and diversity for the benefit of the public by Increasing the visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual … Continue reading “LGBT+ History Month”
