Hanukkah (10-18 December) celebrates the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the 160s BC. After outlawing the Jewish religion and Jewish practices, King Antiochus IV decreed that Jews must worship Greek gods in the Temple. The word ‘Hannukah’ means dedication and commemorates the triumph of a band of rebel Jews known as the … Continue reading “Hanukkah Sameach!”
Category: Annual Celebration
St Andrew’s Day 30 November
Andrew, also called Saint Andrew the Apostle, (died 60/70 ce, Patras, Achaia [Greece]) was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus and the brother of St. Peter. He is the patron saint of Scotland and of Russia, as well as other countries including Greece, Barbados and Romania. The celebration of Saint Andrew as a national festival is thought to originate … Continue reading “St Andrew’s Day 30 November”
Diwali 14 November
Diwali is the five-day festival of lights, celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world. The festival, which coincides with the Hindu New Year, celebrates new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness which is why Diwali is also known as the festival of lights. People … Continue reading “Diwali 14 November”
El día de Muertos
El día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a Mexican holiday celebrated in Mexico and elsewhere associated to the Catholic celebrations of All Saints’ Day (1 November) and All Souls’ Day (2 November). It is both a remembrance and celebration for the dearly departed. The day involves family and friends gathering to pray for and remember friends … Continue reading “El día de Muertos”
Birth of Bahá’u’lláh 18-19 October
The Birth of Baháʼu’lláh is one of nine holy days in the Bahá’i calendar that is celebrated by Bahá’is and during which work is suspended. The holy day celebrates the birth of Bahá’u’lláh the founder of the Baháʼí Faith. Bahá’u’lláh was born on 12 November 1817 in Tehran, Iran and this holy day was instituted … Continue reading “Birth of Bahá’u’lláh 18-19 October”
Navratri 17-25 October
Navratri (meaning ‘nine nights’) is a Hindu festival celebrated every autumn. It is usually held at the end of September or the beginning of October, at harvest time. Navratri lasts for nine days and celebrates good triumphing over evil. During the festival, three goddesses are worshipped: Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. The first three nights are … Continue reading “Navratri 17-25 October”
Simchat Torah 10-11 October
Simchat Torah or Simhat Torah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates and marks the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings, and the beginning of a new cycle. The main celebrations of Simchat Torah take place in the synagogue during evening and morning services. In Orthodox, as well as many conservative congregations, this is the only time of year … Continue reading “Simchat Torah 10-11 October”
World Mental Health Day 10 October
The World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on 10 October every year. This year’s theme is ‘Mental Health for All’. ‘Tea and talk’ https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/get-involved/tea-and-talk is a great way to come together, especially during these difficult times. Have a virtual cuppa with friends, family and colleagues and raise awareness for the Mental … Continue reading “World Mental Health Day 10 October”
Yom Kippur – Day of Atonement
Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Its central themes are atonement and repentance. Jews traditionally observe this holy day with a day-long fast and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services. The purpose of Yom Kippur is to effect individual … Continue reading “Yom Kippur – Day of Atonement”
5 ways to get involved in South Asia Heritage Month (18 July-17 August) – blog by Jasmin Athwal
Jasmin Kaur Athwal (Joint Honours Ancient History & Archaeology and History) undergraduate offers us five ways to get involved in the inaugural South Asia Heritage Month (SAHM) from the comfort of our own homes and tells us in their blog about forthcoming events, recommended reading and how to volunteer and get directly involved with SAHM. … Continue reading “5 ways to get involved in South Asia Heritage Month (18 July-17 August) – blog by Jasmin Athwal”