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Commemorative Dates

Dia de las Cruces , or Cruz de Mayo , is celebrated on May 3 , having religious origins linked to Empress Saint Helena's search for the cross of Jesus, but its popular traditions date back to pagan practices of the Roman Empire. The festival involves decorating large crosses with flowers, usually organized by religious groups or communities. Celebrated in various regions of Latin America, such as Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Venezuela, El Salvador and Trinidad, traditions vary, including processions, cross decorations and offerings as thanks to the gods or Mother Earth. This celebration marks the beginning of the rainy season in El Salvador and in Trinidad, the Cruz de Mayo festival features parang, a cultural performance that reflects local traditions.

Cinco De Mayo , on May 5 , celebrates the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Although more popular in the US, it is a celebration of Mexican culture, although not an official holiday. Starting with Mexican immigrants and driven by beverage manufacturers, Cinco De Mayo gained popularity, especially in the 1940s and 1980s. Today, it is celebrated around the world, highlighting Mexican food and culture.

November 14th is Literacy Day in Brazil. This date was established with the aim of promoting awareness about the importance of literacy and education for the social and economic development of the country. The date was created by Law No. 12,796, sanctioned on April 4th, 2013, which established November 14th as National Literacy Day. The choice of this day is related to the history of literacy in Brazil and the need to mobilize efforts to combat illiteracy in the country. Literacy is a fundamental right, and the date serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to promote education and ensure that everyone has access to knowledge.

April 27th is Graphic Design Day, celebrating the profession and its contribution to visual communication. Recognized since 1995 by ICOGRADA, it highlights the ability of designers to convey messages and emotions through their creations. These professionals work in various fields, such as advertising and publishing. Renowned personalities, such as Chip Kidd and Rob Janoff, are examples of their influence. In addition, Brazilian designers also celebrate Graphic Designer Day on November 5th.

January 14 is the day of Makar Sankranti, one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, celebrated annually on January 14. In 2025, the festival will fall on Tuesday, January 14.
This festival marks the transition of the Sun into the sign of Capricorn ("Makar" means Capricorn and "Sankranti" refers to the transition), symbolizing the beginning of an auspicious phase and the end of winter.
Makar Sankranti is also a harvest festival, where people express gratitude to Mother Earth for the beginning of the harvest season.
Celebrations vary across different regions of India, but generally include rituals such as sacred bathing in rivers, offerings to the Sun, and the preparation of traditional dishes based on sesame and jaggery. In many places, the festival is marked by colorful kite festivals, symbolizing spiritual upliftment and the celebration of the new season.

January 13 is the day of Lohri, a festival traditionally celebrated in northern India, especially in the state of Punjab, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the wheat harvest season.
Lohri celebrations are characterised by communal bonfires, around which people gather to sing, dance and share traditional delicacies such as sarson da saag and makki di roti. The bonfire symbolises the farewell to the harsh winter and the hope for a bountiful harvest.
A popular legend associated with the festival is that of Dulla Bhatti, a folk hero who rescued young girls from being sold into slavery during the Mughal Empire. Traditional songs are sung in his honour during the festivities.

April 1st is Fossil April Fools' Day, and on this day the world of paleontology gets into the spirit of playfulness. Created by scientists and enthusiasts, the date celebrates historical errors, mistakes and pranks in the discovery of fossils.
The event recalls famous cases, such as the Piltdown Man, a hoax that fooled experts for decades, and other scientific confusions that led to misinterpretations. In museums and on social media, researchers share funny stories about dubious fossils and creatures that never existed.
In addition to the fun, the date reinforces the importance of critical thinking and rigorous checking of evidence in science. After all, even in the prehistoric world, not everything is what it seems!

April 1st is Edible Book Day. The date was created in 2000 by the University Library of the University of Illinois, in the USA, inspired by the French writer Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, famous for relating food and culture.
The event encourages readers and chefs to transform literary works into creative dishes, such as cakes inspired by book covers, cookies in the shape of pages and dishes based on narratives. The goal is to combine art, reading and cooking in an innovative and fun way.
Libraries, schools and book clubs around the world organize competitions and exhibitions, where participants present their creations before tasting them. The celebration also highlights the importance of reading and imagination in people's lives.
And you, have you ever thought about transforming your favorite book into a delicious recipe?

November 4th is Reserve Officer's Day (R/2) and pays tribute to reserve officers of the Armed Forces, highlighting their role in national defense. The date marks the birthday of Lieutenant Colonel Luiz de Araújo Correia Lima, the founder of the Reserve Officer Training Center. Born on November 4th, 1891 in Porto Alegre, Correia Lima excelled in military schools. After World War I, he recognized the importance of integrating citizens with higher education into the Army. On April 22nd, 1927, he founded the Reserve Officer Training Center (CPOR) in Rio de Janeiro, which led to the creation of similar centers in other cities. During the Revolution of 1930, he died in combat and was promoted posthumously to Lieutenant Colonel. Correia Lima is remembered as the Patron Saint of Reserve Officers, and his birth date was officially established as Reserve Officer's Day R/2 in 2006.

January 3rd is the Sleep Festival day. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of a good night's sleep for physical and mental health. With the increase in sleep disorders and increasingly hectic routines, the festival seeks to highlight how adequate rest is essential for general well-being, productivity and disease prevention.
The day serves to educate people about healthy sleep habits, encouraging the creation of routines and environments that favor rest and recovery of the body and mind.

April 1st is the Abolition of Indian Slavery Day, a date that commemorates the end of the enslavement of indigenous peoples in Brazil. During colonization, the Indians were forced to work for the Portuguese, facing violence and loss of freedom.
Indigenous slavery began in 1534 and was officially prohibited on two occasions: first, in 1755, in Grão-Pará and Maranhão, and then, in 1758, throughout the country, by order of the Marquis of Pombal. Before that, in 1680, a law already prohibited the capture of new Indians, but did not free those who were already enslaved.
Many indigenous people fled to the interior to avoid slavery. In addition, the Jesuit priests defended catechization, which made it difficult to exploit indigenous labor. As a result, the Portuguese began to bring enslaved Africans.
The date serves to remember indigenous resistance and the importance of recognizing their history and culture.

February 3rd is Carrot Cake Day, celebrating one of the most beloved and traditional cakes in Brazilian cuisine. Known for its simplicity, delicate flavor and versatility, carrot cake has won the hearts of generations, being a constant presence on family tables and in various celebrations.
Origin and Popularity
Although the exact origin of carrot cake is not fully documented, it is believed to have emerged as an adaptation of European carrot cake recipes, becoming popular in Brazil due to the abundance of carrots and the desire to create a cake that was both tasty and nutritious. Brazilian carrot cake stands out for its simple recipe, which includes grated carrots, wheat flour, sugar and eggs, and is finished with a chocolate frosting.
Carrot cake, with its sweet and moist flavor, has become famous at various parties and occasions, both in homemade versions and in bakeries. Its popularity increased especially during the 20th century, when it became an easy-to-prepare and affordable delicacy, pleasing all types of palates.

April 1st , Tatting Day, is dedicated to a unique craft technique: tatting, a form of embroidery that involves creating delicate knotted patterns with thread and a needle or shuttle (a small stick). This art has ancient roots and was especially popular in Europe and America in the 19th century.
Tatting is used to create fine lace, fashion accessories, and even interior decoration. Although it has been overshadowed by other embroidery techniques over time, tatting continues to be appreciated by artisans and collectors around the world.
The day was created to celebrate the preservation of this tradition, encourage new practitioners, and promote the cultural and historical value of tatting. Many communities and craft groups take advantage of the day to organize workshops, exhibitions, and gatherings dedicated to this technique.

World Vegetarian Day is celebrated on October 1 , created in 1977 by the Vegetarian Society of North America and endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union in 1978. The day aims to promote the benefits of a plant-based diet, both for human health and for the environment and animal rights. During this day, various activities, such as lectures and culinary events, are held to raise awareness about the impacts of meat production. In addition, initiatives such as "Meatless Monday" encourage the reduction of meat consumption, promoting a healthier and more sustainable diet. In some cultures, such as China, there are vegetarian practices on specific dates of the lunar calendar, and the Festival of the Nine Emperor Gods celebrates a nine-day vegetarian period.

April 1st, April Fools' Day, is known worldwide as a day of pranks and small hoaxes. The exact origin of this tradition is uncertain, but it is believed to date back to the 16th century in France. Until then, New Year's Day was celebrated at the end of March, with parties that lasted until the beginning of April. In 1582, with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar by King Charles IX, New Year's Day was officially moved to January 1st. However, as communication was limited, many people continued to celebrate New Year's Day at the beginning of April, while others, already aware of the change, began to make jokes and mock them, calling them "April fools". Over time, the tradition spread throughout Europe and reached other countries. In each place, April Fools' Day gained its own particularities, but the essence of the date, marked by pranks and invented stories, remained.

December 25th is Christmas, a Christian celebration that marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Historically, Christmas has both religious and secular roots and, over the centuries, has incorporated elements of pagan festivals and winter rituals that symbolize renewal, light and hope. Religious Meaning: For Christians, Christmas represents the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, as reported in the Bible, mainly in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. The date was officially established by Pope Julius I in the 4th century to coincide with the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and also to Christianize pagan festivities of the time, such as the Roman festival Saturnalia. Christmas traditions include setting up the nativity scene; decorate the Christmas tree; and exchanging gifts, inspired by the gifts offered to the baby Jesus by the Magi.

January 20 is the day of the Chilean Roto in Chile, especially in the Yungay neighborhood of Santiago. This date honors the "roto", a term historically used to describe Chileans of humble origin who played a crucial role in the defense of the country.
The celebration has its roots in the Battle of Yungay, which took place on January 20, 1839, during the war against the Peru-Bolivian Confederation. The Chilean "rotos", made up of soldiers of humble origin, were fundamental to the victory in this battle. In recognition of their valor, President José Joaquín Prieto decreed, on April 5, 1839, the creation of the Yungay neighborhood in Santiago. The following year, the tradition of celebrating the Chilean Roto Day began, highlighting the bravery and spirit of the Chilean people.
The "Chilean Roto" has become a symbol of national identity, representing the ordinary, resilient and patriotic citizen. The annual celebration reinforces pride in popular roots and the importance of the most humble sectors in the construction of the Chilean nation.

October 31st is Housewife 's Day in Brazil . This date was created to honor women who dedicate themselves to household chores, a job that is often invisible and unrecognized, but of great importance to the family and social structure. The origin of this celebration goes back to the proposal to value domestic activities, which involve tasks such as cleaning, organizing, preparing meals and caring for family members. The choice of April 30th is a way to recognize the contribution of housewives to society, highlighting the importance of domestic work in the formation and maintenance of the home. The day is an opportunity to reflect on the role of women in society, promoting discussions on gender equality and the challenges faced by those who dedicate themselves to taking care of the home.

December 26th Boxing Day is a holiday traditionally observed in United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. Originally, it was a day to give gifts to those in need, but today it is known as a day of shopping and gifts. The name “Boxing Day” may be linked to the alms boxes used in churches during the festival of Saint Stephen, which is also celebrated on the same day. In some European cultures, it is still customary to distribute these alms to the poor. In the UK, Boxing Day is a bank holiday which, if it falls on a Sunday, is moved to the next working day.

October 22 is the Feast of Saint John Paul II . This date was established in honor of Pope John Paul II, who was canonized on April 27, 2014, by Pope Francis. John Paul II, born Karol Wojtyła, was Pope from 1978 until his death in 2005 and is known for his significant role in the Catholic Church and his impact on the world, including his fight against communism in Eastern Europe, his emphasis on human dignity and human rights, and his work to promote interreligious dialogue. During his papacy, he made apostolic journeys around the world, visiting more than 120 countries and establishing a personal connection with many of the faithful. He is also recognized for his canonization of several saints and for his promotion of youth, being the founder of World Youth Day. The Day is an occasion for Catholics to reflect on his legacy, his contributions to the Church and society, and to celebrate his life and teachings.

April 27 is Veterinary Medicine Day, a significant occasion to recognize and appreciate the work of veterinarians around the world. It highlights their important contributions to animal welfare, public health and environmental preservation. Established by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) in 2000, the celebration aims to raise awareness of the essential role played by veterinary medicine professionals in promoting animal health and welfare.

April 27th is Domestic Workers' Day, an occasion to recognize the important role these professionals play in taking care of homes. The date is a tribute to Saint Zita, a generous woman who dedicated her life to domestic work and helping the less fortunate. Despite the regulation of the profession by Law No. 5,859 of 1978, many domestic workers still face precarious working conditions, highlighting the continued importance of fighting for their rights and improvements in their working conditions.

October 31st is Halloween. Originating in Celtic traditions, especially the Samhain festival, it marked the end of the harvest and the transition to winter, with the belief that spirits could cross into the world of the living. Over time, it incorporated Christian influences, such as All Saints' Day. Today, Halloween is known for costumes, spooky decorations and trick-or-treating, where children ask for treats. Costume parties and the tradition of carving pumpkins are also popular. Celebrated in a secular way in several countries, it is especially popular in the United States, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

April 27 is Morse Code Day, in honor of the birth of Samuel Morse, who was one of the developers of the code. He was born on April 27, 1791. Morse code was a revolutionary innovation in communication through telegraph signals and had a major impact on the history of telecommunications. Therefore, the date was chosen to recognize his contribution to the development of this communication system.

12 March, the Dandi March, also known as the Salt March, was one of the most symbolic acts of peaceful resistance led by Mahatma Gandhi against British rule in India. The event took place between 12 March and 6 April 1930, as part of the civil disobedience movement against the colonial salt tax.
The march began in Sabarmati in the state of Gujarat and travelled about 385 km to the coastal village of Dandi, where Gandhi and his followers produced salt from seawater in defiance of British laws. The non-violent protest inspired millions of Indians to defy colonial oppression and marked a turning point in the struggle for Indian independence.
To this day, the Dandi March is remembered as a symbol of peaceful resistance and courage. Its anniversary is celebrated in India as a moment of reflection on the importance of freedom, civil resistance and the struggle for human rights.

December 3rd is the feast day of Saint Francis Xavier . This date honors one of the most important missionaries in the history of the Catholic Church, known for his dedication to the evangelization of various regions, especially in Asia. Saint Francis Xavier was born on April 7, 1506, in the Kingdom of Navarre, Spain. He was one of the founders of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), along with Saint Ignatius of Loyola. Xavier dedicated his life to bringing Christianity to regions that had not been evangelized, including parts of India, Japan, and other areas of the East. He is known for his exceptional missionary abilities, and is believed to have baptized thousands of people during his lifetime. Xavier died on December 3rd, 1552, on an island off the coast of China, while preparing to enter the country and continue his mission. His life and work significantly impacted Christianity in the East, and he was canonized by Pope Gregory XV in 1622.

November 5th is Electronics Technician 's Day in Brazil . This date was chosen in honor of the creation of the first electronics technical school in Brazil, the Federal Technical School of Rio de Janeiro, in 1964. The goal is to recognize the importance of professionals in the field, who play a crucial role in the maintenance, installation and development of electronic systems. Electronics technicians are responsible for working with electronic circuits, communication equipment, automation devices, among others. With the growing demand for electronic technologies in various sectors, the work of these professionals becomes increasingly relevant, covering areas such as telecommunications, industrial automation and information technology.

April 7 is Journalist's Day in Brazil, in honor of the founding of the Brazilian Press Association (ABI) in 1908 and journalist Giovanni Battista Líbero Badaró, who was murdered in 1830. The date recognizes the importance of the work of journalists in society, which includes informing the public and promoting freedom of expression. In addition to celebrating the profession, the day serves as a moment to reflect on ethics in journalism and the protection of freedom of the press, especially in the face of misinformation. Events and tributes are held throughout Brazil to highlight the challenges faced by journalists and denounce attacks on the profession.

November 5th is Agricultural Technician 's Day in Brazil . This date was chosen in honor of the birth of Eurico Gaspar Dutra, one of the first graduates in Agronomy in Brazil and an advocate for the appreciation of professionals in the agricultural sector. Agricultural technicians play a fundamental role in the development of the agricultural sector, working in several areas, such as food production, conservation of natural resources, agricultural technology and management of rural properties. They are responsible for applying scientific and technical knowledge to improve production, food quality and the sustainability of rural activities.

April 30th is Railway Workers' Day, in honor of the professionals who work on the railways. It dates back to the inauguration of the first railway line in Brazil in 1854. Railway workers play a crucial role in the transportation of goods and passengers, contributing to the country's economic development. Despite the challenges they face, such as adverse conditions and long hours, their work is essential for the efficient functioning of railway transport in Brazil.