January 21

Babinden, celebrated on January 21, is a folk tradition in Bulgaria and Serbia dedicated to midwives and newly delivered mothers. On this day, women who have recently given birth visit their midwives bearing flowers, sweets, and handmade gifts to show gratitude. Midwives (babai) are honored in communal gatherings where songs are sung and symbolic rituals are performed. Young women and girls playfully sprinkle water or sit on decorated benches as part of the ceremony. The festival highlights the community's appreciation for maternal health and the ancient role of women in childbirth. It also strengthens social bonds and preserves cultural heritage through oral traditions and folk costumes. Modern celebrations often include public performances and tourism events, blending tradition with contemporary local pride.

In Western Christian calendars, Saint Agnes, a 3rd-century martyr renowned for her purity, is commemorated. The Coptic Orthodox Church honors Saint Demiana, who led a community of ascetic women in the 4th century. Saint Fructuosus, a Spanish bishop martyred in the 3rd century, is remembered for his steadfast faith. John Yi Yun-il, one of the Korean Martyrs, is celebrated for his sacrifice in the 19th century. Saint Meinrad of Einsiedeln, an 8th-century Swiss hermit, is venerated in Eastern Orthodoxy. The day is marked by liturgical services, hymns, and readings reflecting the diverse heritage of the Christian faith.

Observed annually on January 21, this day honors the legacy of Errol Walton Barrow (1920-1987), the founding father of independent Barbados. Barrow played a pivotal role in gaining independence from Britain in 1966 and served as Prime Minister. The day includes official ceremonies, speeches, and cultural events celebrating his contributions to education, healthcare, and social reform. Schools and government offices close to allow citizens to participate in parades and community activities. It is a moment for Barbadians to reflect on national unity and progress under Barrow's leadership.

Established in 1948, Quebec's flag, known as the Fleurdelisé, symbolizes Quebec's cultural heritage and French-speaking identity. Every January 21, the province honors this emblem with ceremonies at government buildings and public spaces. The day features flag-raising events, speeches by political leaders, and educational programs about Quebec's history. Citizens display the blue and white flag on homes and businesses to show pride. Cultural organizations may host exhibitions and performances highlighting Quebecois art and language. Flag Day reinforces a sense of community and the enduring importance of Quebec's distinct society.

Celebrated on January 21, Polish Grandmother’s Day (Dzień Babci) is a heartfelt holiday dedicated to expressing love and gratitude to grandmothers. Families gather to give flowers, handmade cards, and small gifts crafted by children. Grandmothers often receive special breakfasts or tea parties organized by their grandchildren. Schools and kindergartens host performances where children recite poems and sing songs in honor of their grandmothers. The holiday underscores the importance of older generations in preserving family traditions, wisdom, and affection. It is part of a two-day celebration that continues on January 22 with Grandfather’s Day.

Observed on January 21, this day honors Our Lady of Altagracia, regarded as the protector and spiritual mother of the Dominican people. Devotees make pilgrimages to the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia in Higüey, where they attend mass and venerate the iconic painting of the Virgin. The feast combines Catholic liturgy with cultural traditions, including folk music and dance. It is also a public holiday, and schools and businesses close in observance. Processions wind through city streets, and families hold festive meals featuring local cuisine. The day reflects deep Marian devotion and national identity in Dominican culture.

Observed on January 21, Lincoln Alexander Day commemorates the birthday of Lincoln MacCauley Alexander (1922-2012), a trailblazing lawyer, politician, and advocate for racial equality. In 1968, he became the first Black Canadian MP, and in 1985 he was appointed as the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. The day was established by provincial legislation in 2013 to celebrate his contributions to civil rights and public service. Schools and government offices hold ceremonies, educational programs, and community events promoting diversity and inclusion. Trustees encourage students to learn about his legacy through essays and art projects. The holiday inspires reflection on social justice and the ongoing pursuit of equality in Canada.

Created in 1986 by pastor Kevin Zaborney, National Hugging Day is celebrated every January 21 in the United States and beyond. The day encourages people to express affection and emotional support through hugs, fostering social connections and reducing stress. While not an official holiday, many schools and workplaces participate by hosting 'hug-ins' and encouraging friendly gestures. Public health experts note that hugging can boost oxytocin levels and strengthen relationships. Greeting cards, social media posts, and community events help spread the message of kindness. National Hugging Day underscores the simple power of human touch in building empathy and community spirit.

Saint Agnes, revered as a patroness of chastity and young girls, was martyred in Rome around the age of 12 or 13 during the Diocletian persecution. On January 21, the Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches commemorate her steadfast faith and purity with special masses and hymns. In Rome, the Pope blesses lambs whose wool is later used to weave the pallia worn by archbishops. The lambs symbolize Agnes's name, derived from agnus, Latin for lamb. The relics of Saint Agnes are venerated at the Church of Sant’Agnese fuori le mura on the Via Nomentana. Devotees often pray for guidance in matters of innocence and devotion on her feast day.

Saint Demiana, known as the Lamp of the Desert, was a 4th-century Egyptian noblewoman who founded a convent of 40 virgins and lived a life of asceticism and prayer. On her feast day, Egyptian Copts gather in churches and monasteries to attend liturgies, venerate her relics, and sing hymns in her memory. Her story of steadfast faith under persecution by Emperor Diocletian inspires devotion and courage. Religious services often include readings from her hagiography and special prayers for women seeking spiritual strength. Processions in monasteries near Wadi El Natrun recall Demiana's leadership and the formation of early Christian monasticism. The day highlights the enduring legacy of female monastic leaders in the Coptic tradition.

Saint Fructuosus served as bishop of Tarragona in the mid-3rd century. He ministered during Roman persecutions and was arrested alongside his deacons Augurius and Eulogius. Refusing to renounce his faith, he was executed by burning for his steadfast witness. His martyrdom strengthened early Christian communities in Hispania, and his relics became objects of veneration. Every January 21, the Church honors his memory, celebrating his devotion and courage in the face of persecution.

John Yi Yun-il was a 19th-century Korean lay Catholic living during a time of harsh persecution. Known for his unwavering piety and service to his fellow believers, he endured imprisonment rather than renounce his faith. He ultimately faced martyrdom, joining the ranks of the Korean Martyrs whose sacrifice shaped the nation's spiritual history. Canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984, his legacy continues to inspire devotion and courage. His feast day on January 21 invites reflection on religious freedom and steadfast belief.