Beer Day, marked the end of beer prohibition in 1989 (Iceland)
Beer Day in Iceland marks the end of a 74-year ban on beer sales in 1989. It is celebrated annually with festivals and tastings.
Beer prohibition in Iceland lasted from 1915 to 1989. On March 1, 1989, the ban was lifted, and the first legal pints were served. Since then, March 1 has been celebrated by breweries, pubs, and beer enthusiasts across the country. Beer festivals in Reykjavik and other cities showcase local craft brews and traditional ales. Visitors sample a wide range of beers, enjoy live music, and learn about the history of prohibition and its repeal. The day has become a popular cultural event, symbolizing social change and the revival of brewing traditions.
Beer Day
Iceland
Christianfeast day:
Agnes Tsao Kou Ying(one of theMartyr Saints of China), Albin, Eudokia of Heliopolis, Pope Felix III, Leoluca, Luperculus, Monan, Rudesind, Saint David's Day orDydd Gŵyl Dewi(Wales and Welsh communities), Suitbert, March 1 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Christian feast days on March 1 honor a variety of saints across multiple traditions. It includes Saint David's Day in Wales and Eastern Orthodox liturgical commemorations.
On March 1, Catholic and Orthodox Christians commemorate martyrs like Agnes Tsao Kou Ying, Albin, and Eudokia of Heliopolis. Other saints honored include Pope Felix III, Leoluca, Luperculus, Monan, Rudesind, and Suitbert. Eastern Orthodox churches observe an extended liturgical calendar with special hymns and readings. In Wales, Saint David's Day brings religious services alongside cultural celebrations of Welsh heritage. Parishes and communities hold mass, prayers, and processions to venerate the day's saints. This blend of observances highlights the global diversity of Christian traditions and their shared reverence for holy figures.
feast day
Agnes Tsao Kou Ying
Martyr Saints of China
Albin
Eudokia of Heliopolis
Pope Felix III
Leoluca
Luperculus
Monan
Rudesind
Saint David's Day or Dydd Gŵyl Dewi
Suitbert
March 1 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Commemoration of Mustafa Barzani's Death(Iraqi Kurdistan)
Commemoration of Mustafa Barzani's death honors the Kurdish nationalist leader on the anniversary of his passing in 1979. It is observed throughout Iraqi Kurdistan with ceremonies and educational events.
Mustafa Barzani was a seminal figure in Kurdish history, leading efforts for autonomy and national identity. He died in exile on March 1, 1979, in the United States. Each year, Kurds gather at his mausoleum in Barzan to pay tribute and lay wreaths. Speeches, documentaries, and seminars reflect on his political struggles and vision for Kurdish self-determination. Cultural performances feature traditional music, dance, and poetry celebrating Kurdish heritage. The commemoration fosters unity among Kurdish communities and reminds younger generations of their historical roots.
Commemoration of Mustafa Barzani's Death
Iraqi Kurdistan
Day of the Balearic Islands(Spain)
Day of the Balearic Islands celebrates regional identity and autonomy in Spain's Balearic archipelago. Observed on March 1, it commemorates the 1983 Statute of Autonomy.
Established after the approval of the Balearic Islands' Statute of Autonomy on March 1, 1983, this day honors self-governance and local culture. Residents participate in cultural festivities showcasing traditional music, dance, and gastronomy. Local governments organize concerts, parades, and exhibitions highlighting island heritage across Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Schools and community centers hold workshops on the islands' history, languages, and unique ecosystems. Craft fairs and sporting events bring communities together in town squares and beaches. The holiday fosters pride in Balearic traditions and strengthens social bonds throughout the archipelago.
Day of the Balearic Islands
Spain
Disability Day of Mourning
Disability Day of Mourning remembers disabled individuals killed due to prejudice, violence, or neglect. Observed on March 1, it raises awareness about violence against people with disabilities.
First observed in 1992 by disability rights activists, the Disability Day of Mourning honors the memory of disabled people murdered by caregivers, family members, or others. Vigils, memorial services, and readings of victims' names take place in cities around the world. Advocates use the day to call for better legal protections, support services, and societal inclusion. Events highlight the impact of ableism, systemic neglect, and the need to address violence against vulnerable communities. Workshops and panel discussions promote awareness of disability rights and prevention strategies. The commemoration fosters solidarity between disability communities and allies, emphasizing respect for disabled lives.
Disability Day of Mourning
Heroes' Day(Paraguay)
Heroes' Day is a Paraguayan public holiday honoring national heroes and their sacrifices. Observed on March 1 with ceremonies, parades, and cultural events.
Dating back to 1866, Heroes' Day commemorates the bravery of those who fought in the War of the Triple Alliance and other national struggles. Paraguayans lay wreaths at monuments dedicated to figures like Francisco Solano López and other military leaders. Military parades, school programs, and civic events bring communities together in cities and towns. Cultural performances feature traditional music, dance, and readings of historical speeches. The day reinforces national pride, unity, and remembrance of those who defended Paraguay's sovereignty. Public offices and schools close to allow families to participate in memorials and community gatherings.
Heroes' Day
Paraguay
Independence Day, celebrates the independence ofBosnia and Herzegovinafrom Socialist Federal Republic ofYugoslaviain 1992.
Independence Day in Bosnia and Herzegovina commemorates the 1992 referendum that led to sovereignty from Yugoslavia. Celebrated on March 1 with ceremonies, civic events, and cultural performances.
On March 1, 1992, Bosnia and Herzegovina voted in a UN-supervised referendum to become an independent state. The day marks the official end of membership in the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Government buildings and public squares host flag-raising ceremonies and speeches by political leaders. Cultural events include concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings that explore the nation's history. Schools hold educational programs on the struggle for independence and the diverse heritage of Bosnia's peoples. The holiday symbolizes unity, remembrance, and hope for a peaceful and prosperous future.
Independence Day
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Yugoslavia
National "Cursed Soldiers" Remembrance Day(Poland)
National 'Cursed Soldiers' Remembrance Day honors anti-communist resistance fighters in post–World War II Poland. Observed on March 1 to remember their struggle and sacrifice.
Established in 2011, this day commemorates the memory of the 'Cursed Soldiers' (Żołnierze Wyklęci), members of Polish underground movements who continued armed resistance against Soviet-imposed communist authorities. March 1 marks the death anniversary of Józef Franczak, the last known soldier killed in 1963. Ceremonies across Poland include military honors, laying of wreaths, and educational lectures. Museums and cultural institutions host exhibitions detailing the fighters' histories and personal stories. The observance promotes awareness of Poland's complex post-war past and the value of national independence. It serves as a reminder of the individuals who paid the ultimate price for their convictions.
National "Cursed Soldiers" Remembrance Day
Poland
National Pig Day(United States)
National Pig Day is a lighthearted celebration of pigs and their role in agriculture, culture, and science. Observed on March 1 with farm visits, educational events, and pig-themed activities.
Created in 1972 by sisters Ellen and Mary Linn to celebrate pigs and raise awareness of their intelligence and importance in farming. Events include school programs, petting zoos, and farm tours where participants interact with pigs and learn about their care. Communities host pig costume contests, art exhibitions, and culinary festivals featuring pork dishes. Research institutions highlight pigs' contributions to biomedical studies and their social behaviors. Social media campaigns share fun pig facts, photos, and videos to engage a global audience. The day promotes respect for animals and encourages sustainable livestock practices.
National Pig Day
United States
Remembrance Day (Marshall Islands)
Remembrance Day in the Marshall Islands commemorates victims of the 1954 Castle Bravo nuclear test. Observed on March 1 with memorial ceremonies and community gatherings.
Castle Bravo, the largest nuclear detonation conducted by the United States, occurred on Bikini Atoll on March 1, 1954, severely impacting Marshallese communities. Remembrance Day honors those who suffered from radiation exposure and loss of ancestral lands. Survivors and descendants hold memorial services, laying wreaths at cemeteries and monuments across the islands. Testimonies, documentaries, and art installations convey the human and environmental consequences of nuclear testing. Events raise awareness about nuclear justice, compensation, and environmental cleanup efforts. The day fosters solidarity among nuclear survivors and emphasizes the Marshallese people's resilience and calls for global nuclear disarmament.
Remembrance Day (Marshall Islands)
Samiljeol(South Korea)
A national holiday in South Korea commemorating the March 1st independence movement.
Samiljeol, also known as March 1st Movement Day, marks the 1919 demonstrations against Japanese colonial rule in Korea. It is observed nationwide with ceremonies, parades, and cultural events honoring the pursuit of freedom. Citizens place national flags on homes and public buildings to express pride. Schools and government offices close as the country reflects on the sacrifices of activists. The day emphasizes Korean identity, unity, and respect for human rights.
Samiljeol
South Korea
Self-injury Awareness Day(international)
An international awareness day to highlight understanding and support for individuals who self-harm.
Self-injury Awareness Day encourages open conversation about self-harm and seeks to break the stigma surrounding emotional pain. Established by the American non-profit organization S.A.F.F.A. in March 2007, it is observed on March 1st each year. Advocates share resources, personal stories, and educational materials to promote healing pathways. Mental health professionals and support groups host events, workshops, and social media campaigns. The goal is to foster empathy, encourage those in distress to seek help, and spread messages of hope.
Self-injury Awareness Day
international