March 20

On March 20th, the Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates a remarkable assembly of saints from diverse eras and regions. This list includes Saint Alexandra, a heroic martyr of the early Church, Blessed John of Parma, a reformer renowned for his humility, and Clement of Ireland, the pioneer missionary to the Picts. The feast extends to Bishop Cuthbert of Lindisfarne, known for his pastoral care, and to other figures such as Herbert of Derwentwater and John of Nepomuk. In churches worldwide, the faithful attend Divine Liturgy, chant hymns, and venerate icons that recall their faith and devotion. The day is marked by prayer, contemplation on virtue, and acts of charity, inviting believers to emulate the saints' commitment. Through traditions of fasting and communal worship, Orthodox communities unite in spiritual renewal and honor the enduring legacy of these holy exemplars.

Great American MeatOut was founded in 1985 by FARM (Farm Animal Rights Movement) to promote the health, environmental, and ethical benefits of plant-based eating. Observed every March 20th across the United States, the initiative inspires individuals to pledge at least one meat-free day each year. Local events feature cooking demos, educational booths, and outreach by animal welfare groups. Participants can sample vegan foods, learn easy substitutions, and discover resources for sustained dietary change. Media campaigns and social media challenges amplify the message, highlighting the impact of meat production on climate change and animal suffering. By encouraging awareness and providing support, MeatOut aims to empower people to reduce meat consumption and embrace compassionate living. The day sparks community engagement and fosters conversations about sustainable food choices.

On March 20, 1956, Tunisia achieved independence from French colonial rule, marking the birth of the modern Tunisian Republic. National Day is celebrated with official ceremonies, including a grand military parade and flag-raising at the presidential palace in Tunis. Government officials deliver speeches reflecting on the struggle for freedom and the vision of national unity. Citizens honor national heroes through visits to monuments and by waving the red-and-white Tunisian flag. Cultural festivals showcase traditional music, dance, and crafts in cities and villages. Schools hold educational activities to teach younger generations about the country’s history. The day concludes with fireworks displays and public gatherings, embodying pride in Tunisia’s sovereignty and progress.

Established by the UN General Assembly in 2012, the International Day of Happiness recognizes happiness as a fundamental human goal. Each year on March 20th, governments, NGOs, and communities host events and workshops promoting mental health, social development, and positive social impact. Activities include happiness workshops, community projects, and sharing stories of joy and compassion on social media. The UN encourages nations to measure happiness through tailored policies that foster well-being beyond economic indicators. Schools engage students in creative expressions about what makes them happy, reinforcing the message that personal and collective happiness go hand in hand. By focusing on happiness, the day seeks to inspire more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient societies.

International Francophonie Day was inaugurated in 1988 by the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie to honor the diversity and solidarity of French-speaking nations. Observed annually on March 20th, the day features cultural events such as film screenings, literary salons, and language workshops across member countries. It underscores the role of French as a living language that connects over 700 million people worldwide. In parallel, the United Nations marks UN French Language Day to promote multilingualism within its institutions, encouraging use of French in diplomacy and documentation. Schools and libraries host reading sessions, poetry recitals, and debates to engage students with Francophone heritage. Festivals often highlight francophone music, cuisine, and fashion, fostering intercultural dialogue and appreciation. Through language, the festivities aim to strengthen bonds among communities and celebrate freedom of expression.

National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was first observed in 1997 to spotlight the unique challenges faced by Native American and Alaska Native populations regarding HIV and AIDS. The day promotes testing, prevention education, and health services tailored to indigenous communities. Local health departments, tribal organizations, and advocacy groups organize workshops, health fairs, and cultural ceremonies. Events incorporate traditional practices alongside modern healthcare information to reduce stigma and encourage dialogue. Educational materials are distributed to highlight the importance of regular screenings and safe practices. By emphasizing community strength and resilience, the observance aims to improve access to treatment, support networks, and ultimately reduce infection rates among Native peoples.

World Sparrow Day was established in 2010 by conservationists to bring global attention to the declining populations of sparrows and other small birds in urban environments. Observed annually on March 20th, the day encourages bird counts, habitat restoration projects, and educational programs. Community groups and schools build bird feeders, plant native vegetation, and participate in citizen science initiatives to track sparrow numbers. Photography contests and public talks celebrate the cultural significance of sparrows in folklore and city life. The campaign highlights threats like pollution, habitat loss, and changing building designs. Through collective action, World Sparrow Day seeks to foster urban wildlife-friendly practices and restore balance in our shared ecosystems.

Saint Cuthbert of Lindisfarne was born around 634 AD and became a monk at Melrose Abbey before serving as the Bishop of Lindisfarne. Renowned for his ascetic lifestyle and miraculous healings, he later lived as a hermit on the Farne Islands. His tomb in Durham became a major pilgrimage site, shaping medieval devotion across Britain. The accounts of his life were recorded by the Venerable Bede, granting valuable insight into early Celtic Christianity. Celebrations of his feast include prayers, hymns, and reflections on his legacy of faith and compassion.

Saint Herbert chose a life of solitude on a small island in Derwentwater, where he lived in a simple cell and devoted himself to prayer and contemplation. Tales of his kindness spread among local fishermen and villagers who sought his counsel and experienced reported miracles. His meditations on sin and virtue were later compiled by visiting church leaders, preserving his spiritual insights. Pilgrims historically made the journey to the island to honor his memory and seek inspiration. His feast day highlights the enduring appeal of hermitic devotion and personal sacrifice in the Christian tradition.