March 31

Cesar Chavez Day is celebrated annually on March 31 in California and other states to commemorate the birth of César Chávez (1927–1993). As co-founder of the National Farm Workers Association (later United Farm Workers), Chavez led nonviolent protests, strikes, and marches to improve working conditions and wages for agricultural laborers. In 1994, California established this day as an official state holiday, encouraging schools and public agencies to educate the public about Chavez's legacy. Events often include community service, educational programs, and tributes that highlight social justice and workers' rights. Through this observance, communities honor Chavez's enduring impact on civil rights and labor movements.

Freedom Day, known as Jum il-Ħelsien, is observed on March 31 to mark the departure of British military forces from Malta in 1979. This day represents the final step in the island's journey to complete independence, originally gained in 1964. Events include solemn wreath-laying ceremonies at national monuments, cultural performances, and educational programs that explore Malta's colonial history. Local communities organize parades, concerts, and exhibitions showcasing Maltese heritage and identity. Freedom Day serves as a reminder of the nation's resilience and the value of self-determination.

King Nangklao Memorial Day honors the third monarch of the Chakri dynasty, King Nangklao (Rama III), who was born on March 31, 1787. His reign from 1824 to 1851 was marked by significant infrastructure projects, including the construction of major canals that boosted trade and agriculture. As a patron of Buddhist art and architecture, he commissioned numerous temples and fostered cultural exchanges with neighboring regions. Thais observe the day with official ceremonies, religious offerings, and educational activities highlighting his legacy. Schools and government offices may hold exhibitions on his life, reflecting on his role in shaping early modern Thailand.

Thomas Mundy Peterson Day celebrates the historic vote cast by African American laborer Thomas Mundy Peterson in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, on March 31, 1870, following the ratification of the Fifteenth Amendment. In 1986, New Jersey officially designated this date to honor Peterson's act, symbolizing progress in civil rights and the expansion of suffrage. Schools and community groups hold lectures, exhibits, and discussions on African American history and the ongoing struggle for voting rights. The observance promotes civic education and reflects on the significance of inclusivity in democracy. It stands as a reminder of individual courage and the power of the ballot.

Transfer Day commemorates the March 31, 1917 handover of the Danish West Indies to the United States, when the islands were renamed the U.S. Virgin Islands. The transaction, valued at $25 million, marked a new chapter in the territory's history and strategic importance. Annual celebrations feature parades, reenactments, and cultural events in Charlotte Amalie and other communities. Residents participate in flag-raising ceremonies, concerts, and historical exhibitions that honor the islands' Danish heritage and American era. The observance underscores themes of identity, sovereignty, and the blending of cultures.