Aoi Matsuri(Kyoto)
Aoi Matsuri is a historic Shinto festival held annually on May 15 in Kyoto, featuring a grand procession of participants dressed in Heian-period costumes.
Aoi Matsuri, also known as the Hollyhock Festival, dates back to the 6th century and is one of Kyoto’s three major festivals. The highlight is a vibrant procession from the Imperial Palace to the Kamigamo and Shimogamo Shrines, with participants in elaborate Heian-era attire. Decorated ox-drawn carts and horseback archers add to the pageantry. Hollyhock leaves are carried as sacred offerings to the deities of the Kamo Shrines, symbolizing purification and protection. The festival blends religious reverence with cultural performance, drawing thousands of spectators each year. Its enduring rituals offer a window into Japan’s imperial history and Shinto traditions.
Aoi Matsuri
Kyoto
Army Day(Slovenia)
Army Day in Slovenia commemorates the founding of the Slovenian Armed Forces on May 15, 1991, honoring the nation's military heritage.
Army Day marks the establishment of the Slovenian Armed Forces following the country’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Each year on May 15th, official ceremonies are held at military bases and memorials across the country. The President and Defense Minister lay wreaths to honor fallen soldiers, and military parades showcase the nation's land, air, and sea capabilities. Public open days allow civilians to tour military equipment and interact with service members. Army Day fosters national pride and highlights the ongoing role of the military in ensuring Slovenia’s security and sovereignty. It is a time for reflection on the sacrifices made during the Ten-Day War and for celebrating peace.
Army Day
Slovenia
Christianfeast day:
Achillius of Larissa, Athanasius of Alexandria(Coptic Church), Dymphna, Hallvard Vebjørnsson(Roman Catholic Church), Hesychius of Cazorla, Hilary of Galeata, Isidore the Laborer, celebrated with festivals in various countries, the beginning ofbullfightingseason inMadrid., Jean-Baptiste de La Salle(Roman Catholic Church), Peter, Andrew, Paul, and Denise(Roman Catholic Church), Reticius(Roman Catholic Church), Sophia of Rome(Roman Catholicchurch), May 15(Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar)
May 15 is observed as the feast day for numerous Christian saints across different traditions, and marks the traditional start of the bullfighting season in Madrid.
On May 15th, Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Coptic churches celebrate the feast days of saints such as Achillius of Larissa, Dymphna, and Jean-Baptiste de La Salle. These observances often involve liturgical services, processions, and community gatherings. In Madrid, the date also signals the opening of the bullfighting season at the historic Las Ventas ring, where aficionados and tourists gather to witness age-old bullfighting rituals. The convergence of religious commemoration and cultural spectacle offers a unique glimpse into Spain’s and Christianity’s intertwined traditions. Pilgrimages to local shrines and special masses are held in honor of each saint. The rich tapestry of ceremonies reflects centuries of devotion and local customs.
feast day
Achillius of Larissa
Athanasius of Alexandria
Coptic Church
Dymphna
Hallvard Vebjørnsson
Roman Catholic Church
Hesychius of Cazorla
Hilary of Galeata
Isidore the Laborer
bullfighting
Madrid
Jean-Baptiste de La Salle
Roman Catholic Church
Peter, Andrew, Paul, and Denise
Roman Catholic Church
Reticius
Roman Catholic Church
Sophia of Rome
Roman Catholic
May 15
Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar
Constituent Assembly Day(Lithuania)
Constituent Assembly Day in Lithuania commemorates the first meeting of Lithuania's Constituent Assembly on May 15, 1920, laying the foundation for the nation’s modern governance.
On May 15, 1920, Lithuania’s Constituent Assembly (Steigiamasis Seimas) convened in Kaunas to draft the country’s constitution and legal framework following its declaration of independence in 1918. The Assembly played a crucial role in establishing democratic institutions and land reforms. Today, the holiday is marked by official ceremonies at the Seimas Palace, wreath-laying at national monuments, and speeches by government leaders. Cultural events and exhibitions highlight Lithuania’s struggle for statehood and democratic freedoms. Schools and civic organizations host discussions on constitutional principles and civic education. Constituent Assembly Day celebrates the enduring legacy of Lithuania’s early legislators and the birth of its parliamentary democracy.
Constituent Assembly Day
Lithuania
Independence Day (Paraguay), celebrates the independence ofParaguayfrom Spain in 1811. Celebrations for the anniversary of the independence begin onFlag Day,May 14.
Independence Day in Paraguay commemorates the country’s declaration of independence from Spain on May 15, 1811.
Paraguay’s Independence Day marks the country’s bold break from Spanish colonial rule on May 15, 1811, following a bloodless coup in Asunción. The festivities begin on Flag Day (May 14) with parades and flag-raising ceremonies in cities and towns nationwide. On May 15th, citizens enjoy vibrant street parades, military demonstrations, and traditional music performances. Government officials deliver speeches honoring national heroes and their contributions to Paraguay’s sovereignty. Families gather for picnics featuring local cuisine, including chipa and sopa paraguaya. Illuminations adorn public squares, and fireworks light up the night sky, reflecting the pride and unity of the Paraguayan people.
Independence Day (Paraguay)
Paraguay
Flag Day
May 14
International Conscientious Objectors Day
International Conscientious Objectors Day honors individuals who refuse military service on moral or religious grounds.
Observed annually on May 15, International Conscientious Objectors Day pays tribute to those who have chosen pacifism over compulsory military service. Established by the War Resisters’ International in 1985, the day raises awareness about the rights of conscientious objectors worldwide. Events include rallies, educational seminars, and exhibitions that explore the history of conscientious objection. Peace organizations and human rights groups use the occasion to advocate for legal recognition and protection of objectors in countries where they face persecution. The observance highlights personal stories of defiance and the ongoing struggle for nonviolent alternatives to conflict. By commemorating these principled stands, the day encourages dialogue on human rights, peace, and individual conscience.
International Conscientious Objectors Day
International Day of Families(International)
International Day of Families highlights the importance of families and their role in society, observed globally on May 15.
Designated by the United Nations in 1993, the International Day of Families aims to promote awareness of social, economic, and demographic trends affecting families. Each year, a specific theme focuses on challenges such as poverty reduction, gender equality, or family health. Governments, NGOs, and community groups organize conferences, workshops, and cultural programs to share best practices and policy recommendations. Educational campaigns engage young people in discussions about family values, intergenerational support, and work-life balance. Social media initiatives encourage families to share personal stories and celebrate diversity. The day underscores the vital role of families in fostering social cohesion and human development worldwide.
International Day of Families
International
La Corsa dei Ceribegins on the eve of the feast day ofSaint Ubaldo. (Gubbio)
La Corsa dei Ceri is a centuries-old torch race in Gubbio, Italy, held on May 15 to honor Saint Ubaldo with a spectacular procession.
La Corsa dei Ceri, or the Race of the Candles, is a centuries-old festival held in Gubbio, Italy each year on May 15th to honor Saint Ubaldo. Teams of torchbearers dressed in colorful medieval costumes carry towering wooden candles through the town’s steep and narrow streets in a thrilling competition. The race begins on the eve of the feast day, culminating in a pre-dawn procession to the Basilica of Saint Ubaldo atop Mount Ingino. Thousands of spectators line the route to cheer the runners, creating a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and excitement. Rituals include the blessing of the candles and traditional songs passed down over generations. La Corsa dei Ceri showcases Gubbio’s strong communal bonds and medieval heritage, drawing visitors from around the world.
La Corsa dei Ceri
Saint Ubaldo
Gubbio
Mother's Day(Paraguay)
Mother’s Day in Paraguay honors mothers nationwide on May 15 with heartfelt celebrations and family gatherings.
Celebrated every year on May 15, Mother’s Day in Paraguay is a cherished occasion dedicated to appreciating the role of mothers in family and society. Schools and community groups host performances and award ceremonies where children express gratitude through poems, songs, and handmade gifts. Families gather for special meals featuring Paraguayan delicacies such as sopa paraguaya and chipa. Media outlets air tributes and interviews with mothers sharing their experiences and wisdom. Retailers offer promotions on gifts, flowers, and sweets, adding a festive atmosphere across the country. The day reinforces cultural values of family unity, respect, and affection for the maternal figure in Paraguayan life.
Mother's Day
Paraguay
Nakba Day(Palestinian communities)
Nakba Day commemorates the displacement of Palestinians in 1948 and is observed by Palestinian communities on May 15.
Observed annually on May 15th, Nakba Day (al-Nakba, 'the Catastrophe') remembers the exodus and dispossession of an estimated 700,000 Palestinians during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Communities hold vigils, marches, and public gatherings to honor refugees and their descendants. Exhibitions and film screenings document personal stories of loss, resilience, and the quest for return. Political speeches and cultural performances underscore themes of identity, human rights, and justice. International solidarity events are organized in cities around the world to raise awareness about the ongoing Palestinian refugee crisis. Nakba Day serves as a poignant reminder of the conflict’s humanitarian impact and the enduring aspirations for peace and restoration.
Nakba Day
Palestinian communities
Peace Officers Memorial Day(United States)
Peace Officers Memorial Day honors law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty in the United States. It is observed annually on May 15 as part of National Police Week.
Peace Officers Memorial Day was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 to recognize fallen officers and their families on the anniversary of the deaths of the Dallas police officers killed in 1963.
Each year, flags are flown at half-staff and wreaths are laid at memorials across the country to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in service.
The day also features candlelight vigils, fundraising events for officer support organizations, and ceremonies at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
It serves as a solemn reminder of the risks peace officers face daily while protecting communities and upholding the law.
Communities nationwide hold educational programs, museum exhibits, and public discussions highlighting law enforcement history and safety practices.
Peace Officers Memorial Day
Republic Day (Lithuania)
Republic Day in Lithuania commemorates the 1918 declaration of independence and the birth of the modern Lithuanian state on May 15.
On May 15, 1918, Lithuania declared its independence and formed the Council of Lithuania, marking the re-establishment of a sovereign republic following World War I.
Republic Day is celebrated with official ceremonies, military parades, and cultural events across the country, emphasizing national pride and unity.
The day features flag-raising ceremonies, public speeches by government leaders, and school programs that teach children about Lithuania's history.
Lithuanian communities abroad often host special gatherings and public readings of the Act of Independence to honor their heritage.
Republic Day stands as a symbol of resilience and democratic values in the nation's ongoing story.
Republic Day (Lithuania)