May 21

Holidays & Observances

Afro-Colombian Day(Colombia)

Afro-Colombian Day in Colombia celebrates the rich heritage and contributions of Afro-Colombian communities on May 21.
Established by Colombian law in 2001, Afro-Colombian Day recognizes the diverse cultures, traditions, and achievements of Afro-Colombians. Communities across the country host music, dance, and culinary events that highlight African roots. Parades, festivals, and workshops showcase traditional art forms and historical narratives. Schools and civic groups organize educational programs to raise awareness of Afro-Colombian history and social issues. The day promotes unity, cultural pride, and dialogue on racial equality and social justice. It has become a vital part of Colombia's cultural calendar and national identity.
Afro-Colombian Day Colombia

Christianfeast day:

Arcangelo Tadini, BlessedAdílio DaronchandManuel Gómez González, BlessedFranz Jägerstätter, Earliest day on whichCorpus Christican fall, while June 24 is the latest; held on Thursday afterTrinity Sunday(often locally moved to Sunday). (Roman Catholic Church), Emperor Constantine I, Eugène de Mazenod, Helena of Constantinople, also known as "Feast of the Holy Great Sovereigns Constantine and Helen,Equal-to-the-Apostles." (Eastern Orthodox Church,Anglican Communion), John Elliot(Episcopal Church), Saints of the Cristero War, includingChristopher Magallanes, May 21 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

May 21 is observed as a Christian feast day with multiple commemorations, including saints and liturgical celebrations across Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and Episcopal traditions.
On May 21, Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and Episcopal traditions honor a variety of saints and blessings. Saint Arcangelo Tadini, founder of the Congregation of the Holy Family, is remembered for his charitable work in Italy. Blessed Adílio Daronch and Manuel Gómez González are commemorated for their missionary service and martyrdom in Brazil. Blessed Franz Jägerstätter is honored for his conscientious objection during World War II. The feast of Emperor Constantine I and his mother Helena, Equal-to-the-Apostles, is celebrated in Eastern Christianity for their role in promoting Christianity. In the Roman Catholic Church, the date can also mark Corpus Christi when it falls early in the calendar. Saints of the Cristero War, including Christopher Magallanes, are remembered for their faith and sacrifice in Mexico. Local parishes may adjust the observance to the following Sunday when needed.
feast day Arcangelo Tadini Blessed Adílio Daronch Manuel Gómez González Franz Jägerstätter Corpus Christi Trinity Sunday Roman Catholic Church Emperor Constantine I Eugène de Mazenod Helena of Constantinople Equal-to-the-Apostles Eastern Orthodox Church Anglican Communion John Elliot Episcopal Church Saints of the Cristero War Christopher Magallanes May 21 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

Circassian Day of Mourning(Circassians)

Circassian Day of Mourning on May 21 commemorates the tragic exile and suffering of the Circassian people in 1864.
On May 21, Circassians observe a mourning day that recalls the mass expulsion of their ancestors from the North Caucasus by the Russian Empire in 1864. An estimated hundreds of thousands of Circassians perished during forced marches and resettlement. The event is also referred to as the Circassian genocide in diaspora memory. Ceremonies take place in communities around the world, particularly in Turkey, Jordan, and Syria, where many refugees settled. Memorial services, cultural events, and moments of silence honor the lives lost and the resilience of the Circassian people. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of human rights and the preservation of cultural heritage. Annual observances encourage education about this history and solidarity with displaced persons.
Circassian Day of Mourning Circassians

Day of Patriots and Military(Hungary)

Hungary's Day of Patriots and Military on May 21 honors the service and sacrifice of the nation's defenders.
Established to commemorate Hungary's patriotic and military traditions, the Day of Patriots and Military is observed on May 21 each year. The date was chosen to reflect historical battles and the valor of Hungarian forces. Wreath-laying ceremonies at national monuments pay tribute to soldiers and freedom fighters. Military parades and exhibitions showcase the country's armed forces and defense capabilities. Educational programs in schools highlight Hungary's military history and notable figures. Veterans' associations and public officials participate in remembrance services. The day fosters national pride and a deeper appreciation of those who have served the nation.
Day of Patriots and Military

Independence Day, celebrates theMontenegrin independence referendumin 2006, celebrated until the next day. (Montenegro)

Montenegro's Independence Day on May 21 celebrates the 2006 referendum that restored the country's sovereignty.
In a referendum held on May 21, 2006, Montenegrins voted to separate from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro, leading to full independence. The result was recognized internationally, and Montenegro became the world's youngest nation at the time. Celebrations span two days and include fireworks, concerts, and official ceremonies. The President and government host flag-raising events in the capital, Podgorica. Cultural performances and sports events involve communities across the country. Independence Day fosters national unity and pride, reflecting on Montenegro's history and future aspirations.
Independence Day Montenegrin independence referendum Montenegro

International Tea Day(International)

International Tea Day on May 21 promotes the global significance of tea and the livelihoods of tea producers.
Established by the United Nations, International Tea Day highlights the cultural, economic, and health aspects of tea consumption worldwide. The day celebrates tea's role in global trade and its contributions to cultural heritage across Asia, Africa, and other regions. Special events include fairs, workshops, and tastings that showcase tea varieties and brewing traditions. The observance underscores the challenges faced by tea growers, including fair trade, sustainable agriculture, and climate change. Governments, NGOs, and industry groups collaborate to raise awareness of quality standards and workers' rights. On May 21, tea lovers and professionals engage in seminars on tea health benefits and innovative agronomic practices. The day encourages responsible consumption and support for smallholder farmers who cultivate tea.
International Tea Day International

Navy Day(Chile)

Chile's Navy Day on May 21 commemorates the Battle of Iquique and honors the country's naval forces.
Navy Day marks the anniversary of the naval Battle of Iquique during the War of the Pacific on May 21, 1879. Chilean naval hero Arturo Prat and his crew are remembered for their bravery against overwhelming odds. Official ceremonies include wreath-laying at naval monuments and memorials. The Chilean Navy conducts parades, ship tours, and open-door events for the public. Schools and community groups hold educational activities about Chile's maritime history. The President leads national celebrations, highlighting the Navy's role in national defense. Festivities foster a spirit of patriotism and pay tribute to the sacrifices of sailors throughout Chile's history.
Navy Day Chile

Saint Helena Day, celebrates the discovery ofSaint Helenain 1502. (Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha)

Saint Helena Day on May 21 celebrates the discovery of Saint Helena Island by Portuguese navigator João da Nova in 1502.
Saint Helena Day commemorates the landing of Portuguese explorer João da Nova on May 21, 1502, which gave the island its name in honor of Saint Helena of Constantinople. The day is celebrated in the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. Local residents organize cultural events, traditional music performances, and heritage exhibitions. The government hosts official ceremonies, including flag-raising and historical reenactments. Schools engage students with lessons on the island's unique history and ecology. Tour operators offer special island tours to showcase historical landmarks such as Jacob's Ladder and Longwood House. Saint Helena Day strengthens community identity and attracts visitors keen to explore this remote Atlantic island.
Saint Helena Day Saint Helena Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development(International)

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21 promotes intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.
Adopted by the United Nations in 2002, this international observance celebrates the richness of cultural diversity and the importance of intercultural dialogue. The day aims to foster respect for different cultures as a means to achieve peace and sustainable development. Events include conferences, art exhibitions, performances, and community gatherings that highlight traditional and contemporary cultural expressions. Governments, NGOs, and educational institutions organize workshops on cultural heritage protection and creative industries. UNESCO emphasizes the economic and social benefits of cultural diversity in today's globalized world. World Day for Cultural Diversity encourages individuals and organizations to take concrete steps toward inclusivity and cultural exchange.
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development International

Arcangelo Tadini

Saint Arcangelo Tadini's feast on May 21 honors the Italian priest who established educational and charitable institutions.
Arcangelo Tadini was born in 1846 in Castelli Calepio, Italy, and devoted his life to serving the poor and working classes. He founded the Congregation of the Holy Family to provide education and social support to young women and their families. Tadini's initiatives included vocational training centers and charitable workshops, empowering thousands with skills and spiritual guidance. Pope John Paul II beatified him in 1999 and canonized him in 2009 for his unwavering faith and service. The feast day on May 21 invites the faithful to reflect on his legacy of compassion and social justice. Parishes dedicated to his name hold special liturgies and community outreach programs in his honor.
Arcangelo Tadini

BlessedAdílio DaronchandManuel Gómez González

Commemorates Blessed Adílio Daronch and Manuel Gómez González, martyrs beatified for their unwavering faith.
On May 21, the Catholic Church honors Blessed Adílio Daronch and Manuel Gómez González, two Salesian missionaries recognized as martyrs for their unwavering commitment to faith. Adílio Daronch, a Brazilian seminarian, and Manuel Gómez González, a Spanish priest, were attacked and killed while serving in Brazil in 1924. Their courage in the face of persecution inspired many and highlighted the cost of missionary work in turbulent times. They were beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2007, acknowledging their sacrifice. Their legacy endures in Salesian communities worldwide. This feast day invites the faithful to reflect on selfless service and sacrifice.
Blessed Adílio Daronch Manuel Gómez González

BlessedFranz Jägerstätter

Honors Blessed Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian farmer who resisted the Nazi regime and was martyred for his conscience.
Blessed Franz Jägerstätter was an Austrian peasant who refused military service for the Nazi regime, guided by his Catholic conscience. Born in 1907, he openly objected to the regime's ideology and refused to take an oath of loyalty to Hitler. Arrested in 1943, Jägerstätter was declared a traitor and executed by guillotine. His steadfast conviction and moral courage inspired later movements for peace and conscientious objection. Beatified by the Catholic Church in 2007, he is remembered as a model of integrity and faith. His feast day encourages reflection on moral responsibility and the power of individual conscience.
Franz Jägerstätter