Aldersgate Day/WesleyDay (Methodism)
Aldersgate Day, observed by Methodists, commemorates John Wesley's transformative spiritual experience on May 24, 1738, on Aldersgate Street in London.
The 1738 spiritual experience of John Wesley on Aldersgate Street is considered the birth of the Methodist movement. Each year on May 24, Methodist congregations worldwide hold special services, prayers, and fellowship events. The celebration focuses on personal assurance of faith and the ongoing work of grace in believers' lives. Many communities reflect on Wesley's teachings of holiness, social justice, and evangelical zeal. Aldersgate Day highlights the enduring impact of Wesley's revivalist preaching and the unity of Methodists around the globe.
Aldersgate Day
Wesley
Methodism
Battle of Pichincha Day(Ecuador)
Battle of Pichincha Day commemorates the 1822 victory near Quito that secured Ecuador's independence from Spanish rule.
On May 24, 1822, the Patriot Army led by Antonio José de Sucre defeated Spanish royalist forces on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano. This decisive battle paved the way for the liberation of Quito and the future Republic of Ecuador. The victory is celebrated each year as a symbol of national identity and sovereignty. Festivities include parades, military processions, cultural events, and flag-raising ceremonies. Citizens honor the heroes of the battle and reflect on the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence. Battle of Pichincha Day highlights Ecuador's early republican history and national pride.
Battle of Pichincha Day
Ecuador
Bermuda Day(Bermuda), celebrated on the nearest weekday if May 24 falls on the weekend.
Bermuda Day is a public holiday celebrating the start of summer, observed on May 24 or the nearest weekday if it falls on a weekend.
Bermuda Day is one of the island's most vibrant holidays, featuring a grand parade of marching bands, floats, and dancers through Hamilton. The festivities include the famous road race along the scenic North Shore Road, where runners of all ages participate. Locals don traditional Bermuda shorts, straw hats, and colorful attire to enjoy beach outings, picnics, and boat races. Live music, dancing, and community gatherings showcase the rich cultural heritage of Bermuda. The holiday signals the beginning of the summer festival season, inviting both residents and visitors to embrace the island's unique charm.
Bermuda Day
Bermuda
Christianfeast day:
Anna Pak Agi(one of TheKorean Martyrs), Donatian and Rogatian, Jackson Kemper(Episcopal Church), Joanna, Mary, Help of Christians, Sarah(celebrated by theRomani peopleofCamargue), Vincent of Lérins, May 24 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Various Christian traditions commemorate several saints on May 24, honoring martyrs and missionaries across different cultures.
On May 24, Christian communities following different liturgical calendars celebrate the feast days of multiple saints and martyrs. Anna Pak Agi is remembered as one of the Korean Martyrs, Donatian and Rogatian are honored for their brotherly devotion in Gaul, and Jackson Kemper is revered in the Episcopal Church as its first missionary bishop. Joanna and Mary, Help of Christians, are venerated figures in Catholic devotion, while Sarah holds a unique place in the Romani people’s traditions in Camargue. Saint Vincent of Lérins is recognized for his early Christian writings defending orthodox doctrine. Eastern Orthodox liturgics also mark additional commemorations on the same date according to the Julian Calendar. The day brings together diverse expressions of faith and heritage, reflecting the global reach of Christian devotion.
feast day
Anna Pak Agi
Korean Martyrs
Donatian and Rogatian
Jackson Kemper
Episcopal Church
Joanna
Mary, Help of Christians
Sarah
Romani people
Camargue
Vincent of Lérins
May 24 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Commonwealth Day (Belize)
Commonwealth Day in Belize commemorates the country's membership in the Commonwealth of Nations with official ceremonies and public events.
Belize marks Commonwealth Day on May 24 to honor its ties with the Commonwealth of Nations. The day features flag-raising ceremonies, government speeches, and educational programs in schools about the Commonwealth's history and values. Cultural performances, parades, and civic activities highlight Belizean heritage and the nation's commitment to democracy and the rule of law. Community events often include sports competitions, exhibitions, and public discussions on development and cooperation. Commonwealth Day in Belize reinforces the country's role on the international stage and promotes unity among its diverse population.
Commonwealth Day (Belize)
Independence Day (Eritrea), celebrates the independence ofEritreafromEthiopiain 1993.
Independence Day in Eritrea celebrates the nation's secession from Ethiopia on May 24, 1993.
On May 24, Eritreans commemorate the 1993 referendum that led to the country's independence from Ethiopia after a 30-year struggle. This national holiday features vibrant parades with military displays, traditional dances, and colorful processions in Asmara and other cities. Citizens gather for speeches by political leaders, cultural performances, and community feasts showcasing Eritrean cuisine. Flags and banners adorn streets and buildings as people reflect on the sacrifices of liberation fighters. Independence Day fosters a strong sense of national pride and unity, celebrating both historical achievements and the hope for the country's future.
Independence Day (Eritrea)
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Lubiri Memorial Day(Buganda)
Lubiri Memorial Day commemorates the tragic burning of the Buganda royal palace in 1890 and honors the resilience of the Baganda people.
Observed in the Buganda kingdom on May 24, Lubiri Memorial Day recalls the destruction of the Lubiri palace by colonial forces in 1890. The day pays tribute to Kabaka Mwanga II and the royal family, as well as the broader Baganda community for their endurance and cultural strength. Traditional ceremonies often include prayers, royal regalia parades, and reenactments of historical events. Community gatherings offer performances of Ganda music, dance, and storytelling, preserving ancestral traditions. Educators and historians use the occasion to teach younger generations about Bugandan heritage, governance, and resistance. Lubiri Memorial Day highlights both a moment of sorrow and the ongoing spirit of cultural preservation among the Baganda people.
Lubiri Memorial Day
Buganda
Saints Cyril and Methodius Day(Eastern Orthodox Church, Julian Calendar) and its related observance:
Bulgarian Education and Culture and Slavonic Literature Day(Bulgaria), Saints Cyril and Methodius, Slavonic Enlighteners' Day(North Macedonia)
Saints Cyril and Methodius Day, observed by Eastern Orthodox churches and in Bulgaria and North Macedonia, honors the creators of the Slavic alphabet and celebrates Slavic culture and education.
Celebrated on May 24 (Julian Calendar), Saints Cyril and Methodius Day honors the Byzantine brothers who devised the first Slavic alphabet in the 9th century, laying the foundation for Slavic literacy and culture. Eastern Orthodox churches commemorate their missionary work and their role in spreading Christian texts among Slavic peoples. In Bulgaria, this date also marks the national Day of Bulgarian Education and Culture and Slavonic Literature, with ceremonies recognizing teachers, writers, and cultural figures. North Macedonia observes Slavonic Enlighteners' Day, celebrating the brothers' legacy in preserving Slavic languages and heritage. Festivities include academic awards, church services, and public festivals featuring Slavic folk music, dance, and literature readings. The observance highlights the enduring influence of Cyril and Methodius on language, religion, and cultural identity across Eastern Europe.
Saints Cyril and Methodius Day
Eastern Orthodox Church
Bulgarian Education and Culture and Slavonic Literature Day
Bulgaria
Saints Cyril and Methodius, Slavonic Enlighteners' Day
North Macedonia
Victoria Day; celebrated on Monday on or before May 24. (Canada), and its related observance:
National Patriots' DayorJournée nationale des patriotes(Quebec)
Victoria Day, celebrated on the Monday on or before May 24, honors Queen Victoria's birthday and signals the unofficial start of summer, while in Quebec it coincides with National Patriots' Day.
Victoria Day is observed across Canada on the Monday on or before May 24, commemorating the birthday of Queen Victoria and Canada's ties to the British monarchy. The holiday features fireworks, parades, garden parties, and the opening of summer attractions like amusement parks and pools. In Quebec, the same day is celebrated as National Patriots' Day to honor the Lower Canada Rebellion patriots who fought for political reform in 1837–38. Communities hold commemorative ceremonies, speeches, and cultural events reflecting on Canadian history and identity. Many Canadians take advantage of the long weekend to travel, camp, and enjoy outdoor activities. Victoria Day has become synonymous with springtime festivities and the beginning of the summer season in Canada.
Victoria Day
National Patriots' Day
Anna Pak Agi(one of TheKorean Martyrs)
Feast day of Saint Anna Pak Agi, one of the Korean Martyrs, commemorating her faith and sacrifice.
Saint Anna Pak Agi, born in the early 19th century, was one of the 103 Korean Martyrs canonized in 1984 for their steadfast faith during periods of Christian persecution. On May 24, the Catholic Church remembers her devotion, courage, and ultimate sacrifice through prayer services and liturgies. The day inspires believers to reflect on themes of martyrdom, religious freedom, and the power of conviction. Parishes often display images of Anna Pak Agi and host community gatherings to honor her memory. The feast day also fosters ecumenical awareness of Korea's Christian heritage and the universal call to witness one’s faith with bravery. Through her story, Anna Pak Agi continues to inspire resilience and spiritual dedication among Christians worldwide.
Anna Pak Agi
Korean Martyrs
Donatian and Rogatian
Feast day honoring Saints Donatian and Rogatian, early Christian martyrs in Gaul.
Venerated as patron saints of Cambrai and known for their courageous witness of faith.
Observed annually on May 24 in the Catholic liturgical calendar.
Saints Donatian and Rogatian were brothers martyred in Cambrai during the 4th century.
They dedicated their lives to spreading Christianity and stood firm amid persecution.
Their joint feast day was established to honor their commitment and sacrifice for the faith.
Pilgrims visit churches in northern France, where special masses and processions are held.
The celebration underscores themes of brotherhood, steadfast faith, and the power of joint witness.
Communities reflect on their legacy through liturgical readings, hymns, and devotional prayers.
Donatian and Rogatian
Jackson Kemper(Episcopal Church)
Feast day honoring Jackson Kemper, the first missionary bishop of the Episcopal Church.
Recognized for his role in expanding Anglican presence across the United States.
Celebrated on May 24 by Anglican and Episcopal communities.
Jackson Kemper was consecrated in 1835 as the first missionary bishop of the Episcopal Church.
He founded Nashotah House and Racine College, shaping theological education in America.
His ministry extended to frontier territories, establishing congregations and promoting church growth.
Kemper's commitment to education and outreach laid foundations for the church's expansion.
Annual observances include special services, lectures, and commemorations of his legacy.
The feast day highlights themes of missionary zeal, educational innovation, and ecclesiastical leadership.
Jackson Kemper
Episcopal Church