Armed Forces Day (Lebanon)
Armed Forces Day in Lebanon celebrates the bravery and service of the Lebanese Armed Forces each year on August 1st.
Armed Forces Day in Lebanon is observed on August 1st to honor the nation's military and its contributions to safeguarding sovereignty. The day features parades, military displays, and ceremonies attended by government officials and civilians alike. Festivities often include artillery salutes, aerial flyovers, and recognition awards for exemplary soldiers. It is a time for Lebanese citizens to show gratitude for the sacrifices made by service members. Cultural events and concerts are sometimes organized in major cities to foster national pride. Schools and community groups may host exhibitions showcasing military history and equipment. Through these observances, the day reinforces unity and respect for Lebanon’s armed institutions.
Armed Forces Day (Lebanon)
Armed Forces Day (China)or Anniversary of the Founding of thePeople's Liberation Army(People's Republic of China)
Armed Forces Day in China marks the anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army on August 1st and honors the service of its troops.
Armed Forces Day in China celebrates the establishment of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in 1927. The day is marked by ceremonies at military bases, parades in major cities, and wreath-laying at martyrs’ monuments. Soldiers participate in training demonstrations, showcasing modern equipment and tactics. Government leaders often deliver speeches praising the PLA’s history and achievements. Civilian citizens may engage in cultural performances and exhibitions that highlight the military’s role in national development. The event fosters public appreciation for the armed forces and boosts morale among service members. It also serves as a reminder of the PLA’s evolving role in regional and global security.
Armed Forces Day (China)
People's Liberation Army
Azerbaijani Language and Alphabet Day(Azerbaijan)
Azerbaijani Language and Alphabet Day celebrates the adoption and preservation of the Azerbaijani alphabet and cultural heritage.
Azerbaijani Language and Alphabet Day is observed on August 1st each year to commemorate the introduction of the Latin-based Azerbaijani alphabet in 1929. The holiday highlights the importance of language as a cornerstone of national identity and cultural continuity. Schools host poetry readings, essay contests, and linguistic workshops to engage students in the richness of the Azerbaijani language. Cultural centers organize exhibitions featuring historic manuscripts, calligraphy, and modern adaptations of the alphabet. Media outlets broadcast documentaries and interviews with linguists to explore the evolution of Azerbaijani writing systems. Public lectures and discussions emphasize the role of language in fostering unity and diversity within Azerbaijan. The day encourages citizens to celebrate their linguistic heritage and promote literacy across the country.
Azerbaijani Language and Alphabet Day
Azerbaijan
Emancipation Dayis commemorated in many parts of the former British Empire, which marks the day theSlavery Abolition Act 1833came into effect which abolishedchattel slaveryin theBritish Empire:
Emancipation Day is a public holiday inBarbados,Bermuda,Guyana,Jamaica,Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,Trinidad and Tobago
Emancipation Day commemorates the anniversary of the Slavery Abolition Act taking effect in the British Empire, ending chattel slavery.
Emancipation Day is observed on August 1st to honor the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act which abolished chattel slavery throughout the British Empire. The holiday is a public celebration in Barbados, Bermuda, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. Festivities often include historical reenactments, cultural performances, and parades reflecting African heritage and resilience. Community gatherings feature storytelling, music, and cuisine that celebrate freedom and cultural identity. Educational events highlight the struggles of enslaved peoples and the significance of emancipation in shaping modern societies. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and human rights. It unites citizens in reflection on past injustices and in commitment to social justice.
Emancipation Day
Slavery Abolition Act 1833
chattel slavery
British Empire
Barbados
Bermuda
Guyana
Jamaica
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
Christianfeast day:
Abgar Vof Edessa (Syrian Church), Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori, Æthelwold of Winchester, Bernard Võ Văn Duệ(one ofVietnamese Martyrs), BlessedGerhard Hirschfelder, Eusebius of Vercelli, Exuperius of Bayeux, Felix of Girona, Peter Apostle in Chains, Procession of the Crossand the beginning ofDormition Fast(Eastern Orthodoxy), The Holy Maccabees, August 1 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Christian feast day on August 1st honors a range of saints, martyrs, and liturgical traditions across various churches.
On August 1st, Christian communities commemorate the feast days of numerous saints and martyrs across different traditions. The Syrian Church honors Saint Abgar V of Edessa, while the Catholic Church celebrates Saint Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori and other figures. Eastern Orthodox liturgy marks the Procession of the Cross and the beginning of the Dormition Fast, along with saints such as Eusebius of Vercelli and the Holy Maccabees. Parishioners attend special services, venerate icons, and participate in hymns and prayers reflecting each saint’s legacy. In Vietnam, the faithful remember Saint Bernard Võ Văn Duệ among the Vietnamese Martyrs. Communities may hold processions, distribute blessed bread, and engage in charitable acts in honor of the day. The feast unites diverse Christian traditions in appreciation of spiritual heritage and devotional practices.
feast day
Abgar V
Syrian Church
Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori
Æthelwold of Winchester
Bernard Võ Văn Duệ
Vietnamese Martyrs
Blessed
Gerhard Hirschfelder
Eusebius of Vercelli
Exuperius of Bayeux
Felix of Girona
Peter Apostle in Chains
Procession of the Cross
Dormition Fast
Eastern Orthodoxy
The Holy Maccabees
August 1 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Minden Day(United Kingdom)
Minden Day commemorates the Battle of Minden fought in 1759 during the Seven Years’ War, celebrated by British Army regiments.
Minden Day is observed on August 1st by British Army regiments to honor the victory at the Battle of Minden in 1759. Soldiers parade with distinctive decorations of roses in their uniforms, recalling the legendary gathering of wild roses on the battlefield. Regimental events include formal dinners, toasts, and historical discussions led by senior officers. The day fosters camaraderie among soldiers and maintains military traditions passed down through generations. Museums and military historians may host exhibitions exploring the battle’s strategic impact. Families of service members sometimes join in community celebrations or visit war memorials. Minden Day offers a living tribute to the courage and sacrifice of troops during one of Britain’s notable military triumphs.
Minden Day
United Kingdom
National Day, celebrates the independence ofBeninfrom France in 1960.
National Day in Benin on August 1st celebrates the country’s independence from France in 1960 with patriotic events and public ceremonies.
August 1st marks Benin’s National Day, commemorating independence from French colonial rule in 1960. The country celebrates with flag-raising ceremonies, military parades, and cultural performances in the capital, Porto-Novo, and across major cities. Government officials deliver speeches highlighting national achievements and future aspirations. Schools and community groups host traditional dances, music festivals, and art exhibitions showcasing Beninese heritage. Citizens often wear garments in the colors of the national flag and attend fireworks displays in the evening. The day promotes unity and pride, reminding citizens of the struggles endured for self-determination. Public gatherings foster a sense of national identity and collective celebration.
National Day
Benin
Official Birthday and Coronation Day of the King of Tonga(Tonga)
The Official Birthday and Coronation Day of the King of Tonga is observed on August 1st with royal ceremonies and public festivities.
On August 1st, Tonga celebrates the Official Birthday and Coronation Day of its monarch, blending tradition and national pride. The royal family presides over ceremonies at the palace, including the coronation anniversary observance and birthday tributes. Military honors, gun salutes, and flag ceremonies mark the occasion, with dignitaries and citizens in attendance. Cultural performances feature Tongan music, dance, and exhibitions of royal memorabilia. Schools organize educational programs about the monarchy’s history and its role in Tongan society. Public festivities include feasts with traditional foods, craft markets, and community gatherings. The day reinforces respect for the royal institution and unites the nation in celebration of its sovereign.
Official Birthday and Coronation Day of the King of Tonga
Tonga
Parents' Day(Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Parents’ Day in the Democratic Republic of the Congo honors the vital role of mothers and fathers in family and community life.
Parents’ Day is celebrated on August 1st in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to recognize and appreciate the contributions of parents. Schools and community centers host events where children present poems, songs, and gifts to their mothers and fathers. Local organizations may hold workshops on parenting skills, family health, and child welfare. Cultural performances often highlight traditional family values and kinship bonds. Radio and television stations broadcast special programs featuring interviews with exemplary parents and discussions on family development. The day encourages a spirit of gratitude and solidarity, reminding society of the foundational role families play in social cohesion. Communities often gather for shared meals to strengthen familial ties and promote harmony.
Parents' Day
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Statehood Day (Colorado)
Statehood Day in Colorado commemorates the state’s admission to the Union on August 1, 1876 with official ceremonies and local celebrations.
Colorado’s Statehood Day marks the anniversary of its admission as the 38th state of the United States on August 1, 1876. The governor and state officials often issue proclamations and participate in flag-raising ceremonies at the State Capitol. Local historical societies organize lectures and exhibitions exploring Colorado’s path to statehood and its early pioneers. Parade events, community fairs, and cultural festivals take place in cities across the state, highlighting local heritage and achievements. Schools incorporate lessons on Colorado history, encouraging student projects on the state’s natural and cultural landmarks. Museums may offer free admission or special programs related to state history. The day fosters pride in Colorado’s unique identity and celebrates its contributions to the nation.
Statehood Day (Colorado)
Swiss National Day, commemoratesSwitzerlandbecoming a single unit in 1291.
Switzerland's National Day on August 1 commemorates the signing of the Federal Charter in 1291, marking the foundation of the Swiss Confederation.
Each year on August 1, Switzerland celebrates its National Day with fireworks, parades, and communal gatherings. Festivities often include bonfires on hilltops and lakeside fireworks displays, reflecting a centuries-old tradition. Communities host folk music concerts, alpine horn performances, and traditional dances. Swiss families enjoy local specialties like raclette and rosti at outdoor picnics. Speeches by political leaders emphasize national unity, neutrality, and cultural diversity. Towns and cities are adorned with Swiss flags and red-and-white decorations. The holiday honors Switzerland's rich history, federal structure, and the bond between its cantons, inviting locals and visitors to join in the patriotic spirit.
Swiss National Day
Switzerland
The beginning ofautumnobservances in the Northern hemisphere andspringobservances in the Southern hemisphere (Neopagan Wheel of the Year):
Lughnasadhin the Northern hemisphere,Imbolcin the Southern hemisphere; traditionally begins on the eve of August 1. (Gaels,Ireland,Scotland,Neopagans), Lammas(England,Scotland,Neopagans), Pachamama Raymi(QuechuaninEcuadorandPeru)
A Neopagan celebration marking the harvest festival Lughnasadh in the Northern Hemisphere and Imbolc in the Southern Hemisphere on August 1, honoring seasonal cycles.
Observed by Neopagan communities worldwide, this festival honors the Celtic god Lugh and the turning of the seasons. In the Northern Hemisphere, Lughnasadh celebrations feature feasting on first-harvest grains, communal meals, and crafting of corn dollies. In England and Scotland, Lammas traditions involve baking bread from newly cut wheat and sharing it in ritual gatherings. Southern Hemisphere practitioners celebrate Imbolc, focusing on purification rites, candle rituals, and the anticipation of spring’s renewal. Andean Pachamama Raymi honors Earth Mother with offerings of food, music, and traditional dances. These observances blend ancient Celtic, English, and indigenous Andean customs, emphasizing gratitude for the earth’s bounty and the rhythms of nature.
autumn
spring
Neopagan Wheel of the Year
Lughnasadh
Imbolc
Gaels
Ireland
Scotland
Neopagans
Lammas
England
Scotland
Neopagans
Pachamama Raymi
Quechuan
Ecuador
Peru