Christianfeast day:
Amadour, Bernard of Clairvaux, BlessedGeorg Häfner, Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai, Maria De Mattias, Oswine of Deira, Philibert of Jumièges, Samuel(prophet), WilliamandCatherine Booth(Church of England), August 20 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Christian feast day commemorating a diverse group of saints and religious figures, observed in Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox traditions.
Each year on August 20th, the Christian Church honors figures such as Amadour, Bernard of Clairvaux, Blessed Georg Häfner, and Oswine of Deira. These saints are celebrated for their devotion, leadership, and contributions to the faith. Bernard of Clairvaux was a 12th-century theologian and reformer, while Georg Häfner is remembered for his courage under persecution. Oswine of Deira was an Anglo-Saxon king known for his piety and mercy. The Eastern Orthodox liturgics also include commemorations of Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai, Maria De Mattias, and Samuel the prophet. William and Catherine Booth are recognized for their roles in founding the Salvation Army. This feast day unites diverse Christian traditions in remembrance of their holy examples.
feast day
Amadour
Bernard of Clairvaux
Blessed
Georg Häfner
Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai
Maria De Mattias
Oswine of Deira
Philibert of Jumièges
Samuel
William
Catherine Booth
Church of England
August 20 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Feast of Asmá’(Baháʼí Faith, only ifBaháʼí Naw-Rúzfalls on March 21)
Baháʼí observance celebrating the Feast of Asmá’, observed when the Baháʼí Naw-Rúz coincides with March 21.
Feast of Asmá’ is one of the nine Holy Days in the Baháʼí calendar, honoring the life and contributions of Asmá’, daughter of the Báb. It is observed only when Naw-Rúz, the Baháʼí New Year, falls on March 21 in the Gregorian calendar. Asmá’ is remembered for her dedication to the early Baháʼí community and her service to the faith. The celebration includes communal gatherings, prayers, and readings that reflect on her example of steadfastness. This feast offers a time for fellowship, spiritual renewal, and reflection on the principles of the Baháʼí Faith.
Feast of Asmá’
Baháʼí Faith
Baháʼí Naw-Rúz
Indian Akshay Urja Day(India)
An annual Indian observance promoting awareness and use of renewable energy resources across the country.
Established by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in India, Akshay Urja Day is celebrated every year on August 20th. 'Akshay Urja' means 'inexhaustible energy' in Hindi, highlighting the importance of sustainable power sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectricity. The day features workshops, fairs, and educational programs to encourage adoption of clean energy technologies. Government agencies, industry stakeholders, and civil society collaborate to showcase innovations and policies aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Akshay Urja Day aims to inspire citizens and businesses to contribute to a greener future by embracing renewable energy solutions.
Indian Akshay Urja Day
Independence Restoration Day (Estonia), re-declaration of the independence of Estonia from the Soviet Union in 1991.
National holiday in Estonia commemorating the restoration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
On August 20th, Estonia observes Independence Restoration Day, marking the re-declaration of its sovereignty in 1991 after five decades of Soviet occupation. The day features official ceremonies, flag-raising events, and cultural performances to celebrate Estonian heritage and resilience. Political leaders lay wreaths at memorials, and citizens display the national flag to show pride in their reclaimed freedom. Historical exhibitions and concerts are held across the country, showcasing Estonia's journey to independence and its achievements since then. The holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of national unity and democratic values.
Independence Restoration Day (Estonia)
Meitei Language Day, also known asManipuri Language Day, the day on whichMeitei(Manipuri) was included in thescheduled languages' listand made one of theofficial languages of India.
Celebration of Meitei (Manipuri) language gaining status as a scheduled and official language of India.
Meitei Language Day is observed on August 20th to honor the inclusion of Meitei (also known as Manipuri) among India's scheduled languages and its recognition as an official language. The day commemorates the efforts of scholars, activists, and community leaders who advocated for the language's preservation and promotion. Cultural programs, literary events, and language workshops are held in Manipur and other regions to encourage the use of Meitei in education and daily life. The celebration highlights the rich literary heritage, folklore, and traditional arts associated with the language. This observance fosters pride in linguistic identity and supports ongoing efforts to safeguard and revitalize minority languages in India.
Meitei Language Day
Manipuri Language Day
Meitei
Manipuri
scheduled languages' list
official languages of India
Revolution of the King and the People(Morocco)
National holiday in Morocco marking the 1953 uprising against colonial authorities and the solidarity between the monarchy and citizens.
Revolution of the King and the People, celebrated on August 20th in Morocco, commemorates the 1953 national uprising against French colonial rule. The day honors the alliance between Sultan Mohammed V and the Moroccan populace in their struggle for independence. Festivities include flag displays, official speeches, and cultural performances that recall the spirit of unity and resistance. Educational programs and exhibitions highlight the historical events leading to Morocco's eventual independence in 1956. This observance reinforces national pride and the enduring bond between the monarchy and its citizens.
Revolution of the King and the People
Saint Stephen's Day (Hungary)
Hungarian national holiday celebrating Saint Stephen I, the first king of Hungary and the foundation of the Hungarian state.
Observed on August 20th, Saint Stephen's Day is one of Hungary's most significant holidays, honoring Saint Stephen I (c.975–1038), who founded the Hungarian state and introduced Christianity. The celebration features the ceremonial 'Blessing of the New Bread', reflecting gratitude for the harvest and the nation's prosperity. Budapest hosts a grand fireworks display along the Danube River, and historical reenactments depict medieval life and royal ceremonies. The day also includes military parades, folk music performances, and exhibitions showcasing Hungarian arts and crafts. Saint Stephen's Day underscores national heritage, religious tradition, and the unity of the Hungarian people.
Saint Stephen's Day (Hungary)
World Mosquito Day
International observance raising awareness about mosquitoes as vectors of deadly diseases and the importance of disease prevention.
World Mosquito Day, celebrated on August 20th, commemorates Sir Ronald Ross's 1897 discovery that mosquitoes transmit malaria parasites. The day aims to educate the global community about the risks posed by mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile virus. Health organizations, research institutes, and NGOs hold seminars, workshops, and public campaigns to promote preventive measures like insecticide-treated nets and environmental management. World Mosquito Day encourages innovation in vector control, vaccine research, and community engagement to reduce disease transmission. By shining a spotlight on these tiny but deadly insects, the observance helps mobilize resources and action to protect public health worldwide.
World Mosquito Day
Amadour
Feast day of Saint Amadour, the legendary hermit associated with the shrine of Rocamadour in France.
Saint Amadour is venerated as the mysterious founder of the pilgrimage site at Rocamadour, France, believed to have lived as a hermit in the early Middle Ages. Legend holds that he discovered a hidden cave chapel devoted to the Virgin Mary and devoted his life to prayer and penance there. Pilgrims have visited Rocamadour for centuries, seeking blessings and miracles attributed to Amadour's intercession. The feast day on August 20th celebrates his devout life and his role in establishing one of Europe's most important medieval pilgrimage centers. Churches and chapels dedicated to Saint Amadour hold special services and processions in his honor.
Amadour
Bernard of Clairvaux
Feast day of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, influential 12th-century Cistercian abbot and theologian.
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153) was a French abbot whose leadership revitalized the Cistercian monastic order and influenced medieval spirituality. He founded the Abbey of Clairvaux, became a key figure in church reform, and played a pivotal role in the Second Crusade as a spiritual leader. Bernard was renowned for his eloquent sermons and devout letters, promoting the doctrine of Marian devotion known as the 'Star of the Sea'. He was canonized in 1174 and later declared a Doctor of the Church. On August 20th, churches around the world commemorate his feast with liturgical prayers, theological reflections, and celebrations of his enduring legacy in Christian thought.
Bernard of Clairvaux
BlessedGeorg Häfner
Commemorates Blessed Georg Häfner, a German priest and martyr who stood up to the Nazi regime.
Blessed Georg Häfner was a German Roman Catholic priest known for his unwavering faith and pastoral care.
Born in 1900, he served as an episcopal curate before openly criticizing Nazi policies.
Arrested in 1940, he was deported to Dachau concentration camp.
Despite harsh conditions, he ministered to fellow prisoners until his death in 1942.
Beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009, he inspires with courage and compassion.
His feast day is celebrated on August 20, honoring his sacrifice.
Pilgrims visit his tomb in Würzburg to pay respect.
The day reminds us of the cost of standing up for justice and human dignity.
Blessed
Georg Häfner
Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai
Honors Saint Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai, a 4th-century bishop and martyr from Persia.
Saint Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai served as bishop in the Sassanid Empire during the 4th century.
He courageously defended Christian communities under intense persecution.
Captured by Persian authorities, he was subjected to brutal torture for refusing to renounce his faith.
He died as a martyr, inspiring stories of steadfastness across early Christendom.
His relics were venerated in Bet Zabdai, drawing pilgrims from far regions.
August 20 marks his feast day, celebrating his spiritual resilience.
Orthodox and Catholic traditions honor his legacy through prayers and liturgies.
His story highlights the enduring power of faith in adversity.
Heliodorus of Bet Zabdai