ChristianFeast Day:
Adrian and Natalia of Nicomedia(Roman Catholic Church), Corbinian, Disibod, Nativity of Mary(Roman Catholic Church), (Anglo-Catholicism)Monti Fest(Mangalorean Catholic), Our Lady of Charity, Our Lady of Covadonga(national holiday inAsturias), Our Lady of Good Health of Vailankanni, Pope Sergius I, September 8 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics), Feast Day of Our Lady of Meritxell(national holiday inAndorra)
A series of Christian feast days celebrated on September 8, honoring the Nativity of Mary and various saints.
September 8 marks a significant day in the Christian liturgical calendar. It celebrates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, one of the oldest Marian feasts in the Roman Catholic and Orthodox traditions. On this day, Catholics and Anglicans worldwide honor saints such as Adrian and Natalia of Nicomedia, Corbinian, and Disibod. In regions like Asturias, Andorra, and Malta, the feast is tied to local patroness celebrations such as Our Lady of Covadonga and Our Lady of Meritxell. Festivities include special Masses, processions, and community gatherings. In Mangalore, India, Monti Fest blends regional culture with Anglo-Catholic traditions. The Eastern Orthodox Church also commemorates the Nativity of Mary with liturgies across its jurisdictions. This day unites diverse Christian communities in reverence and celebration.
Feast Day
Adrian and Natalia of Nicomedia
Roman Catholic Church
Corbinian
Disibod
Nativity of Mary
Roman Catholic Church
Anglo-Catholicism
Monti Fest
Mangalorean Catholic
Our Lady of Charity
Our Lady of Covadonga
Asturias
Our Lady of Good Health of Vailankanni
Pope Sergius I
September 8 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Feast Day of Our Lady of Meritxell
Andorra
Accession Day(United Kingdomand theCommonwealth realms) (during the reign ofCharles III)
Commemorates the day King Charles III ascended to the British throne.
Accession Day marks the anniversary of King Charles III's ascent to the throne following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Celebrated on September 8 in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms, it recognizes the formal start of the monarch’s reign. State ceremonies, proclamation readings, and official messages set the tone for national reflection. While not a public holiday with days off, schools and institutions may observe the occasion with educational events. Charles III’s accession emphasizes continuity in the constitutional monarchy. Commonwealth nations often issue statements of allegiance and hold formal gatherings. It is an opportunity for citizens to learn about the constitutional role of the monarchy and its history. Accession Day reinforces traditions and the bond between the monarchy and its peoples.
Accession Day
United Kingdom
Commonwealth realms
Charles III
Independence Day (North Macedonia)
Celebrates North Macedonia’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991.
On September 8, North Macedonia marks its Independence Day, commemorating the 1991 referendum in which citizens voted to leave the former Yugoslavia. The day is a public holiday with official ceremonies, flag-raising events, and wreath-laying at monuments. Festivities include military parades, cultural performances, and concerts showcasing Macedonian heritage. Government leaders deliver speeches reflecting on the country’s journey towards sovereignty and democratic development. Schools and community organizations host educational programs about national history and identity. Traditional folk dances, music, and local cuisine play a central role in celebrations. Fireworks illuminate major cities in the evening, uniting people in patriotic spirit. Independence Day fosters national pride and remembrance of the struggles that led to self-determination.
Independence Day (North Macedonia)
International Literacy Day(International)
A global observance promoting literacy as a driver for sustainable development.
International Literacy Day, proclaimed by UNESCO in 1966 and observed on September 8, highlights the importance of literacy to individuals, communities, and societies. Each year, a thematic focus draws attention to challenges such as adult illiteracy, gender disparities, and the digital divide. Events include public readings, workshops, and campaigns to support literacy programs worldwide. Governments, NGOs, and schools collaborate to launch initiatives that encourage reading and writing skills. The day emphasizes literacy’s role in empowering people, reducing poverty, and driving economic growth. Digital literacy and access to information are increasingly featured in discussions and events. Awards, scholarships, and book donations often accompany local celebrations. International Literacy Day fosters global cooperation to ensure everyone can unlock opportunities through reading and writing.
International Literacy Day
International
Martyrs' Day (Afghanistan)(date may fall on September 9, follows a non-Gregorian calendar)
Honors Afghan soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Martyrs' Day in Afghanistan is observed to honor the memory of those who lost their lives defending the country’s sovereignty and peace. Falling around September 8 or 9 according to the lunar calendar, the day includes solemn ceremonies at memorials and cemeteries. Government officials and community leaders pay tribute through speeches, prayer gatherings, and laying of floral wreaths. Families of martyrs receive recognition and support from state institutions. The observance reinforces national unity and respect for Afghan history. Educational programs in schools teach younger generations about the courage and dedication of fallen heroes. Candlelight vigils and moments of silence are observed nationwide. Martyrs' Day underscores the high cost of conflict and the enduring spirit of sacrifice.
Martyrs' Day (Afghanistan)
National Day (Andorra), also the feast ofOur Lady of Meritxell
Andorra’s National Day celebrates the country’s patron saint, Our Lady of Meritxell.
Andorra’s National Day on September 8 combines patriotic celebration with religious devotion to Our Lady of Meritxell, the nation’s patroness. Festivities begin with a morning Mass at the Meritxell Basilica, followed by civic ceremonies led by the Co-Princes and government officials. Traditional music, folk dances, and parades fill the streets of Andorra la Vella. Citizens gather for communal meals of local specialties, sharing a sense of national identity and unity. Cultural exhibitions and historical reenactments celebrate Andorran heritage and independence. The religious aspect emphasizes gratitude and prayer, as locals honor the Virgin who is believed to have protected the country. Evening events include concerts and firework displays that light up the Pyrenees. National Day in Andorra reflects a deep bond between faith and nationhood.
National Day (Andorra)
Our Lady of Meritxell
National Day (Asturias), also the feast ofOur Lady of Covadonga
Asturias commemorates its regional identity and patroness, Our Lady of Covadonga.
On September 8, the autonomous community of Asturias in northern Spain celebrates its National Day alongside the feast of Our Lady of Covadonga. The day begins with pilgrimages and liturgical ceremonies in Covadonga’s basilica, honoring the Virgin’s role in Asturian history. Civic authorities and local communities participate in flag-raising events and official speeches that highlight regional pride. Festivities include traditional Asturian music, dance, and the tasting of cider and local gastronomy. The celebration recalls the historic Battle of Covadonga, a symbol of Christian resistance in the Iberian Peninsula. Cultural exhibitions and folk performances showcase Asturias’s unique language and heritage. Children’s workshops teach the story of the region’s founding and its natural landscapes. Fireworks and concerts conclude the day, uniting communities in joyful celebration.
National Day (Asturias)
Our Lady of Covadonga
National Day (Extremadura), also the feast ofOur Lady of Guadalupe
Extremadura’s regional holiday honors its heritage and patroness, Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Extremadura in western Spain marks its National Day on September 8, coinciding with the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The region observes the occasion with religious services at the Monastery of Guadalupe, where the Virgin’s statue is venerated. Civic ceremonies in Mérida and other cities include official speeches, flag ceremonies, and awards recognizing contributions to regional development. Cultural events feature traditional music, dance, and theater celebrating Extremadura’s history and rural traditions. Gastronomic fairs offer local products such as Iberian ham, cheeses, and wines. Educational programs in schools explore the region’s Roman and medieval heritage. The day strengthens community bonds and fosters pride in Extremadura’s cultural richness. Evening festivities conclude with concerts and spectacular firework displays over historic landmarks.
National Day (Extremadura)
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Victory Day (Pakistan)
Commemorates Pakistan’s victory in the 1965 War against India.
Victory Day in Pakistan on September 8 honors the nation’s successful defense during the 1965 conflict with India. The day features military parades, flag hoisting ceremonies, and special prayers for fallen heroes. Government officials and veterans deliver speeches highlighting the courage and sacrifice of the armed forces. Media outlets broadcast documentaries and interviews recalling key battles such as the defense of Lahore. Educational events in schools emphasize patriotism and the importance of national unity. Wreath-laying ceremonies occur at war memorials across major cities. Civilian participation includes cultural performances and community gatherings. Victory Day reinforces national pride and remembrance of historical achievements.
Victory Day (Pakistan)
Victory Day, also the feast ofOur Lady of Victoriesoril-Vittorja(Malta)
A Maltese public holiday marking naval victory and honoring Our Lady of Victories.
On September 8, Malta celebrates Victory Day (il-Vittorja), commemorating the 1565 defeat of Ottoman forces and honoring the feast of Our Lady of Victories. Festivities in Valletta begin with a solemn Mass at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, followed by a military parade and civic ceremonies. The Grand Harbour area hosts reenactments, concerts, and cultural displays highlighting Malta’s strategic maritime heritage. Locals and tourists enjoy traditional band marches and fireworks illuminating the capital. The religious aspect honors the Virgin Mary, believed to have protected the island during the Great Siege. Museums and historical sites offer free entry, educating visitors about Malta’s resilient history. Street parties and folk performances add a community spirit to the day. Victory Day in Malta blends faith, history, and patriotism in a vibrant celebration.
Victory Day
Our Lady of Victories
Malta
World Physical Therapy Day
An international day to recognize and promote the importance of physical therapy in maintaining health and well-being.
World Physical Therapy Day is observed annually on September 8 to highlight the role of physical therapists in improving mobility and quality of life.
Established by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy in 1996, the day brings together practitioners, patients, and communities worldwide.
It raises awareness of the benefits of physical therapy in rehabilitation, pain management, and prevention of disability.
Events include free screening sessions, educational workshops, and advocacy campaigns to improve access to therapy services.
Each year, a specific theme focuses on challenges such as aging populations, sports injuries, or neurological disorders.
By showcasing patient success stories and scientific advances, the day aims to inspire more people to seek physical therapy when needed.
Join local events or online campaigns to support the movement for healthier, more active lives through physical therapy.
World Physical Therapy Day
Adrian and Natalia of Nicomedia(Roman Catholic Church)
A feast day honoring Saints Adrian and Natalia, a married couple martyred in Nicomedia for their Christian faith.
Saint Adrian and his wife Natalia are commemorated on September 8 in the Roman Catholic Church for their steadfast faith and charity.
Adrian, a military officer in Nicomedia, renounced his post to defend Christians during the Diocletian persecution.
Natalia tended to Christian prisoners, providing comfort and aid before her arrest.
Both endured torture and martyrdom around 304 AD, becoming symbols of spousal devotion and courage.
Their story has inspired art, literature, and devotion throughout the centuries.
Pilgrims visit their shrines, especially in places where their relics are venerated.
The feast highlights themes of marital unity, sacrifice, and compassion for the oppressed.
Adrian and Natalia of Nicomedia
Roman Catholic Church