November 01

This national holiday honors the outbreak of the Algerian Revolution in 1954, beginning with coordinated attacks by the National Liberation Front against French colonial forces. Observed annually on November 1, it marks the first major action in the eight-year struggle that led to Algeria's independence in 1962. The day features official ceremonies, wreath-laying at monuments, military parades, and speeches by political leaders. Citizens commemorate the sacrifices of freedom fighters and remember those who lost their lives in the quest for self-determination. Educational events and documentary screenings inform younger generations about the revolution's history. The holiday underscores national unity and pride in Algeria's hard-won sovereignty.

Chhattisgarh, formerly part of Madhya Pradesh, became a separate state on November 1, 2000, following demands for regional autonomy. The day is observed as a state holiday with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and public gatherings. Government officials and citizens pay tribute to the state’s history and pioneers of the movement. Folk dances, music festivals, and handicraft exhibitions showcase Chhattisgarh’s rich tribal and cultural heritage. Schools and colleges hold competitions in art, drama, and essay writing on state identity. The celebrations foster state pride and unity among the diverse communities of Chhattisgarh.

The ceremony was held at Punakha Dzong, the ancient fortress of Bhutan, with attendance by dignitaries and citizens. It followed the abdication of the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in favor of his son. Traditional rituals included the lighting of butter lamps, sacred dances, and blessings by high lamas. The event united the nation in celebration of its monarchy and Buddhist heritage. It set the stage for modernizing reforms under the new king's reign. Annual observances include cultural performances and prayers for the monarch's well-being.

On November 1, 1956, the unification of Kannada-speaking regions led to the creation of the Mysore State, later renamed Karnataka. The day is observed with the state flag hoisted at government buildings and the Rajyotsava Awards conferred on outstanding achievers in various fields. Cultural events showcase traditional music, dance, and theater, while Nagara Sankeerthanas (street processions) wind through cities. Schools and colleges host essay competitions, art exhibitions, and folk performances to instill pride in Kannada heritage. Special commemorative stamps and coins are often released. The festival unites diverse communities under the shared banner of Kannada identity.

The modern state of Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956, from the merger of Malabar District and Travancore-Cochin into a single Malayalam-speaking state. Kerala Day is observed with official ceremonies, flag hoisting, and cultural programs highlighting classical arts like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and traditional music. Public schools and cultural organizations conduct exhibitions, workshops, and seminars on the state’s heritage and achievements. It is a gazetted holiday featuring parades and communal feasts of traditional Kerala cuisine. The day reflects Kerala's unique social progress, literacy achievements, and communal harmony since its formation.

On November 1, 1848, Governor Peter von Scholten declared the emancipation of enslaved people in the Danish West Indies, now the U.S. Virgin Islands. This historic act ended centuries of bondage for the islands’ African-descended population. Liberty Day is a public holiday featuring parades, cultural performances, and educational events. Ceremonies at Fort Frederik in Frederiksted honor the first reading of emancipation and pay tribute to the resilience of the enslaved. Community gatherings include storytelling, musical concerts, and exhibitions on the history of slavery and freedom. The day is a reminder of the struggle for liberty and the ongoing quest for social justice in the territory.

Calan Gaeaf, meaning the first day of winter in Welsh, originates from ancient Celtic customs in Wales. Starting at sunset on October 31, communities light bonfires and hearth fires to ward off evil spirits and celebrate the harvest’s end. Folklore includes performing divination rituals using apples, nuts, and mirrors to glimpse fortunes for the coming year. Participants may carve pumpkins or kale into lanterns, an early form of jack-o’-lanterns, and tell stories by firelight. Traditions also involve wearing masks and costumes to confuse wandering spirits until dawn. Calan Gaeaf shares roots with the Gaelic Samhain and has experienced a revival in modern neopagan and cultural heritage events. Festivities often feature traditional music, dance, and storytelling, connecting participants with Welsh ancestral traditions.