20-N(Spain)
An informal commemoration in Spain marking the death anniversaries of José Antonio Primo de Rivera and Francisco Franco.
Known in Spain as “20 N,” this observance marks two significant deaths in Spanish history: José Antonio Primo de Rivera in 1936 and Francisco Franco in 1975. Although it is not an official holiday, far-right groups and sympathizers hold rallies and commemorations on this date. Ceremonies often include laying wreaths at memorials, speeches praising their legacies, and gatherings at key historical sites. Over time, the day has become a focal point for debates about Spain’s Civil War past and the Francoist era. Critics view it as glorification of authoritarianism, while supporters see it as honoring national heroes.
20-N
Spain
Africa Industrialization Day(international)
An annual UN observance promoting the importance of industrial development in Africa.
Established by the United Nations in 1989, Africa Industrialization Day highlights the role of industrialization in boosting Africa’s economies and reducing poverty. Each year, it focuses on themes such as infrastructure, technology transfer, and sustainable manufacturing. Governments, NGOs, and businesses organize conferences and workshops across the continent. The day aims to spur investment in local industries and strengthen regional cooperation. By shining a light on challenges and successes, it encourages actionable strategies for Africa's industrial growth.
Africa Industrialization Day
international
Black Awareness Day(Brazil)
A Brazilian observance celebrating Afro-Brazilian culture and promoting racial equality.
Observed on November 20 to coincide with the death anniversary of Zumbi dos Palmares, a leader of Brazil’s resistance against slavery. The day honors the contributions of black Brazilians to the nation’s history, culture, and society. Schools, cultural centers, and activists host events featuring music, dance, and discussions on Afro-Brazilian heritage. It also serves as a platform to address ongoing issues of racism and social inclusion. Many Brazilian states recognize it as an official public holiday, underscoring its national significance.
Black Awareness Day
Brazil
Children's Day(World Children's Day)
A United Nations observance dedicated to promoting children’s rights and welfare worldwide.
Established in 1954 by UNICEF, World Children’s Day marks the anniversary of the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child. November 20 also commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. Each year, it adopts a theme to raise awareness of issues like education, child labor, and health. Governments, schools, and civil society organize activities such as workshops, play sessions, and fundraising campaigns. The goal is to foster global solidarity and advocate for policies that protect children’s well-being and development.
Children's Day
Christianfeast day:
Agapius, Ambrose Traversari, Ampelus and Caius, BlessedAnacleto González Flores,José Sánchez del Río, and companions (MartyrsofCristero War), Bernward of Hildesheim, Dasius of Durostorum, Edmund the Martyr, Felec (or Felix) of Cornwall, Gregory of Dekapolis, BlessedJosaphata Hordashevska(Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church), Solutor, Octavius, and Adventor, Theonestus of Vercelli, November 20 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
A liturgical celebration honoring multiple saints and martyrs in Christian traditions.
On November 20, various Christian denominations commemorate a diverse group of saints and martyrs. These include early figures like Agapius, Ambrose Traversari, and the martyrs of the Cristero War, among others. The Roman Catholic Church honors Blessed Anacleto González Flores and José Sánchez del Río for their faith during persecution. Eastern Orthodox liturgics remember saints such as Theonestus of Vercelli and Gregory of Dekapolis. Observances typically involve special masses, prayers, and readings reflecting the lives and virtues of these holy figures.
feast day
Agapius
Ambrose Traversari
Ampelus and Caius
Blessed
Anacleto González Flores
José Sánchez del Río
Martyrs
Cristero War
Bernward of Hildesheim
Dasius of Durostorum
Edmund the Martyr
Felec (or Felix) of Cornwall
Gregory of Dekapolis
Josaphata Hordashevska
Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church
Solutor, Octavius, and Adventor
Theonestus of Vercelli
November 20 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)
Earliest day on which theFeast of Christ the Kingcan fall, while November 26 is the latest; celebrated on the last Sunday beforeAdvent. (Roman Catholic Church)
A movable Roman Catholic feast celebrating the sovereignty of Christ.
Instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, the Feast of Christ the King honors Jesus Christ's authority over all creation. Celebrated on the last Sunday before Advent, it can fall between November 20 and 26. The liturgy emphasizes Christ’s kingship and calls the faithful to recognize His reign in society and personal life. In many parishes, the day is marked by solemn Masses, hymnody, and processions. It concludes the liturgical year by reflecting on themes of judgment, service, and divine sovereignty.
Feast of Christ the King
Advent
Roman Catholic Church
National Sovereignty Day(Argentina)
An Argentine national holiday commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of Vuelta de Obligado.
Observed on November 20, Argentina’s National Sovereignty Day honors the 1845 Battle of Vuelta de Obligado on the Paraná River. During this clash, Argentine forces resisted an Anglo-French blockade, asserting national sovereignty. The day was established in 1974 to celebrate Argentina’s right to self-determination and control over its waterways. Public ceremonies include flag-raising events, military displays, and cultural performances. It serves as a reminder of Argentina’s historical struggles to protect its territory and resources.
National Sovereignty Day
Day of the Mexican Revolution(Mexico)
A Mexican public holiday marking the outbreak of the Mexican Revolution in 1910.
On November 20, 1910, Francisco I. Madero issued the Plan of San Luis Potosí, calling for an uprising against the Díaz regime. This proclamation ignited the Mexican Revolution, a decade-long conflict that reshaped the nation’s political and social landscape. Today, Mexicans celebrate the day with military parades, civic ceremonies, and school events. Since 2006, the holiday is observed on the third Monday of November, providing a long weekend. It honors the revolution’s principles of democracy, land reform, and social justice.
Day of the Mexican Revolution
Royal Thai Navy Day(Thailand)
A commemorative day celebrating the founding of the Royal Thai Navy.
Royal Thai Navy Day honors the establishment of Thailand’s naval forces by King Chulalongkorn in 1906. Each year on November 20, naval bases and ships host official ceremonies, flag-raising rituals, and maritime demonstrations. The day showcases Thailand’s maritime heritage and the navy’s role in national defense. Ship tours and public exhibitions allow civilians to learn about naval operations and history. It is an occasion for both military personnel and citizens to pay tribute to the navy’s service and sacrifices.
Royal Thai Navy Day
Saint Verhaegen(Brussels)
A student celebration in Brussels commemorating the founder of the Free University.
Saint Verhaegen day, known as St V’s, is celebrated by students of the Université Libre de Bruxelles each November 20. The festival honors Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen, the university’s 19th-century founder known for promoting academic freedom. Festivities include processions, concerts, and student gatherings that transform the city into a vibrant carnival. Participants often wear university colors and perform satirical rituals mocking academic traditions. Although not an official public holiday, it is one of Brussels’s liveliest student events.
Saint Verhaegen
Teachers' DayorNgày nhà giáo Việt Nam(Vietnam)
Country/Region:
Vietnam
Teachers' Day in Vietnam, celebrated every November 20 to honor the dedication and contributions of educators.
Teachers' Day in Vietnam, known as Ngày Nhà giáo Việt Nam, traces its origins to 1958 when students and teachers began commemorating the profession. On November 20 each year, schools and communities organize ceremonies, cultural performances, and expressions of gratitude to educators. Students and alumni present gifts, flowers, and heartfelt messages to honor their teachers. The day highlights the importance of education and the role of teachers in shaping the nation’s future. Celebrations across the country reinforce respect for the teaching vocation and inspire ongoing improvements in educational quality.
Teachers' Day
Transgender Day of Remembrance(LGBTcommunity)
Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed annually on November 20 to memorialize those lost to anti-transgender violence.
Established in 1998, Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) honors the memory of transgender and gender-diverse individuals who have lost their lives to anti-trans violence. Observed on November 20 each year, communities worldwide hold vigils, candlelight ceremonies, and memorial marches. The day raises awareness about the severity of hate crimes targeting trans people and promotes advocacy for their rights. By sharing stories, statistics, and personal testimonies, TDOR seeks to educate the public and prevent further violence. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the transgender community and a call to action for solidarity and change.
Transgender Day of Remembrance
LGBT