December 22

One of the oldest traditional festivals in East Asia with over 2,000 years of history. Dongzhi celebrates the balance of yin and yang as days begin to lengthen after the winter solstice. Customs include making and eating tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) in southern China and jiaozi (dumplings) in northern China to symbolize family unity and prosperity. Ancestral worship rituals are performed at temples and home altars. In Japan, the festival is called Toji, associated with yuzu baths for health, while in Korea, known as Dongji, red bean porridge (patjuk) is eaten to ward off evil. Across the region, the day promotes themes of renewal, harmony, and familial bonds.

Established to mark President Ho Chi Minh's formation of the Vietnam People's Army during the struggle for independence, Armed Forces Day features military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, and public addresses by government officials. Schools and communities organize exhibitions showcasing military history, equipment, and technology. Veterans are honored for their service, and active personnel participate in outreach events to foster national pride. Though not a day off for most citizens, the occasion reinforces the role of the armed forces in national defense and unity.

On December 22, the Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Anastasia of Sirmium, an early Christian martyr known as 'Deliverer from Potions' for her healing prayers against poison. Frances Xavier Cabrini, founder of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart, is honored outside the United States. The Episcopal Church (USA) remembers missionary Henry Budd, Lakota Episcopal priest, and Lottie Moon, a Southern Baptist missionary. Lesser-known saints, including Eimhin and Ernan, Son of Eogan, are also celebrated. Liturgical readings and hymns for this date focus on faith under persecution and missionary zeal, with special church services in many communities.

Instituted in 1928 during the first Indonesian Women's Congress and officially proclaimed in 1953 by President Sukarno, this day recognizes mothers' contributions to national development and family welfare. Schools and community organizations hold ceremonies where poems are recited and traditional dances are performed. Families show appreciation with gifts, flowers, and special meals prepared for their mothers. Cultural events promote awareness of maternal health and education, emphasizing the importance of strong family bonds. The celebration underscores the value Indonesia places on motherhood and family solidarity.

Declared by the Government of India in 2012 to honor Srinivasa Ramanujan's profound contributions to number theory and continued fractions, this day promotes mathematical education across the country. Educational institutions host math competitions, lectures, and exhibitions to inspire students. Workshops on mathematical puzzles and problem-solving encourage engagement at all levels. The Indian Mathematical Society organizes outreach programs in rural areas to foster STEM learning. National Mathematics Day highlights mathematics' role in innovation and celebrates India's rich legacy in the discipline.

Designated to commemorate the founding of the Cuban Teacher Corps in 1943, Teachers' Day celebrates the vital role of teachers in Cuban society. Schools hold assemblies where students present songs, poems, and gifts to show appreciation. The Ministry of Education organizes professional development workshops and seminars for educators. Outstanding teachers receive awards for excellence in teaching and contributions to community education. The day reinforces respect for the teaching profession and highlights the importance of quality education in Cuba's social development.

Signed between President Robert Mugabe's ZANU-PF and Joshua Nkomo's ZAPU, the Unity Accord brought an end to years of political tension following independence. Official speeches emphasize national reconciliation and cultural unity. Communities host cultural performances showcasing Zimbabwe's diverse ethnic heritage and organize peace-building workshops and interfaith dialogues. Government offices and schools display national flags, encouraging citizens to reflect on the importance of solidarity. Unity Day strengthens patriotic sentiment and honors the journey towards national integration.

Saint Anastasia of Sirmium was a 4th-century Christian martyr famous for her charitable work and healing miracles, especially as the 'Deliverer from Potions.' Tradition holds that she cared for imprisoned Christians, distributed aid, and prayed for the sick. Her feast day involves special liturgical services, hymns, and the veneration of her icon in Orthodox churches. Worshippers invoke her intercession against poison and illness. The commemoration highlights faith, compassion, and the courage to stand for one's beliefs.

December 22 marks the feast day of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini outside the United States. She was born in 1850 in Italy and founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Known for her tireless work with immigrants, she established schools, hospitals, and orphanages across the Americas. In 1946 she became the first U.S. citizen to be canonized as a saint. She is the patroness of immigrants and hospital administrators. Communities worldwide honor her legacy on this day with special masses and charitable activities.