March
National Women's History Month (US) - was initiated by the National Women's History Project (NWHP), to "promote gender equity through education about women's diverse lives and accomplishments."
Irish-American Heritage Month - Because many Americans celebrate their Irish lineage on St. Patrick's Day, March was chosen as Irish American Heritage Month. The month was proclaimed in 1995 by Congress.
March 1
St. David's Day (English, Welsh)
St. David, or "Dewi Sant", is the patron saint of Wales. He lived in the 6th century and was a Celtic monk and archbishop. St. David's Day is celebrated on March 1st, the day of his death in 589, and dates back to 1120, when he was canonized by Pope Callactus II. The Welsh celebrate this day with singing, poetry, traditional food and - not to forget - daffodils.
March 3
The Doll Festival (Japan)
This major social festival in traditional Japan is combined with the spring festival and is celebrated with a display of ceremonial dolls, or "hina", in honor of the girls in the family.
March 4
First of Muharram (Islamic, Muslim)
This is the first month of Hijra, the New Year on the Islamic lunar calendar. Hijra commemorates the move of the Prophet Mohammed and his followers from Mecca to Medina.
March 4
Shrove Tuesday (Christianity)
Also known as "Fat Tuesday" or "Mardis Gras". Shrove Tuesday is basically the day of preparation for Lent. The name "shrove" is rumored to derive from the word "shrive" or confess. It takes place on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent).
March 5
Ash Wednesday
The season of Lent consists of the 40 days before Easter. It is patterned after the time Jesus spent 40 days in the desert. This is a season during which Christians reflect on their own temptation and sins. In ancient Israel, ashes were poured over the head of the faithful as a symbol of contrition.
March 8
International Women's Day (United Nations) - First held in 1910, this day promoted progressive issues including universal suffrage, voting rights, and equal pay, among others. In 1975, this day was given official recognition by the UN. Many countries worldwide observe and celebrate this day by highlighting women's progress, especially socially, economically and politically.
March 13
Ashura (Islamic, Muslim)
The commemoration of Ashura on the 10th of Muharram every year is a reminder of the sacrifices of the prophet’s family. It also provides awareness to the people who tried to destroy Islam, the family of the Prophet and all for which they stood.
March 17
St. Patrick's Day (Ireland)
Saint Patrick's name at birth was Maewyn Succat. He took the name Patrick after he became a priest later in his life. At 16, he was kidnapped by pirates and sold into slavery in Ireland to work as a shepherd. He turned to religion for solace and escaped after 5 years of slavery. He studied in the monastery for 12 years and came to believe it was his calling to convert the pagans of Ireland to Christianity. His mission lasted for 30 years and he died on March 17 in 461 AD.
March 18
Purim - Feast of Lots (Judaism)
Purim is the most festive of Jewish holidays, a time of prizes, noisemakers, costumes and treats.
March 21
Benito Juarez Birthday (Mexico)
National Holiday in Mexico to commemorate the birthday of Benito Juarez, who rose from humble origins to occupy the Presidency of the Republic on several occasions during the turbulent second half of the 19th century.
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