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Ash Wednesday – Lent Begins – Christian

September 1, 2015

In Western Christianity, Ash Wednesday marks the first day of the season of Lent, 40 days of preparation for Easter. Many Christians observe a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, and spiritual discipline.

Imbolc – Lughnassad – Nature Traditions

September 1, 2015

The second of four great fire festivals, Imbolc (meaning “in milk”) recognizes a time of awakening, promise and hope for the spring. This holiday begins at sundown on Feb. 1 and ends at sundown on Feb. 2.

 

Chinese New Year -Confucian/Taoist/Buddhist

September 1, 2015

The Chinese New Year remains the most important social and economic holiday in China. The holiday is a time to honor household and heavenly deities as well as ancestors, and includes feasting together as a family.

 

Yule – Winter Solstice – Nature Traditions

September 1, 2015

Yule is the time of greatest darkness and the longest night of the year. This time is celebrated as the "return of the Sun God" where He is reborn of the Goddess. This holiday begins at sundown on Dec. 20 and ends at sundown on Dec. 21. 

 

Christmas – Christian

September 1, 2015

Christmas is both a sacred religious holiday and a worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon. Christmas is preceded by 40 days of spiritual preparation called Advent. Christians celebrate Christmas Day as the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ. 

 

Hanukkah – Jewish

September 1, 2015

Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days and nights of candle lighting. In Hebrew, the word "hanukkah" means “dedication,” and it commemorates the re-dedication of the holy Temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C.E.

Rohatsu – Bodhi Day – Buddhist

September 1, 2015

Rohatsu is the celebration of the enlightenment of The Buddha. A candle is lit every evening for thirty days, symbolic of enlightenment.