Multicultural calender

September 2011

Sept 8

Nativity of the Theotokos (Christian)

Orthodix Christians celebrate the birth of the Virgin Mary.

Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Christian)

Roman Catholics celebrate the birth of the Virgin Mary.

Feast of the Birth of Mary (Christian)

Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches celebrate the birth of Mary, mother of Jesus.

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Sept 11

Ethiopian New Year (Rastafari)

Rastafarians believe Ethiopia to be their homeland therefore the start of the New Year in Ethiopia is recognised by Rastafarians.

Patriots Day (United States)

This day honours the memory of the thousands killed in the terrorist attack on the United States in 2001.

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Sept 16

Independence Day (Mexico)

This day marks the end of 350 years of Spanish rule for Mexico. Celebrations include traditional Mexican foods, candies and punch.

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Sept 23

Autumn Equinox (Pagan)

This day is celebrated when day and night are of equal duration.

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Sept 24

Heritage Day (South Africa)

A public holiday in South Africa where South Africans celebrate their African cultural heritage and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions.

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Sept 28

Navaratri (start) (Hindu)

Navaratri (nine nights) symbolises the triumph of good over evil and marks the start of autumn.

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Sept 29

Michaelmas/St. Michael, St Gabriel and St Raphael's Day (Christian)

A feast day in honour of the archangel Michael. Michael is one of the angels named in the Bible (along with Gabriel and, in some traditions including Roman Cathoic, Raphael).

Rosh Hashanah (New Year) (Jewish)

This holiday begins at sundown on the evening before the first full day of the holiday. Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Days of Awe. This is a period in which people reflect upon the previous year and the year to come. Forgiveness from God and committing oneself to a better life is a tradition of this holiday.