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We publish a monthly calendar listing the main commemorative dates of various religions and cultures, as well as important dates related to strengthening human rights and diversity. If you have comments or suggestions for dates to add to the calendar, please contact glen.gower@ottawa.ca.
Month-long observance:
Global Diversity Awareness Month
Women’s History Month
LGBTQ+ History Month
German Heritage Month
Canadian Islamic History Month
Latin American Heritage Month
Important dates:
China National Day (October 1) – Chinese
China National Day commemorates the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. It marks a pivotal shift from imperial rule to a modern socialist state.
National Seniors Day (October 1) – Canadian
Canadians unite to honour older adults for their enduring impact on families, communities, and society. The Government of Canada proudly celebrates their invaluable contributions nationwide.
Yom Kippur (October 1-2) – Jewish
Falling ten days after Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur is the Jewish day of fasting, prayer, and atonement, when fates are believed to be sealed for the year. Once marked by Temple rituals, it is now observed through personal reflection, repentance, and prayer.
Vijayadashami (October 2) – Hindu
Vijayadashami, known as Dussehra, is a major Hindu festival marking Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, celebrated with worship, fanfare, and grandeur across India. In 2025, it falls on October 2 during the month of Ashwina, observed nationwide on the Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha.
Independence Day in Iraq (October 3) – Iraqi
Independence Day in Iraq, celebrated on October 3, marks the nation’s 1932 liberation from British rule. The day is honored with parades, speeches, and vibrant displays of the Iraqi flag across the country.
Feast of St Francis of Assisi (October 4) – Christian
The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi honors the patron saint of animals and the environment. Remembered for his humility, love of nature, and compassion, his legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide.
World Teachers’ Day (October 5) – UNESCO
Celebrated annually on October 5, the day honors teachers worldwide and marks the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation on their status. It is a time to celebrate their role in transforming education and to reflect on the support needed for the profession’s future.
Sukkot (October 6-13) – Jewish
The Sukkot period is a time to remember the Jewish people’s wandering in the desert for 40 years following their exodus from Egypt, according to Jewish teachings. It is also a time to celebrate the grape harvest.
Valmiki Jayanti (October 7) – Hindu
Celebrated on the full moon of Ashwin, Valmiki Jayanti honors the birth of sage-poet Valmiki, revered as the author of the Ramayana. Also known as Pragat Diwas, it is marked with hymns, processions, and devotional festivities across India and beyond.
World Mental Health Day (October 10) – WHO
Observed on October 10, the date aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental well‑being. It also provides a platform for stakeholders to share their work and push for accessible mental health care worldwide.
Karwa Chauth (October 10) – Hindu
Observed mainly in Northern India, Karwa Chauth is a revered festival where married women fast from sunrise to moonrise for their husband’s long life and prosperity. Beyond the ritual, it reflects devotion, cultural tradition, and the enduring bond of love and togetherness in marriage.
Cuba Independence Day (October 10) – Cuban
Cuba observes Independence Day on October 10, marking the 1868 start of its fight against Spanish rule. The holiday honors the nation’s enduring struggle for freedom, culminating in formal independence in 1902.
National Coming Out Day (October 11) – HRC
Observed on October 11, National Coming Out Day is dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals in the LGBTQ+ community as they share their authentic selves with the world. It raises awareness about the importance of coming out, challenges stereotypes and prejudices, and promotes acceptance and inclusion. The day also honors the history of the LGBTQ+ movement, celebrating its champions and the ongoing spirit of liberation and pride.
International Day of the Girl Child (October 11) – UN
October 11 marks International Day of the Girl Child, celebrating girls’ voices, leadership, and global impact. Canada championed its creation to spotlight gender-based challenges and inspire change worldwide.
Thanksgiving Day (October 13) – Canadian
Traditionally, it is a time to give thanks for all the sacrifice and hard work done for the harvest. In modern times people take time off work and spend time with family and friends over a large feast held on Thanksgiving Day.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day (October 13) – American
Celebrated on the second Monday of October, Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the cultures, histories, and resilience of Native American communities. It is a time to reflect on their tribal roots, acknowledge past struggles, and celebrate their enduring strength and traditions.
Shemini Atzeret | Simchat Torah (October 13-15) – Jewish
Shemini Atzeret is a Jewish holiday dedicated to the love of God, while Simchat Torah marks the end of Sukkot and celebrates the completion of the annual reading of the Torah.
Defender of Ukraine Day (October 14) – Ukrainian
Observed on October 14, Defender of Ukraine Day honors the bravery and heroism of those who have fought and continue to fight for the nation’s freedom and independence. It also celebrates Ukraine’s rich traditions, marking the legacy of the Cossacks and the anniversary of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army.
International Pronouns Day (October 15)
The observance raises awareness about the difference between cisgender people—those whose gender identity matches their sex at birth—and non‑cisgender people, including many who identify as transgender or nonbinary. It encourages asking and respecting people’s pronouns rather than assuming gender based on appearance, promoting dignity, inclusion, and understanding.
Dhanteras (October 18) – Hindu
Dhanteras is a Hindu celebration where people buy gold and utensils as it is believed to bring good luck, health, and prosperity and ward off evil.
Persons Day (October 18) – Canadian
October 18, Persons Day, honours the 1929 ruling that recognized women as legal “persons” in Canada. This landmark decision advanced gender equality, opening doors to women’s participation in public and political life.
Birth of Guru Granth Sahib (October 20) – Sikh
It is a Sikh holiday that celebrates the birth of the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the central religious text of Sikhism. The Guru Granth Sahib is considered to be the living Guru of the Sikhs and contains the teachings of the ten Sikh Gurus. The holiday is celebrated with prayers, hymns, and processions.
Diwali Begins (October 20) – Indian
Diwali shines as a vibrant celebration of light, unity, and spiritual renewal across cultures. Spanning five days, it brings together Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists in joyful traditions. From flickering diyas to festive gatherings, it’s a luminous reminder of hope and togetherness
Mahavir Nirwan (October 21) – Jainism
This sacred day commemorates the nirvana (liberation) of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar, and is celebrated with lights and joyous rituals symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.
Bandi Chhor Divas (October 21) – Sikhism
Bandi Chhor Divas, the “Day of Liberation,” honors Guru Hargobind Ji’s release and his heroic freeing of 52 kings in 1619. This year is observed on October 24 and radiates with lights, prayers, and the spirit of justice.
Birth of Baháʼu’lláh (October 23) – Baha’i
This holy day commemorates the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, born in 1817 in Tehran, Persia (now Iran). Bahá’ís around the world celebrate his life and teachings, which emphasize unity, peace, and the spiritual renewal of humanity. From a young age, Bahá’u’lláh was known for his insight, compassion, and eloquence, qualities that later shaped a global religious movement.
Halloween (October 31)
The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween.
Samhain (October 31) – Wiccan/Pagan
Samhain honors the thinning veil between worlds and the cycle of death and rebirth. Revered as the Witch’s New Year, it invites reflection, remembrance, and spiritual connection.