Holidays Around The World � july calendars

Vanuatu Independance Day

Noel — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:09:22 +0000

Independance Day: July 30

Vanautu celebrates Independance Day as a public holiday.
Vanuatu is an isle nation present on the Pacific Ocean. The isle celebrates its Independence Day on July 30 every year since 1980 when it gained freedom.

Vanautu Independance Day History

Pedro Fernandez de Quire, a Portuguese traveler, was the first European to set foot on the island in 1605. The island was named as New Hebrides by explorer James Cook. From 1987, the island was being governed by a French-British naval committee. The rising pressure in the 1960s from the locals of the island for complete independence and self governance compelled the two European nations to free the country in 1980. Soon after its independence, Vanuatu became a member of the UN in 1980 and the Non Aligned Movement in 1983.

There are 52 members in the unicameral parliament of Vanuatu who are elected for a period of four years by popular vote. The government is run by the Prime Minister who is the leader of the winning party. The Prime Minister appoints the Council of Ministers who assists him in looking after the nation. The President is the Head of the State chosen for five year tenure. The President is elected by the Parliament and the presidents of the six regional governments and has dignified powers. However he might be removed before the completion of his tenure by the Electoral Commission on account of his misbehavior or ineffectiveness. New Hebrides National Party, later known as Vanuakau Pati was the first administrative party introduced in the early 1970s. It was the hardships of this party that made that Vanuatu independent. The administrative system is set up on the British law. The constitution supports the establishment and customary rights of villagers.

The period 1995-2004 witnessed numerous changes in administration leadership due to tensions among the major parties of the Parliament. In May 2004, the Parliament was dissolved by the president and an exceptional election was held which brought poor results for many major parties. In the latest election of September 2, 2008 a seven party coalition came into power. Edward Natapei was elected as Prime Minister and Ham Lini, the former Prime Minister was elected as the Deputy Prime Minister.

Vanautu Independance Day Traditions and Activities

The national holiday celebration continues for a week from July 30. The hustle gains momentum from afternoon and continue till late night. The day is honored and merrily celebrated with wine, dance and music by the citizens. The carnival is celebrated differently in each region. The locals make merry with a great gusto and parade throughout the island.

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Morocco Festively Celebrates Feast of the Throne

Noel — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:00:44 +0000

Feast of the Throne Date: July 30

Feast of the Throne is a national holiday in Morocco.

Morocco, situated on the westernmost tip of North Africa, celebrates the national holiday of the Feast of the Throne every year on July 30. July 23, 2010 marks the 11th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascendance to the throne.

History of the Feast of the Throne in Morocco

The present Moroccan royal family is from the Alaouite Dynasty. Moulay Ali Cherif, who became Sultan of Tafilat in 1631, was the founder of this dynasty. The Alaouite dynasty claims that they are successors of Muhammad. The Feast of the Throne is thus known as Eid Al-`Arch in Arabic to honor the rule of the Alaouite royal family on the empire.

The festival was at first celebrated on November 18 when King Mohammed V was the emperor. Later, the date moved to March 3 during the reign of the late King Hassan II. Presently, it is celebrated on July 30, the day when King Muhammad VI was enthroned.

Since 1999, there has been drastic change in the political and economic conditions under the reign of King Mohammed VI. Although there is high unemployment and destitution in the nation, tourism and foreign investment in urban areas are providing better chances for the economy to thrive. Over the years there has been a marked improvement in laws supporting human rights making the nation a better place to live in. Education and expanded rights, especially for women, has become more prominent. Additionally a law to protect the rich Berber culture has been passed.

Formally Morocco’s parliament has minimal powers. However the nation took a step towards democracy by hosting the nation’s first municipal elections in 2002. There is strong vigilance on the activities of Islamists and other diplomatic groups. However, some provincial disputes of Ceuta and Melilla, and Western Sahara still remain unsolved under the king’s reign.

Morocco’s Feast of the Throne Traditions, Customs and Activities

Traditionally, the king is expected to talk to the state on July 29. And on July 30, the customary practice of bey’a, a swearing of allegiance to the king, is held. There is a grand social gathering at the Royal Palace. Cavalcades and fireworks show also take place throughout the country.

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Bermuda Cup Match Day

Noel — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 05:09:56 +0000

Bermuda Cup Match Day Date: July 30

Bermuda Cup Match Day is a public holiday in Bermuda.

Bermuda Cup Match day started way back in 1902. On this day, two cricket clubs of Bermuda namely Somerset and St. George’s cricket clubs participate in a scintillating cricket match. It is a two-day event.

Bermuda Cup Match Day History

Originally, there were two public holidays in Bermuda- The Emancipation Day and the Somers’ Day. The Emancipation Day is on August 1. On August 1, 1834, the laws abolishing slavery were enacted. Somers’ Day is yet another public holiday which is observed somewhere in the end of July to commemorate the shipwreck in Bermuda by British Admiral Sir George Somers in 1609. This dual holiday is known as the Cup Match Day and is now held on the Thursday and Friday close to August 1. The Bermudians spend these two holidays fruitfully by playing cricket, having good food and drinks and cheering up the two teams.

Is it cricket everywhere?
Initially, St George’s and Somerset lodges arranged their annual picnic to coincide with the Emancipation Day. A friendly match between the eastern and western lodge members used to take place. But with time this match has drawn a lot of attention. More and more people are now interested in the match. For some Bermudians these two days are all about cricket. Only these two teams play and there are no qualifying rounds. Twenty-two very good players of the island take part in the match. Whenever a batsman hits a six, Soca or Reggae music is played. Two local radio stations broadcast running commentary for the match. But the Cup Match Day is not all about cricket. It is something more than that. It is this time of the year when friends and relatives meet and spend some time together watching the match. Some again go out for parties. In brief, it is party time for the Bermudians.

What exactly happens on the Cup Match Day?
As said earlier the Cup Match Day is all fun and frolic. Some wander about here and there chatting with friends and relatives, others remain busy drinking rum. Dolly Pitcher’s renowned seafood stall supplies mussel pies and conch stew to the people out there so that they can meet their hunger. Some take advantage of the undisturbed gambling laws this time and get news about the match from the crowd only. Many local people also play Crown and Anchor in the tents that are built around the ground. This is a Cup Match tradition.

Bermuda Cup Match Day Traditions and Activities

When the people are not watching cricket, they make camps everywhere in the parks, in the gardens or maybe even by the roadside. In these tents they party with friends and relations. They have barbeques, beer and all sorts of food that they take an interest in. People are in a mood of celebration and are ready to spend.
In brief, this dual holiday of the Bermudians is unique. No one can find such an event like this in some other place in the world.

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Fiji Constitution Day

Noel — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:12:35 +0000

Constitution Day Date: July 27

Constitution Day is celebrated by Fiji.

Fiji, an ex British territory, is now a self governing democratic state. It turned into a Republic in 1987. The Fiji Constitution Day celebration in Fiji takes place on July 27 every year until 2009 when it was abolished by President Josefa Iloilo. It also was not in effect after the 2000 Fijian coup defeat followed by Commodore Frank Bainimarama. It is the third Constitution of Fiji. The first was adopted in 1970 after the freedom and soon cancelled due to two military coups in 1987.

Fiji Constitution Day History

Constitution being the prime law plays an important role in Fiji. An act, which marked the modification of 1990 Constitution, was passed in 1997. Popularly known as The Constitution Amendment Act 1997, it was put into effect from July 27, 1998. Basically, the Constitution practices the recognition, respect of many ethnic groups and also stands by their rights. This new Constitution provided Fiji a place back in the Commonwealth in October, 1997.

The constitutional proceedings led to the commencement of the Fiji Constitution Day in 1995. President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara appointed a Constitutional Review Commission. The committee comprised of an ethnic Fijian, an Indo-Fijian under the chairmanship of an old Governor-General of New Zealand. On September 6 1996, the Commission presented its report before the President. The report was thoroughly analyzed and reviewed by different authorities. Finally the Constitution came into effect from July 25, 2007. The British Parliament serves as a model for the Fiji’s Parliamentary proceedings and routine. So, the Constitution Day in Fiji was first honored and celebrated on the July 25, 2007.

Fiji Constitution Day Traditions and Activities

According to the Constitution of Fiji, it is compulsory for all natives, who are above 21 years of age and settled in Fiji for the past two years to register. It is expected that these enlisted voters used their right to vote in elections. The 1997 Constitution has made it clear that victory in elections is based on complete majority format. A multi party Cabinet includes the Ministers as well as the Prime Minister. An order of checks and evenness are provided in the Constitution to secure the self reliance of the judiciary. Unjust distinction on the basis of sexual orientation is discouraged and unlawful in Fiji. In fact, Fiji’s Constitution is the second in the world to particularly mention and protect against such discriminations. Thus, Fiji’s Constitution supports the rights of all its various groups of inhabitants and also discourages racial or sexual discrimination, which makes the Constitution Day in Fiji so special.

According to the latest news, this Constitution has been recently suspended in April 2009. Interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has declared that a new fourth Constitution will be introduced by 2013. The new constitution would abolish the old ethnic based provisions of the electoral system and also lower the voting age to 18. There would check on the number of seats in the Parliament and the “requirement of Senate”. This new Constitution is to be produced after comprehensive discussions among political parties, non-governmental organizations and lastly Fiji’s citizens and hopefully will be the best for all.

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Cuba Rebellion Day

Noel — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 04:17:18 +0000

Cuba Rebellion Day: July 26

Rebellion Day is a public holiday in Cuba.

Cuba celebrates their national rebellion day on 26th July. It is the Island’s biggest ceremony even more important than January 1, when the rebellion broke out or May 20, when CUBA became a part of US republic from the French colony. The date reminds everyone of the 1953 assault on the Moncada and Cespedes garrisons in Cuba, which although unsuccessful initiated the CUBA rebellion that drove out Batista, the dictator 5 years later.

Cuba Rebellion Day History

The island of Cuba was the home for Amerindians for hundreds of years. The local residents also known as Taino and Ciboney mostly were dependent on agriculture as their occupation. The island was first sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1492 and claimed it to be a Spain colony. The occupied the island and ruled them for over 300 years. The developed an economic base for agriculture and plantation in Cuba as the land was fertile and rich in minerals. They exported sugar, tobacco and coffee from here. The British seized the Island in 1762 but was again recaptured by Spain, the following year. Like in most Spanish estates the land owners became the supreme power and they were served by the farmers, workers and slaves.

Due to rural poverty in Spain, many residents immigrated to Cuba. Amongst them were also the ancestors of Fidel Castro. Agitations started in 1890, due to impose of restrictions on the Cuba traders and merchants by the Spanish government. At last, the rebellion broke out in 1895. They demanded Cuba to be an independent republic.

Nature of the rebellion

Chaos and disorder in Cuba ignited the flame of rebellion in the nation. Peasants, slaves and merchants protested against the dominant French power. They were furious to achieve independence. History tells that only 300 rebellions took part in the battle almost unarmed. But an army of 3500 also were unable to stop them as they were like suicidal squad. The local residents also responded by stopping the Batista tanks and blocked the road. The battle of Snata Clara was amost the end of Cuba rebellion and it was 31st December 1958 when Fidel and his comrades created history in Cuba.

Cuba Rebellion Traditions and Activities

Fifty years after independence, Cuba has grown in the business and finance sector. The rebellion which broke out 50 years ago has totally changed the life of Cuba. It is a changing society.

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Cuba marks Beginning of Independence Wars

Curacao Festively Celebrates Curacao Day

Noel — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:00:06 +0000

Curacao Day: July 26

Curacao Day is a public holiday in Curacao.

On July 26 every year, the local inhabitants of the island of Curacao commemorate the founding of the island by the Spanish sailor Alonso de Ojeda in 1499.

History of Curacao Day in Curacao

The Arawak Amerindians were the original inhabitants of Curacao. Under the leadership of Alonso de Ojeda, the Spanish were the first Europeans to visit the island of Curacao. The Spaniards took advantage of the indigenous population, exporting many to other colonies where the Spaniards needed workers.

In 1634, the Dutch occupied the island. The Dutch West India Company founded the capital of Willemstad on the banks of an inlet called the Schottegat. While the island’s first colonists previously ignored Curacao because it lacked gold deposits, the natural harbor of Willemstad proved quickly to be an ideal spot for trade.

With the discovery of oil in 1914, the fortunes of the island were drastically changed. Royal Dutch Shell and the Dutch Government built extensive oil refinery facilities, thereby creating an abundant source of employment for the local populace and energizing a wave of immigration from neighboring countries. The company also brought affluence to the island, providing large housing projects for the workers.

Curacao was an ideal site for the refinery, placing it away from the social and civil unrest of the South American mainland but near enough to the Maracaibo Basin and its oil fields. The natural harbor provided excellent accommodation for large oil tankers, and Willemstad was able to develop its own infrastructure to support the tankers.

Curacao joined the rest of the Caribbean in a loud clamor for independence after World War II. Instead, it was granted a status of autonomy as an entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Curacao, along with Bonaire, Saba, Saint Eustatius, and Saint Maarten, came to be known as the Netherlands Antilles. The administrative center was placed in Willemstad, where it remains today. Aruba separated later from the other five islands. The kingdom today has only three partners left: the Netherlands, the five islands of the Netherlands Antilles, and Aruba.

In recent years, the island had capitalized on its unique history and heritage to develop its tourism industry.

Curacao’s Curacao Day Traditions, Customs and Activities

Every year the island of Curacao comes alive with various folklore activities and cultural events on Curacao Day. As for food, dishes of keshi yená, “stuffed cheese”, are worth finding despite being difficult to encounter. This dish is made with chicken, a variety of vegetables and spices, and raisins. That is stuffed inside the shell of an Edam or Gouda cheese round, topped with cheese, and baked.

And of course, you can encounter the traditional Curacao liqueur that was developed there in the 19th century by the Senior family. Made from a bitter citrus fruit called laraha, the liqueur is actually made from the peel of the fruit. The fruit itself is extremely bitter and is considered inedible.

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Liberia Independence Day

Noel — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 05:35:20 +0000

Liberia Independence Day Date: July 26

Liberia Independence Day is a public holiday in Liberia.

The Independence Day is the day celebrated by the country to mark its freedom. The country gains independence after a lot of struggle. Once it gains freedom, it no more remains a part of any state or province. Independence Day is also a National Holiday. Liberia also celebrates the Independence Day on July 26.

Liberia Independence Day History

Liberia is a small county and known for its culture, tradition, academic institution, skills, arts and craft works. It is recovering back slowly from the effect of the civil war. The economy of the country is mainly dependent on agriculture, manufacturing, iron ore and rubber exports. During the war, the export on diamond and few more things were banned. The export of some other commodity could be done even during the war time due to a pact between Liberia’s warlords and foreign concessionaires. Looting in the Liberia has a bicameral legislature and a dual system of statutory law. When you are tried in the lower courts and if you are not convinced with the judgment given, then you can appeal in the Supreme Court, the highest judicial authority of Liberia headed by the Chief Justice. If you want to see and enjoy the events of the Liberia Independence Day, you should find sometime and visit Liberia on July 26.

July 26 is the Liberia Independence Day or national day of Liberia and a big day for the Liberians, as it is the one and only first black nation of Africa to get independence. This day is celebrated with a great joy amongst the Liberians and many other activities and competitions etc are held all throughout the day. Parades take place, children perform many activities, men and women all take an active part in the celebration and all of them together try their level best to make it memorable every year.

Liberia Independence Day Traditions and Activities

It was after 14 year of brutal civil war that the Liberia got its freedom and this day is one more opportunity of the people in Liberia to come together as one nation. The civil war commenced on 1989 and continues till fourteen years and ultimately ended in 2003. This day is marked in the calendar of Liberia as a national holiday. All schools, colleges, offices and banks are closed al the activities in an around Liberia are suspended and all come together to celebrate this day with a great rejoice and happiness.

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Guanacaste Day

Noel — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 22:10:48 +0000

Guanacaste Day Date: July 25

Guanacaste Day is a public holiday in Costa Rica.

The annexation of Guanacaste also known as Guanacaste Day is celebrated in Costa Rica on 25th July every year.

Guanacaste Day History

Guanacaste was annexed From Nicaragua in the year 1824. This moment has had significant impact on the history of the region in general. Guanacaste has always been a major coffee exporting region along with the rest of Costa Rica. In 1823, the regions of Guatemala, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Honduras declared themselves as independent nations. But while Costa Rica Prospered the other nations were war torn. Guanacaste hence, in 1824, requested that they be annexed and made a part of Costa Rica, instead of Nicaragua. The natives of Guanacaste believed in Costa Rican values and that it held a brighter future for them, than under Nicaraguan rule.

Guanacaste Day Traditions and Activities

Hence the annexation of Guanacaste is viewed as the triumph of democracy. This day is grandly celebrated in Costa Rica and is deeply entrenched in their systems. Numerous celebrations are planned and hosted on this day, throughout the country. Parades and traditional folk dances are performed while children are educated on the strong family values and traditional values of Costa Rica. Another aspect of the celebrations is the bullfights that occur. In addition, the whole week leading to July 25th, is lined with parades to the parks at the centres of the various towns, by all primary and secondary schools. Public dances are held and the whole nation rejoices in festivities.

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Ashadh Day

Noel — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 19:24:25 +0000

Ashadh Day-Guru Purnima Date: July 25

Ashadh Day is observed by Hindus around the world.

Guru Purnima is celebrated on the lunar month of Ashadh, July, on the day of the full moon.

Ashadh Day History

The day celebrations are marked by Hindus all over the world as a mark of respect for the Guru, a teacher or preacher. The day commemorates the sacred memory of Sage Vyasa, the ancient Guru who compiled the four vedas, authored 18 Puranas, the Mahabharata, and the Simrid Bhagavata. This day is also known as Vyasa Purnima and is practiced by those devoted to their beloved Gurus by offering them worship. Sage Vyasa is known to be the original Guru of the Hindu religion, and these day celebrations were created for everyone to celebrate the role of a real life Guru, and signify the great importance of the role of a Guru. Hindu people show great respect to their Guru, and often regard them as God.

Ashadh Day Traditions and Activities

The day celebrations are organized by spiritual organizations and are usually cultural performances. To make the day even more special Divine Discourse and Bhajan Samarohas are also organised. In India Guru Purnima is celebrated at various Ashrams but with much grandeur at Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh.

Many worshippers travel from many parts of India to the celebrations here. Also at Ashram of Satya Sai Baba, and at Puttaporthy Ashram in Amritapuri and other places of high spiritual importance. This is a day of spiritual seekers who open up to their Gurus to receive the Divine Power and for this reason many holy people use this day to shower blessings on everyone.

Guru Purnima has special significance to the sadhaks and farmers as the four months begins from this day. The water drawn up into the clouds from the hot summer starts to fall in large showers enriching the earth and bringing fresh life. All disciples perform Puja and offer their Gurus flowers and sweets. Its is also A good time to begin spiritual lessons from A Guru.

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Ecuador Bolivar Birthday

Noel — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 06:09:37 +0000

Equador Bolivar Birthday Date: July 24

Bolivar Birthday is a public holiday in Ecuador.

Simón Bolívar (better known as The Liberator or El Libertador) was one of Spanish America’s foremost independence leaders.

Ecuador Bolivar Birthday History

Born on July 24th 1783, he led several battles against the Spanish monarchy, which were successful in winning independence for the present-day countries of Venezuela, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia and Peru. Bolívar is regarded as a national hero in these countries.

Ecuador celebrates the birth anniversary of its national hero every year. July 24th in Ecuador is a public holiday and is locally known as El Natalicio de Simón Bolívar. Banks, offices, shops and other services are closed.

Ecuador Bolivar Birthday Traditions and Activities

This day is celebrated in Ecuador through food, music, and costume. There are military parades, as well as parades by children in schools. Sights of colourful parades by civilians in national costume, accompanied by music played by loud brass bands and much dancing can be seen throughout the country’s streets. Other events such as flag hoisting are common- the Ecuadorian flag flies high in every building- even in homes in rural areas. One can see proof of Bolívar’s importance in Ecuador throughout the country as many streets and schools bear his name. Besides, there are busts and statues of Bolívar in many places.

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