Multicultural Calendar

Home Regional Government Diversity, Equity and InclusionMulticultural Calendar

February Significant Observances

NOTE: The Multicultural Calendars are educational and informational resources only. They are not intended to be, nor should be relied upon as an authority on significant days of observance or to guide accommodation decisions. If you require information and advice about the accommodation of religious, cultural and significant observances, please consult the Ontario Human Rights Commission website.

While all efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of these dates, the actual day of observance may vary.

We rely on the expertise of our community and faith groups to assist in making our list as accurate and representative as possible. Please send any feedback, updates or corrections to diversity@durham.ca.

Black History Month
Every February, Canadians observe Black History Month to commemorate the many achievements, impacts and contributions of Black Canadians in every part of society. February was officially recognized as Black History Month following a motion by The Honourable Jean Augustine, which was introduced to the House of Commons and unanimously carried in 1995.Learn more about Black History Month .
World Interfaith Harmony Week
World Interfaith Harmony Week is a weeklong observance that promotes global understanding, cooperation, and dialogue among people of different faiths. Established by the United Nations in 2010, it occurs annually in the first week of February. It encourages people and communities to engage in activities that foster interfaith harmony, tolerance, and respect. Learn more about World Interfaith Harmony Week.
World Hijab Day - February 1
On February 1, everyone is encouraged to support Muslim women and girls who are unfairly discriminated against for wearing a hijab. This day promotes religious acceptance and understanding. It calls on us to unify against bigotry and prejudice against Muslim women and girls. Learn more about World Hijab Day.
White Cane Week - February 1 to 8
White Cane Week takes place during the first full week of February. It raises awareness of the challenges of living with vision loss. It highlights the importance of the white cane, not only for navigation but also as a symbol of empowerment. Learn more about White Cane Week.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science - February 11
In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The day promotes full and equal access to science for women and girls and encourages their participation in the field. On this day, the global community seeks to achieve gender equality and inspire and engage women and girls in science. Learn more about International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
Women's Memorial March - February 14
The Women’s Memorial March is held annually on February 14 to honour the lives of missing and murdered women and gender-diverse people, and to advocate against systemic gender-based violence. The first march was held in Vancouver in 1992 to honour the disproportionate number of Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit and trans people who go missing or are murdered. Now recognized globally, many cities around the world hold marches in solidarity to grieve and heal together. Learn more about Women's Memorial March.
Parinirvana Day - February 15
Parinirvana Day commemorates the death of Buddha and his entry into final Nirvana. On this day, Buddhists reflect on the Buddha’s teachings and practice meditation. Learn more about Parinirvana Day.
Lunar New Year - February 17
Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the Year of the Horse. It is celebrated across many cultures and Asian communities worldwide marking the first new moon of the lunar calendar. Festivities include sharing red envelopes containing money with loved ones, watching fireworks and enjoying traditional food. Learn more about Lunar New Year.
Ramadan - February 17
Ramadan is a month of dawn to sunset fasting, prayer, self-reflection, and increased clarity. It is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion when Muslims spend extra time reading the Qur’an and performing special prayers. Learn more about Ramadan.
Ash Wednesday - February 18
Ash Wednesday is a Christian holy day that marks the beginning of Lent. On this solemn day, observers seek forgiveness and focus on repentance through fasting, sacrifice and prayer. Learn more about Ash Wednesday.
World Day of Social Justice - February 20
The World Day of Social Justice supports efforts towards justice and promotes social development and human dignity. This day provides an opportunity for the global community to reaffirm their commitment to fair and equitable outcomes for all. It highlights the importance of employment, education, housing and other areas that affect people’s well-being. Learn more about World Day of Social Justice.
International Mother Language Day - February 21
International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999. The day promotes the preservation and protection of all languages used by people around the world. Languages play a vital role in development. They ensure cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, strengthen co-operation, support quality education for all, build inclusive knowledge societies and preserve Indigenous heritage. Learn more about International Mother Language Day.
Pink Shirt Day - February 28
Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 when students in Nova Scotia wore pink to stand against homophobia and bullying. This initiative is now recognized globally on the last Wednesday in February. People in more than 180 countries show support for youth affected by bullying. To raise awareness, we are encouraged to share messages, wear pink shirts and donate to community organizations that support youth. Learn more about Pink Shirt Day.

Black History Month

Every February, Canadians observe Black History Month to commemorate the many achievements, impacts and contributions of Black Canadians in every part of society. February was officially recognized as Black History Month following a motion by The Honourable Jean Augustine, which was introduced to the House of Commons and unanimously carried in 1995.Learn more about Black History Month .

World Interfaith Harmony Week

World Interfaith Harmony Week is a weeklong observance that promotes global understanding, cooperation, and dialogue among people of different faiths. Established by the United Nations in 2010, it occurs annually in the first week of February. It encourages people and communities to engage in activities that foster interfaith harmony, tolerance, and respect. Learn more about World Interfaith Harmony Week.

World Hijab Day - February 1

On February 1, everyone is encouraged to support Muslim women and girls who are unfairly discriminated against for wearing a hijab. This day promotes religious acceptance and understanding. It calls on us to unify against bigotry and prejudice against Muslim women and girls. Learn more about World Hijab Day.

White Cane Week - February 1 to 8

White Cane Week takes place during the first full week of February. It raises awareness of the challenges of living with vision loss. It highlights the importance of the white cane, not only for navigation but also as a symbol of empowerment. Learn more about White Cane Week.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science - February 11

In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The day promotes full and equal access to science for women and girls and encourages their participation in the field. On this day, the global community seeks to achieve gender equality and inspire and engage women and girls in science. Learn more about International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Women's Memorial March - February 14

The Women’s Memorial March is held annually on February 14 to honour the lives of missing and murdered women and gender-diverse people, and to advocate against systemic gender-based violence. The first march was held in Vancouver in 1992 to honour the disproportionate number of Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit and trans people who go missing or are murdered. Now recognized globally, many cities around the world hold marches in solidarity to grieve and heal together. Learn more about Women's Memorial March.

Parinirvana Day - February 15

Parinirvana Day commemorates the death of Buddha and his entry into final Nirvana. On this day, Buddhists reflect on the Buddha’s teachings and practice meditation. Learn more about Parinirvana Day.

Lunar New Year - February 17

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the Year of the Horse. It is celebrated across many cultures and Asian communities worldwide marking the first new moon of the lunar calendar. Festivities include sharing red envelopes containing money with loved ones, watching fireworks and enjoying traditional food. Learn more about Lunar New Year.

Ramadan - February 17

Ramadan is a month of dawn to sunset fasting, prayer, self-reflection, and increased clarity. It is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion when Muslims spend extra time reading the Qur’an and performing special prayers. Learn more about Ramadan.

Ash Wednesday - February 18

Ash Wednesday is a Christian holy day that marks the beginning of Lent. On this solemn day, observers seek forgiveness and focus on repentance through fasting, sacrifice and prayer. Learn more about Ash Wednesday.

World Day of Social Justice - February 20

The World Day of Social Justice supports efforts towards justice and promotes social development and human dignity. This day provides an opportunity for the global community to reaffirm their commitment to fair and equitable outcomes for all. It highlights the importance of employment, education, housing and other areas that affect people’s well-being. Learn more about World Day of Social Justice.

International Mother Language Day - February 21

International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999. The day promotes the preservation and protection of all languages used by people around the world. Languages play a vital role in development. They ensure cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, strengthen co-operation, support quality education for all, build inclusive knowledge societies and preserve Indigenous heritage. Learn more about International Mother Language Day.

Pink Shirt Day - February 28

Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 when students in Nova Scotia wore pink to stand against homophobia and bullying. This initiative is now recognized globally on the last Wednesday in February. People in more than 180 countries show support for youth affected by bullying. To raise awareness, we are encouraged to share messages, wear pink shirts and donate to community organizations that support youth. Learn more about Pink Shirt Day.