Cultural Celebrations

FRI

29

SEP

Tsukimi

Tsukimi, or Otsukimi, is a Japanese festival that celebrates the viewing of the autumn moon. It signifies a time of reflection, appreciation of nature, and a connection to Japan's rich cultural traditions. During Tsukimi, people gather to view the full moon, which is often believed to be at its most beautiful during this season. This festival is characterized by the display of pampas grass and other seasonal flowers, as well as the consumption of specific foods like rice dumplings called "tsukimi dango."

MON

02

OCT

Mahatma Gandhi’s Birthday

Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, celebrated on October 2nd, is a day that signifies the commemoration of one of the most influential figures in modern history. It serves as a reminder of Gandhi's enduring legacy as a champion of nonviolence, civil rights, and social justice. This day is observed with various activities including prayer services, educational programs, and community service initiatives that emphasize the values of peace, truth, and nonviolent resistance that Gandhi promoted throughout his life.

It's a time to reflect on his teachings and the enduring relevance of his principles in today's world, inspiring individuals and movements globally to strive for positive change, justice, and equality. Gandhi's birthday is a celebration of his life and a call to action to carry forward his message of peaceful resistance and social reform.

SAT

07

OCT

Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah is a celebratory Jewish holiday that marks the completion of the annual Torah reading cycle. Simchat Torah means ‘Rejoicing in the Law’ in Hebrew. Special attention is given to children who join the celebrations with flags and singing.

FRI

20

OCT

Durga Puja

Durga Puja is an annual Hindu festival that reveres and pays homage to the Hindu goddess Durga. It is popular and traditionally celebrated in the Indian states of West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Tripura, the country of Bangladesh, and in the Mithilanchal regions of Bihar and Nepal. It is marked with worship rituals, performance arts, gift giving, family visits, feasting and public processions.

FRI

27

OCT

Inauguration (Gurgaddi) of Guru Granth Sahib

This day commemorates the eternal installation of the Sikh Holy Scripture referred to as Guru Granth Sahib or Adi Sri Granth Sahib Ji. Sikhs regard and respect the Holy Scripture as their living Guru.

WED

01

NOV

All Saints’ Day

This Christian day honours saints, known and unknown. Saints are men and women recognised for lives of holiness and devotion to God or who were martyred for their faith.

SAT

11

NOV

Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth member states. This day marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended the First World War (1914-18). Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11 am in memory of the millions who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

SUN

12

NOV

Bandi Chhor Divas

Australians of the Sikh faith celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas (‘The Celebration of Freedom’), the release from prison of the sixth guru Sri Guru Hargobind Ji, who also rescued 52 Hindu kings held captive with him, by Mughal Emperor Jehangir in the Gwalior Fort in 1619. Celebrations include lighting oil lamps, candles and fireworks.

SUN

12

NOV

Deepavali (also known as Diwali and Tihar or the Festival of Lights)

Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains celebrate Deepavali (Diwali) or the Festival of Lights, which celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

THU

16

NOV

International Day for Tolerance

The United Nations’ annual International Day for Tolerance fosters mutual understanding among cultures and peoples.

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