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. The motion was introduced to the House of Commons and was unanimously carried in 1995. You’re invited to celebrate Black History Month with Durham Region and community partners on February 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax. Learn more at durham.ca/BlackHistoryMonth
World Interfaith Harmony Week - February 1 to 7
World Interfaith Harmony Week, is a week-long observance dedicated to promoting 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, encouraging individuals and communities to engage in activities that foster interfaith harmony, tolerance, and respect, aiming to build bridges between diverse religious and cultural traditions. Learn more about World Interfaith Harmony Week.
World Hijab Day - February 1
On February 1, everyone is encouraged to show solidarity with Muslim girls and women who are unfairly discriminated against for simply wearing a hijab. This day promotes religious tolerance, understanding, and calls us to unify against bigotry and prejudice against Muslim girls and women. Learn more about World Hijab Day.
White Cane Week - February 2 to 9
White Cane Week takes place during the first full week of February, raising awareness of the challenges of living with vision loss. It also 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
The United National General Assembly declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015, promoting full and equal access to, and participation in, science for women and girls. On this day, the global community seeks to achieve gender equality and to inspire and engage women and girls in science. Learn more about International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
Lantern Festival - February 12
The Lantern Festival is celebrated by Chinese and Asian communities on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar. This festival celebrates family and honours ancestors by lighting lanterns and eating traditional dishes. Learn more about Lantern Festival.
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 gendered violence. The first march was held in Vancouver in 1992 to honour the disproportionate number of Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and trans people that go missing or are murdered. Now recognized globally, many cities all over 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 to final or complete Nirvana. On this day, Buddhists engage in contemplation of Buddha’s teachings and practice meditation. Learn more about Parinirvana Day.
World Day of Social Justice - February 20
The World Day of Social Justice recognizes the pursuit of 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 through employment, education, housing and all other aspects of society. Learn more about World Day of Social Justice.
International Mother Language Day - February 21
International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world. Languages play a vital role in development; ensuring cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue; strengthening co-operation; attaining quality education for all; building inclusive knowledge societies; and preserving Indigenous heritage. Learn more about International Mother Language Day.
Pink Shirt Day - February 26
Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 when students in Nova Scotia wore pink to take a stand against homophobia and bullying. This initiative is now recognized globally on the last Wednesday in February, with people in more than 180 countries showing support for youth affected by bullying. To promote awareness, we are encouraged to share messaging, wear pink shirts and donate to community organizations that support youth. Learn more about Pink Shirt Day.
Dominican Republic Independence Day - February 27
On this day, we celebrate the rich culture, and resilience of the Dominican Republic on its Independence Day. This historical date is a time for joyous celebration and recognizes the strength and national pride of the people of the Dominican Republic.

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. The motion was introduced to the House of Commons and was unanimously carried in 1995.

You’re invited to celebrate Black History Month with Durham Region and community partners on February 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax. Learn more at durham.ca/BlackHistoryMonth

World Interfaith Harmony Week - February 1 to 7

World Interfaith Harmony Week, is a week-long observance dedicated to promoting 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, encouraging individuals and communities to engage in activities that foster interfaith harmony, tolerance, and respect, aiming to build bridges between diverse religious and cultural traditions. Learn more about World Interfaith Harmony Week.

World Hijab Day - February 1

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

White Cane Week - February 2 to 9

White Cane Week takes place during the first full week of February, raising awareness of the challenges of living with vision loss. It also 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

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

Lantern Festival - February 12

The Lantern Festival is celebrated by Chinese and Asian communities on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar. This festival celebrates family and honours ancestors by lighting lanterns and eating traditional dishes. Learn more about Lantern Festival.

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 gendered violence. The first march was held in Vancouver in 1992 to honour the disproportionate number of Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and trans people that go missing or are murdered. Now recognized globally, many cities all over 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 to final or complete Nirvana. On this day, Buddhists engage in contemplation of Buddha’s teachings and practice meditation. Learn more about Parinirvana Day.

World Day of Social Justice - February 20

The World Day of Social Justice recognizes the pursuit of 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 through employment, education, housing and all other aspects of society. Learn more about World Day of Social Justice.

International Mother Language Day - February 21

International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world.

Languages play a vital role in development; ensuring cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue; strengthening co-operation; attaining quality education for all; building inclusive knowledge societies; and preserving Indigenous heritage. Learn more about International Mother Language Day.

Pink Shirt Day - February 26

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

Dominican Republic Independence Day - February 27

On this day, we celebrate the rich culture, and resilience of the Dominican Republic on its Independence Day. This historical date is a time for joyous celebration and recognizes the strength and national pride of the people of the Dominican Republic.