celebratediversity

Spiritual Seasonal Observances – Winter 2023-2024

Emersonians,

As we approach the close of the fall semester, we hope the weeks ahead offer you time with loved ones, space to reflect upon and embrace the accomplishments of the year, and an opportunity to imagine all that is possible in the coming months.

The months of December through February contain important times of worship, celebration, and observance across many traditions. Below are a few we wish to share with the Emerson community, and resources where you can learn more.

These are only a fraction of the range of holidays and observances, both solemn and joyous, that can be found across religions, faiths, spiritualities, and cultures during these months.

Whether you are traveling in the weeks ahead or staying near to current surroundings, we wish you comfort, joy, and peace.

Sky view of a forest of evergreen trees during winter with purple and white tones and snow-covered ground.__________________

Menorah and candles in front of wrapped presents celebrating Hanukkah.

Hanukkah (Jewish)

  • Sundown on Thursday, December 7 – Sundown on Friday, December 15.
  • Hebrew for “dedication,” also known as the Festival of Lights.
  • Learn More: Hanukkah 101.

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Forest of tall thin tree trunks with sun beams shining through the trees and snow on the ground.

Winter Solstice and/or Yule (Pagan)

  • Thursday, December 21.
  • Winter Solstice: A solar holiday in the Northern Hemisphere, the longest night of the year.
  • Yule: originally celebrated by the Norse and Scandinavian peoples.
  • Learn More: Discover Winter Solstice and Yule.

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Memorial to Joseph Smith at his birthplace in Sharon, Vermont.

Joseph Smith’s Birthday (Latter Day Saints)

  • Saturday, December 23.
  • Celebration of the birthday of the founder of the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
  • Learn More: Joseph Smith’s Birthplace.

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Christmas tree with ornaments and brown paper wrapped presents.

Christmas (Christian, Buddhist)

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Kinara with seven candles, three red candles on the left, three green candles on the right, a black candle in the center.

Kwanzaa (African-American, Pan-African)

  • Tuesday, December 26, 2023 – Monday, January 1, 2024.
  • Week-long celebration of African thought, practice, community, culture and heritage.
  • Learn More: Official Kwanzaa Website.

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Brass pot with markings on top of low fire with gentle waves of smoke.

Pongal (Hindu)

  • Monday, January 15, 2024 – Thursday, January 18, 2024.
  • A multi-day festival celebration to thank the Sun, Mother Nature, and farm animals that help to contribute to a bountiful harvest.
  • Learn More: What is Pongal?

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Tibetan prayer flags in rows attached to a central pole.

Losar (Buddhist)

  • Saturday, February 10, 2024 – Monday, February 12, 2024.
  • Tibetan New Year festival, falls on the first day of the first month of the Tibetan lunisolar calendar (in February or March), as determined by astrologers.
  • Learn More: Tibetan New Year.

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A sign among baked goods, "Happy Ayyam-i-Ha"

Ayyám-i-Há (Baháʼí)

  • Monday, February 26, 2024 – Thursday, February 29, 2024.
  • Celebration devoted to charity, gift-giving and festivities prior to the annual Nineteen Day Fast.
  • Learn More: An Introduction to Ayyam-i-Ha.

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We encourage you to learn more by syncing with the Multifaith Observance Google Calendar or revisiting the detailed list of these dates at the Multifaith Holidays through Academic Year 2027 spreadsheet. This resource from the Center of Spiritual Life continues to provide vital information. Please remember that our Religious Observance Policy exists so that holidays can be recognized wholly by members of our community.

Screenshot of the Multifaith Observance Google Calendar. Text: Click to Add - Multifaith Observance Google Calendar - bit.ly/multifaithcal