All - Leep Calendar

Lemonade Day is a fun, experiential program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their business, a lemonade stand. Over the years, this event has grown international, with events now held in the United States, Canada, and South Africa. By teaching vital analytical skills, financial literacy, and decision making, children learn self-esteem, a key attribute in helping today's youth become the business leaders, social advocates, community volunteers, and forward-thinking citizens of tomorrow. Michael Holthouse founded Lemonade Day in 2007. The event date can be anytime in August, with August 20 the most common. To locate Lemonade Day in your city, check the Lemonadeday.org website: https://lemonadeday.org

Africa

Aug

Liberation Day, (CN)(1945): August 31

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Liberation Day in Hong Kong marks the anniversary of August 30, 1945, the withdrawal of Japanese troops from the city. The Chinese government discontinued Liberation Day in 1997 upon taking control of the city-state from the British. However, many residents still acknowledge the day in private.

Africa

Aug

Lighthouse Day, Ntl. (1789): August 7

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National Lighthouse Day marks the anniversary of Congressional approval and the declaration signed by President George Washington creating and supporting a network of lighthouses, piers, and buoys on August 7, 1789. In 1989, the US Congress reaffirmed this anniversary, declaring that August 7 be National Lighthouse Day.

Africa

Aug

Lion Day, World: August 10

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According to the IUCN, lion populations have declined 43% in the last 21 years (1993 - 2014), with less than 20,000 remaining. World Lion Day is the first global campaign to celebrate the importance of the lion worldwide. Since the dawn of man, the lion has played an integral role in our lives: symbolically, religiously, culturally, economically, and biologically. To lose the lion from our world would be to lose part of our global heritage.

Africa

Aug

Literacy and Numeracy Week (AU): August 29 - September 4

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NATIONAL LITERACY AND NUMERACY WEEK: PROMOTING FUNDAMENTAL SKILLS IN AUSTRALIA National Literacy & Numeracy Week is a collaborative effort celebrated annually across Australia. It emphasizes the importance of literacy and numeracy skills in education and daily life. The Australian Government's Department of Education partners with schools, libraries, and educational organizations, inviting everyone to join in and enhance awareness about these foundational skills' significance and encourage their development among students of all ages. Seeking to improve literacy and numeracy outcomes, the week engages students, educators, and communities in various educational activities. The event promotes the importance of these skills in achieving academic success and preparing students for future employment and personal growth. THE WEEK'S EVENTS Key activities during National Literacy & Numeracy Week include: Reading Challenges—Schools and libraries host reading competitions and book fairs to encourage students to read more and develop a love for literature. Math Games and Competitions—Interactive math activities and competitions are organized to make learning numeracy not just a task, but a fun and engaging experience for students. Workshops and Seminars—Educational workshops for teachers and parents on effective strategies to support literacy and numeracy development in children. These workshops provide parents with the tools and knowledge to actively participate in their children's learning journey, reinforcing the importance of literacy and numeracy skills in daily life. Community Events—Local communities participate in events such as literacy walks, storytelling sessions, and numeracy treasure hunts to promote a culture of learning. Online Resources and Activities—A range of digital resources, including educational games, quizzes, and tutorials, support learning at home and in the classroom. WHAT ARE LITERACY AND NUMERACY? Literacy is the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively. It involves understanding, interpreting, and engaging with written texts, enabling individuals to acquire knowledge, express ideas, and participate fully in society. Numeracy, on the other hand, is the ability to understand and work with numbers. It encompasses a range of skills, including basic arithmetic, problem-solving, and the ability to interpret data, which are essential for managing daily tasks and making informed decisions. Literacy and numeracy are not just skills, they are the keys to a brighter future. They are fundamental to learning and are critical for academic achievement and future success. Proficiency in literacy and numeracy enables individuals to access information, think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Moreover, strong literacy and numeracy skills are linked to better employment opportunities, higher income levels, and improved overall well-being. National Literacy & Numeracy Week began in 1999, recognizing the need to address educational challenges and enhance Australian students' literacy and numeracy skills. Since its inception, the event has grown in scope and impact, crucial in promoting these essential skills and supporting educational development nationwide.

Africa

Aug

Little League World Series (US-PA): August 19-30

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Over 29 days, over 900 Little Leaguers®, ages 10 to 16, from nearly 80 baseball and softball teams worldwide compete yearly to determine the seven World Series division champions. These are the best of the best child baseball and softball players in the world. World Series Championship divisions fall into the following age divisions. Baseball Little League: ages 10-12 Intermediate League: ages 11-13 Junior League: ages 13-14 Senior League: ages 13-16 Softball: Little League: ages 10-12 Junior League: ages 12-14 Senior League: ages 13-16 PLEASE NOTE: Treat all televised and venue-specific events (sporting, concerts, trade shows, etc.) as estimated. Several factors can cause an event to move dates at the last minute, including weather, strikes, natural disasters, political upheaval, conflicting programming, pandemics, and current events. Because of this, always verify the event with the promotor before committing resources. LEEP often estimates dates based on the previous year's schedules, as the final dates are unknown until a few months, weeks, or days before the event. If the date is known to be estimated, you will see an (est) following the date in the title.

Africa

Aug

Lizard Day, World: August 14

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Lizards are members of the reptile family with more than 6,000 species worldwide. The largest is the Komodo Dragon. Except for bearded lizards and Gila monsters, these essential creatures to the ecosystem are not poisonous. Lizards tend to eat insects, which makes them quite valuable for gardens. World Lizard Day does not appear to have an origin; however, it is marked and celebrated internationally by zoos and other wildlife enthusiast groups.

Africa

Aug

Love Litigators Day, Ntl.: August 31

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Love Litigators Day spreads the love to one of the most reviled and ridiculed yet admired professions: lawyers, or those arguing court cases. Love Litigators Day is a Wellcat holiday.

Africa

Aug

Lughnasadh: August 1

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The Wiccan celebration of Lughnasadh marks the year's first harvest, one of the more critical observances in the faith. This day may also go by August Eve, Lammas Eve, Lady Day Eve, or the Feast of Bread. Lughnasadh is a traditional harvest festival that marks the beginning of the harvest season. It is one of the four major Celtic seasonal festivals, along with Samhain, Imbolc, and Beltane. Its origins trace back to ancient Celtic culture, specifically Ireland, traditionally observed on August 1, or halfway between the summer solstice and autumn equinox. However, some will celebrate it on the Sunday closest to the 1st. The festival gets its name from Lugh, a prominent deity in Irish mythology. According to the lore, Lugh held the first Lughnasadh festival in honor of his foster-mother Tailtiu, a queen and earth goddess who died from exhaustion after clearing the lands of Ireland for agriculture. Lughnasadh traditions and customs focus on the grain harvest, with feasting, market fairs, games, and competitions taking center stage. The 'first fruits' tradition dictates that the first crop harvested be celebrated as a meal. The bread made from the harvest is called 'Lammas,' from the Old English phrase. 'hlaf-maesse,' which means 'loaf mass.' Ceremonies and rituals during Lughnasadh seek to ensure the harvest's continued success and the land's fertility. At dusk, bonfires burn to protect and cleanse, with celebrants jumping over the fires in search of blessings and purification. The Celts consider grain a living entity necessary to sustain life. Its harvest symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. Today, Wicca and Druidism celebrate Lughnasadh as a religious holiday, folding historical and regional traditions with personal spiritual beliefs. Typical means of celebration include rituals, feasting, storytelling, dancing, and presenting offerings to deities and spirits.

Africa

Aug

Lung Cancer Awareness Day: August 1

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Created in 2011 to focus on lung cancer survivors, World Lung Cancer Day recognizes and remembers all those affected by the disease.

Africa

Aug

Made in the Philippines Product Week: August 17-23

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MADE IN THE PHILIPPINES PRODUCT WEEK: SHOWCASING LOCAL EXCELLENCE Every August, the Philippines celebrates Made in the Philippines Product Week, a vibrant event promoting and celebrating Filipino-made goods. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in collaboration with various industry associations and local businesses, champions the event. It aims to boost local manufacturing, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and foster national pride in homegrown products. Made in the Philippines Product Week seeks to raise awareness about the quality and diversity of Filipino products, encouraging consumers to support local businesses and contribute to the country's economic growth. By highlighting the craftsmanship and innovation of Filipino producers, the event aims to strengthen the domestic market and enhance the global competitiveness of Philippine-made goods. The week-long celebration features a variety of activities designed to engage the public and showcase the best Filipino products. These activities include: Trade Fairs and Exhibitions—Large-scale events where local manufacturers display their products, ranging from textiles and crafts to electronics and food items. Workshops and Seminars—Educational sessions for entrepreneurs and SMEs on marketing strategies, product development, and export opportunities. Product Launches and Demonstrations—Live demonstrations of new products and innovations highlight the creativity and skill of Filipino artisans and manufacturers. Cultural Performances and Food Festivals—Events that celebrate Filipino culture and cuisine, offering participants a taste of the country's rich heritage. Promotional Campaigns—Nationwide campaigns encourage consumers to buy local products, often featuring discounts and special offers on Filipino-made products. MADE IN THE PHILIPPINES The Philippines is known for its diverse range of export products. Some of the top export items include: Electronics and Semiconductors—A leading export sector, including integrated circuits and microassemblies. Machinery and Transport Equipment—Products such as automotive parts and electrical machinery. Garments and Textiles—A variety of apparel and clothing accessories. Processed Food and Beverages—Including tropical fruits, seafood, and other food items. Furniture and Woodcraft—Renowned for high-quality craftsmanship and design. Made in the Philippines Product Week has been an annual event since its inception in 2006. It plays a crucial role in supporting the growth of local industries and promoting economic development. By encouraging the consumption and appreciation of locally made products, the event helps to create jobs, stimulate innovation, and foster a sense of national pride.

Africa

Aug

Mahjong Day, Ntl.: August 1

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Mahjong, or "the Sparrow Game," was created in China during the 19th Century. A strategy game for 3-4 players includes tiles (like dominos), luck, and abstract thinking (like the card game Rummy). Rules vary throughout the world and tend to borrow from local customs. The game includes 144 tiles with different symbols, usually Chinese, with each player beginning with 13 tiles. The game's objective is to create a winning hand of 14 tiles by winning, discarding, robbing other players, and drawing the optimal hand of four melds displaying the correct combination of characters or with a set of eyes (identical pieces). If you haven't had the opportunity to learn or play Mahjong, National Mahjong Day is your opportunity to discover a social game that will take you a lifetime to master!

Africa

Aug

Mail Order Catalog Day (1872): August 18

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Mail Order Catalog Day marks the anniversary of the premiere of the first catalog, the Montgomery Ward Catalog, in 1872. At the time of its publication, it was revolutionary, a unique marketing and delivery service of goods from the store straight to the customer’s home. Today the internet has made it obsolete. However, every time you order online, you can thank Montgomery Ward. Online shopping is the heritage of the original virtual store called the catalog.

Africa

Aug

Mariachi y la Charrería, Intl. de (MX-JA): August 26 - September 6 (est)

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FOR THE LOVE OF SONG AND COWBOYS MÉXICO'S INTERNACIONAL DEL MARIAACHI Y LA CHARRERÍA The Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería in Guadalajara, México, is a unique celebration that beautifully blends the rich traditions of mariachi music and charrería. Established in 1994, this vibrant festival, which attracts more than 250,000 people annually, has grown into one of Mexico's most significant cultural events. Participants in the festival include renowned mariachi groups such as Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán and Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlán, among others, who compete and perform in various events. The Chamber of Commerce of Guadalajara is the driving force behind this grand event, which occurs annually in late August and early September. The festival, conceived to preserve and promote the cultural practices of mariachi music and charrería, has expanded over the years. It now features concerts, parades, competitions, and workshops, bringing together top mariachi ensembles and charro performers from across México and beyond. WHAT IS MARIACHI MUSIC? Mariachi is a traditional genre of Mexican music that has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Mexican culture. It encompasses a style of music, a type of ensemble, and a cultural expression that is deeply rooted in Mexico's history and social life. Mariachi music, with its origins in the western region of México, particularly in the states of Jalisco, Nayarit, Colima, and Michoacán, during the 18th century, is a testament to México's rich history and social life. It began as a rural folk music tradition, performed by small ensembles, typically featuring string instruments like the vihuela (a small guitar), guitarrón (a large bass guitar), violins, and sometimes harps. Mariachis play at local festivals, weddings, and religious events, and the lyrics usually reflected themes of love, nature, and the life of the rural communities. In the early 20th century, mariachi music underwent significant changes as it moved from the countryside to the cities. The ensembles grew and started incorporating new instruments, most notably trumpets, which added a distinctive, brassy sound to the music. The genre also adopted more formal attire, with musicians wearing the now-iconic charro suits—elaborate outfits adorned with silver buttons and embroidery inspired by the traditional dress of Mexican cowboys. This evolution is a testament to the dynamic nature of Mexican culture. Mariachi music gained national prominence during the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920), as it became associated with the emerging sense of Mexican identity and pride. By the mid-20th century, mariachi had solidified its place in Mexican popular culture, thanks partly to its frequent use in films, radio, and television. Mariachi became synonymous with national celebrations, such as Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo, and it continues to play a central role in significant life events like weddings, birthdays, and religious ceremonies. INSTRUMENTS AND STYLE A typical mariachi ensemble today combines violins, trumpets, vihuela, guitarrón, and sometimes a guitar or harp. The music is characterized by lively rhythms, complex harmonies, and emotive vocal style. The repertoire ranges from traditional folk songs (ranchers and sones) to more modern compositions, boleros and huapangos. Mariachi songs often tell stories, evoking strong emotions through their lyrics and melodies. The themes can range from love and loss to patriotism and religion. The performances are frequently theatrical, with musicians playing, singing, and sometimes even dancing as they move through the audience, creating an interactive and festive atmosphere. This power of music in storytelling is a unique aspect of mariachi culture. While mariachi remains a vital part of Mexican culture, its influence has spread globally. Mariachi ensembles perform in many countries worldwide, particularly in the United States, where Mexican-American communities have embraced and continued the tradition. In 2011, UNESCO recognized mariachi as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its importance in maintaining Mexican cultural identity and fostering cultural exchange. WHAT IS CHARRERÍA? The festival also features charros, skilled horsemen and women who showcase their expertise in traditional equestrian sports rooted in the working practices of cattle ranchers. Their competition is a charrería. Charrería is a traditional Mexican equestrian sport with deep roots in the country's rural culture, particularly within ranching communities. It is often considered Mexico's national sport and is a vibrant display of horsemanship, skill, and tradition. Charrería originated from the practices of the charros, Mexican cowboys who worked on haciendas, or large estates, during the colonial period. These charros developed specialized skills in cattle herding, roping, and horseback riding, eventually becoming competitive events. The sport began to take a more formalized structure in the 19th century, as charros started organizing events to showcase their abilities. A typical charrería event, known as a charreada, consists of a series of competitive events called suertes, or "tricks," each designed to test different aspects of horsemanship and cattle handling. Some of the most common suertes include: —Cala de Caballo: A test of a horse's training and responsiveness. —Piales en el Lienzo: A roping event where the charro must lasso a running horse by its hind legs. —Coleadero: A bull-tailing event where the charro attempts to bring down a bull by pulling its tail. —Jineteo del Toro: Bull riding. —Terna en el Ruedo: A team event involving bull roping. —Jineteo de Yegua: Riding a wild mare. —Manganas a Pie y a Caballo: Lassoing a horse's forelegs from either on foot or horseback. —El Paso de la Muerte: The "Pass of Death," where a charro must leap from one horse to another, untamed, at a full gallop. Charrería is more than just a sport; it is a cultural expression that reflects the Mexican countryside's values, skills, and traditions. The charros, dressed in elaborate and distinctive outfits with wide-brimmed sombreros, silver-studded jackets, and embroidered trousers, symbolize national pride. In 2016, UNESCO recognized charrería as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its importance in Mexican culture and its role in fostering community identity and continuity of tradition. Today, the Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería in Guadalajara continues to captivate audiences through culture, history and thrilling displays of skill. The event continues to evolve, drawing in new audiences while staying true to its mission of celebrating the enduring spirit of mariachi and charrería.

Africa

Aug

Marshmallow Day, Toasted: August 30

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Toasted Marshmallow Day celebrates the camping-inspired dessert of toasted marshmallows. People can relive their camping experiences on this day by gathering firewood, sticking marshmallows on long sticks (or unwound wire hangers), and toasting over a campfire. Marshmallows get their name from a wetland marsh plant, the mallow plant. Initially, marshmallows were reserved for royalty and the wealthy in ancient Egypt, and today they are made of cornstarch from a process developed in the nineteenth century. Today, marshmallows are one of America's favorite sweets, with over 50% of purchases used over summer devoted to campfire roasts.

Africa