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Welcome to FCCV

Established in 2010, the Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) is Victoria’s umbrella multifaith body. It is the successor to the Leaders of Faith Communities Forum, founded in 1995.

FCCV was created to contribute to the harmony of the Victorian community by promoting positive relations between people of different faiths and greater public knowledge and mutual understanding of the teachings, customs and practices of Victoria's diverse faith traditions.

logomfcalendar The following are major holy days and festivals for Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism. Whilst this list is not exhaustive it is comprehensive to represent each of the religions in good faith.

Click here to view 2021 Multifaith Calendar (pdf)

Click here to view 2020 Multifaith Calendar (pdf)

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria is offering religious organisations up to $1,000 to assist for the delivery of practical community programs during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Peak-faith member organisations

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) is an umbrella multifaith body managed by the following peak-faith member organisations:

Social media platforms

FCCV currently maintains the following social media platforms:

Information posted on social media

Information posted on our social media platforms such as statements and articles authored by FCCV or events organised by FCCV, represent the collective view of all peak-faith member organisations.

Information posted on our social media platforms such as statements, articles and opinion pieces not authored by FCCV or events not organised by FCCV, do not necessarily reflect the official views of, nor are endorsed by, FCCV or its individual peak-faith member organisations. For official views see websites operated by each peak-faith member organisation.

Diversity of views and inclusivity

FCCV endeavours to be an inclusive organisation willing to post information representing a diversity of faith and non-faith views. We welcome civilised dialogue on all issues and request anyone commenting on our social media platforms does so respectfully.

Further information

If you require further information on FCCV’s social media policy please contact us via email: officer@faithvictoria.org.au

Calling all artists!!The Planetary Healing Artists are inviting artists from all around Victoria to participate in workshops.

Connecting together, artists will explore the notion of what their spirituality and inner feelings are in relationship to their own creativity. Artists from different cultures, faiths and beliefs will come together in the spirit of love and compassion to create community peace.

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria holds one major Conference per year – the Victorian Interfaith Networks Conference (VINC). Read More >>

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria opposes family violence and violence against women and their children in all its forms, and call upon people of faith to play a role in its elimination. Read More >>

Faith Communities unite to say NO to family violence and violence against women

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria opposes family violence and violence against women in all its forms, and call upon people of faith to play a role in its elimination.

In Australia, one woman is killed on average each week by a current or former partner, and one in four children witness their mother being abused. Violence is not just physical, it can be psychological, emotional, sexual, financial or spiritual. The roots are abuse of power and the control of one person over another.

Violence against women takes a profound and long-term toll on women and children’s health and wellbeing, on families and communities, and on society as a whole. It is a violation of basic human rights that affects people in all social, economic, racial, religious and ethnic groups.

Across our faith traditions, we declare:
• Sacred texts, scriptures and cultural traditions should not be used as a way to justify or excuse violence against women.
• We commit ourselves to changing community attitudes that accept violence toward women. We undertake a journey together to raise awareness in our communities and to stop violence against women before it occurs.
• We stand against all forms of violence and discrimination. We see preventing family violence and violence against women as a key entry point for addressing all forms of violence and promoting human rights.
• Every human being should be seen as valued, important and equal. To live in a world where our families and communities are free and safe from violence, we must treat all individuals – women, men, girls and boys – with dignity, equality and respect.
• Promoting equality and respect in our communities benefits us all and strengthens our communities. A strong community is one where we can all contribute and participate equally.
• Our faiths affirm that love, respect, equality and living well together are goals to aim for.

In Victoria we have benefitted from the insight of the Royal Commission into Family Violence which tabled its findings with a 1900 page report and 227 recommendations. The report includes a ten-page section on ‘Faith Communities’, highlighting the important role faith-based communities and organisations can play in the lives of Victorians affected by family violence - read recommendations 163-165.

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria welcomes this report, and the Victorian Government’s prompt and positive response to its recommendations. Our hope is that the implementation of these recommendations brings about positive changes within the Victorian community, and we are pleased to join as faith communities to be part of that change.

Read FCCV's Statement of Commitment >>.

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Faith communities supporting healthy family relationships

'Faith Communities Supporting Healthy Family Relationships' is a Participatory Action Research project established by the Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG) based on recommendations 163 and 165 of the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence. It is funded by Multicultural Affairs (MA) within the Department of Premier and Cabinet and is being implemented in partnership between University of Melbourne and MCWH.

The project involves two phases:

Phase I - A review of literature and consultations with stakeholders and leaders from different religious communities. This resulted in the development of a Technical Paper that provides evidence about best, promising and emerging practices to build the capacity of faith-based organisations, faith communities and, especially, faith leaders to effectively prevent and respond to family violence and violence against women.

The Evidence Guide and Tip Sheet distills the key principles of effective work in faith settings for prevention and response to violence against women.

Phase II – MAG nominated five faith communities to be supported to develop, implement and evaluate a leadership capacity building initiative. This 18-month phase of the project will generate evidence about what works (and what does not) to build capacity of faith leaders to respond to and prevent violence against women and family violence. The faith communities approaches for this phase are the:

Anglican Diocese
Uniting Church
Buddhist community
Sikh community
Faith Communities Council of Victoria (multifaith approach)

For more information on this project click here >>

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The following are major holy days and festivals for Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism. Whilst this list is not exhaustive it is comprehensive to represent each of the religions in good faith.

Click here to view a pdf version

MONTH	DAY AND DATE	HOLY DAY - FESTIVAL	RELIGION
January	Thursday 5	Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708), the 10th and final Sikh Guru, created the Khalsa (the Community of the Pure) and declared the Scriptures (Guru Granth Sahib) to be the Sikh's Guru from that time on.
	Friday 6	Epiphany & Feast of Theophany	Christianity
	Epiphany celebrates the visit of the Three Kings to the infant Jesus as the occasion of the manifestation of the Christ to the gentiles. Theophany commemorates the baptism of Jesus and the manifestation of the Trinity.
	Thursday 7	Feast of Nativity - Orthodox	Christianity
	The Feast of the birth of Jesus is also known as the 'Incarnation of Christ'. Some Eastern Orthodox churches (using the old Julian calendar) celebrate Christmas on this day.
	Thursday 12	Mahayana New Year **	Buddhism
	The Buddhist New Year depends on the country of origin or ethnic background of the people. In Mahayana countries the new year starts on the first full moon day in January.
	Friday 13	Maghi	Sikhism
	Maghi commemorate the sacrifice of the Chali Mukte (the Forty Liberated Ones), who sacrificed their own lives defending an attack by the imperial army in pursuit of Guru Gobind Singh. This event took place in Khidrane di Dhab, on 29 December 1705.
	Saturday 28	Chinese New Year	Buddhism
	Chinese New Year (also called the Lunar New Year and the Spring Festival) is the most important holiday in China and for Chinese people around the world. Celebrated by Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist practitioners.
February	Wednesday 15	Nirvana Day **	Buddhism
	Nirvana Day (or Parinirvana Day) is a Mahayana holiday which celebrates the day when the Buddha is said to have achieved Parinirvana (complete enlightenment) upon the death of his physical body.
	Saturday 25	Maha Shivaratri **	Hinduism
	MahaShivaratri (or the ‘Great Night of Shiva’) is a festival celebrated with devotion and religious fervour in honour of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, one of the deities of the Hindu Trinity.
	Feb 27 - Apr 7	Great Lent begins - Orthodox	Christianity
	Great Lent is the period of 40 days which comes before Easter, traditionally a time of fasting and reflection. The 40 days represents the time Jesus spent in the desert overcoming temptation by Satan. In the Orthodox Church, Great Lent starts on Clean Monday and ends on the Friday before Palm Sunday.
March	Mar 1 - Apr 13	Lent begins	Christianity
	Lent is the period of 40 days (not including Sundays) which comes before Easter, traditionally a time of fasting and reflection. The 40 days represents the time Jesus spent in the desert overcoming temptation by Satan. In Western Christianity, it begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Maundy Thursday.
	Sunday 12	Magha Puja Day **	Buddhism
	Celebration of the presentation of teachings by the Buddha to a spontaneous gathering of 1250 arahants (holy men). Also known as ‘Great Assembly Day’ or ‘Sangha Day’.
	Sunday 12	Purim *	Judaism
	Commemorates the time when the Jewish people living in Persia were saved from extermination by the courage of a young Jewish woman, Queen Esther. Preceded by the Fast of Esther, Purim is a joyous holiday. Begins at sundown.
	Monday 13	Holi	Hinduism
	A joyous spring Hindu festival dedicated to the deity Lord Krishna (in some parts of India). The central ritual of Holi is the throwing and applying of colored water and bright colored powders on friends and family, which gives the holiday its common name Festival of Colors.
	Monday 13	Hola Mohalla	Sikhism
	An annual festival started by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, as a gathering of Sikhs for military exercises and mock battles.
	Monday 20	Naw-Ruz *	Baha'i
	The Baha'i calendar, which sets the rhythm for Baha'i community life, was inaugurated in 1844 with the declaration of the Bab, the Prophet-Herald of the Baha'i Faith.
April	Wednesday 5	Rama Navami **	Hinduism
	Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of the Hindu God Vishnu and hero of the religious epic poem ‘The Ramayana’.
	Sun 9 - Sun 16	Holy Week	Christianity
	Holy week is the last week before Easter. It begins with Palm Sunday (commemoration of the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem) and includes Maundry Thursday (commemoration of the first Lord’s Supper), Good Friday (commemoration of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ), and finishes on Easter Sunday (the resurrection of Jesus Christ following his death by crucifixion).
	Tuesday 11	Theravada New Year	Buddhism
	The Buddhist New Year depends on the country of origin or ethnic background of the people. In Theravadin countries (ie Thailand, Burma, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Lao) the new year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon day in April.
	Tue 11 - Tue 18	Pesach *	Judaism
	An eight day festival for families and communities to remember the time when Hebrew slaves were led by Moses out of Egypt to freedom. The festival begins with the Seder meal during which time the story of their deliverance is told. The first and last two days are holidays.
	Friday 14	Baisakhi	Sikhism
	Baisakhi (Vaisakhi) marks the founding of the Khalsa (the Brotherhood of the Pure) in 1699 CE by Guru Gobind Singh which is the collective body of all baptised Sikhs who carry the five articles of the faith - Kesh (uncut hair), Kirpan (ceremonial sword), Kara (steel bracelet), Kanga (comb) and Kaccha (undershorts).
	Friday 14	Good/Holy Friday	Christianity
	Commemoration of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
	Sunday 16	Easter/Pascha	Christianity
	The resurrection of Jesus Christ following his death by crucifixion.
	Apr 20 - May 1	Ridvan *	Baha'i
	Bahai commemoration of the twelve-day period that Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith, spent in the Garden of Ridvan in the last days of his exile in Baghdad, and publicly proclaimed His mission as God’s messenger for this age. The first, ninth and twelfth days are celebrated as holy days and work is suspended.
	Monday 24	Yom HaShoah *	Judaism
	Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) is a day set aside to remember the six million Jews who died as victims of the Nazis during World War II and emphasizes respect for human dignity. Observed by many people of Jewish and other faiths.
	Monday 24	Lailat al Miraj *	Islam
	Observance of Prophet Muhammad’s night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension (al Miraj) to heaven and return the same night. Also known as ‘Night of Journey’ (al Isra).
May	Wednesday 10	Vesak	Buddhism
	Vesak (Wesak) is the major Buddhist festival. It celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha on the one day. Also known as ‘Vishakha Puja’ or ‘Buddha’s Day’. The dates of this celebration vary significantly among Buddhist cultures and communities.
	Friday 12	Lailat al Bara'ah *	Islam
	The holy month of Ramadan begins with the first light of dawn commemorating the revelation of the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad. Throughout this month Muslims fast during daylight hours, celebrate an evening meal with family and friends, pray fervently and show charity to the poor.
	Tuesday 23	Declaration of the Bab *	Baha'i
	The Baha’i commemorates when the Bab, the herald of the Baha’i Faith, announced in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), that he was the herald of a new messenger of God.
	May 27 - Jun 26	*Ramadan ()	Islam
	The holy month of Ramadan begins with the first light of dawn commemorating the revelation of the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad. Throughout this month Muslims fast during daylight hours, celebrate an evening meal with family and friends, pray fervently and show charity to the poor.
	Sunday 28	Ascension of Baha'ullah *	Baha'i
	Baha’is observe the anniversary of the death in exile of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith, on May 29, 1892, outside Akko (now northern Israel).
	May 31 - Jun 1	Shavuot *	Judaism
	Shavuot, also known as the Feast of Weeks, commemorates the anniversary of the day God gave the Torah and Commandments to the entire nation of Israel assembled at Mount Sinai. Marks the conclusion of the seven weeks following Pesach. Originally a harvest festival.
June	Sunday 4	Pentecost	Christianity
	Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus seven weeks (50 days) after the Resurrection (Easter). It also commemorates the founding of the Christian Church, which begins on this day.
	Friday 16	Martydom of Guru Arjun Dev Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Arjan Dev (1563-1606), the 5th Guru, was the first martyr-guru. He was responsible for the compilation of the Sikh scriptures in 1604 CE. He also helped to build the Golden Temple at Amritsar and emphasized that the Sikh way was open to all, regardless of caste.
	Thursday 22	Lailat al Qadr *	Islam
	First revelation of Qur'an (Islamic scriptures) to Prophet Muhammad in 610 CE. Also known as ‘Night of Power’ or ‘Night of Destiny’. Observed during the last ten days of Ramadan.
	Mon 26 - Wed 28	Eid ul Fitr *	Islam
	An important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Also known as the festival of the 'Breaking of the Fast'.
July	Sunday 9	Ashala Puja **	Buddhism
	Ashala Puja commemorates the Buddha’s first teaching, the Wheel of Dharma, and is recognized as the beginning of Buddhism. Also known as ‘Dharma Day’ or ‘Dhamma Day’.
	Monday 10	Martyrdom of the Bab *	Baha'i
	Baha’i commemoration of the anniversary of the execution of the Bab (Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad), the herald of the Baha’i Faith, by a firing squad on July 9, 1850, in Tabriz, Persia (now Iran).
August	Tuesday 1	Tisha B'Av *	Judaism
	Tisha B’av, also known as the Fast of Av, is a day of mourning to remember events such as the destruction of the First Temple and Second Temple in Jerusalem.
	Monday 7	Raksha Bandhan **	Hinduism
	Also known as Rakhi, this Hindu festival celebrates brotherhood and love; the festival is popularly used to celebrate any brother-sister like relationship between men and women who are relatives or biologically unrelated.
	Tuesday 15	Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary	Christianity
	Commemorates the assumption of Mary, mother of Jesus, into heaven.
	Tuesday 15	Krishna Janmashtami **	Hinduism
	Krishna Janmashtami (or Jayanti) is the annual commemoration of the birth of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of the God Vishnu. Worship of Krishna is characteristically expressed in dance and song.
	Friday 25	Ganesh Chaturthi **	Hinduism
	Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birthday of Lord Ganesh, one of the major Hindu deities. Ganesh has the head of an elephant and is known as the remover of obstacles.
September	Saturday 2	Eid Al Adha *	Islam
	Commemorates Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of submission to God’s command. Also known as ‘Feast of Sacrifice’. One of the two main Islamic festivals (the other being Eid al Fitr).
	Thur 21 - Fri 29	Navaratri **	Hinduism
	Navaratri, which literally means ‘nine nights’, is a festival honouring the Goddess/ Divine Mother and her energy/power (Shakti). This nine day festival includes worshipping and dancing as people celebrate various aspects of the feminine.
	Thu 21 - Fri 22	Hijra *	Islam
	The Islamic year is marked by the event known as Hijra which occurred in 622 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad’s migrated from Mecca to Medina, where the first Islamic community was established.
	Thu 21 - Fri 22	Rosh Hashanah *	Judaism
	Jewish New Year festival, marked by the blowing of the horn (shofar) which begins the ten days of penitence culminating in Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). It is the beginning of the holiest time of the year for Jews, and the anniversary of the creation of the world.
	Saturday 30	Dussehra	Hinduism
	Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara) is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. People celebrate Dussehra through special prayer meetings and food offerings to the gods at home or in temples.
	Saturday 30	Yom Kippur *	Judaism
	Yom Kippur, also known as Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year for the Jewish people, characterized by repentance and forgiveness. Jewish people traditionally observe this holy day with fasting and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services.
October	Thu 5 - Wed 11	Sukkot *	Judaism
	Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Booths, is an eight day Jewish festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest. The name refers to the booths (sukkot) used by Israelites during the 40 years of wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah atop Mt Sinai.
	Friday 13	Simchat Torah	Judaism
	Simchat Torah is a joyous festival in which the annual cycle of reading the Torah is over, and the cycle begins again for the year. The celebration typically includes singing, dancing, and marching with Torah scrolls. Begins after Sukkot ends.
	Tuesday 19	Diwali **	Hinduism
	Diwali, also known as Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, commemorating the victory of good over evil. Diwali means ‘row of lamps/lights’ and refers to the rows of lamps celebrants place around their homes or on top of temples.
	Thursday 19	Bandi Chhor Divas (Diwali)	Sikhism
	Bandi Chhor Divas, also known as ‘The Celebration of Freedom’, commemorates the release in 1619 CE from prison of the sixth Sikh guru, Guru Hargobind Ji. Sikhs continue this annual celebration with lamps being lit outside gurdwaras and sweets distributed to all.
	Friday 20	Conferment of Guruship to Guru Granth Sahib Ji	Sikhism
	This day celebrates Guru Gobind Singh Ji's (10th Guru) passing on guruship to the holy scriptures, henceforth known as the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru Granth Sahib, comprising of 1430 pages of hymns, presides the most prominent place and shines the light of Truth to all Sikhs or devotees who seek it.
	Saturday 21	Birth of the Bab *	Baha'i
	The anniversary of the birth in 1819 CE in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), of Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad, who later took the title of ‘the Bab’, meaning ‘the Gate’. The Bab was the herald of the Baha’i faith.
	Sunday 22	Birth of Baha'ullah *	Baha'i
	The anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah (born Mirza Husayn-‘Ali) in 1817 CE in Tehran, Persia (now Iran). Baha’u’llah, which means the ‘Glory of God’, is the founder of the Baha’i faith.
November	Wednesday 1	All Saints Day	Christianity
	All Saints Day honours exemplary Christians who achieved sainthood, especially those not having a special day. For many Christian denominations, all Saints Day is a remembrance of departed Christian people of any time and place.
	Saturday 4	Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji	Sikhism
	Observes the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Sahib, the founder of the Sikh religion, born in 1469 CE. An accomplished poet, 974 of his hymns are part of the Guru Granth Sahib.
	Friday 24	Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621-1675) was the 9th Guru of the Sikhs. He was publicly beheaded by the emperor of the day in 1675 CE for his defense of the Sikh faith and for upholding the right to practice religious freedom.
December	Sun 3 - Sun 24	Advent begins (on Advent Sunday)	Christianity
	Advent is the period leading up to Christmas. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas (Advent Sunday) and continues through to December 24th (Christmas Eve). In Western churches, Advent Sunday marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical year.
	Friday 8	Bodhi Day **	Buddhism
	Bodhi Day is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the day the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama reached enlightenment around 596 BCE. Prince Gautama took his place under the Bodhi tree vowing to remain there until he attained supreme enlightenment.
	Wed 13 - Wed 20	Hanukkah *	Judaism
	Hanukkah (Chanukah), also known as the Feast of Lights, is an eight day festival commemorating the recapture and rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem over occupying forces in 165 BCE.
	Monday 25	Christmas	Christianity
	Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians to be the Son of God, and the savior of all people.

* Jewish, Islamic and Baha'i holy days begin at sundown on the previous day listed.
** Certain Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic holy days cannot be definitely determined in advance as they begin when the new moon is sighted.

Click here to view a pdf version

Click here to view a pdf version

MONTH	DAY AND DATE	HOLY DAY - FESTIVAL	RELIGION
2019
September	Sep 30 - Oct 1	Rosh Hashanah *	Judaism
	Jewish New Year festival, marked by the blowing of the horn (shofar) which begins the ten days of penitence culminating in Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). It is the beginning of the holiest time of the year for Jews, and the anniversary of the creation of the world.
October	Tuesday 8	Dussehra	Hinduism
	Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara) is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. People celebrate Dussehra through special prayer meetings and food offerings to the gods at home or in temples.
	Wednesday 9	Yom Kippur *	Judaism
	Yom Kippur, also known as Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year for the Jewish people, characterized by repentance and forgiveness. Jewish people traditionally observe this holy day with fasting and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services.
	Mon 14 - Sun 20	Sukkot *	Judaism
	Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Booths, is an eight day Jewish festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest. The name refers to the booths (sukkot) used by Israelites during the 40 years of wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah atop Mt Sinai. Sukkot is celebrated 5 days after Yom Kippur.
	Sunday 20	Conferment of Guruship to Guru Granth Sahib	Sikhism
	This day celebrates Guru Gobind Singh Ji's (10th Guru) passing on guruship to the holy scriptures, henceforth known as the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru Granth Sahib, comprising of 1430 pages of hymns, presides the most prominent place and shines the light of Truth to all Sikhs or devotees who seek it.
	Tuesday 22	Simchat Torah	Judaism
	Simchat Torah is a joyous festival in which the annual cycle of reading the Torah is over, and the cycle begins again for the year. The celebration typically includes singing, dancing, and marching with Torah scrolls. Begins after Sukkot ends.
	Sunday 27	Diwali **	Hinduism
	Diwali, also known as Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, commemorating the victory of good over evil. Diwali means ‘row of lamps/lights’ and refers to the rows of lamps celebrants place around their homes or on top of temples.
	Sunday 27	Bandi Chhor Divas (Diwali)	Sikhism
	Bandi Chhor Divas, also known as ‘The Celebration of Freedom’, commemorates the release in 1619 CE from prison of the sixth Sikh guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Ji. Sikhs continue this annual celebration with lamps being lit outside gurdwaras and sweets distributed to all.
	Tuesday 29	Birth of the Bab *	Baha'i
	The anniversary of the birth in 1819 CE in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), of Siyyid 'Ali- Muhammad, who later took the title of 'the Bab', meaning 'the Gate'. The Bab was the herald of the Baha'i faith.
	Wednesday 30	Birth of Bah'ullah *	Baha'i
	The anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah (born Mirza Husayn-'Ali) in 1817 CE in Tehran, Persia (now Iran). Baha'u'llah, which means the 'Glory of God', is the founder of the Baha'i faith.
November	Friday 1	All Saints Day	Christianity
	All Saints Day honours exemplary Christians who achieved sainthood, especially those not having a special day. For many Christian denominations, all Saints Day is a remembrance of departed Christian people of any time and place.
	Tuesday 12	Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji	Sikhism
	Observes the birth of Guru Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib, the founder of the Sikh religion, born in 1469 CE. An accomplished poet, 974 of his hymns are part of the Guru Granth Sahib.
	Sunday 24	Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621-1675) was the 9th Guru of the Sikhs. He was publicly beheaded by the emperor of the day in 1675 for his defense of the Sikh faith and for upholding the right to practice religious freedom.
December	Sun 1 – Tue 24	Advent	Christianity
	Advent is the period leading up to Christmas. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas (Advent Sunday) and continues through to December 24th (Christmas Eve). In Western churches, Advent Sunday marks the beginning of Christian liturgical year.
	Sunday 8	Bodhi Day **	Buddhism
	Bodhi Day is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the day the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama reached enlightenment around 596 BCE. Prince Gautama took his place under the Bodhi tree vowing to remain there until he attained supreme enlightenment.
	Monday 23 - 30	Hanukkah *	Judaism
	Hanukkah (Chanukah), also known as the Feast of Lights, is an eight day festival commemorating the recapture and rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem over occupying forces in 165 BCE.
	Wednesday 25	Christmas	Christianity
	Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians to be the Son of God, and the savior of all people.
	2020
January	Sunday 5	Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708), the 10th and final Sikh master, created the Khalsa (the Community of the Pure) and declared the Scriptures (Guru Granth Sahib) to be the Sikh's Guru from that time on.
	Monday 6	Epiphany	Christianity
	Signifying the end of the 12 days of Christmas, Epiphany celebrates the visit of Three Kings to the infant Jesus as the occasion of the manifestation of Christ to the gentiles.
	Tuesday 7	Nativity [Orthodox]	Christianity
	Nativity is the Orthodox celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians to be the Son of God, and the savior of all people.
	Fri 10 - 12 Sun	Mahayana New Year	Buddhism
	The Buddhist New Year depends on the country of origin or ethnic background of the people. In Mahayana countries the new year starts on first full moon day in January. A time to reflect on the past & cleanse oneself from prior year's sins, making a fresh start.
	Monday 13	Maghi	Sikhism
	Maghi commemorate the sacrifice of the Chali Mukte (the Forty Liberated Ones), who sacrificed their own lives defending an attack by the imperial army in pursuit of Guru Gobind Singh. This took place in Khidrane di Dhab, on 29 December 1705.
	Saturday 25	Chinese New Year	Buddhism
	Chinese New Year (also called the Lunar New Year and the Spring Festival) is the most important holiday in China and for Chinese people around the world. Celebrated by Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist practitioners.
February	Sunday 9	Magha Puja Day / Sangha Day	Buddhism
	Celebration of the presentation of teachings by the Buddha to a spontaneous gathering of 1250 arahants (holy men). Also known as ‘Great Assembly Day’ or ‘Sangha Day’.
	Saturday 15	Nirvana Day (or February 8)	Buddhism
	Nirvana Day (or Parinirvana Day) is a Mahayana holiday which celebrates the day when the Buddha is said to have achieved Parinirvana (complete enlightenment) upon the death of his physical body.
	Friday 21	MahaShivaratri	Hinduism
	MahaShivaratri (or the ‘Great Night of Shiva’) is a festival celebrated with devotion and religious fervour in honour of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, one of the deities of the Hindu Trinity.
	26 Feb – 9 Apr	Lent begins on Ash Wednesday	Christianity
	Lent is the period of 40 days (not including Sundays) which comes before Easter, traditionally a time of fasting and reflection. The 40 days represents the time Jesus spent in the desert overcoming temptation by Satan. In Western Christianity, it begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Maundy Thursday.
March	2 Mar – 10 April	Great Lent [Orthodox]	Christianity
	Great Lent is the period of 40 days which comes before Easter, traditionally a time of fasting and reflection. The 40 days represents the time Jesus spent in the desert overcoming temptation by Satan. In the Orthodox Church, Great Lent starts on Clean Monday and ends on the Friday before Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday.
	Tuesday 10	Holi	Hinduism
	A joyous spring Hindu festival that is dedicated to Krishna in some parts of India; in other parts of India, it is dedicated to Kama, the God of Pleasure. People throw colored water or colored powder in celebration.
	Tuesday 10	Hola Mohalla	Sikhism
	An annual festival started by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, as a gathering of Sikhs for military exercises and mock battles.
	Friday 20	Naw Ruz	Baha’i
	Naw Ruz is the Baha’i New Year which coincides with the vernal equinox. The inception of the Baha’i calendar was on 21 March 1844 CE with the declaration of the Bab, the Prophet-Herald of the Baha'i Faith.
	Sunday 22	Lailat al Miraj	Islam
	Observance of Prophet Muhammad’s night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension (al Miraj) to heaven and return the same night. Also known as ‘Night of Journey’ (al Isra).
April	Thursday 2	Rama Navami	Hinduism
	Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of the Hindu God Vishnu and hero of the religious epic poem ‘The Ramayana’.
	Sun 5 - Sun 12	Holy Week	Christianity
	Holy week is the last week before Easter. It begins with Palm Sunday (commemoration of the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem) and includes Maundy Thursday (commemoration of the first Lord’s Supper), Good Friday (commemoration of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ), and finishes on Easter Sunday (the resurrection of Jesus Christ following his death by crucifixion).
	Tue 7 - Thur 9	Theravada New Year	Buddhism
	The Buddhist New Year depends on the country of origin or ethnic background of the people. In Theravadin countries (i.e. Thailand, Burma, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Lao) the new year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon day in April.
	Thursday 9	Lailat al Bara'ah	Islam
	On this night, God approaches the Earth to call humanity and to grant forgiveness of sins. Shia and Sunni interpretations may vary on the meaning of this date.
	Thurs 9 - Thurs 16	Pesach	Judaism
	An eight day festival for families and communities to remember the time when Hebrew slaves were led by Moses out of Egypt to freedom. The festival begins with the Seder meal during which time the story of their deliverance is told. The first and last two days are holidays.
	Friday 10	Good/Holy Friday	Christianity
	Commemoration of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
	Sunday 12	Easter	Christianity
	The resurrection of Jesus Christ following his death by crucifixion.
	Monday 13	Baisakhi	Sikhism
	Baisakhi (Vaisakhi) marks the founding of the Khalsa (the Brotherhood of the Pure) in 1699 CE by Guru Gobind Singh. The Khalsa is the collective body of all baptised Sikhs who carry the five articles of the faith - Kesh (uncut hair), Kirpan (ceremonial sword), Kara (steel bracelet), Kanga (comb) and Kaccha (undershorts).
	Sunday 19	Easter/Pascha [Orthodox]	Christianity
	The resurrection of Jesus Christ following his death by crucifixion.
	20 Apr – 1 May	Ridvan	Baha’i
	Baha’i commemoration of the twelve-day period that Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith, spent in the Garden of Ridvan in the last days of his exile in Baghdad, and publicly proclaimed His mission as God’s messenger for this age. The first, ninth and twelfth days are celebrated as holy days and work is suspended.
	Tuesday 21	Yom HaShoah	Judaism
	Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) is a day set aside to remember the six million Jews who died as victims of the Nazis during World War II and emphasizes respect for human dignity. Observed by many people of Jewish and other faiths.
	24 Apr – 23 May	Ramadan	Islam
	The holy month of Ramadan begins with the first light of dawn commemorating the revelation of the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad. Throughout this month Muslims fast during daylight hours, celebrate an evening meal with family and friends, pray fervently and show charity to the poor.
May	Thursday 7	Vesak / Buddha Day	Buddhism
	Vesak (Wesak) is the major Buddhist festival. It celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha on the one day. Also known as ‘Vishakha Puja’ or ‘Buddha’s Day’. The dates of this celebration vary significantly among Buddhist cultures and communities.
	Tuesday 19	Lailat al Qadr	Islam
	First revelation of Qur'an (Islamic scriptures) to Prophet Muhammad in 610 CE. Also known as ‘Night of Power’ or ‘Night of Destiny’. Observed during the last ten days of Ramadan.
	Saturday 23	Declaration of the Bab	Baha’i
	The Baha’i commemorates when the Bab, the herald of the Baha’i Faith, announced in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), that he was the herald of a new messenger of God.
	Sunday 24	Eid ul Fitr	Islam
	An important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Also known as the festival of the ‘Breaking of the Fast’.
	Thursday 28	Ascension of Baha'ullah	Baha’i
	Baha’is observe the anniversary of the death in exile of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i faith, on May 29, 1892, outside Akko (now northern Israel).
	Fri 9 - Sat 30	Shavuot	Judaism
	Shavuot, also known as Feast of Weeks, commemorates the anniversary of the day God gave the Torah and Commandments to the entire nation of Israel assembled at Mount Sinai. Marks the conclusion of the seven weeks following Pesach. Originally a harvest festival.
	Sunday 31	Pentecost	Christianity
	Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus seven weeks (50 days) after the Resurrection (Easter). It also commemorates the founding of the Christian Church, which begins on this day.
June	Tuesday 16	Martyrdom of Guru Arjun Dev Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Arjan Dev (1563-1606), the 5th Guru, was the first martyr-guru. He was responsible for the compilation of the Sikh scriptures in 1604 CE. He also helped to build the Golden Temple at Amritsar and emphasized that the Sikh way was open to all, regardless of caste.
July	Sunday 5	Ashala Puja / Dharma Day	Buddhism
	Asalha Puja commemorates Buddha’s first teaching (the Wheel of Dharma) and is recognized as the beginning of Buddhism. Also known as ‘Dharma/Dhamma Day’.
	Thursday 9	Martyrdom of the Bab	Baha’i
	Baha’i commemoration of the anniversary of the execution of the Bab (Siyyid ‘Ali- Muhammad), the herald of the Baha’i Faith, by a firing squad on July 9 1850, in Tabriz, Persia (now Iran).
	Thursday 30	Tisha B'Av	Judaism
	Tisha B’av (Fast of Av) is a day of mourning to remember events such as the destruction of the First Temple and Second Temple in Jerusalem.
	31 Jul – 3 Aug	Eid Al Adha	Islam
	Commemorates Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of submission to God’s command. Also known as ‘Feast of Sacrifice’. One of the two main Islamic festivals (the other being Eid al Fitr).
August	Monday 3	Raksha Bandhan	Hinduism
	Also known as Rakhi, this Hindu festival celebrates brotherhood and love; the festival is popularly used to celebrate any brother-sister like relationship between men and women who are relatives or biologically unrelated.
	Tuesday 11	Krishna Janmashtami	Hinduism
	Krishna Janmashtami (or Jayanti) is the annual commemoration of the birth of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of the God Vishnu. Worship of Krishna is characteristically expressed in dance and song.
	Saturday 15	Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary	Christianity
	Commemorates the assumption of Mary, mother of Jesus, into heaven.
	Thursday 20	Hijra	Islam
	The Islamic year is marked by the event known as Hijra which occurred in 622 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad’s migrated from Mecca to Medina, where the first Islamic community was established.
	Saturday 22	Ganesh Chaturthi	Hinduism
	Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birthday of Lord Ganesh, one of the major Hindu deities. Ganesh has the head of an elephant and is known as the remover of obstacles.
September	Sat 19 - Sun 20	Rosh Hashanah	Judaism
	Jewish New Year festival, marked by the blowing of the horn (shofar) which begins the ten days of penitence culminating in Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). It is the beginning of the holiest time of the year for Jews, and the anniversary of the creation of the world.
	Monday 28	Yom Kippur	Judaism
	Yom Kippur, also known as Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year for the Jewish people, characterized by repentance and forgiveness. Jewish people traditionally observe this holy day with fasting and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services.
October	Sat 3 – Fri 9	Sukkot	Judaism
	Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Booths, is an eight day Jewish festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest. The name refers to the booths (sukkot) used by Israelites during the 40 years of wandering in the desert after the giving of the Torah atop Mt Sinai. Sukkot is celebrated 5 days after Yom Kippur.
	Sunday 11	Simchat Torah	Judaism
	Simchat Torah is a joyous festival in which the annual cycle of reading the Torah is over, and the cycle begins again for the year. The celebration typically includes singing, dancing, and marching with Torah scrolls. Begins after Sukkot ends
	Thu 17 – Sat 26	Navaratri	Hinduism
	Navaratri, which literally means ‘nine nights’, is a festival honouring the Goddess/Divine Mother and her energy/power (Shakti). This nine day festival includes worshipping and dancing as people celebrate various aspects of the feminine.
	Sunday 18	Birth of the Bab	Baha’i
	The anniversary of the birth in 1819 CE in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), of Siyyid ‘Ali- Muhammad, who later took the title of ‘the Bab’, meaning ‘the Gate’. The Bab was the herald of the Baha’i faith
	Monday 19	Birth of Baha'ullah*	Baha'i
	The anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah (born Mirza Husayn-‘Ali) in 1817 CE in Tehran, Persia (now Iran). Baha’u’llah, which means the ‘Glory of God’, is the founder of the Baha’i faith.
	Tuesday 20	Conferment of Guruship to Guru Granth Sahib	Sikhism
	This day celebrates Guru Gobind Singh Ji's (10th Guru) passing on guruship to the holy scriptures, henceforth known as the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru Granth Sahib, comprising of 1430 pages of hymns, presides the most prominent place and shines the light of Truth to all Sikhs or devotees who seek it.
	Sunday 25	Dussehra	Hinduism
	Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara) is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. People celebrate Dussehra through special prayer meetings and food offerings to the gods at home or in temples.
November	Sunday 1	All Saints Day	Christianity
	All Saints Day honours exemplary Christians who achieved sainthood, especially those not having a special day. For many Christian denominations, all Saints Day is a remembrance of departed Christian people of any time and place.
	Saturday 14	Diwali	Hinduism
	Diwali, also known as Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, commemorating the victory of good over evil. Diwali means ‘row of lamps/lights’ and refers to the rows of lamps celebrants place around their homes or on top of temples.
	Saturday 14	Bandi Chhor Divas (Diwali)	Sikhism
	Bandi Chhor Divas, also known as ‘The Celebration of Freedom’, commemorates the release in 1619 CE from prison of the sixth Sikh guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Ji. Sikhs continue this annual celebration with lamps being lit outside gurdwaras and sweets distributed to all.

	Tuesday 24	Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji	Sikhism
	Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621-1675) was the 9th Guru of the Sikhs. He was publicly beheaded by the emperor of the day in 1675 for his defense of the Sikh faith and for upholding the right to practice religious freedom
	Monday 30	Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Sahib Ji	Sikhism
	Observes the birth of Guru Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib, the founder of the Sikh religion, born in 1469 CE. An accomplished poet, 974 of his hymns are part of the Guru Granth Sahib.
	Sun 29 Nov – Thurs 24 Dec	Advent	Christianity
	Advent is the period leading up to Christmas. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas (Advent Sunday) and continues through to December 24th (Christmas Eve). In Western churches, Advent Sunday marks the beginning of Christian liturgical year.
December	Tuesday 8	Bodhi Day	Buddhism
	Bodhi Day is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the day the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama reached enlightenment around 596 BCE. Prince Gautama took his place under the Bodhi tree vowing to remain there until he attained supreme enlightenment.
	Fri 11 – Fri 18	Hanukkah	Judaism
	Hanukkah (Chanukah), also known as the Feast of Lights, is an eight day festival commemorating the recapture and rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem over occupying forces in 165 BCE.
	Friday 25	Christmas	Christianity
	Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians to be the Son of God, and the savior of all people.

* Jewish, Islamic and Baha'i holy days begin at sundown on the previous day listed.

** Local or regional customs may use a variation of this date.

Click here to view a pdf version

Click here to view 2020 Multifaith Calendar (pdf)

Easter is the most important festival in the Christian calendar. It celebrates the resurrection from the dead of Jesus, three days after he was executed. The Easter story is at the heart of Christianity.

Short descriptions on each faith. Click on the name of each faith to view as pdf.

Baha'i
One of the youngest of the world's major religions.

Buddhism
A way of living based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama.

Christianity
The world's biggest faith, based on the teaching of Jesus Christ.

Hinduism
A group of faiths rooted in the religious ideas of India.

Islam
Revealed in its final form by the Prophet Muhammad.

Judaism
Based around the Jewish people's covenant relationship with God.

Sikhism
The religion founded by Guru Nanak in India in the 15th Century CE.