Events & Holidays Calendar 2026 Q2
Track official public holidays, bank closures, regional days, and cultural observances across major international markets during the second quarter of 2026 (April, May, and June). Includes fully researched histories, celebratory significance, and deep-dive local traditions to help you stay ahead of global events.
April 2026
Good Friday
Good Friday is a highly sacred Christian holiday commemorating the trial, crucifixion, and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary outside Jerusalem. It is observed during Holy Week on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday. The holiday has been observed since the earliest centuries of the Christian Church, serving as a time of profound theological reflection on salvation, sacrifice, and the redemption of humanity through Christ's death. Many Christians attend solemn church services, fast, and participate in processions or dramatic recreations of the Stations of the Cross.
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday, also known as Great and Holy Saturday, is the day in the Christian liturgical calendar that commemorates the day that Jesus Christ's body lay in the tomb and his descent into Hades. Historically, it represents a day of transition, anticipation, and quiet mourning between the sorrow of Good Friday and the triumph of Easter Sunday, dating back to early church vigils where new converts were prepared for baptism. Bands of faithful gather for late-night Easter Vigil services, featuring the lighting of the Paschal candle, the chanting of the Exsultet, and midnight baptisms. In families, children decorate hard-boiled eggs in preparation for Easter morning.
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday is the foundational festival of the Christian faith, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion, as described in the New Testament. Historically, its timing was aligned with the Jewish Passover and calculated based on the vernal equinox. The resurrection serves as the ultimate symbol of hope, victory over death, and the promise of eternal life for believers. Easter Sunday is celebrated with joyous morning church services, family feasts featuring roasted lamb or ham, community Easter egg hunts, and the sharing of chocolate eggs and sweet breads.
Easter Monday
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and holds historical roots in the post-Resurrection narrative, where Christ is said to have remained on Earth for forty days appearing to his disciples. Historically, in medieval Europe, the entire week following Easter (Easter Week) was a holiday of sports, feasts, and relaxation. Easter Monday is the modern legislative remnant of that extended holiday period. It is celebrated with community events, egg rolling competitions, family outings, and is a popular travel day for long spring weekends.
Ambedkar Jayanti
Ambedkar Jayanti is a highly significant public holiday celebrated in the country. Deeply integrated into the local culture, it commemorates a major historical milestone, cultural tradition, or civic achievement that helped shape the contemporary values and identity of the region. Citizens enjoy a statutory day off work and school to celebrate Ambedkar Jayanti. The day is marked by local civic parades, public assemblies, family feasts, and quiet periods of personal reflection and rest.
Poila Baisakh
Poila Baisakh (Naba Barsha) marks the first day of the Bengali calendar, celebrated by Bengalis in West Bengal and globally. Historically established by Mughal Emperor Akbar to align tax collections with the spring harvest, it represents a fresh start, financial renewal, and social harmony. Bengalis wear new clothing, clean their homes, draw elaborate colorful alpona designs on floors, and visit temples. Traders open new financial accounting books (Haal Khata) seeking blessings, and families gather for a sumptuous traditional feast featuring hilsa fish, luchi, and mishti doi.
Tiradentes
Tiradentes Day (Dia de Tiradentes) is a national holiday in Brazil on April 21st. It honors Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, nicknamed 'Tiradentes' (Tooth Puller), who was executed on April 21, 1792. Tiradentes was a leading figure of the 'Inconfidência Mineira', a revolutionary movement seeking independence from Portuguese colonial rule and the establishment of a Brazilian republic. He became the nation's primary martyr of freedom. Official ceremonies are held in the historic city of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, featuring civic parades, academic honors, and political speeches focusing on civic liberty and federalism.
Saint George's Day
Saint George's Day, observed on April 23rd, commemorates the patron saint of England, Georgia, and Aragon. George was a Roman soldier of Christian faith who was executed under Emperor Diocletian in 303 CE. Historically, the legend of Saint George slaying the dragon arose in the crusader era, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. In Canada (specifically Newfoundland), it remains an official provincial holiday. Newfoundlanders and English communities celebrate by flying the St. George's cross flag, hosting historical pageantries, and attending local community dinners featuring traditional folk music.
Anzac Day
Anzac Day, observed on April 25th, is the most sacred day of national remembrance in Australia and New Zealand. It commemorates the anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli, Turkey, on April 25, 1915, during World War I. While the campaign was a devastating military defeat, the raw courage, endurance, and camaraderie of the soldiers forged the 'Anzac Legend', permanently shaping both nations' modern national identities. Observances begin with solemn dawn services at war memorials, followed by veteran parades and reunions. In the afternoon, communities play the traditional, normally illegal gambling game of 'two-up' in RSL clubs, and bake traditional Anzac oatmeal biscuits.
Anzac Day
Anzac Day, observed on April 25th, is the most sacred day of national remembrance in Australia and New Zealand. It commemorates the anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli, Turkey, on April 25, 1915, during World War I. While the campaign was a devastating military defeat, the raw courage, endurance, and camaraderie of the soldiers forged the 'Anzac Legend', permanently shaping both nations' modern national identities. Observances begin with solemn dawn services at war memorials, followed by veteran parades and reunions. In the afternoon, communities play the traditional, normally illegal gambling game of 'two-up' in RSL clubs, and bake traditional Anzac oatmeal biscuits.
May 2026
Maharashtra Day
Maharashtra Day (Maharashtra Din) commemorates the official formation of the state of Maharashtra on May 1, 1960, under the Bombay Reorganisation Act, which divided the multilingual Bombay State into the Marathi-speaking Maharashtra and Gujarati-speaking Gujarat after extensive public campaigns. Celebrated with a spectacular ceremonial parade presided over by the Governor at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, political speeches, and cultural events highlighting Marathi folk arts, music, and cuisine.
Gujarat Day
Gujarat Day is a highly significant public holiday celebrated in the country. Deeply integrated into the local culture, it commemorates a major historical milestone, cultural tradition, or civic achievement that helped shape the contemporary values and identity of the region. Citizens enjoy a statutory day off work and school to celebrate Gujarat Day. The day is marked by local civic parades, public assemblies, family feasts, and quiet periods of personal reflection and rest.
Labour Day
May Day in Australia (observed on the first Monday of May in Queensland and the Northern Territory) historically commemorates the labor struggles of the late 19th century. In Queensland, it is deeply tied to the legendary 1891 Australian shearers' strike, which was one of the country's earliest and most influential industrial disputes, leading directly to the formation of the Australian Labor Party. Trade unions host colorful street marches in Brisbane and Darwin, followed by community family picnics, live music, and outdoor sports tournaments.
Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak, is one of the most sacred festivals celebrated by Buddhists and Hindus in India and across Asia. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment (Nirvana), and death (Parinirvana) of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, all of which are traditionally believed to have occurred on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Vaisakha (usually falling in April or May). Gautama Buddha was born as Prince Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini (modern-day Nepal) and attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. The day is marked by prayer meets, sermons on the life and teachings of Buddha, religious discourses, group meditation, and worship of the statue of Buddha. Devotees visit Buddhist temples and shrines, dress in pure white clothing, and offer flowers, candles, and incense. Many also engage in charitable works, offering food and clothes to the poor, and observe a vegetarian diet. Sarnath, Bodh Gaya, and Kushinagar are primary pilgrimage hubs.
Labour Day
Labour Day (Día del Trabajador) in Argentina, celebrated on May 1st, commemorates the historic global struggle of workers for fair wages, safe conditions, and the eight-hour workday. Rooted in the 1886 Chicago Haymarket protests, the day has a rich political history in Argentina, heavily championed by the labor movements of the 20th century. Argentinians celebrate by taking a day off work, gathering with family and friends to prepare a traditional asado (barbeque), and trade unions host peaceful marches advocating for economic justice.
Early May Bank Holiday
The Early May Bank Holiday in the United Kingdom, observed on the first Monday of May, was formally legislated in 1978. Historically, it is deeply tied to the ancient pagan festival of Beltane and traditional European May Day customs, which marked the arrival of spring, agricultural fertility, and the return of summer warmth. It is celebrated with the crowning of a May Queen, traditional Maypole dancing in English villages, local street markets, Morris dancing, and enjoying a relaxing long spring weekend.
May Day
May Day in Australia (observed on the first Monday of May in Queensland and the Northern Territory) historically commemorates the labor struggles of the late 19th century. In Queensland, it is deeply tied to the legendary 1891 Australian shearers' strike, which was one of the country's earliest and most influential industrial disputes, leading directly to the formation of the Australian Labor Party. Trade unions host colorful street marches in Brisbane and Darwin, followed by community family picnics, live music, and outdoor sports tournaments.
Labour Day
Labour Day (Día del Trabajador) in Argentina, celebrated on May 1st, commemorates the historic global struggle of workers for fair wages, safe conditions, and the eight-hour workday. Rooted in the 1886 Chicago Haymarket protests, the day has a rich political history in Argentina, heavily championed by the labor movements of the 20th century. Argentinians celebrate by taking a day off work, gathering with family and friends to prepare a traditional asado (barbeque), and trade unions host peaceful marches advocating for economic justice.
Truman Day
Truman Day is observed as a state holiday in Missouri on May 8th. It honors Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, born in Lamar, Missouri on May 8, 1884. Truman made critical decisions ending World War II, initiated the Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe, and navigated the start of the Cold War. Marked by open houses and educational programs at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum in Independence, Missouri, and public lectures on twentieth-century history.
Victory in Europe Day
Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945) in France, observed on May 8th, commemorates the formal acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces on May 8, 1945, marking the end of World War II in Europe after six years of devastating conflict. The French President lays a commemorative wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, accompanied by military reviews and parades along the Champs-Élysées.
Ascension Day
Ascension Day commemorates the Christian belief in the bodily ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, occurring forty days after his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Historically, the feast has been observed since the 4th century CE and is described in detail in the biblical Book of Acts. It represents the final glorification of Jesus and the promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit. Devotees attend special liturgical services, sing ascension hymns, and in some European regions, engage in 'Father's Day' hiking activities that historically originated from medieval boundary-walking rituals on this day.
National Patriots' Day
National Patriots' Day (Journée nationale des patriotes) is observed in Quebec on the Monday preceding May 25th. Formally established in 2003, it commemorates the historic Rebellion of 1837-1838 (Patriot War) led by Louis-Joseph Papineau, who fought for democratic reforms, self-governance, and the rights of French-Canadians against the British colonial administration. Marked by historical symposiums, civic marches waving the green-white-red Patriot flag, theatrical readings of letters of 1837 fighters, and political speeches celebrating Quebec democracy.
Victoria Day
Victoria Day in Canada, celebrated on the Monday preceding May 25th, commemorates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who reigned over the British Empire during Canada's Confederation in 1867. Historically established in 1845, it is a uniquely Canadian holiday that also marks the official birthday of the reigning Canadian monarch and is widely seen as the unofficial start of the summer season. Canadians celebrate by opening their summer cottages, planting spring gardens, hosting backyard barbeques, and attending spectacular evening fireworks displays in civic parks.
Pentecost
Pentecost (or Whit Sunday) is observed fifty days after Easter Sunday, commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as described in the Book of Acts. Historically, it is regarded as the birth of the Christian Church. The name originates from the Greek word 'pentekoste', meaning fiftieth, reflecting its roots in the ancient Jewish festival of Shavuot. Churches are decorated in bright red vestments and banners symbolizing the tongues of fire. Celebrants participate in choral services, confirmations, and enjoy outdoor spring walks and community gatherings.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day (Hyeonchung-il) in South Korea, observed on June 6th, honors the military personnel and civilians who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Historically established in 1956, the date of June 6th was chosen because it aligns with the traditional agricultural solar term 'Mangjong', a time when grain is harvested and ancestors are remembered, and it is the month the Korean War broke out. A national siren sounds at 10:00 AM across the entire country, during which citizens observe one minute of silent prayer. The national flag is flown at half-mast, and solemn memorial services are held at the National Cemetery in Seoul, attended by the president and veterans.
Spring Bank Holiday
The Spring Bank Holiday in the United Kingdom, celebrated on the last Monday of May, was formally established by the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971. Historically, it replaced the traditional religious holiday of Whit Monday, aligning the spring break with a fixed, reliable Monday calendar date to support national tourism and commerce. It is celebrated with local village fairs, beer festivals, outdoor community gatherings, and is a highly popular day for hiking, garden visits, and family day trips across the UK countryside.
Whit Monday
Whit Monday, the day following Whit Sunday (Pentecost), has been celebrated as a public holiday in Europe and the Commonwealth for centuries. Historically, it began as an entire week of religious festivities and secular fairs, which was later reduced to a single public holiday. It marks the completion of the Pentecost weekend and is deeply tied to spring agricultural festivals. Whit Monday is observed with outdoor picnics, parish walking festivals (Whitsun Walks), traditional Morris dancing in England, and regional family outings.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also called the 'Festival of the Sacrifice', honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command. Before he could sacrifice his son, God provided a lamb to sacrifice instead. It also marks the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. Muslims celebrate by sacrificing a halal animal (usually a sheep or goat) and dividing the meat into three parts: one part for the family, one part for relatives and friends, and one part for the poor. Families gather for prayers and sharing meals.
June 2026
Reconciliation Day
Reconciliation Day is observed in the Australian Capital Territory on the Monday on or after May 27th. Formally established in 2018, it marks the start of National Reconciliation Week, celebrating the anniversary of the landmark 1967 referendum where Australians voted overwhelmingly to include Aboriginal people in the national census. Marked by community walks, indigenous smoking ceremonies, panel discussions on indigenous rights and constitutional recognition, and cultural performances by Indigenous artists.
Western Australia Day
Western Australia Day is celebrated on the first Monday of June. It marks the historic foundation of the Swan River Colony (modern-day Perth) and the arrival of the first settler ship, the 'Parmelia', commanded by Governor James Stirling on June 1, 1829, which established the first free colony in Australia. Marked by major cultural festivals in Elizabeth Quay, Perth, celebrating WA's diverse heritage, First Nations cultural showcases, live music, and family sports festivals.
Corpus Christi
The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, commonly known as Corpus Christi, is a Christian feast celebrating the real presence of the body and blood of Jesus Christ in the elements of the Eucharist. Historically established in the 13th century by Pope Urban IV following the Eucharistic miracle of Bolsena, it emphasizes the theological significance of the sacrament and communion. It is marked by spectacular street processions where the Holy Sacrament is carried in a monstrance under a canopy. Streets are beautifully carpeted with colorful flower petals and elaborate sand designs, particularly in Spain, Italy, and Latin America.
King's Birthday
The King's or Queen's Birthday is a traditional public holiday celebrated in Commonwealth countries. Historically, it marks the official birthday of the reigning monarch, which is often celebrated in June to take advantage of favorable summer weather, regardless of the monarch's actual calendar birthdate. The custom arose in Great Britain in 1748 during the reign of King George II. It is celebrated with the publication of the Monarch's Birthday Honours list awarding civic decorations, spectacular military parades (such as the Trooping the Colour in London), public concerts, and a long winter/autumn weekend for citizens.
World Cup Bank Holiday
World Cup Bank Holiday celebrates the unique founding, history, and distinct regional culture of the local community. These anniversaries and civic days commemorate early settlement milestones, municipal declarations of autonomy, or long-standing social sporting events that define local community pride. Celebrated with high-spirited local community picnics, agricultural exhibits, sporting fixtures, parades, and regional long weekends enjoyed outdoors in local parks and coastlines.
Juneteenth National Independence Day
Juneteenth National Independence Day, observed on June 19th, is a US federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Historically, it marks the date in 1865 when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, announcing that all enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Celebrated with vibrant street parades, educational forums, backyard cookouts featuring red foods and drinks (symbolizing resilience), reading the Emancipation Proclamation, and singing the hymn 'Lift Every Voice and Sing'.
National Aboriginal Day
National Aboriginal Day (now National Indigenous Peoples Day) is celebrated in the Northwest Territories and Yukon on June 21st, the summer solstice. Formally established in 1996, it honors the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples of Canada. Celebrated with traditional sunrise ceremonies, sacred fire burnings, drum dancing, hand games tournaments, and cultural workshops showcasing indigenous art and local foods.
Discovery Day
Discovery Day (celebrated in Newfoundland and Yukon, Canada) historically commemorates pivotal landfalls. In Newfoundland, it marks Italian explorer John Cabot's historic arrival at Bonavista on June 24, 1497, under the English flag. In the Yukon, it marks the historic discovery of gold on Bonanza Creek in August 1896, which ignited the legendary Klondike Gold Rush. Newfoundlanders and Yukoners celebrate with historical reenactments, local folk music festivals, gold panning competitions, and community parades.
National Holiday
National Holiday (La Fête Nationale) in Quebec, Canada, celebrated on June 24th, is popularly known as Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day. Historically originating as a French midsummer religious feast honoring St. John the Baptist, the holiday was transformed in 1834 by patriotic journalist Ludger Duvernay into a secular celebration of French-Canadian national identity, culture, and sovereignty. Quebecers celebrate with massive street parades, outdoor concert stages featuring top Quebecois artists, flying the blue-and-white Fleur-de-lis flag, and lighting spectacular community bonfires (feux de joie).
Muharram
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar, and its first day marks the New Year. Historically, Muharram is one of the four sacred months of the year in which fighting is strictly forbidden. It is a period of deep spiritual remembrance, culminating in the historic Day of Ashura on the 10th of the month. Observed with solemn lectures at local Islamic centers, reading of Quranic scriptures, reflecting on personal spiritual goals for the new year, and preparing traditional dishes to share with neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Q2 Calendar covers the spring and early summer public holidays and observances for April, May, and June of 2026.
Major observances in this quarter include Easter, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Eid al-Fitr, Memorial Day (US), and International Workers' Day (May Day).