East Asian holiday commemorating the lunar New Year.
February 17 (at sunset) to March 19 (approximate)
Expected to be the Islamic Period of Ramadan (One of the holiest Islamic months). Dates are lunar-based and may vary by one day.
Ramadan is a month of fasting for many Muslims, roughly ages 9 and above. Some children may begin fasting earlier. The fasting is from dawn to sunset. The students will attend school, but may not be as energetic as usual due to fasting.
February 18
Christian holiday of Ash Wednesday (Marks the first day of Lent.)
The first day of Lent in Western Christian Churches. Students may attend services. No meat eaten this day by Catholics.
February 18 to April 2
Lenten Fridays
Lent is a 40-day period in Christianity leading up to Easter. Catholics do not eat meat during Lent on Fridays.
Buddhist holiday of Magha Puja (celebrates when disciples gathered to hear Buddha teach)
March 4
Hindu holiday Holi
Hindu festival of colors, celebrating the arrival of spring and the triumph of good.
March 19 (at sunset) to March 20
Islamic holiday of Eid al Fitr (Feast of the Breaking of the Fast. Marks the end of Ramadan.)
When Eid al Fitr falls on a school day, Muslim students may be absent. Eid al Fitr begins at sunset. Due to changes in the lunar circumstances, this holiday may fall one day later. In some traditions, Eid al Fitr is a three day celebration.
