February, the second month of the year, spans 29 days in leap years and 28 February days in regular years, making it the shortest month. Despite its brevity, February is brimming with significant events and celebrations. Here’s a comprehensive list of important days and dates to mark in your calendar before planning your events.
Important Days in February 2024: In India, festivals are spread across the year, featuring celebrations nearly every month. February holds special anticipation as the final month of the winter season. It hosts various significant national and international festivals, events, and observances. Let’s explore!
As the second month of the year unfolds, it brings a lineup of important dates and days to raise awareness about various holidays and events. These observances shed light on issues such as diseases, poverty, and more, educating and engaging people in their significance. Review the list of important days and dates in February to prepare for competitive examinations such as Banking, SSC, and more.
List of Important Days, Events, and Festivals in February 2024
1 February – Interim Budget
The Union Budget for 2024 is nearing completion. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the interim budget before the general election on Thursday, February 1.
1 February – Indian Coast Guard Day
February 1 marks the Indian Coast Guard’s Foundation Day. This year, the Indian Coast Guard celebrates its 46th Raising Day, commemorating its crucial role in safeguarding India’s coastlines and enforcing maritime regulations within India’s Maritime Zones.
2 February – World Wetlands Day
World Wetlands Day is observed internationally on February 2 each year, commemorating the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran. First celebrated in 1997, this day focuses on the significance of wetlands for biodiversity conservation. The theme for World Wetlands Day 2024 is ‘Wetlands and biodiversity’.
2 February – RA Awareness Day
February 2 is recognized as Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day, dedicated to raising awareness about rheumatoid arthritis and supporting those affected by this chronic autoimmune condition.
2 February – Surajkund Crafts Mela
The Surajkund Crafts Mela, held from February 2 to February 18, 2024, at Surajkund in District Faridabad, Haryana, celebrates India’s folk traditions and cultural heritage. Organized annually by the Haryana Tourism Department near Delhi, this fair showcases the rich diversity of Indian handicrafts, handlooms, and cultural fabrics, promoting traditional artistry and craftsmanship nationwide.
3 February – National Golden Retriever Day
In some countries, February 3rd is National Golden Retriever Day. This day honors the beloved Golden Retriever, a popular dog breed cherished for its friendly nature, intelligence, and playful demeanor. Golden Retrievers are celebrated as ideal companions for dog lovers everywhere, highlighting their gentle disposition and loyalty.
4 February – World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, is a global initiative led by WHO to raise awareness about cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. The theme for 2020 was ‘I Am and I Will’, emphasizing individual action and commitment to combatting cancer worldwide. This day serves to unite people and organizations in the fight against cancer, promoting early diagnosis and healthy lifestyle choices.
4 February – National Day of Sri Lanka
February 4th is celebrated as Sri Lanka’s National Day, commemorating the country’s independence from British rule on February 4th, 1948. It is a national pride and remembrance day, marked by ceremonies, cultural performances, and flag hoisting across Sri Lanka.
4 February to 12 February – International Development Week
International Development Week (IDW) is observed annually from February 4th to February 12th. It highlights global development efforts and initiatives. In Canada, 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of IDW, which focuses on careers and opportunities in the international development sector. The week aims to educate the public about international cooperation and sustainable development goals.
6 February – International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
February 6th is recognized as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), aimed at raising awareness about the harmful effects of FGM and promoting its elimination. The theme for 2023, “Partnership with Men and Boys to Transform Social and Gender Norms to End FGM,” emphasizes collaborative efforts to change cultural practices and protect the rights of women and girls globally.
6 February – Safer Internet Day
Celebrated annually on February 8th, Safer Internet Day brings together stakeholders to promote a safer online environment, especially for children and young people.
7 February to 14 February – Valentine’s Week 2024
February, known as the month of love, is adorned with romantic gestures and celebrations. Valentine’s Week spans from February 7th to February 14th, culminating in Valentine’s Day on the 14th.
8 February – National Opera Day
National Opera Day is observed on February 8th each year. Opera, originating from the Italian word “opera” meaning “work,” combines music, acting, scenery, costumes, and dance to create a captivating theatrical experience.
9 February – Baba Amte’s Death Anniversary
February 9th marks the death anniversary of Baba Amte, a renowned Indian social worker and activist celebrated for his advocacy and rehabilitation efforts for people affected by leprosy.
10 February – National Deworming Day
Observed on February 10th, National Deworming Day is an initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India to ensure every child in the country is free from worm infections through deworming treatments.
10 February – World Pulses Day
World Pulses Day, observed on February 10th, aims to raise awareness about pulses’ nutritional benefits and sustainability in food production. Pulses, such as lentils, beans, and peas, are essential sources of protein and vital nutrients, contributing to food security and environmental sustainability.
11 February – World Day of the Sick
World Day of the Sick, observed on February 11th, was instituted by Pope John Paul II to encourage prayer and solidarity for those suffering from illness. It reminds us of the importance of compassionate care and support for individuals facing health challenges.
11 February – International Day of Women and Girls in Science
International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed on February 11th, highlights the contributions of women and girls in science and promotes gender equality in the field. It aims to encourage more women and girls to pursue careers in science and technology, ensuring their full participation and empowerment.
12 February – Darwin Day
Darwin Day, celebrated annually on February 12th, commemorates the birth of Charles Darwin in 1809. Known as the father of evolutionary biology, Darwin’s theories on natural selection and evolution revolutionized scientific understanding. Darwin’s seminal work, “On the Origin of Species,” continues to influence biological research and education worldwide.
12 February – Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday
Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday, observed on February 12th, honors the birth of the 16th President of the United States. Lincoln’s leadership during the American Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery make him one of the most revered figures in American history.
12 February – National Productivity Day
The National Productivity Council (NPC) in India promotes National Productivity Day, observed annually on February 12th. It aims to foster a culture of productivity and efficiency across various sectors, promoting economic growth and development through innovative practices and initiatives.
13 February – World Radio Day
World Radio Day, celebrated on February 13th, highlights the significance of radio as a vital medium for communication, information, and entertainment worldwide. In many regions, radio remains a primary source of news and education.
13 February – Sarojini Naidu Birth Anniversary
Sarojini Naidu, known as the Nightingale of India, was born in Hyderabad on February 13, 1879. She was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, poet, and politician. Sarojini Naidu became the first Indian woman to preside over the Indian National Congress and later served as the first woman Governor of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh).
13 February – International Epilepsy Day
International Epilepsy Day, observed on the second Monday of February (February 14th this year), raises awareness about epilepsy and advocates for better treatment, care, and research funding. The day aims to dispel epilepsy myths and promote understanding of the condition.
14 February – Saint Valentine’s Day
Saint Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, commemorates the Feast of Saint Valentine. It is a day dedicated to love and romance, marked by exchanging cards, gifts, and gestures of affection among loved ones.
14 February – Vasant Panchami
Vasant Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, is celebrated on February 14th this year to honor the Hindu goddess Saraswati. It heralds the arrival of spring and is observed with prayers, rituals, and educational activities in various parts of India.
14 February – World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day
World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day, observed on February 14th, raises awareness about congenital heart defects (CHD) and the challenges individuals face with these conditions face. The day aims to promote early detection, treatment options, and support for those affected by CHD.
16 February – World Anthropology Day
World Anthropology Day is observed annually on the third Thursday of February, falling on February 16th this year. This day celebrates the field of anthropology, aiming to raise awareness and educate the public about its diverse branches and contributions to understanding human cultures, societies, and behaviors.
17 February to 27 February – Taj Mahotsav
Taj Mahotsav, also known as the Taj Festival, is celebrated annually in Agra from February 17th to February 27th. This cultural extravaganza showcases India’s rich heritage through music, dance, crafts, and cuisine. It highlights the splendor of the Taj Mahal, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
20 February – Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day
Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day is celebrated on February 20th to commemorate the region’s gain of Union Territory status and later declaration of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It celebrates the northeastern state’s rich cultural diversity and natural beauty.
20 February – Mizoram Foundation Day
Mizoram Foundation Day is observed on February 20th each year to mark the formal establishment of the state of Mizoram on this date in 1987. It celebrates Mizoram’s unique culture, traditions, and people’s contributions to India’s heritage.
20 February – World Day of Social Justice
World Day of Social Justice, observed on February 20th, aims to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, and unemployment. It emphasizes the importance of social justice in achieving equitable development and ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all individuals and communities globally.
21 February – International Mother Language Day
International Mother Language Day is observed annually on 21 February worldwide to celebrate linguistic diversity and promote multilingualism. This day highlights the importance of preserving and promoting languages, as declared by UNESCO on 17 November 1999.
22 February – World Thinking Day
World Thinking Day, celebrated on 22 February, is an annual event observed by Girl Scouts and Girl Guides across 150 countries. Through various educational activities and discussions, it promotes global peace and understanding among young women.
23 February – World Understanding and Peace Day
World Understanding and Peace Day, observed on 23 February, commemorates Rotary International’s inaugural convention in 1905. This day promotes international understanding, peace, and goodwill among people of different backgrounds.
24 February – Central Excise Day
Central Excise Day is observed on 24 February in India to acknowledge the contributions of the excise department in maintaining the country’s economic stability and preventing corruption in manufacturing industries.
26 February – Veer Savarkar’s Death Anniversary
26 February marks the death anniversary of Veer Savarkar, a prominent freedom fighter and activist in India’s independence movement. He passed away on this day in 1966 after dedicating his life to the cause of India’s freedom.
27 February – World NGO Day
World NGO Day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the efforts of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) worldwide and acknowledging their contributions to social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
28 February – National Science Day
National Science Day is celebrated in India on 28 February to commemorate Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928. This day promotes scientific temper and encourages scientific innovation among people.
28 February – Rare Disease Day
Rare Disease Day, observed on 28 February, raises awareness about rare diseases and their worldwide impact on individuals and families. It aims to improve access to treatment and support for those affected by rare diseases.
These significant days in February 2024 offer opportunities to celebrate cultural heritage, promote global understanding and advance scientific knowledge while commemorating important historical events and personalities.
| Date | Events |
|---|---|
| 1 February 2024 | Indian Coast Guard Day |
| 2 February 2024 | World Wetlands Day |
| 4 February 2024 | World Cancer Day |
| 5 February 2024 to 13 February 2024 | Kala Ghoda Festival |
| 6 February 2024 | International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation |
| 6 February 2024 to 12 February 2024 | International Development Week |
| 8 February 2024 | Safer Internet Day |
| 10 February 2024 | National Deworming Day |
| 10 February 2024 | World Pulses Day |
| 11 February 2024 | World Day of the Sick |
| 11 February 2024 | International Day of Women and Girls in Science |
| 12 February 2024 | Darwin Day |
| 12 February 2024 | Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday |
| 12 February 2024 | National Productivity Day |
| 13 February 2024 | World Radio Day |
| 13 February 2024 | Sarojini Naidu Birth Anniversary |
| 14 February 2024 | Saint Valentine’s Day |
| 18 February 2024 to 27 February 2024 | Taj Mahotsav |
| 20 February 2024 | Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day |
| 20 February 2024 | World Day of Social Justice |
| 21 February 2024 | International Mother Language Day |
| 22 February 2024 | World Thinking Day |
| 24 February 2024 | Central Excise Day |
| 27 February 2024 | World NGO Day |
| 28 February 2024 | National Science Day |
| 28 February 2024 | Rare Disease Day |
Why Are There Only 28 Days in February?
Each month in the modern Gregorian calendar typically spans at least 28 days, except February, which has 28 days in common years and 29 in leap years. This anomaly can be traced back to the ancient Roman calendar, where February emerged with the fewest days due to Roman superstition.
Originally, the Roman calendar devised by King Numa Pompilius consisted of 10 months totaling 304 days, with each month structured to avoid even numbers—a belief held as unlucky at that time. To synchronize the calendar with the lunar year of 355 days, Numa added January and February. He adjusted the existing 30-day months by subtracting each day, making them 29 days long. This adjustment left February with 28 days, leaving a surplus of 56 days to distribute across the year.
Given that the sum of any even quantity (like 12 months) of odd numbers results in an even number, Numa decided at least one month had to have an even number of days to maintain the calendar’s overall odd total. Thus, historically associated with rites honoring the dead in Roman culture, February was assigned 28 days—an even number among odd-numbered months—to balance the superstitions of the time.
This historical decision still affects the modern calendar, where every four years, a leap day is added to February to synchronize with Earth’s orbit around the Sun, maintaining the integrity of our timekeeping system.
National Day Calendar Founder, February Family
Over the years, the National Day Calendar has had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with diverse clients. Throughout February, we take special pride in highlighting our expanding National Day Calendar Founder family. It’s a privilege to continue bringing awareness to new celebrations that people can enjoy.
Despite being the shortest month on the calendar, February boasts its own unique charm beyond paper hearts and chocolate. It delves into holidays that educate and amuse us with their quirks. February isn’t solely about love; it offers a well-rounded mix of themes and celebrations.
Let’s delve into some history about this second month of the year. February was introduced to the calendar alongside January around 700 B.C. During the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in February, rituals involving goatskin thongs were performed for purification, giving the month its name, February.
Interestingly, February wasn’t always the second month. Initially, when Numa Pompilius added February to the calendar in 700 B.C., it was positioned at the end of the year. Yes, February used to be the last month in the Roman calendar. This adjustment aimed to align the calendar with the lunar cycle. However, due to Roman superstition, which considered even numbers unlucky, each month was initially given 29 days except for February. This short and supposedly unlucky month remained at the end of the year for nearly 200 years until January and February were relocated to the beginning of the calendar year.
February 30 Was a Real Date
Today, February typically consists of 28 days in common years and 29 days in leap years. However, under unique circumstances, February 30 has existed as a real date at least twice in history.
Sweden’s Experience with February 30
In 1712, Sweden, then including Finland, encountered calendar issues during its transition from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar. Originally, 1700 should have been a leap year in the Julian calendar, but Sweden did not observe it as such. Subsequently, leap years were incorrectly observed in 1704 and 1708, causing Sweden’s calendar to fall out of sync with both the Julian and Gregorian calendars. To rectify this, Sweden reverted to the Julian calendar temporarily.
The date February 30, 1712, appeared in Sweden when the Julian calendar was reinstated, including an adjustment that added two leap days that year. Sweden finally adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1753, implementing an 11-day correction where February 17 was directly followed by March 1. Some resisted this calendar reform, believing it robbed them of 11 days of their lives.
The Soviet Revolutionary Calendar
From 1930 to 1931, the Soviet Union experimented with a revolutionary calendar to increase industrial efficiency. This calendar featured five-day weeks and 30-day months for every working month, with the remaining days designated as “monthless” holidays. The intention was to eliminate the traditional seven-day week, seen as interrupting industrial output.
However, despite introducing this revolutionary calendar, daily issues of Pravda, the Communist Party’s official newspaper, continued to use the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, according to the Gregorian system, February maintained its usual 28 days in 1930 and 1931. Ultimately, the Soviet experiment with the revolutionary calendar was abandoned in 1940 due to challenges in eliminating the Sunday rest tradition, leading to the restoration of the original seven-day week.
Historical Context and Controversy
In the Julian calendar, the scholar Johannes de Sacrobosco claimed that February had 30 days during leap years from 45 BCE to 8 BCE, when February was shortened to give August the same length as July. However, historical evidence related to the Julian calendar has disputed this claim, highlighting discrepancies in Sacrobosco’s critiques of that calendar system.
FAQ’s
What is the significance of February 4th in 2024?
February 4th is significant for two major observances: World Cancer Day, aimed at raising awareness about cancer and promoting its prevention, detection, and treatment, and National Day of Sri Lanka, which marks Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948.
What is celebrated on February 6th?
February 6th marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, which raises awareness about the harmful practice and aims to eliminate it.
Why is February 10th important?
February 10th is observed as National Deworming Day in India, an initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to deworm all children in the country. It is also World Pulses Day, which highlights the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses.
What events are recognized on February 11th?
February 11th is recognized as the World Day of the Sick, introduced by Pope John Paul II to offer prayers for the ill, and the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which promotes gender equality in science.
What historical figure is honored on February 12th?
February 12th honors Charles Darwin with Darwin Day, celebrating his contributions to science, and Abraham Lincoln, marking his birth anniversary. It is also National Productivity Day in India.
What is the focus of World Radio Day on February 13th?
World Radio Day, observed on February 13th, aims to raise awareness about the importance of radio, facilitate access to information through radio, and enhance networking among broadcasters.
What are the key observances on February 14th?
February 14th is celebrated as Saint Valentine’s Day, a day for expressing love and affection, Vasant Panchami, a festival honoring the Hindu goddess Saraswati, and World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day, raising awareness about congenital heart defects.
What is the significance of February 20th?
February 20th is significant for several observances: Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day, marking the state’s recognition as a Union Territory in India; Mizoram Foundation Day, celebrating the statehood of Mizoram; and World Day of Social Justice, promoting social justice, poverty eradication, and social inclusion.
Why is February 21st celebrated as International Mother Language Day?
International Mother Language Day, celebrated on February 21st, promotes linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. UNESCO proclaimed it in 1999 to commemorate the language movement in Bangladesh.
What are the key observances on February 28th?
February 28th is celebrated as National Science Day in India, commemorating the discovery of the Raman Effect by physicist C.V. Raman, and Rare Disease Day, aimed at raising awareness about rare diseases and their impact on patients’ lives.
Conclusion
Although the shortest month of the year, February is brimming with significant national and international observances spanning a diverse range of themes and causes. From health awareness campaigns like World Cancer Day and National Deworming Day to celebrations of cultural heritage such as Taj Mahotsav and International Mother Language Day, February offers numerous opportunities for reflection, education, and celebration.
This month also honors influential historical figures like Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln and promotes important social causes through days like International Day of Women and Girls in Science and World Day of Social Justice. As we navigate through February 2024, these important days remind us of our collective responsibilities, the richness of our cultural heritage, and the ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive and informed global community.
