SPECIAL Earth events during the month of April


April Fools Day  ...for any foolish earthling     April 1st

Traditionally, April Fool's Day is an opportunity for playing jokes or tricks on one another. The stranger and the more absurd the better. The challenge is to carry out a trick that is believable, if only for a little while. Tricks are most successful if played earlier in the day before a person is wise to what is going on. Younger children are also more gullible. Any tricks or jokes must be harmless and in good taste for the unsuspecting "victim". And, we suggest you think twice before pulling one on the boss, even if he or she is know to be of good humor.

Edinburgh Science Festival   International   ...April 1st - 17th

The Edinburgh International Science Festival has been encouraging young minds to understand the world they live in for over 20 years, with thousands of budding Newtons arriving each April to unravel the many mysteries posed in dozens of events at the City Art Centre. And this really is a family learning experience, with hands-on exhibits, presentations and workshops all developed with an aim to give the children that 'wow' moment when something truly amazing is explained to them in a fun, thrilling way. From robots (lots of robots) to computer animation, via the wonders that go on inside the human body, this is complex stuff made simple, and perfect for the family who like to take home a little more than a baseball cap and a key-ring from a day out.

International Tatting Day April 1st

Tatting Day has been celebrated internationally for over a dozen years. April 1st is the International Tatting Day. Tatting is the skill of making delicate, elegant tatted lace. It is enjoyed by thousands of people. On this day, "tatters" around the world have different activities, mostly educational, to celebrate their hobby, and introduce it to others. Often, they celebrate by eating chocolates and making tatted lace.

Celebrated since 1967, this holiday takes place on Hans Christian Andersen's birthday. Each year, a different national section of the International Board on Books for Young People (which sponsors the holiday) chooses a theme as well as an author to write a message and an illustrator to design a poster. Each year the Day is sponsored by a different country member of the International Board on Books for Young People. It decides on a theme and invites an author from that country to write a message to the children of the world and a well-known illustrator to design a poster.This year's theme is "Imagine Nations through Story."

National Circus Day  U.S.A.   April 3rd

Although the beginnings of the circus date back to ancient Rome, the modern circus was first developed in 18th century Europe. In the 1790′s Englishman Johh Bill Ricketts promised to open a circus in the newly formed Unites States, and on April 3, 1793 he produced the first performance in Philadelphia. This early circus emphasized equestrian feats and was geared toward adults unlike today’s family shows.  It's official -- The Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus is calling it quits after 146 years. Their 2017 North American Tour dates are the last chance to see them perform live. Get tickets for the shows BEFORE they sell out -- with no busy signals or waiting rooms!VISIT SARASOTA,  ( http://www.visitsarasota.org/ )  FLORIDA, home of the Ringling Circus Museum.

https://www.ringling.org/circus-museum

Qingming Day  China  April 4th - 5th

The day before Tomb Sweeping Day was the traditional Chinese Cold Food Day. As time passed, the two festivals were gradually combined into one. On the cold food festival day, people used no fire and only ate cold food. Now people in some places still have the custom of eating cold food on Qingming Festival. Different places have different foods for Qingming Festival. The traditional Qingming festival foods include sweet green rice balls, peach blossom porridge, crispy cakes, Qingming snails, and eggs. These foods are usually cooked one or two days before the arrival of the Qingming Festival.

Festival of Beppu ( Hot Springs )  Japan   April 1st - 6th

Hot spring culture has always been existed in the daily life of Japanese society but society in Beppu city simply bring hot spring culture to the another level. Every year at the beginning of April, the local government and the local community in Beppu organize one of the biggest onsen festival in Oita prefecture called Beppu Hatto Onsen Matsuri. The purpose of this festival is to celebrate the richness of hot spring resources and also to show the gratitude of the people in Beppu to God of onsen for the blessing. You could feel the warmness of onsen culture in Beppu city towards this festival for 5 consecutive days! Each day offers different type of event that related to onsen culture in Beppu city

https://xperience.link/en/article/hatto-hot-spring-festival-beppu-ogiyama-fire-festival

national Carrot Day   Earth Event   ...April 4th

The Carrot Day was founded 2003 to spread knowledge about the carrot and its good attributes around the world. The day is increasingly popular and April 4th 2012 carrot celebration was reported from France, Italy, Sweden, Russia, Australia, UK and Japan. A good day to gather your friends into a carrot party. It's an excellent way of celebrating the International Carrot Day. Treat them to carrots as snacks and after that a tasteful carrot cake or some other carrot dish. Recommended drink is carrot juice or carrot drinks and carrot shots. OR enjoy something a bit more devilish ...a home made Carrot Cake !

Newport Restaurant Week  R.I., U.S.A.  1st week of April

Newport Restaurant Week, part of a nationwide movement, debuted here in 2006 as an annual event to encourage both residents and visitors to Newport and Bristol counties to experience the vast culinary talent in our destination at an affordable price. Today, Newport Restaurant Week takes place both in the spring and in the fall with more than 50 participating restaurants offering extraordinary three-course prix fixe lunches for $16 and three-course prix fixe dinners for $35.

http://www.discovernewport.org/restaurants/newport-restaurant-week/

Desert Hearts Music Festival  ( California )  1st Weekend in April

DANCE, DANCE, DANCE to the music .... all night long ! ...“ We’re not afraid to admit we were inspired by Burning Man, but what we do is a little different, starting with the fact that we have just one stage. And Burning Man can be overwhelming with the amount of things going on. At our event, you can make deeper connections because it’s small and you see the same people over the weekend and get to bond with them. Burning Man gets 70,000 people and we get 3,000. We like our size and wouldn’t want to get any bigger. ”

https://www.residentadvisor.net/event.aspx?907682

Tell a Lie Day !  International     April 4th

The truth and nothing but the truth ....TODAY IS, " Tell a Lie Day ".....  if you ever need to tell a lie, today is the day to do so. We don't create these days, we only report them. Why someone would create a day to encourage a person to lie is hard to comprehend. Be that as it may, today is the day to tell lies, big and small. Tomorrow, we can all get back to the virtue of "honesty is the best policy". If you find today a bit discomforting, you can look forward to National Honesty Day later in the month. Don't forget, YOU ARE HUMAN ...It is inherent in the creation of stories that we fib, and this is a day to tell as many whoppers as you can get out. Tell stories about the days of your youth, where you accomplished fantastic deeds with amazing grace, and got away with all the things you really got caught at. This entire day will reminds us that there is a danger to lying constantly, this is the day where you will not be able to trust anything anyone else can say, and that is the danger of a lifetime of duplicity.

Deep Dish Pizza Day  International   April 6th

Pizza lovers far and wide will be making the most of Deep Dish Pizza Day. This is your holiday! But first, let us thank Pizzeria Uno’s founder Ike Sewell, without whom this day wouldn’t exist. He is credited with creating the spectacular deep dish pizza in 1943 in Chicago. This wonderfully tasty pizza, also known as Chicago-style pizza, is characterized by a superb buttery crust that can be as high as 3 inches tall, along with generous amounts of flavorsome sauce, toppings and cheese. On this day, get together with friends or family to visit your favorite pizza restaurant and enjoy a wonderful slice ( or more ) of cheesy goodness.

National Tartan Day   Canada  April 6th

On October 21, 2010, the Minister of Canadian Heritage officially declared April 6 as Tartan Day. It is celebrated on April 6 because it is the anniversary of the signing of Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, the Scottish declaration of independence. In Canada, the day originated in the late 1980s in Nova Scotia, where it was declared an official day by the provincial government. It then spread across the country, with many provinces joining in.


Hung Kings Day   ...Vietnam   ...Various dates in April

Celebrated on April 6, 2017 this year, the official name of the festival is 'Death Anniversary of the Hung Kings'. However the date does not mark the death of any specific Hung King but honors their contribution to Vietnam as the traditional founders of the nation and the first emperors.The first Hùng king was Kinh Dương Vương, who came to power in 2879 BC. He ruled an area covering what is now North Vietnam and part of southern China. The area was called Văn Lang and is regarded as the first nation of the Vietnamese people. Dương Vương founded the Hồng Bàng Dynasty, whose descendants ruled Vietnam until 258 BC.

National Beer Day  U.S.A.   April 7th

On March 22, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, signed into law, the Cullen-Harrision Act. This act, repealed prohibition for beer. Effective April 7, 1933, people cold once more buy, sell and consume beer. The night before, was called " New Beer's Eve "  That night millions of Americans lined up waiting for the stroke of midnight. On April 7, 1993, the fist National Beer Day, Americans consumed 1.5 million barrels of legal beer and ale.

Let's all lift our frothy mugs in celebration on this very special day !

national Coffee Cake Day   USA   April 7th

Coffee cake was not invented, rather they evolved from a variety of different types of cakes. Cakes in their various forms have been around since biblical times, the simplest varieties made from honey or dates and other fruits. The first modern-day coffee cakes are thought to have originated in Germany. These were more like sweet breads than cakes. According to the book ( Listening to America ), Stuart Berg Flexner, it wasn’t until 1879 that the term “coffee cake” became a common term. In Hungary, a type of coffee cake is aranygaluska, which utilizes cinnamon.

National Robotics Week  April 8th-16th

  • Celebrate the US as a leader in robotics technology development
  • Educate the public about how robotics technology impacts society, both now and in the future
  • Advocate for increased funding for robotics technology research and development
  • Inspire students of all ages to pursue careers in robotics and other Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math-related fields
  •  http://www.nationalroboticsweek.org/About

Buddha's Birthday, Australia, Indonesia and elsewhere   April 8th

The Buddha's Birthday is celebrated at Nan Tien Temple in Wollongong Australia and other temples in the Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple group in Australia on the eighth day of the fourth month of the China lunar calendar. In Brisbane there is a weekend-long Buddha Birthday Festival which draws over 200 000 visitors. In Melbourne, the weekend-long Festival is called Buddha's Day and Multicultural Festival. It is held at Federation Square around Apr/May.

http://www.nantien.org.au/buddhas-birthday-festival

National Go-Antique-in Day  U.S.A.  April 9th

Life is never dull if you celebrate it each day. Celebrating with family, friends, and business associates makes any event truly memorable. People who work in the antique business have joined with other interested individuals and agreed upon the importance of having a special day to celebrate antiques. National Cherish an Antique Day, on April 9th, recognizes the tens of thousands of people who buy, sell, repair, appraise, and collect vintage items and antiques. We gather at museums, antique shops, road shows

A.S.P.C.A. DAY    USA   April 10th

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was the first humane society to be established in North America and is, today, one of the largest in the world. Our organization was founded on the belief that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment at the hands of humans and must be protected under the law. We are a privately funded 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, and are proud to boast more than 2 million supporters across the country. The ASPCA’s mission, as stated by founder Henry Bergh in 1866, is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.”

National Siblings Day   U.S.A.  April 10th

National Sibling Day is a day to appreciate and cherish your brothers and sisters. Siblings are truly a special blessing that we probably all too often take for granted. They are often our best friends and supporters through life. Another reason to celebrate is that not everyone is lucky enough to have siblings. Their lives are significantly different growing up, and throughout  life. Celebrate National Sibling Day in a variety of ways. It's a great time to be thankful for your sibling. But, most importantly get in touch with your siblings. Visit them if they live nearby. Call them, if they live far away. Send them a card, a letter, gifts, or flowers.   

International 8-Track-Day   April 11th

Eight Track Tape Day brings back fond memories of the sixties and seventies. During this era, eight track tapes ruled the music world. America's love of the automobile, was a driving force in creating the demand for musical cassette formats. For those who grew up in this era, an eight track tape player in your home and your car was an essential. It was eventually replaced by cassette and other formats for storing music. Eight Track Tape Day is a day to bring back fond memories of the sixties and seventies. If you still have tapes and a player, by all means enjoy the day listening to some great music. If not, just spend a few minutes looking back in time to when you loved your eight track tapes!

National Library Week   USA   2nd Week in April

Libraries Transform is the theme for National Library Week 2017, reminding all Americans that today’s libraries are not just about what they have for people, but what they do for and with people. Libraries are places of creativity where people can meet to share a hobby, use a 3D printer, edit a video, or use software to record their own music. Libraries offer access to the tools, technology and training essential to the economic and cultural lives of their communities.

International Day of Human Space Flight   April 12th

The General Assembly, in its resolution A/RES/65/271 of ( 7 April 2011 ), declared 12 April as the International Day of Human Space Flight “to celebrate each year at the international level the beginning of the space era for mankind, reaffirming the important contribution of space science and technology in achieving sustainable development goals and increasing the well-being of States and peoples, as well as ensuring the realization of their aspiration to maintain outer space for peaceful purposes.” ( 12 April 1961 ) was the date of the first human space flight, carried out by Yuri Gagarin, a Soviet citizen. This historic event opened the way for space exploration for the benefit of all humanity.

International Licorice Day   April 12th

Licorice is an herb that is native to the Mediterranean, southern and central Russia, and Asia Minor to Iran. Many species are now grown throughout Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Licorice contains glycyrrhizic acid, which can cause complications when eaten in large quantities. Many "licorice" products manufactured in the U.S. actually don't contain any licorice. Instead, they contain anise oil, which has the characteristic smell and taste of "black licorice." Licorice is taken by mouth for various digestive system complaints including stomach ulcers, heartburn, colic, and ongoing inflammation of the lining of the stomach ( chronic gastritis ).

The Byron Bay Blues Festival  Australia  April 13th-17th

With nearly 20,000 attendees each day and 200 performances over five days, this isn’t a small festival, but there are few music fests in the world that are more mellow and kick-back than this one. Whether you’re enjoying Ziggy Marley or the Doobie Brothers or Charlie Musselwhite, people come to Bluesfest to relax rather than be raucous. You’re more likely to see a “heritage act” than an up-and-coming musical act. Some have compared Bluesfest to Glastonbury in that they both attract a more mature crowd and have the constant threat of rain turning it into MudFest. Australians (95% of the crowd is from Down Under) call them “gumboots,” but galoshes are readily available in town. You might also buy a small, portable chair in town as sitting on the ground or standing all day can take its toll on your back. Yes, this is a festival meant for comfort, not chaos.

Songkran Festival   Bangkok, Thailand   April 13-15th

Songkran 2016 in Bangkok - Having fun is a big part of Thai culture, and having fun amidst scorching heat is no exception. The hottest month of the year, April sees the entire country go bananas in friendly water fights and street parties that last nearly a week. During Songkran, most office buildings, banks as well as family-run shops and restaurants shut down completely, while big shopping malls usually remain open. Bangkok experiences a mass exodus, as at least half of its residents travel back to their home towns for family re-unions. In their place are tourists, who fly into Bangkok particularly to enjoy one of the most colorful and festive times of the year. Songkran in Thailand is officially observed between the 13th and 15th of April (three days national holiday), although in reality, celebrations often last the entire week!

California Wine Festival   U.S.A.  Mid-April

The California Wine Festival is a showcase of California’s premier wine and culinary professionals.  At each location, the Festival showcases nearly 250 wines from over 70 wineries, 30 of the areas fine dining restaurants, gourmet food companies, and lifestyle exhibitors. The mission of the California Wine Festivals is to promote and celebrate fine wine, foods and lifestyle of California. The California Wine Festival focuses national attention on California’s premier wine producers and culinary professionals.

Pan American Day  ( Week )  The Americas  April 14th

Throughout Pan American Day and Pan American Week, we celebrate the close partnerships across our hemisphere that advance the ability of our citizens to enjoy freedom and reach for their highest aspirations.  Every day, the future is being forged by the countries and peoples of the Americas.  The world must now recognize the Americas as a whole as a dynamic and growing region, because the Americas are democratic and at peace, and we are coming together to address shared challenges.  Increasingly, our hemisphere is contributing to global prosperity and security.  The bonds between our people are rooted not only in mutual respect and shared interests and responsibilities, but also in common values.  As the nations of the Americas continue to grow, progress, and address the challenges of our day, our friendships will be more important than ever to attaining and maintaining security and prosperity for all.

https://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/row/R42639.pdf

 

International McDonald's Burger Day  April 15th

TODAY, is a good day to visit Mikey-D's, no matter where you are on Planet Earth ! ...In 1954, Ray Kroc, a seller of Multimixer milkshake machines, learned that the McDonald brothers were using eight of his machines in their San Bernardino restaurant. His curiosity was piqued, and he went to San Bernardino to take a look at the McDonalds' restaurant. He was joined by good friend Charles Lewis who had suggested to Kroc several improvements to the McDonald's burger recipe. On April 15th 1955, Ray Kroc opened his first McDonald’s – the 9th nationwide – in Des Plaines, Illinois. After that, the restaurant expanded exponentially. By 1956, there were 14 restaurants and over 50 million hamburgers served, by the middle of 1960, there were 228 restaurants and over 400 million hamburgers sold.

World Art Day   Earth Event   April 15th every year !

The history of art begins on that moment, that day, when a human being decided to make a representation of something on a cave wall, a simple drawing of something important in his or her life. People have been creating works of art ever since. This is a great day to visit your local art museum, gallery or commercial art shop. ...Maybe create a work of art yurself ! On April 5-6, 2011, the 17th General Assembly of AIAP / IAA World, holding its meeting in Guadalajara, ( World Art Associations founded in 1954 ) has voted unanimously the proposal brought by Turkey and co-signed by several world delegate countries: the AIAP General Assembly accepted that the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci, April 15, becomes “World Art Day”.

Save the Elephants Day  International  April 16th

Elephant numbers have dropped by 62% over the last decade, and they could be mostly extinct by the end of the next decade. An estimated 100 African elephants are killed each day by poachers seeking ivory, meat and body parts, leaving only 400,000 remaining. An insatiable lust for ivory products in the Asian market makes the illegal ivory trade extremely profitable, and has led to the slaughter of tens of thousands of African elephants. Between 2010 and 2014, the price of ivory in China tripled, driving illicit poaching through the roof.

http://worldelephantday.org/about/elephants

Tortuga Music Festival Fort Lauderdale, Florida  U.S.A.   Mid April

(  APRIL 5th-7th 2017  )  Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in April, at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Founded by Huka Entertainment and the Rock The Ocean Foundation, the annual spring festival aims to raise awareness and support for ocean conservation. A portion of the ticket proceeds go towards helping our oceans. Throughout the years, over $250,000 has been raised for ocean conservation.[1]The festival features multiple stages of live entertainment with a focus on country, rock and a variety of roots of music.       http://www.tortugamusicfestival.com/

The Budapest Spring Festival Hungary Mid April

The Budapest Spring Festival takes place in April each year. Besides Hungarian artists, numerous international stars perform during the two-week event. The largest and most prestigious cultural festival in Budapest attracts many classical music, opera and jazz fans from all around the world. The festival has developed into one of Europe’s major cultural events with a series of opera, concert, ballet and theatrical performances.   http://www.carnifest.com/events/hungary/budapest/267/budapest-spring-festival-2017.aspx

NATIONAL ELLIS ISLAND FAMILY HISTORY DAY    April 17th 

National Ellis Island Family History Day is held annually on April 17th.  “Ellis Island, in Upper New York Bay, was the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States as the nation’s busiest immigrant inspection station from 1892 until 1924.”  On this day in 1907, just under 12,000 names were recorded as passing through Ellis Island.  During all of  1907, over one million immigrants were processed through Ellis Island.  “ Ellis Island Family History Day. ” Under the auspices of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc. and the National Genealogical Society, the day has been set aside annually to recognize the achievements and contributions made to America by Ellis Island immigrants and their descendants. Historically, Over 40% of the U.S. population today -- 100 million Americans – can trace their roots back to the 17 million brave and hopeful immigrants who took their first steps towards freedom and opportunity by going through the “Golden Door” of Ellis Island.

Boston Marathon  Boston, U.S.A.  3rd Monday in April

The Boston Marathon is an annual marathon hosted by several cities in greater Boston in eastern Massachusetts, United States. It is always held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday of April. Begun in 1897, inspired by the success of the first modern-day marathon competition in the 1896 Summer Olympics, the Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon and ranks as one of the world's best-known road racing events. The event attracts 500,000 spectators each year, making it New England's most widely viewed sporting event. Though starting with 18 participants in 1897, the event now attracts an average of about 30,000 registered participants each year, with 30,251 people entering in 2015. The Centennial Boston Marathon in 1996 established a record as the world's largest marathon with 38,708 entrants, 36,748 starters, and 35,868 finishers.

 Patriots Day  State Holiday  U.S.A.  3rd Monday in April

Patriots' Day is a state holiday in Massachusetts and Maine, where state, county, and municipal offices are closed. However, Patriots' Day is not a federal public holiday and federal offices are open. Many schools are closed for the spring break. Stores and other businesses and organizations may be open or closed according to local custom. Most public transit services run to reduced schedules, but may not operate in rural areas. There may be some local disruption to traffic around the re-enactments and sports events, particularly in Boston. Today is also the world famous " Boston Marathon Day " !

World Heritage Day   International   April 18th

The event is marked globally, and each year there’s a theme – this year it’s sustainable tourism. It’s been chosen to tie in with the UN’s International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. World Heritage Day is all about raising awareness of the importance of protecting and preserving various sites around the world that have achieved world heritage status. It’s a chance to inform everyone about the efforts involved to protect and conserve, and just how vulnerable these sites are. Read more: http://metro.co.uk/2017/04/17/world-heritage-day-2017-what-it-is-and-why-is-it-important-6577821/#ixzz4ebUgDaEd

PHOTO: Buddha was enlightened at Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya. The ambience is meditative and serene. It's believed that in 250 BCE, 200 years after Buddha attained enlightenment, Emperor Asoka came to Bodh Gaya and built this Buddhist temple. The holy Bodhi tree lies on the western side of the temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site should also be on your must-visit list if you are a heritage lover.

National Animal Crackers Day   USA   April 18th

In the late 1800s animal shaped cookies were imported to the U.S. from England.  In 1902 animal crackers officially became known as “Barnum’s Animals” and evoked the familiar circus theme of the Barnum and Bailey Circus.  Later that year, the now-familiar box with a string was designed for the Christmas season made to hang from the Christmas tree.  They were a big hit in 1902 and still are today. 54 different animals have been created as animal crackers. The most popular brand, Barnum’s Animal Crackers, has featured 37 different animals since 1902. ...So, go buy a box of ( Animal Crackers ) today ..... enjoy this eating the whole ZOO !

International Bicycle Day   Earth Event   April 19th

This could be a  great day to clean up your bike in the garage, check the air in those old tires, straighten out those handle bars and oil that chain ! If you can, ride your bike to work, a very healthy and great idea ! ...or take it for a spin after work. If this is a weekend day, plan to meet up with some friends on a given bike path and bring a lunch... maybe a basket with some fine wine & cheese. Stopping at a favorite restaurant could make a great adventure, but watch the wine & beer .... it could be a long ride home !

National Get Lucky Day ...USA ...Mid-April

It has been unanimously decided by the administration of this FB Group and by it's non-voting members and other Tax paying FB-Earthfolk on Planet Earth, that on this national tax paying day, let it be known from now on as " NATIONAL GET LUCKY DAY " May that lotto ticket your going to buy bring you wealth ! ...may your tax accountant have great news ! Maybe that Casino is waiting for you ? YES, You've just won a free vacation to Iceland ! ...or maybe that Leprechaun decided to show up a month late .... OR what ever might make your day a REALLY LUCKY DAY ! ..... ENJOY !!!

National Garlic DAy   U.S.A.   April 19th

On this day, put aside your thoughts about having bad breath and indulge in hours of delicious, garlicky goodness – it is " Garlic Day ", a day to recognize this smelly but, flavorfull little clove. The origins of this food- holiday might not be entirely clear, but its purpose is obvious: ...take to the kitchen and celebrate the many uses of garlic by cooking up a feast of festivity! Garlic is related to the onion, shallot, leek, and chive. With a history of use for over 7,000 years, garlic is native to central Asia and has been a staple in the Mediterranean region. It is a frequent food seasoning in Asia, Africa, and Europe. Garlic was well known to Ancient Egyptians and has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes.

International " POUTINE DAY "   ....Earth Event   ....April 20th

ARE YOU CRAVING A FEW CARBS ? ....Poutine, Montreal’s beloved snack and late-night drunk food, gets the pulled pork treatment here. You start by cooking oven fries that—easily enough—you get from the freezer case, then topping with cheese curds and a mound of pulled pork. Ladle gravy over the top, pop the whole thing back in the oven briefly, just enough to melt the cheese, and you and your guests are ready to scarf. For a more leisurely, beefier version of this Canadian classic, check out our Poutine with Beef Gravy

World Creativity and Innovation Day   International   April 21st

World Creativity and Innovation Day is being observed today! It has been observed annually on April 21st since 2001.We all have a capacity to generate new ideas, make new decisions, take new actions and create new outcomes in whatever field we are in, such as dentistry, architecture, culinary, stone masonry, dance, driving truck, forecasting, teaching, you name it. WCIW/D provides a time to inspire new action, create novel ideas, make new decisions; to solve problems in new ways, using a new pair of eyes.Creativity occurs in the arts and beyond. Wouldn’t it be cool to unite in our shared creativeness for one week every year?

Tiradentes Day ( Brazil )   April 21st

Tiradentes Day, on April 21st is a national holiday. It celebrates the execution of a local, Joaquim Jose da Silva Xavier who stood up to Portuguese rule in Brazil by organizing a movement against the government. Because of his anti-government activities he was executed in 1792. He is now considered a hero and the country celebrates during the week leading up to his death.

WORLD-WIDE Earth Day   April 22

Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which day events worldwide are held to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year. The Earth Day is different from the Equinox Earth Day, which falls on March 21. While the Equinox Earth Day marks the day of equinox, which is an astronomical phenomenon, the Earth day promotes environmental awareness among the masses. The idea of an Earth Day was first proposed in 1970 by John McConell at UNESCO's San Francisco conference. Then, the day was proposed to be observed on March 21, at it marked the time of equinox. In 1970, an environment teach-in was observed in United States in on April 22. This Earth Day was limited to the US until 1990, when Denis Hayes promoted it internationally across 141 nations. Since then, the day is observed globally across most nations.

http://www2.erie.gov/environment/index.php?q=rain-barrel-contest

 

National Gardening Month  U.S.A.   Month of April

The National Garden Bureau worked with 23 cosponsoring national horticultural organizations to legislate National Garden Week. Former President Reagan signed the Proclamation April 18, 1986. National Garden Week was first celebrated April 12 to 18, 1987. In 2002, the National Gardening Association resolved to extend the celebration to encompass the entire month of April. National Garden Month was celebrated for the first time in 2003. Every April communities, organizations, and individuals nationwide celebrate gardening during National Garden Month. Gardeners know, and research confirms, that nurturing plants is good for us: attitudes toward health and nutrition improve, kids perform better at school, and community spirit grows. Join the celebration and help to make America a greener, healthier, more livable place!

Tomorrow Land Brazil   Brazil   April 23rd - 26

2017 FESTIVAL HAS BEEN CANCELLED ! ....Tomorrowland Brasil: the world’s biggest electronic music festival returns to South America. With everything from EDM and trance to minimal house and techno, the newest member of the Tomorrowland family blew apart the Brazilian countryside in 2015 – and now it’s back for more. The very biggest DJs in the world will lead an army of visual and staging experts, as close-up performance artists patrol the whole festival area from the Dreamville campsite to the spectacular stages.

http://www.tomorrowlandbrasil.com/en/welcome

World Book and Copyright Day   Earth Event   April 23rd

The World Book and Copyright Day is celebrated every 23rd of April, a symbolic date in remembrance of the deaths of two major authors: William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. By celebrating this Day, UNESCO seeks to promote reading, publishing and the protection of copyright. World Book and Copyright Day is an opportunity to highlight the power of books to promote our vision of knowledge societies that are inclusive, pluralistic, equitable, open and participatory for all citizens. On Monday 24th of April, at the Organization’s Headquarters, UNESCO will organize a series of events, conferences, debates, exhibition, workshops to mark the Day.

Zucchini Bread Day   U.S.A.   April 25th

Wouldn't you have thought ( August 25th ) as better date, when gardens are full of BIG-OL Zucchinis ??? ...The word zucchini comes from Italian “zucca” that means squash. However, zucchini has its ancestry in the Americas. Different varieties of squash were brought to Italy where they were developed into modern zucchini. Later zucchinis were brought back to the USA by Italian immigrants. " Zucchini Bread " appeared only in the 1960s, when the hippie/flowerchild movement was in full swing. Mother Earther's, were looking for healthier natural/organic foods and used fruits and vegetables as alternatives to the sugary frosted layered cakes and sheet cakes. The first breadinvention was banana bread, soon after zucchini and carrot breads also appeared.

The Red Hat Society Day   U.S.A.    April 25th

The Red Hat Society’s primary purpose is social interaction and bonding among women. In the early part of their lives, most women give their all to family, career, and community. And they enjoy it. But, along the way, sometimes their existing bonds of friendship gradually diminish. Membership in the Red Hat Society can be used for reconnecting old friends, making new friends and rediscovering the joy of getting together with other women for the express purpose of having fun. The society promotes periods of "recess" from the cares and duties of everyday life in which members gather for no other purpose than to play.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest  U.S.A.  Last week of April

April 28th - May 7th 2017 .....Jazz fan or not, the annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is the place to celebrate music. During the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May, the Big Easy opens to the page in its history book that’s filled with tribal African beats, harmonic church hymns, and American pop music, filling 12 stages with everything from jazz and blues to rock and folk. This soulful festival has a relaxed vibe, perfect if you want to experience New Orleans culture without the madness of Mardi Gras .

International  Pets & Kids Day  April 26th

This special day, to be celebrated on April 26th annually, was created in 2005 by Celebrity Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert, mother, pet lover and former EMT/Medic, Colleen Paige. National Kids & Pets Day is dedicated to furthering the magical bond between children and animals, to help bring awareness to the plight of pets in shelters awaiting new homes and educating the public about safety between children and pets. "The future of our children and their ability to show compassion toward animals and each other, depends on us, to give them the skills necessary to make the world a better, kinder place to live", says Paige. Children with learning disabilities can greatly increase academic success reading to pets and pets help shy children to open up and feel more confident.

Union Day in Tanzania  April 26th

Union Day is a public holiday in Tanzania that commemorates the unification of Tanganyika and the People's Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba into the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964. It is celebrated on April 26. Active colonization of the mainland of present Tanzania began in the late 19th century, when Germany formed German East Africa. After Germany's defeat in the First World War, it was governed by the United Kingdom. The mainland was governed as Tanganyika, while the Zanzibar Archipelago was a separate protectorate, the Sultanate of Zanzibar.The independence of Tanganyika was proclaimed in 1961. The Sultanate of Zanzibar was granted independence in 1963. In 1964, the Sultan was overthrown during the Zanzibar Revolution. The Sultanate was replaced by the communist People's Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba.

International Admin & Professionals Week  ...End of April

Administrative Professionals Day and Administrative Professionals Week are widely observed in many workplaces in the United States and other countries around the world. Many employers and supervisors arrange events to show their appreciation of the work carried out by administrative professionals, to highlight their importance to the organization and to enhance their work-related skills. National Administrative Professionals’ Day, also known as Secretaries Day or Admin Day,  is observed on the Wednesday of the last full week in April of each year.  It is a day to recognize the work of secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionists and other administrative support professionals.  

NATIONAL PRIME RIB DAY  U.S.A.  April 27th

National Prime Rib Day is celebrated annually on April 27th. Sometimes known as the “King of Meats”, Prime Rib is a choice beef cut from one of the eight primal cuts of beef. It's a day to enjoy one of America's favorite steaks. A prime rib, also known as standing rib roast, is a cut of beef from the primal rib, which is one of the eight primal cuts of beef. A slice of standing rib roast will include portions of the so-called "eye" of the rib as well as the outer, fat-marbled muscle known as the "lip" or "cap".

 

Kings Day   Amsterdam and former islands   April 27th -30th

King's Day is a public holiday but certainly not a day of rest. The Dutch, expats and tourists alike flock to Amsterdam for a day of celebration. The fun traditionally begins on the eve of the big day (King’s Night) with the carnival atmosphere continuing throughout the city on King’s Day. DJs play parties on public squares, brightly decorated boats fill canals and live music spills onto streets from cafe patios. Read more about King’s Day events.

International Astronomy Day   April 28th

Astronomy Day is a day to look up to the stars.  It was established to promote astronomy to the general public. Astronomy clubs and groups use this day to help teach the people about the stars, and other celestial bodies in the universe. These groups take advantage of this day to offer people a view of the stars through a telescope, if possible. A second International Astronomy takes place in the FALL ! There is also an Astronomy Week beginning the Monday before Astronomy Day.  

http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/fun/astronomy-day

International Dance Day   April 29th

World Dance Day or International Dance Day is celebrated annually on 29 April. It was first introduced by the International Dance Council ( CID, Conseil International de la Danse ) in 1982, in collaboration with UNESCO and is aimed at attracting the public's attention to the art of dance and its various forms. CID actively promotes International Dance Day, as it believes that while dance in all its forms has always been an integral part of human culture, over time, the art has been overlooked and given less significance by official organizations across the globe.

Greenery Day  Japan  April 29th

Also known as Greenery Day or 'Midori no Hi', this national holiday began life as a non-holiday. The Japanese holiday law states that a day that falls between two holidays will also be a holiday, and since this day falls between Constitution Memorial Day and Children's Day, it too is a holiday. Until 2007, this date was known as 'In between day' and completed Golden Week. Greenery day was celebrated on 29 April, but that has changed to Showa Day. Before 1989, 29 April had been a holiday to mark the birthday of Emperor Hirohito. After his death in 1989, Greenery Day was established to honour his love for plants and nature.

 

National Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Day  April 30th

National Oatmeal Cookie Day is celebrated each year on April 30.  This day is also often recognized on March 18 in conjunction with National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day.  Oatmeal cookies have been around since the 1800’s.  The cookies quickly became popular, and by early 1900′s a recipe for the delicious treats appeared on containers of Quaker Oats.  Oatmeal cookies are also considered a health food because they are an excellent source of iron and fiber.  Just another reason to have an oatmeal cookie today!

Beltane Festival of Fire   Edinburgh Scotland  April 30th  

While Beltane is the celebration for the coming of summer, you’re not likely to get any summery weather at the end of April in Scotland. Dress for the event if you prefer, but bring a jacket in case you get cold. Watch the pageant. You don’t need to be a believer in ancient Celtic story lines to take in the spectacle and see the story unfold. Imagine what the representations of the Green Man and May Queen meant to pastoral peoples who looked forward to the abundant time of year after a long winter.

https://beltane.org/about/about-beltane/

Walpurgis Night   Walpurgisnacht   April 30th

What better way to see out April than on a mountain top in the company of witches and warlocks. According to local mythology, said witches and warlocks gather on Walpurgisnacht (which takes its name from Saint Walburga, whose feast day is 1 May) at locations throughout the Harz Mountains before flying off to 1142m Brocken on broomsticks or goats. There they recount the year’s evil deeds and top off the stories with a bacchanalian frenzy, said to represent copulation with the devil.Young women should be kissed past midnight ( and during the following day ) under a cherry tree. They "will not dry up" for an entire year. The First of May is celebrated then as "the day of those in love". In the Middle Ages, the administrative year ended on 30 April. Accordingly, this was a day of festivity among the merchants and craftsmen of the town, with trick-or-treat, dancing and singing in preparation for the forthcoming celebration of spring. 

http://www.gothichorrorstories.com/pagans-and-heathens/pagan

 International Jazz Day  Earth-wide !   April 30th

In November 2011, the UNESCO General Conference proclaimed April 30th  as "International Jazz Day". This Day is intended to raise awareness in the international community of the virtues of jazz as an educational tool, and a force for peace, unity, dialogue and enhanced cooperation among people. Many governments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and private citizens currently engaged in the promotion of jazz music will embrace the opportunity to foster greater appreciation not only for the music but also for the contribution it can make to building more inclusive societies. JAZZ is considered a very historic and important " AMERICAN " music venue

 

Holocaust & Heroism Remembrance day  International April - May

Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG'vurah  "Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day"), known colloquially in Israel and abroad as Yom HaShoah  and in English as Holocaust Remembrance Day, or Holocaust Day, is observed as Israel's day of commemoration for the approximately six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust as a result of the actions carried out by Nazi Germany and its accessories, and for the Jewish resistance in that period. In Israel, it is a national memorial day. It was inaugurated in 1953, anchored by a law signed by the Prime Minister of Israel David Ben-Gurion and the President of Israel Yitzhak Ben-Zvi. It is held on the 27th of Nisan (April/May), unless the 27th would be adjacent to the Jewish Sabbath, in which case the date is shifted by a day

SunFest West Palm Beach, Florida  5-days end of April

Founded in 1982, SunFest is Florida’s largest waterfront music and art festival. Held annually in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida the first week in May, SunFest attracts more than 175,000 visitors. SunFest takes place in downtown West Palm Beach along Florida’s Inter-coastal Waterway, extending along Flagler Drive from Banyan Boulevard to Lakeview Avenue. SunFest is a 5-day music festival. General tickets are not day specific – so that means come the day you want or come multiple days in the case of 2-day and 5-day tickets which are the best deal.