LACOE’s commemorative calendar recognizes and celebrates months, weeks and days that hold special importance for our educational communities in Los Angeles County. These events honor the identities, cultures and beautiful diversity of our communities. These events also underscore our commitment to fostering positive, affirming and inclusive learning and working environments in education.
The calendar serves as a resource for school districts to support planning and celebrating diverse identities. Religious holidays are listed to support scheduling and minimize conflicts for all staff and families, and not to endorse any religion, or belief or nonbelief in general. All religious convictions, as well as nonbelief, should be treated with fairness and respect.
The calendar draws from multiple sources including the California Department of Education (CDE), Board of Education resources, universities’ resources and calendars and the Museum of Tolerance.
Explore LACOE’s commemorative calendar to stay informed and engaged in the meaningful initiatives and events that reflect our vibrant community, shared humanity and shape our educational landscape.
The omission of any major holiday is not intended. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact LACOE’s Public Affairs and Communications department at communications@lacoe.edu.
National Human Trafficking Awareness Month
National Human Trafficking Awareness Month raises awareness about the global issue of human trafficking and advocating for its prevention. This month serves as a platform to educate the public, support survivors and mobilize efforts to combat human trafficking.
New Year's Day
Jan 01, 2024
New Year's Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and the start of a new year
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed Janaury 1, 2024
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Jan 15, 2024
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a federal holiday that honors the life and legacy of a key figure in the American civil rights movement. Celebrated on the third Monday of January, this day promotes reflection on Dr. King's commitment to equality, justice and nonviolent activism. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day continues to inspire ongoing efforts to address societal injustices and promote unity.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed on January 15, 2024
Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties
and the Constitution
Jan 30, 2024
Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution honors the legacy of Fred Korematsu, a Japanese American who resisted internment during World War II. Celebrated on January 30th, this day highlights his fight for racial equity, social justice and human rights for all.
National African American History Month
National African American History Month recognizes and celebrates the profound contributions of African Americans throughout history. This month acknowledges the achievements, struggles and resilience of the African American community, fostering a deeper understanding of their impact on
American society.
National School Counseling Week
Feb 5 – 9, 2024
National School Counseling Week, observed annually from February 5 to 9, celebrates and recognizes the significant role of school counselors in fostering academic success, personal development, as well as college and career readiness for students. This week highlights the dedication and impact of school counselors in creating a positive and supportive learning environment, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to our education communities.
Presidents’ Day
Feb 19, 2023
Presidents Day, observed on the third Monday of February, is a federal holiday in the United States that honors George Washington's and Abraham Lincoln's birthdays. Originally established to celebrate Washington's birthday, it has evolved into a day to recognize and honor all U.S. presidents.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed February 19, 2024
National Women's History Month
National Women's History Month celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of women throughout American history. This month highlights the pivotal role women have played in shaping society, inspiring future generations and promoting gender equality.
Arts Education Month in California / Youth Arts Month
Arts Education Month in California and Youth Arts Month highlight the pivotal role of the arts in fostering creativity, expression and a well-rounded education for young individuals. This month underscores the significance of arts education in shaping the next generation's cognitive, social and emotional development, advocating for the integration of the arts into comprehensive educational curricula.
National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month is dedicated to promoting healthy eating habits and nutritional wellbeing for students and our school communities. This month encourages individuals to make informed food choices, adopt balanced diets and embrace a lifestyle that contributes to overall health and wellness.
National Social Work Month
National Social Work Month celebrates and recognizes the invaluable contributions of social workers in enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities. This month serves as a tribute to their dedication, advocacy and tireless efforts in addressing societal challenges and supporting those in need.
Read Across America Day
Mar 02, 2024
Read Across America Day, celebrated annually on March 2, encourages individuals of all ages to embrace the joy of reading. This day promotes the importance of literacy and education, inspiring a lifelong love for books and learning in communities across the United States.
Anniversary of Boston Massacre and Death of
Crispus Attucks
Mar 05, 2024
The Anniversary of the Boston Massacre and Death of Crispus Attucks marks a pivotal moment in American history, honoring Crispus Attucks—an African and Native American whaler, sailor and stevedore. Traditionally recognized as the first person killed in the Boston Massacre, he is also acknowledged as the first American casualty in the American Revolution.
International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Mar 21, 2024
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is an annual observance that commemorates the Sharpeville, South Africa demonstration in 1960. During this event, police fired on protesters opposing apartheid laws, resulting in 69 deaths and 180 injuries.
Good Friday
Mar 29, 2024
Good Friday is a significant religious holiday commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. This holiday holds profound importance in Christianity and is observed the Friday before
Easter Sunday.
Cesar Chavez Day
Mar 31, 2024
Cesar Chavez Day celebrates and honors the legacy of the civil rights and labor leader, Cesar Chavez, who championed the rights of farmworkers in the United States. Celebrated on March 31st, the day serves as a reminder of Chavez's tireless advocacy for social justice, fair labor practices and the enduring impact of grassroots movements in shaping a more equitable society.
National Arab American Heritage Month
National Arab American Heritage Month celebrates and honors the rich cultural contributions and diverse heritage of Arab Americans in the United States. This month highlights the achievements and resilience of the Arab American community, fostering understanding and appreciation of their unique contributions to American society.
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
National Child Abuse Prevention Month is dedicated to raising awareness and preventing child abuse through education, community engagement and support for families. This month emphasizes the collective responsibility to create safe, nurturing and supportive environments for children, advocating for measures that promote their well-being and protect them from harm.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month/Denim Day
Apr 24, 2024
Sexual Assault Awareness Month focuses on raising awareness about sexual violence, promoting education and supporting survivors. Denim Day, recognized on April 24, is a day of solidarity and serves as a powerful reminder to challenge misconceptions around sexual assault and stand against victim-blaming.
Eid al-Fitr
Apr 10, 2024
Eid al-Fitr is a joyous Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Families come together for festive meals and prayers, celebrating the culmination of a month of spiritual reflection.
Dolores Huerta Day
Apr 12, 2024
Dolores Huerta Day celebrates and honors the contributions of feminist, labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers. Celebrated on April 10th, this day highlights Huerta's dedication to workers' rights, gender equality and social justice.
Day of Silence
Apr 12, 2024
Day of Silence, observed annually, raises awareness about the impact of bullying and harassment on the LGBTQ+ community, encouraging participants to take a vow of silence to symbolize the silencing effect of discrimination.
Earth Day
Apr 22, 2024
Earth Day, observed annually on April 22nd, is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting collective action to protect the planet. This day serves as a call to action, inspiring individuals and communities worldwide to engage in sustainable practices, advocate for environmental conservation and work towards a healthier and more sustainable future.
Passover
Apr 23, 2023
Passover is a significant Jewish festival that commemorates the exodus of the Israelites from ancient Egypt. This eight-day-long holiday is a time for reflection, storytelling and observance of traditional rituals.
April 23,24, 2024* (first 2 days)
April 29,30, 2024* (last 2 days)
Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day
Apr 24, 2024
Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day honors the victims of the Armenian genocide of 1915. Observed on April 24th, this day serves as a global reminder of the atrocities committed, fostering awareness and advocating for recognition and prevention of genocide worldwide.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrates the diverse cultures, contributions and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Observed in May, this month fosters cultural understanding, highlights the rich heritage of these communities and promotes inclusivity in acknowledging their profound impact on American society.
National Mental Health Month
National Mental Health Month emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, destigmatization and supporting our school communities. This month encourages open conversations, educates communities about mental health issues and advocates for accessible resources to ensure the wellbeing of all, including our students and staff, facing mental health challenges.
National Foster Care Month
National Foster Care Month highlights the needs and experiences of children in foster care while acknowledging the dedication of foster parents, social workers and advocates. This month serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children in the foster care system and encourages support for policies and initiatives that enhance their wellbeing and prospects for a stable, loving home.
May Day
May 01, 2024
May Day, observed annually on May 1, is a historic and international celebration that honors workers' rights and advocates for fair labor practices. This day serves as a reminder of the achievements made by the labor movement and highlights ongoing efforts to promote social and economic justice for workers around the world.
El Dia del Maestro or Day of the Teacher
May 08, 2024
El Día del Maestro, or Day of the Teacher, is a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating the contributions of educators. This day recognizes the vital role teachers play in shaping the future, promoting education and fostering a positive impact on our students and communities.
National School Nurse Day
May 08, 2024
National School Nurse Day highlights the critical role school nurses play in supporting the health and wellbeing of our students. This day recognizes their expertise, dedication and contributions to creating a safe and nurturing environment for students' academic success.
Classified School Employees Week
May 19 – 25, 2024
Classified School Employees Week highlights the invaluable contributions made by non-teaching staff, such as custodians, clerical workers, and paraprofessionals, to the overall functioning and success of schools. This week honors their hard work, dedication and the essential role they play in creating a positive and supportive educational environment for students.
Harvey Milk Day
May 22, 2024
Harvey Milk Day celebrates and honors the life and contributions of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California who was assissinated in 1978. Celebrated on May 22nd, this day serves as a symbol of LGBTQ+ rights and equality, promoting awareness and understanding while acknowledging Milk's role in advocating for social justice and acceptance.
LGBTQIA+ Pride Month
LGBTQIA+ Pride Month celebrates and honors the diverse identities within the LGBTQIA+ community and commemorates the historical milestones in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. This month promotes visibility, inclusivity and advocacy for equal rights, fostering a more accepting and understanding society for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Immigrant Heritage Month
Immigrant Heritage Month recognizes and honors the contributions of immigrants to the cultural and social fabric of the United States. This month provides an opportunity to appreciate the diversity and enriching impact of immigrant communities, fostering understanding and promoting a more inclusive and welcoming society.
Juneteenth
Jun 19, 2024
Juneteenth is a federal holiday celebrated on June 19th, that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States in 1865. This day symbolizes freedom, resilience and the ongoing pursuit of equality, serving as a reminder of the nation's commitment to justice and the continuous work towards racial equity.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed June 19, 2024
Independence Day
Jul 04, 2024
Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th, marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in the United States.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed July 4, 2024
Attendance Awareness Month
Attendance Awareness Month emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistent school attendance for academic success and overall student well-being. Observed in September, this month encourages school communities and parents to collaborate in fostering a positive environment that values and prioritizes regular attendance, thereby laying the foundation for students' academic success.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, honors the rich cultural, historical and societal contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States. This month provides an opportunity for reflection, education and appreciation of the diverse heritage that has profoundly shaped American society.
California Native American Day
Sep 27, 2024
California's Native American Day holds significant cultural and historical importance as it honors and recognizes the rich heritage, contributions and resilience of the state's Native American communities. This observance fosters understanding, respect and awareness of their diverse cultures, promoting unity and acknowledging the enduring impact of indigenous peoples on California's past and present.
Filipino American History Month
Filipino American History Month celebrates the significant contributions and diverse heritage of Filipino Americans to the cultural tapestry of the United States. This month serves as a platform for recognizing historical milestones, promoting awareness of Filipino-American achievements and fostering a deeper understanding of their enduring impact on American society.
Head Start Awareness Month
Head Start Awareness Month, observed in October, highlights the Head Start program's role in providing comprehensive early childhood education and support to children from low-income families. This month highlights the program's positive impact on the lives of young learners, emphasizing the importance of early education in fostering academic success and lifelong wellbeing.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
National Disability Employment Awareness Month highlights the contributions of individuals with disabilities to the workforce and promotes inclusive employment practices. Observed in October, this month encourages businesses and communities to recognize the value and skills that people with disabilities bring to the workplace, fostering a more diverse and equitable work environment.
National Dropout Prevention Month
National Dropout Prevention Month focuses on addressing and preventing student dropout rates, emphasizing the importance of education and supporting students exhibiting dropout tendencies. Observed in November, this month aims to mobilize school communities and policymakers to collaborate to create a positive and supportive educational environment, ultimately reducing dropout rates and ensuring academic success for all students.
Rosh Hashanah
Oct 03, 2024
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a sacred holiday marked by reflection, prayer and festive meals. Celebrated in the fall, it is a time for introspection and spiritual renewal.
October 3-4, 2024*
Clean Air Day
Oct 04, 2024
California's Clean Air Day is an annual celebration that emphasizes collective efforts to improve air quality and reduce pollution throughout the state. This day encourages individuals and school communities to pledge to engage in sustainable practices and promote awareness of the impact of air quality on public health.
National Coming Out Day
Oct 11, 2024
National Coming Out Day, celebrated annually on October 11th, is a day of empowerment, visibility and celebration of belonging for and with LGBTQIA+ individuals. This day embodies authenticity and unity, honoring the journey of self-discovery and the freedom of being true to oneself.
Yom Kippur
Oct 12, 2024
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement in Judaism, is a solemn occasion for reflection, prayer and seeking forgiveness. Observed on the tenth day of the Jewish month of Tishrei, it is a significant day of repentance and spiritual renewal.
October 12, 2024*
Digital Citizenship Week
Oct 12 – 20, 2024
Digital Citizenship Week promotes the responsible and ethical use of technology, emphasizing online safety, digital literacy and respectful online behavior. Observed annually, this week encourages individuals and school communities to cultivate positive online habits.
Week of the School Administrator
Oct 13, 2024
The Week of the School Administrator recognizes the essential role school administrators play in shaping and sustaining positive learning environments. Celebrated annually, this week honors their leadership and dedication to our students, supporting the overall success of schools in L.A. County.
October 13–19, 2024*
Spirit Day
Oct 13, 2024
Spirit Day, observed annually on the third Thursday of October, promotes inclusivity, acceptance, and raises awareness about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a more supportive and tolerant society. This day is dedicated to standing against bullying and supporting LGBTQ+ youth, encouraging participants to wear purple as a symbol of solidarity.
Larry Itliong Day
Oct 25, 2024
Larry Itliong Day honors the life and legacy of the Filipino-American labor leader pivotal to the United Farm Workers movement. This day promotes awareness of the Filipino-American struggle for workers' rights and underscores the importance of unity and diversity in the ongoing pursuit of social justice.
Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) and Native American Day are meant to highlight and celebrate the history and achievements of Native, American Indian, Alaska Native, Tribal Nations, Inuit, Métis, First Nations, Aboriginal and Indigenous peoples. It honors the history of Indigenous rights fought and won despite federal, state, and local policies of assimilation, displacement and genocide. NAHM was first celebrated in 1986, centering around the week of November 23 to 30.
California Sikh American Awareness and
Appreciation Month
California's Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month celebrate and recognize the contributions and cultural richness of the Sikh American community in the state. This observance fosters understanding, promotes cultural diversity and supports religious freedom and equal civil and human rights for all people.
National Homeless Youth Awareness Month
National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, observed in November, sheds light on the challenges faced by homeless youth and aims to raise awareness about their needs and vulnerabilities. This month encourages communities to come together, advocate for solutions and support programs that address the unique struggles of homeless youth.
Diwali
No 01, 2024
Diwali, or Deepavali, is the Hindu Festival of Lights, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrated globally, it includes lighting lamps, sharing meals and exchanging gifts, with participation from Sikhs and Jains as well.
November 1, 2024*
Veterans Day
Nov 11, 2024
Veterans Day, observed on November 11th, honors military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed on November 11, 2024
United Against Hate Week
Nov 12, 2024
United Against Hate Week, observed annually from November 12 to 18, fosters solidarity and promotes inclusivity, encouraging communities to stand together against discrimination, bigotry and hate. This week serves as a reminder to embrace diversity, cultivate understanding and work collectively towards building a more tolerant and harmonious society.
Transgender Day of Remembrance
Nov 20, 2024
Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed annually on November 20, honors the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence and discrimination. This day raises awareness about the challenges faced by the transgender community, advocating for a world that respects and protects the rights and dignity of every individual.
In lieu of Admission Day
Nov 27, 2024
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed November 27, 2024
Thanksgiving
Nov 28, 2024
Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States, is a national holiday dedicated to expressing gratitude and sharing a feast with family and friends.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed November 28 – 29, 2024
National Special Education Day
Dec 02, 2024
National Special Education Day, observed on December 2nd, celebrates and recognizes the contributions and unique needs of students with disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive education, advocating for equal opportunities and support to ensure the success and well-being of all learners.
International Migrants Day
Dec 18, 2024
International Migrants Day, observed on December 18, recognizes the rights and contributions of migrants worldwide, emphasizing the importance of humane and inclusive migration policies. This day serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by migrants and advocates for policies that ensure their dignity, safety and fair treatment.
Christmas Eve
Dec 24, 2024
Christmas Eve, celebrated on December 24th, is a Christian observance that anticipates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is often marked by festive gatherings, candlelight services, and the exchange of gifts.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed December 24, 2024*
Christmas Day
Dec 25, 2024
Christmas Day, observed on December 25th, is a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is widely celebrated with festive traditions, including gift-giving, feasts, and religious services.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed December 25, 2024*
New Year's Eve
Dec 24, 2024
New Year's Eve, celebrated on December 31st, marks the transition from the old year to the new one. It is often observed with festive gatherings, fireworks and various cultural traditions worldwide.
LACOE Observance, offices will be closed December 31, 2024*
