Today@Dal

See below for a sample of dates to observe, reflect, celebrate or promote throughout the university community. The full calendar is available on the website, http://www.dal.ca/dept/dalrespect/about/calendar.html

August 15
National Acadian Day
This day recognizes Acadians who, in view of their origin, history, and development, constitute the first permanent settlement from France in Canada and now reside in most of the provinces and territories of Canada. It also celebrates the contributions of the Acadian people, for nearly 400 years, to the economic, cultural, and social vitality of Canada and allows Acadians to share their rich historical and cultural heritage with the rest of Canadians allowing them to become more familiar with all its aspects, both traditional and contemporary of the Acadian tradition.

Ullambana / Ghost festival (BU)
The Buddhist origins of the Ullambana Festival can be traced back to a story that originally came from India. In the Ullambana Sutra, we find an account of how the Buddha taught Mahāmaudgalyāyana to help his mother who was suffering in the lower realm of the Hungry Ghosts. On Ullambana, Mahayana Buddhists make offerings to the Triple Gem (the Buddha, the Dharma/Teachings, and the Sangha or the monastic community) on behalf of ancestors.

August 18
Raksha Bandhan (HI)
This festival celebrates the emotional relationship between a brother and a sister. On this auspicious day, the sisters tie Rakhi (a decorated thread) on their brother's wrist and pray for their well-being and the brothers take pledge to protect their sisters from all the harms and troubles.
August 20

Asma’ (BA)
The ninth month of the Baha’i calendar begins.