Please note the following dates, understanding that students and colleagues may request temporary absence or annual leave or adjustments to their schedules to accommodate religious observance. All holidays marked with * begin the prior evening.
February
28 February – 1 March: Ramadan (Muslim) Ramadan is a holy month (30 days) of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection for Muslims, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. The month is a time to focus on spiritual growth and charitable giving. During Ramadan many Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Some Muslims will also choose to pray through the night for parts of this month. Lack of food and sleep makes Ramadan a physically demanding time: awareness of this should be shown to Muslim colleagues and students observing the month.
March
5 March: Ash Wednesday (Christian): Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and repentance leading up to Easter. Christians observe this day with prayer and the symbolic application of ashes, reflecting on humility and renewal.
6 March: Ram Navami (Hindu): Celebrates the birth of Lord Ram. Hindus mark this date with prayers, rituals and community gatherings.
14 March – 15 March: Holi (Hindu): Holi, the Festival of Colours, celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated with vibrant colours, music, and gatherings, it’s a joyful day of unity and forgiveness.
20 March: Now-Ruz (Baha’i)*: Now-Ruz is the Baha’i New Year, celebrated on the vernal equinox as a symbol of renewal and hope. Observers mark the day with festive gatherings, prayer, and reflection on the values of peace and unity.
April
31 March – 1 April: Eid al-Fitr (Muslim)*: Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Muslims gather for prayers and celebratory meals with community, family and friends.
13 April – 14 April: Passover (Jewish)* First two days: Passover, or Pesach, commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, celebrating freedom and resilience. Jewish families gather for a Seder meal, retelling the Exodus story and reflecting on themes of justice and liberation.
14 April: Vaisakhi (Sikh): Vaisakhi, marking the harvest season, is also a major religious celebration for Sikhs, commemorating the founding of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh. It is observed with prayer, community gatherings, and processions that honour cultural and spiritual heritage.
The following festivals fall with University closure days, 18 April – 22 April – included for awareness:
18 April: Good Friday (Christian); Great and Holy Friday (Coptic & Eastern Orthodox Christian): Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. Christians mark this solemn day with prayer and reflection.
19 April – 20 April: Passover (Jewish)* Final two days
20 April: Easter Sunday (Christian); Pascha – Easter Day (Coptic & Eastern Orthodox Christian): Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolizing hope and renewal in the Christian faith. It is one of the most significant celebrations across Christian communities. The day is marked by celebratory services and meals.