Numerous religious, civil, cultural, and personal observances are marked with a special image and message on Off on a Tangent. Generally, these include:
- Religious observances in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington
- Holy Days of Obligation
- Days of Fasting and Abstinence
- Principal celebrations and other solemnities
- Other selected observances
- Civil observances in Loudoun County, Virginia
- United States federal holidays
- Commonwealth of Virginia holidays
- Loudoun County holidays
- Other selected observances
- Personal, family, and cultural observances
- One-off observances declared by religious and civil authorities
Observances may be excluded if they commemorate morally objectionable people or events. The following observances are currently scheduled (subject to change).
January 1, 2024: Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
Celebrating the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Christ and, thus, of God.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Adoration of the Lamb by Jan van Eyck (public domain)
January 1, 2024: New Year’s Day
Celebrating the new year. May God bless and keep you in 2024!
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: A Champagne Cheers! by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
January 4, 2024: Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Remembering the educator, convert, and first American-born canonized saint.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (used by permission)
January 7, 2024: Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Celebrating the visit of the Three Wise Men and the revelation of Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Adoration of the Magi by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
January 15, 2024: Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.
Celebrating Rev. Dr. King, the civil rights movement, and racial equality.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
(a.k.a. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
Image: Martin Luther King Jr. by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
January 22, 2024: Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
Celebrating the dignity of every person from conception. Every life matters.
Catholic Observance
Image: Pro-Life Flag by the Pro-Life Flag Project (used by permission)
February 1, 2024: National Freedom Day
Celebrating the 13th Amendment and the end of slavery in the United States.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: 13th Amendment by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
February 10, 2024: Chinese New Year (農曆新年)
Celebrating the beginning of the Year of the Wood Dragon. 恭喜發財!
Cultural Observance
Image: Bright Yellow Fireworks... by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
February 14, 2024: Ash Wednesday
Beginning the season of Lent. “You are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Catholic Day of Fasting and Abstinence
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: Cross of Ashes by Jennifer Balaska (public domain)
February 19, 2024: Washington’s Birthday
Celebrating George Washington, one of the founders and the first U.S. President.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
(a.k.a. George Washington Day)
Image: George Washington by Gilbert Stuart (public domain)
February 19, 2024: Presidents Day
Celebrating those who have served as President of the United States.
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: U.S. Presidential Flag (public domain)
March 4, 2024: Trevor Brown Memorial
Honoring the memory of Sterling, Virginia, Volunteer Firefighter Trevor Brown.
Special Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff in Virginia from sunrise to sunset
Image: Half Mast Flag USA Consolate by Juliette Kober (Pixabay License)
March 19, 2024: Solemnity of Saint Joseph
Celebrating Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and stepfather of Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Joseph with the Infant Jesus by Guido Reni (public domain)
March 24, 2024: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Remembering Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem, anticipating his passion and death.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Palm Sunday in Moscow by Vyacheslav Schwarz (public domain)
March 28, 2024: Thursday of Holy Week
Remembering Jesus’s last supper and the institution of the Holy Eucharist.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday)
Image: The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (public domain)
March 29, 2024: Friday of the Passion of the Lord
Remembering Christ’s suffering and death on the cross in remittance of our sins.
Catholic Day of Fasting and Abstinence
Liturgical Color: Red
(a.k.a. Good Friday)
Image: Christ at the Cross by Bronzino (public domain)
March 30, 2024: Holy Saturday
Remembering Christ in the tomb and the silence before resurrection glory.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: Jesus at the Tomb by Vladimir Borovikovsky (public domain)
March 30, 2024: James C. Ward Memorial
Honoring the memory of Virginia Department of Forestry Firefighter James C. Ward.
Special Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff in Virginia from sunrise to sunset
Image: Half Mast Flag USA Consolate by Juliette Kober (Pixabay License)
March 31, 2024: Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord
Celebrating Easter, Christ’s triumph over death and sin. He is risen!
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Easter)
Image: Resurrection of Christ by Noël Coypel (public domain)
April 4, 2024: Memorial of Saint Isidore
Remembering Isidore of Seville, teacher, bishop, and doctor of the church.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Isidor of Sevilla by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
April 8, 2024: Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
Celebrating the announcement of Christ to Mary by the Angel Gabriel.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: The Annunciation by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
April 11, 2024: My Confirmation Day
Celebrating Confirmation, the sign and seal of the Holy Spirit.
Personal Observance
Image: Confirmation by Nicolas Poussin (public domain)
April 13, 2024: Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday
Honoring Jefferson, founder, author of the Declaration of Independence.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Thomas Jefferson by Rembrandt Peale (public domain)
April 16, 2024: Virginia Tech Shooting Memorial
Honoring the memory of the 32 people killed in the Virginia Tech shooting 17 years ago today.
Special Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff in Virginia from sunrise to sunset
Image: Half Mast Flag USA Consolate by Juliette Kober (Pixabay License)
May 2, 2024: National Day of Prayer
Turning to God in prayer, fasting, and meditation for our nation and the world.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
Image: Prayer Hands Church Light Religion by Himsan (Pixabay License)
May 3, 2024: Polish Constitution Day
Celebrating the 1791 Polish constitution and Polish culture and history.
Cultural Observance
Image: Constitution of May 3, 1791 by Jan Matejko (public domain)
May 5, 2024: National Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Honoring the memory of firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Special Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: Half Mast Flag USA Consolate by Juliette Kober (Pixabay License)
May 12, 2024: Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
Celebrating the ascent of Christ, body and soul, to the father’s side in heaven.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Ascension by John Singleton Copley (public domain)
May 15, 2024: Peace Officers Memorial Day
Remembering all those who gave their lives in law enforcement service.
U.S. Federal Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: Law Enforcement by Igor Ovsyannykov (Pixabay License)
May 19, 2024: Solemnity of Pentecost
Commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the church.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Pentecôte by Jean II Restout (public domain)
May 26, 2024: Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Celebrating the Trinity, one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Holy Trinity by Peter Paul Rubens (public domain)
May 27, 2024: Memorial Day
Remembering all those who gave their lives in United States military service.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to noon
Image: Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers by SGT Erica Vinyard (public domain)
May 28, 2024: My Wedding Anniversary
Honoring my marriage and the inviolable Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.
Personal Observance
Image: Wedding Photo by David Greedy (used by permission)
June 2, 2024: Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Celebrating Christ’s sacrifice and the Holy Eucharist.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Corpus Christi or Body of Christ)
Image: Fronleichnamsprozession by Carl Emil Doepler (public domain)
June 7, 2024: Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Celebrating Christ’s Sacred Heart, a symbol of his love for all people.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Sacred Heart of Jesus (public domain)
June 14, 2024: Flag Day
Celebrating the American flag as a timeless symbol of freedom and liberty.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Close-Up of the United States Flag by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
June 19, 2024: Juneteenth National Independence Day
Celebrating the emancipation and the end of slavery in the United States.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
(a.k.a. Juneteenth)
Image: Juneteenth Emancipation Day Celebration by Grace Murray Stephenson (public domain)
June 22, 2024: Memorial of Saint Thomas More
Remembering Thomas More, philosopher and statesman, martyr for the faith.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Sir Thomas More by Hans Holbein the Younger (public domain)
June 24, 2024: Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Celebrating the birth of John the Baptist, holy precursor of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: John the Baptist in the Desert by Cristofano Allori (public domain)
June 29, 2024: Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul
Celebrating Peter, apostle and first pope, and Paul, apostle and scripture writer.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Saint Paul and Saint Peter by El Greco (public domain)
July 4, 2024: Independence Day
Celebrating U.S. independence from England as declared on July 4, 1776.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: U.S. Declaration of Independence (reproduction) by William Stone (public domain)
July 12, 2024: Memorial of Saint Veronica
Remembering Veronica and the miraculous image of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Veronica with the Veil by Mattia Preti (public domain)
August 13, 2024: Memorial of Blessed Michael J. McGivney
Remembering the defender of the needy and founder of the Knights of Columbus.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Father McGivney by John Tierney (public domain)
August 14, 2024: Memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Remembering the priest and martyr of charity who offered up his life for another.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Maximilian Kolbe (public domain)
August 15, 2024: Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary
Celebrating Mary’s assumption into heaven by the power of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Assumption of Mary by Titian (public domain)
September 2, 2024: Labor Day
Celebrating laborers’ essential contributions to American prosperity.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Labor Day Parade, Union Square, New York, 1882 (public domain)
September 11, 2024: Patriot Day
Remembering the victims of the September 11, 2001, Islamist terrorist attacks.
U.S. Federal Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: World Trade Center Cross by Andreas Meck (public domain)
September 16, 2024: Mayflower Day
Remembering the Mayflower pilgrims’ 1620 arrival in Massachusetts.
Cultural Observance
Image: The Mayflower at Sea by A.S. Burbank (public domain)
September 17, 2024: Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
Celebrating the U.S. Constitution and citizens by birth or naturalization.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
Image: U.S. Constitution by U.S National Archives (public domain)
September 17, 2024: Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋節)
Celebrating the mid-autumn, a time of gathering, thanksgiving, and prayer.
Cultural Observance
Image: Mooncake Mini Pastry by Cedric Yong (Pixabay License)
October 1, 2024: Memorial of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus
Honoring the faith of the “little flower,” virgin and doctor of the church.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Therese as a Novice (public domain)
October 9, 2024: Leif Erikson Day
Honoring Leif Erikson, explorer and first known European to discover America.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Leif Erikson Discovers America by Hans Dahl (public domain)
October 12, 2024: Memorial of Blessed Carlo Acutis
Honoring the first “millennial” saint and patron of website development.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Foto del Venerabile Carlo Acutis (used by permission)
October 14, 2024: Columbus Day
Honoring Christopher Columbus and the European discovery of the Americas.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
(a.k.a. Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day)
Image: Landing of Columbus by John Vanderlyn (public domain)
October 14, 2024: Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Celebrating the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Powhatan's Mantle (public domain)
October 19, 2024: Yorktown Day
Celebrating the U.S. victory over the British at the Battle of Yorktown.
Virginia State Observance
Image: Surrender of Lord Cornwallis by John Trumbull (public domain)
October 28, 2024: Feast of Saints Simon and Jude
Honoring Simon, apostle, and Jude, apostle and patron saint of lost causes.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Simon Ivraren med sitt helgonattribut: sågen (public domain); The Apostle Judas Thaddeus by Anthony van Dyck (public domain)
October 28, 2024: My Birthday
Today is the anniversary of my birth. Hooray. Three cheers.
Personal Observance
Image: Lit Colorful Striped Birthday Candles by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
November 1, 2024: Solemnity of All Saints
Honoring all of the known and unknown saints who have gone to glory before us.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: The Forerunners of Christ with Saints and Martyrs by Fra Angelico (public domain)
November 5, 2024: Election Day
Go vote (if you are eligible). Today is election day in the United States.
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: 'Vote' Political Button by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA); 1968 Republican National Convention by the Florida State Archives (public domain)
November 11, 2024: Veterans Day
Celebrating all those who served honorably in the United States armed forces.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Iwo Jima Veterans by LCpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot (public domain)
November 24, 2024: Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Celebrating Christ’s kingship and his dominion over the whole universe.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Christ the King)
Image: Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert van Eyck (public domain)
November 28, 2024: Thanksgiving Day
Giving thanks to God for all that we have as individuals and as a nation.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: The First Thanksgiving by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris (public domain)
November 29, 2024: Day After Thanksgiving
Continuing to give thanks for all that we have as individuals and as a nation.
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Autumn Avenue by jplenio (Pixabay License)
December 1, 2024: First Sunday of Advent
Beginning a season of penance in preparation for the coming of Christ.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: The Annunciation (Advent) by Paolo de Matteis (public domain)
December 7, 2024: National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Remembering the December 7, 1941, Imperial Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: USS Arizona Burning by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
December 9, 2024: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary
Celebrating God’s preservation of the Blessed Virgin Mary from original sin.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Inmaculada Concepción by Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante (public domain)
December 12, 2024: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Celebrating the image of Mary revealed on Tepeyac Hill in Mexico City, Mexico.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Virgen de Guadalupe (public domain)
December 15, 2024: Bill of Rights Day
Celebrating the U.S. Bill of Rights, human rights, and limited government.
Virginia State Observance
Image: The Bill of Rights by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
December 20, 2024: My Baptism Day
Celebrating the Sacrament of Baptism, rebirth into new life as a Christian.
Personal Observance
Image: The Baptism of the Neophytes by Masaccio (public domain)
December 25, 2024: Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
Celebrating Christmas, the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Christmas)
Image: The Adoration of the Shepherds by Gerard van Honthorst (public domain)
December 25, 2024: Christmas Day
Celebrating the cultural and religious Christmas holiday.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Church Candles by S. Hermann & F. Richter (Pixabay License)
December 31, 2024: New Year’s Eve
Commemorating the end of 2024 and looking forward to a new year.
Cultural Observance
Image: Fireworks New Years Eve by Nick (Pixabay License)
January 1, 2025: Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
Celebrating the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Christ and, thus, of God.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Adoration of the Lamb by Jan van Eyck (public domain)
January 1, 2025: New Year’s Day
Celebrating the new year. May God bless and keep you in 2025!
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: A Champagne Cheers! by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
January 4, 2025: Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Remembering the educator, convert, and first American-born canonized saint.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (used by permission)
January 5, 2025: Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Celebrating the visit of the Three Wise Men and the revelation of Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Adoration of the Magi by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
January 20, 2025: Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.
Celebrating Rev. Dr. King, the civil rights movement, and racial equality.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
(a.k.a. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
Image: Martin Luther King Jr. by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
January 22, 2025: Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
Celebrating the dignity of every person from conception. Every life matters.
Catholic Observance
Image: Pro-Life Flag by the Pro-Life Flag Project (used by permission)
January 29, 2025: Chinese New Year (農曆新年)
Celebrating the beginning of the Year of the Wood Snake. 恭喜發財!
Cultural Observance
Image: Bright Yellow Fireworks... by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
February 1, 2025: National Freedom Day
Celebrating the 13th Amendment and the end of slavery in the United States.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: 13th Amendment by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
February 17, 2025: Washington’s Birthday
Celebrating George Washington, one of the founders and the first U.S. President.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
(a.k.a. George Washington Day)
Image: George Washington by Gilbert Stuart (public domain)
February 17, 2025: Presidents Day
Celebrating those who have served as President of the United States.
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: U.S. Presidential Flag (public domain)
March 5, 2025: Ash Wednesday
Beginning the season of Lent. “You are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Catholic Day of Fasting and Abstinence
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: Cross of Ashes by Jennifer Balaska (public domain)
March 19, 2025: Solemnity of Saint Joseph
Celebrating Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and stepfather of Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Joseph with the Infant Jesus by Guido Reni (public domain)
March 25, 2025: Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
Celebrating the announcement of Christ to Mary by the Angel Gabriel.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: The Annunciation by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
April 4, 2025: Memorial of Saint Isidore
Remembering Isidore of Seville, teacher, bishop, and doctor of the church.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Isidor of Sevilla by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
April 11, 2025: My Confirmation Day
Celebrating Confirmation, the sign and seal of the Holy Spirit.
Personal Observance
Image: Confirmation by Nicolas Poussin (public domain)
April 13, 2025: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Remembering Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem, anticipating his passion and death.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Palm Sunday in Moscow by Vyacheslav Schwarz (public domain)
April 13, 2025: Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday
Honoring Jefferson, founder, author of the Declaration of Independence.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Thomas Jefferson by Rembrandt Peale (public domain)
April 17, 2025: Thursday of Holy Week
Remembering Jesus’s last supper and the institution of the Holy Eucharist.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday)
Image: The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (public domain)
April 18, 2025: Friday of the Passion of the Lord
Remembering Christ’s suffering and death on the cross in remittance of our sins.
Catholic Day of Fasting and Abstinence
Liturgical Color: Red
(a.k.a. Good Friday)
Image: Christ at the Cross by Bronzino (public domain)
April 19, 2025: Holy Saturday
Remembering Christ in the tomb and the silence before resurrection glory.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: Jesus at the Tomb by Vladimir Borovikovsky (public domain)
April 20, 2025: Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord
Celebrating Easter, Christ’s triumph over death and sin. He is risen!
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Easter)
Image: Resurrection of Christ by Noël Coypel (public domain)
May 1, 2025: National Day of Prayer
Turning to God in prayer, fasting, and meditation for our nation and the world.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
Image: Prayer Hands Church Light Religion by Himsan (Pixabay License)
May 3, 2025: Polish Constitution Day
Celebrating the 1791 Polish constitution and Polish culture and history.
Cultural Observance
Image: Constitution of May 3, 1791 by Jan Matejko (public domain)
May 15, 2025: Peace Officers Memorial Day
Remembering all those who gave their lives in law enforcement service.
U.S. Federal Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: Law Enforcement by Igor Ovsyannykov (Pixabay License)
May 26, 2025: Memorial Day
Remembering all those who gave their lives in United States military service.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to noon
Image: Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers by SGT Erica Vinyard (public domain)
May 28, 2025: My Wedding Anniversary
Honoring my marriage and the inviolable Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.
Personal Observance
Image: Wedding Photo by David Greedy (used by permission)
June 1, 2025: Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
Celebrating the ascent of Christ, body and soul, to the father’s side in heaven.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Ascension by John Singleton Copley (public domain)
June 8, 2025: Solemnity of Pentecost
Commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the church.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Pentecôte by Jean II Restout (public domain)
June 14, 2025: Flag Day
Celebrating the American flag as a timeless symbol of freedom and liberty.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Close-Up of the United States Flag by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
June 15, 2025: Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Celebrating the Trinity, one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Holy Trinity by Peter Paul Rubens (public domain)
June 19, 2025: Juneteenth National Independence Day
Celebrating the emancipation and the end of slavery in the United States.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
(a.k.a. Juneteenth)
Image: Juneteenth Emancipation Day Celebration by Grace Murray Stephenson (public domain)
June 22, 2025: Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Celebrating Christ’s sacrifice and the Holy Eucharist.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Corpus Christi or Body of Christ)
Image: Fronleichnamsprozession by Carl Emil Doepler (public domain)
June 22, 2025: Memorial of Saint Thomas More
Remembering Thomas More, philosopher and statesman, martyr for the faith.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Sir Thomas More by Hans Holbein the Younger (public domain)
June 24, 2025: Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Celebrating the birth of John the Baptist, holy precursor of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: John the Baptist in the Desert by Cristofano Allori (public domain)
June 27, 2025: Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Celebrating Christ’s Sacred Heart, a symbol of his love for all people.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Sacred Heart of Jesus (public domain)
June 29, 2025: Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul
Celebrating Peter, apostle and first pope, and Paul, apostle and scripture writer.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Saint Paul and Saint Peter by El Greco (public domain)
July 4, 2025: Independence Day
Celebrating U.S. independence from England as declared on July 4, 1776.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: U.S. Declaration of Independence (reproduction) by William Stone (public domain)
July 12, 2025: Memorial of Saint Veronica
Remembering Veronica and the miraculous image of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Veronica with the Veil by Mattia Preti (public domain)
August 13, 2025: Memorial of Blessed Michael J. McGivney
Remembering the defender of the needy and founder of the Knights of Columbus.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Father McGivney by John Tierney (public domain)
August 14, 2025: Memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Remembering the priest and martyr of charity who offered up his life for another.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Maximilian Kolbe (public domain)
August 15, 2025: Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary
Celebrating Mary’s assumption into heaven by the power of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Assumption of Mary by Titian (public domain)
September 1, 2025: Labor Day
Celebrating laborers’ essential contributions to American prosperity.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Labor Day Parade, Union Square, New York, 1882 (public domain)
September 6, 2025: Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋節)
Celebrating the mid-autumn, a time of gathering, thanksgiving, and prayer.
Cultural Observance
Image: Mooncake Mini Pastry by Cedric Yong (Pixabay License)
September 11, 2025: Patriot Day
Remembering the victims of the September 11, 2001, Islamist terrorist attacks.
U.S. Federal Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: World Trade Center Cross by Andreas Meck (public domain)
September 16, 2025: Mayflower Day
Remembering the Mayflower pilgrims’ 1620 arrival in Massachusetts.
Cultural Observance
Image: The Mayflower at Sea by A.S. Burbank (public domain)
September 17, 2025: Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
Celebrating the U.S. Constitution and citizens by birth or naturalization.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
Image: U.S. Constitution by U.S National Archives (public domain)
October 1, 2025: Memorial of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus
Honoring the faith of the “little flower,” virgin and doctor of the church.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Therese as a Novice (public domain)
October 9, 2025: Leif Erikson Day
Honoring Leif Erikson, explorer and first known European to discover America.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Leif Erikson Discovers America by Hans Dahl (public domain)
October 12, 2025: Memorial of Blessed Carlo Acutis
Honoring the first “millennial” saint and patron of website development.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Foto del Venerabile Carlo Acutis (used by permission)
October 13, 2025: Columbus Day
Honoring Christopher Columbus and the European discovery of the Americas.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
(a.k.a. Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day)
Image: Landing of Columbus by John Vanderlyn (public domain)
October 13, 2025: Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Celebrating the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Powhatan's Mantle (public domain)
October 19, 2025: Yorktown Day
Celebrating the U.S. victory over the British at the Battle of Yorktown.
Virginia State Observance
Image: Surrender of Lord Cornwallis by John Trumbull (public domain)
October 28, 2025: Feast of Saints Simon and Jude
Honoring Simon, apostle, and Jude, apostle and patron saint of lost causes.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Simon Ivraren med sitt helgonattribut: sågen (public domain); The Apostle Judas Thaddeus by Anthony van Dyck (public domain)
October 28, 2025: My Birthday
Today is the anniversary of my birth. Hooray. Three cheers.
Personal Observance
Image: Lit Colorful Striped Birthday Candles by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
November 1, 2025: Solemnity of All Saints
Honoring all of the known and unknown saints who have gone to glory before us.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: The Forerunners of Christ with Saints and Martyrs by Fra Angelico (public domain)
November 4, 2025: Election Day
Go vote (if you are eligible). Today is election day in the United States.
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: 'Vote' Political Button by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA); 1968 Republican National Convention by the Florida State Archives (public domain)
November 11, 2025: Veterans Day
Celebrating all those who served honorably in the United States armed forces.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Iwo Jima Veterans by LCpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot (public domain)
November 23, 2025: Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Celebrating Christ’s kingship and his dominion over the whole universe.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Christ the King)
Image: Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert van Eyck (public domain)
November 27, 2025: Thanksgiving Day
Giving thanks to God for all that we have as individuals and as a nation.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: The First Thanksgiving by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris (public domain)
November 28, 2025: Day After Thanksgiving
Continuing to give thanks for all that we have as individuals and as a nation.
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Autumn Avenue by jplenio (Pixabay License)
November 30, 2025: First Sunday of Advent
Beginning a season of penance in preparation for the coming of Christ.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: The Annunciation (Advent) by Paolo de Matteis (public domain)
December 7, 2025: National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Remembering the December 7, 1941, Imperial Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: USS Arizona Burning by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
December 8, 2025: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary
Celebrating God’s preservation of the Blessed Virgin Mary from original sin.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Inmaculada Concepción by Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante (public domain)
December 12, 2025: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Celebrating the image of Mary revealed on Tepeyac Hill in Mexico City, Mexico.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Virgen de Guadalupe (public domain)
December 15, 2025: Bill of Rights Day
Celebrating the U.S. Bill of Rights, human rights, and limited government.
Virginia State Observance
Image: The Bill of Rights by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
December 20, 2025: My Baptism Day
Celebrating the Sacrament of Baptism, rebirth into new life as a Christian.
Personal Observance
Image: The Baptism of the Neophytes by Masaccio (public domain)
December 25, 2025: Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
Celebrating Christmas, the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Christmas)
Image: The Adoration of the Shepherds by Gerard van Honthorst (public domain)
December 25, 2025: Christmas Day
Celebrating the cultural and religious Christmas holiday.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Church Candles by S. Hermann & F. Richter (Pixabay License)
December 31, 2025: New Year’s Eve
Commemorating the end of 2025 and looking forward to a new year.
Cultural Observance
Image: Fireworks New Years Eve by Nick (Pixabay License)
January 1, 2026: Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
Celebrating the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Christ and, thus, of God.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Adoration of the Lamb by Jan van Eyck (public domain)
January 1, 2026: New Year’s Day
Celebrating the new year. May God bless and keep you in 2026!
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: A Champagne Cheers! by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
January 4, 2026: Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Celebrating the visit of the Three Wise Men and the revelation of Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Adoration of the Magi by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
January 4, 2026: Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Remembering the educator, convert, and first American-born canonized saint.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (used by permission)
January 19, 2026: Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.
Celebrating Rev. Dr. King, the civil rights movement, and racial equality.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
(a.k.a. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
Image: Martin Luther King Jr. by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
January 22, 2026: Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
Celebrating the dignity of every person from conception. Every life matters.
Catholic Observance
Image: Pro-Life Flag by the Pro-Life Flag Project (used by permission)
February 1, 2026: National Freedom Day
Celebrating the 13th Amendment and the end of slavery in the United States.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: 13th Amendment by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
February 16, 2026: Washington’s Birthday
Celebrating George Washington, one of the founders and the first U.S. President.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
(a.k.a. George Washington Day)
Image: George Washington by Gilbert Stuart (public domain)
February 16, 2026: Presidents Day
Celebrating those who have served as President of the United States.
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: U.S. Presidential Flag (public domain)
February 17, 2026: Chinese New Year (農曆新年)
Celebrating the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse. 恭喜發財!
Cultural Observance
Image: Bright Yellow Fireworks... by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
February 18, 2026: Ash Wednesday
Beginning the season of Lent. “You are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Catholic Day of Fasting and Abstinence
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: Cross of Ashes by Jennifer Balaska (public domain)
March 19, 2026: Solemnity of Saint Joseph
Celebrating Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and stepfather of Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Joseph with the Infant Jesus by Guido Reni (public domain)
March 25, 2026: Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
Celebrating the announcement of Christ to Mary by the Angel Gabriel.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: The Annunciation by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
March 29, 2026: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Remembering Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem, anticipating his passion and death.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Palm Sunday in Moscow by Vyacheslav Schwarz (public domain)
April 2, 2026: Thursday of Holy Week
Remembering Jesus’s last supper and the institution of the Holy Eucharist.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday)
Image: The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (public domain)
April 3, 2026: Friday of the Passion of the Lord
Remembering Christ’s suffering and death on the cross in remittance of our sins.
Catholic Day of Fasting and Abstinence
Liturgical Color: Red
(a.k.a. Good Friday)
Image: Christ at the Cross by Bronzino (public domain)
April 4, 2026: Holy Saturday
Remembering Christ in the tomb and the silence before resurrection glory.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: Jesus at the Tomb by Vladimir Borovikovsky (public domain)
April 4, 2026: Memorial of Saint Isidore
Remembering Isidore of Seville, teacher, bishop, and doctor of the church.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Isidor of Sevilla by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (public domain)
April 5, 2026: Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord
Celebrating Easter, Christ’s triumph over death and sin. He is risen!
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Easter)
Image: Resurrection of Christ by Noël Coypel (public domain)
April 11, 2026: My Confirmation Day
Celebrating Confirmation, the sign and seal of the Holy Spirit.
Personal Observance
Image: Confirmation by Nicolas Poussin (public domain)
April 13, 2026: Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday
Honoring Jefferson, founder, author of the Declaration of Independence.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Thomas Jefferson by Rembrandt Peale (public domain)
May 3, 2026: Polish Constitution Day
Celebrating the 1791 Polish constitution and Polish culture and history.
Cultural Observance
Image: Constitution of May 3, 1791 by Jan Matejko (public domain)
May 7, 2026: National Day of Prayer
Turning to God in prayer, fasting, and meditation for our nation and the world.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
Image: Prayer Hands Church Light Religion by Himsan (Pixabay License)
May 15, 2026: Peace Officers Memorial Day
Remembering all those who gave their lives in law enforcement service.
U.S. Federal Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: Law Enforcement by Igor Ovsyannykov (Pixabay License)
May 17, 2026: Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
Celebrating the ascent of Christ, body and soul, to the father’s side in heaven.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Ascension by John Singleton Copley (public domain)
May 24, 2026: Solemnity of Pentecost
Commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the church.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Pentecôte by Jean II Restout (public domain)
May 25, 2026: Memorial Day
Remembering all those who gave their lives in United States military service.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to noon
Image: Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers by SGT Erica Vinyard (public domain)
May 28, 2026: My Wedding Anniversary
Honoring my marriage and the inviolable Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.
Personal Observance
Image: Wedding Photo by David Greedy (used by permission)
May 31, 2026: Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Celebrating the Trinity, one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Holy Trinity by Peter Paul Rubens (public domain)
June 7, 2026: Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Celebrating Christ’s sacrifice and the Holy Eucharist.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Corpus Christi or Body of Christ)
Image: Fronleichnamsprozession by Carl Emil Doepler (public domain)
June 12, 2026: Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Celebrating Christ’s Sacred Heart, a symbol of his love for all people.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Sacred Heart of Jesus (public domain)
June 14, 2026: Flag Day
Celebrating the American flag as a timeless symbol of freedom and liberty.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Close-Up of the United States Flag by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
June 19, 2026: Juneteenth National Independence Day
Celebrating the emancipation and the end of slavery in the United States.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
(a.k.a. Juneteenth)
Image: Juneteenth Emancipation Day Celebration by Grace Murray Stephenson (public domain)
June 22, 2026: Memorial of Saint Thomas More
Remembering Thomas More, philosopher and statesman, martyr for the faith.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Sir Thomas More by Hans Holbein the Younger (public domain)
June 24, 2026: Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Celebrating the birth of John the Baptist, holy precursor of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: John the Baptist in the Desert by Cristofano Allori (public domain)
June 29, 2026: Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul
Celebrating Peter, apostle and first pope, and Paul, apostle and scripture writer.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Saint Paul and Saint Peter by El Greco (public domain)
July 3, 2026: Independence Day (Observed)
Celebrating U.S. independence from England as declared on July 4, 1776.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: U.S. Declaration of Independence (reproduction) by William Stone (public domain)
July 12, 2026: Memorial of Saint Veronica
Remembering Veronica and the miraculous image of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Veronica with the Veil by Mattia Preti (public domain)
August 13, 2026: Memorial of Blessed Michael J. McGivney
Remembering the defender of the needy and founder of the Knights of Columbus.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Father McGivney by John Tierney (public domain)
August 14, 2026: Memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Remembering the priest and martyr of charity who offered up his life for another.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Maximilian Kolbe (public domain)
August 15, 2026: Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary
Celebrating Mary’s assumption into heaven by the power of Jesus Christ.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Assumption of Mary by Titian (public domain)
September 7, 2026: Labor Day
Celebrating laborers’ essential contributions to American prosperity.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Labor Day Parade, Union Square, New York, 1882 (public domain)
September 11, 2026: Patriot Day
Remembering the victims of the September 11, 2001, Islamist terrorist attacks.
U.S. Federal Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: World Trade Center Cross by Andreas Meck (public domain)
September 16, 2026: Mayflower Day
Remembering the Mayflower pilgrims’ 1620 arrival in Massachusetts.
Cultural Observance
Image: The Mayflower at Sea by A.S. Burbank (public domain)
September 17, 2026: Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
Celebrating the U.S. Constitution and citizens by birth or naturalization.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
Image: U.S. Constitution by U.S National Archives (public domain)
September 25, 2026: Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋節)
Celebrating the mid-autumn, a time of gathering, thanksgiving, and prayer.
Cultural Observance
Image: Mooncake Mini Pastry by Cedric Yong (Pixabay License)
October 1, 2026: Memorial of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus
Honoring the faith of the “little flower,” virgin and doctor of the church.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Saint Therese as a Novice (public domain)
October 9, 2026: Leif Erikson Day
Honoring Leif Erikson, explorer and first known European to discover America.
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: Leif Erikson Discovers America by Hans Dahl (public domain)
October 12, 2026: Memorial of Blessed Carlo Acutis
Honoring the first “millennial” saint and patron of website development.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Foto del Venerabile Carlo Acutis (used by permission)
October 12, 2026: Columbus Day
Honoring Christopher Columbus and the European discovery of the Americas.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
(a.k.a. Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day)
Image: Landing of Columbus by John Vanderlyn (public domain)
October 12, 2026: Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Celebrating the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Powhatan's Mantle (public domain)
October 19, 2026: Yorktown Day
Celebrating the U.S. victory over the British at the Battle of Yorktown.
Virginia State Observance
Image: Surrender of Lord Cornwallis by John Trumbull (public domain)
October 28, 2026: Feast of Saints Simon and Jude
Honoring Simon, apostle, and Jude, apostle and patron saint of lost causes.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: Red
Image: Simon Ivraren med sitt helgonattribut: sågen (public domain); The Apostle Judas Thaddeus by Anthony van Dyck (public domain)
October 28, 2026: My Birthday
Today is the anniversary of my birth. Hooray. Three cheers.
Personal Observance
Image: Lit Colorful Striped Birthday Candles by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA)
November 1, 2026: Solemnity of All Saints
Honoring all of the known and unknown saints who have gone to glory before us.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
Image: The Forerunners of Christ with Saints and Martyrs by Fra Angelico (public domain)
November 3, 2026: Election Day
Go vote (if you are eligible). Today is election day in the United States.
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
U.S. Federal Observance
Image: 'Vote' Political Button by Microsoft Clip Art (Office 2008 SLA); 1968 Republican National Convention by the Florida State Archives (public domain)
November 11, 2026: Veterans Day
Celebrating all those who served honorably in the United States armed forces.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Iwo Jima Veterans by LCpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot (public domain)
November 22, 2026: Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Celebrating Christ’s kingship and his dominion over the whole universe.
Catholic Solemnity
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Christ the King)
Image: Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert van Eyck (public domain)
November 26, 2026: Thanksgiving Day
Giving thanks to God for all that we have as individuals and as a nation.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: The First Thanksgiving by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris (public domain)
November 27, 2026: Day After Thanksgiving
Continuing to give thanks for all that we have as individuals and as a nation.
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Autumn Avenue by jplenio (Pixabay License)
November 29, 2026: First Sunday of Advent
Beginning a season of penance in preparation for the coming of Christ.
Principal Catholic Celebration
Liturgical Color: Violet
Image: The Annunciation (Advent) by Paolo de Matteis (public domain)
December 7, 2026: National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Remembering the December 7, 1941, Imperial Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
U.S. Federal Observance
Virginia State Observance
U.S. flag at half-staff nationwide from sunrise to sunset
Image: USS Arizona Burning by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
December 8, 2026: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary
Celebrating God’s preservation of the Blessed Virgin Mary from original sin.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Inmaculada Concepción by Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante (public domain)
December 12, 2026: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Celebrating the image of Mary revealed on Tepeyac Hill in Mexico City, Mexico.
Catholic Observance
Liturgical Color: White
Image: Virgen de Guadalupe (public domain)
December 15, 2026: Bill of Rights Day
Celebrating the U.S. Bill of Rights, human rights, and limited government.
Virginia State Observance
Image: The Bill of Rights by U.S. National Archives (public domain)
December 20, 2026: My Baptism Day
Celebrating the Sacrament of Baptism, rebirth into new life as a Christian.
Personal Observance
Image: The Baptism of the Neophytes by Masaccio (public domain)
December 25, 2026: Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
Celebrating Christmas, the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.
Catholic Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White
(a.k.a. Christmas)
Image: The Adoration of the Shepherds by Gerard van Honthorst (public domain)
December 25, 2026: Christmas Day
Celebrating the cultural and religious Christmas holiday.
U.S. Federal Holiday
Virginia State Holiday
Loudoun County Holiday
Image: Church Candles by S. Hermann & F. Richter (Pixabay License)
December 31, 2026: New Year’s Eve
Commemorating the end of 2026 and looking forward to a new year.
Cultural Observance
Image: Fireworks New Years Eve by Nick (Pixabay License)