July Festivals

The Wimbledon tennis tournament, held annually in London, is one of the most prestigious and oldest tennis competitions in the world. Known for its lush green grass courts and traditional all-white dress code for players, Wimbledon captivates fans with its rich history and thrilling matches. For parents of preschoolers, introducing Wimbledon can be a wonderful way to spark an interest in sports, teach about dedication and sportsmanship, and enjoy the excitement of watching top athletes compete in this iconic event.

Plastic Free July was started in 2011 in Western Australia, by a small group of local authority employees who were concerned at the climate impact of plastic on the world. Since then, its evolved into an international movement, with some 140 million people across 190 countries involved in the campaign to help rid the world of plastic products in our land, waterways and systems. The month is all about encouraging change on a large scale, from our own homes, to institutions, community groups and companies. 

Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th in the United States, marks the birthday of the USA. On this day in 1776, the "Founding Fathers" signed the Declaration of Independence, declaring freedom from British rule. It's tradition for families and preschoolers celebrate with fireworks, parades, picnics, and patriotic activities, showing pride in America's history as an independent nation and we'll be talking about the history of America and what imperial rule means for others!

Nelson Mandela Day, celebrated annually on July 18th, honors the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first black president and a global symbol of peace, justice, and human rights. This day marks Mandela's birthday and is dedicated to promoting his life's work in championing equality, reconciliation, and social justice. People worldwide are encouraged to spend 67 minutes of their time — symbolizing the 67 years Mandela devoted to fighting for human rights — engaging in community service and activities that help make the world a better place.

Dharma Day, celebrated on July 21st, is an important Buddhist holiday marking the day when the Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, India, over 2,500 years ago. This sermon, known as the "First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma," introduced the core teachings of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. Dharma Day is a time for Buddhists to reflect on these teachings, engage in meditation, and participate in acts of kindness and compassion, fostering a deeper understanding and practice of the Buddha's path to enlightenment.

The International Day of Friendship, celebrated annually on July 30th, is a special occasion dedicated to promoting friendship and understanding among people from different cultures and backgrounds around the world. This day, established by the United Nations in 2011, encourages individuals, communities, and governments to engage in activities that foster mutual respect, kindness, and cooperation. By celebrating the International Day of Friendship, we recognize the importance of building strong bonds that contribute to peace, harmony, and social connections across diverse societies.