Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, Percolator Day, more

December 26th, 2012, is Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, National Whiners Day, National Thank-You Note Day, National Coffee Percolator Day, and Candy Cane Day.

Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26th to January 1st by many African-Americans. Kwanzaa means "first fruits of the harvest" in the Kishahili language. The principles of Kwanzaa are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

Boxing Day is a British tradition, observed on the day after Christmas or the first weekday after Christmas. Alms boxes were placed in churches on December 25th, then those boxes were opened for the poor on Boxing Day. Employers also gave boxes to employees who had to work on Christmas. Many celebrate the holiday today with gifts to employees and visiting tradespeople such as paper boys or milk men. Talk show host Craig Ferguson says the day is called Boxing Day because people fight each other.

The ungrateful among us may choose to celebrate National Whiners Day on the day after Christmas. Just remember - Santa may be watching.

The gracious and grateful among us will celebrate National Thank-You Note Day today.

National Coffee Percolator Day honors an old-school method for making coffee. My parents used to bring out their giant 20-cup percolator during the holidays.

Candy Cane Day celebrates an iconic part of Christmas festivities, in terms of both food and decor.

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Christmas, No "L" Day, Grav-Mass, more

December 25th, 2012, is Christmas, A'phabet Day, No "L" Day, Grav-Mass, and National Pumpkin Pie Day.

Christians around the world celebrate Christmas as Jesus' birthday, although the exact date of His birth is unknown. Chirstmas features a combination of Christian and secular traditions, celebrated by religious and non-religious alike. Whatever your belief system, I wish you a holiday season abundant with family and friends, good health, delicious food, and inner peace. Merry Christmas!

A'phabet Day or  No "L" Day is a pun on "Noel." Get it? Say "Noel" out loud. Celebrate by speaking or texting without using the letter "L."

Grav-Mass is a geek-style, punny Christmas alternative, honoring Sir Isaac Newton. You remember the story of Newton - he discovered gravity when an apple fell on (or near) his head. He was born on December 25th, 1642 (or January 4th, 1643, using the new calendar).

Celebrate National Pumpkin Pie Day if you have a little extra room on your holiday table. It's a nice change from the candy, cookies, and fruitcake.

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Christmas Eve, Chocolate Day, Egg Nog Day, more

December 24th, 2012, is Christmas Eve, Silent Night Holy Night, Santuranticuy, Feast Day of Adam and Eve, National Chocolate Day, and National Egg Nog Day.

Christmas Eve is the so-called "Night Before Christmas," brilliantly described in the poem by Clement Clarke Moore. It's your last chance to purchase gifts, wrap gifts, hide gifts, and maybe even open some gifts. After all that, get to bed early so Santa can come down the chimney or through a window undetected. Follow Santa's progress with NORAD via Twitter at @NoradSanta.

Austria celebrates Silent Night Holy Night, commemorating the first live performance of the famous Christmas song in 1818.

Cusco, Peru, celebrates Santuranticuy, literally "saints for sale." Vendors and artists sell Nativity figures and other objects in anticipation of Christmas.

Although Adam and Eve are not considered saints, today's date is celebrated by some as the Feast Day of Adam and Eve.

On the outside chance you need an excuse to indulge in nature's most wonderful sweet, be aware that today is National Chocolate Day. You're welcome.

Many families have a special recipe for egg nog, typically featuring eggs and alcohol. Continue the tradition on National Egg Nog Day. I'll have a sprinkle of nutmeg on top, please.

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Festivus, Stargazy Pie Day, Pfeffernusse Day, more

December 23rd, 2012, is Festivus, Tom Bawcock's Eve, Stargazy Pie Day, Roots Day, Suez Victory Day, and National Pfeffernusse Day.

Today is Festivus, a holiday made famous in an episode of the TV show, Seinfeld. In fact, the father of one of the show's writers created the holiday many years prior. To celebrate, according to the Festivus website, install a Festivus Pole (devoid of the trappings of the traditional Christmas tree). A good Festivus dinner features meat loaf or spaghetti in red sauce. Finally, practice the Airing of the Grievances and the Feats of Strength. Happy Festivus to all!

Stargazy pie. Image: Krista, Wikipedia Commons.

Tom Bawcock's Eve, also known as Stargazy Pie Day, is a unique foodie holiday. To celebrate, serve up a savory pie with fish heads sticking up out of the crust, stargazing. You heard me - fish heads, stargazing. Seems a fisherman named Tom Bawcock braved the elements to bring in a load of fish during a famine, saving the citizens of Mousehole, a fishing village in Cornwall, England. (Side note: As far as I can determine, there is no corresponding Tom Bawcock's Day.)

Roots Day is a celebration of geneology. Take advantage of the holiday season to learn more about your family tree. Document the stories of older family members before the opportunity slips away.

Egypt observes Suez Victory Day on December 23rd.

National Pfeffernusse Day honors a German cookie featuring pepper and other spices. Surprise your friends by adding this cookie to your holiday spread.

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Super Saturday, Haiku Poetry Day, Anagram Week, more

December 22nd, 2012, is Super Saturday, Christmas Tree Light Day, National Haiku Poetry Day, Anagram Week, Teacher Appreciation Day (Cuba), and National Date Nut Bread Day.

If you're reading this, then we managed to avoid the End of the World, expected by some to happen yesterday. We're alive - that's the best reason of all to celebrate!

The Saturday before Christmas is known as Super Saturday. While Black Friday draws crowds and Cyber Monday inspires online sales, Super Saturday is often the most profitable day of the year for retailers. Way to go, procrastinators!

Christmas Tree Light Day is one of those holidays mentioned only on ecard sites. Send a greeting if you wish.

National Haiku Poetry Day celebrates the Japanese poetry form known as haiku. If you write a haiku in honor of the day, please share in the Comments section below!

Not into haiku? How about anagrams? Today is the first day of the first-ever Anagram Week. Find an anagram for your name and ask people to address you as such. Change your name to its anagram on social media sites, and follow the action at #anagramweek. For now, you may refer to me as Malice Frog Lynn (instead of Carolyn Fleming).

Cuba celebrates Teacher Appreciation Day on December 22nd. On this date in 1961, Fidel Castro declared Cuba to be "free from illiteracy."

National Date Nut Bread Day offers the opportunity to eat something healthy and delicious during the decadent holiday season.

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Capricorn the Goat, December 22 to January 19

Capricorn. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Everyone born between December 22nd and January 19th is a Capricorn, the sign of the Goat, also known as the Sea-Goat. Some say the sun leaves Capricorn on January 20th.
 
For more information about Capricorn:

• Capricorn Daily Horoscope
• What's-Your-Sign for Capricorn
• Astrology.com: Capricorn Sun Sign
• Astrology on the Web: Capricorn the Sea-Goat
• Astrology Online: Capricorn
• Farmers' Almanac: Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained
  

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End of the World, Humbug Day, Kiwi Fruit Day, more

December 21st, 2012, is the End of the World, Winter and Summer Solstice, Anne and Samantha Day, Yule, Shab-e Yalda, National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day, Humbug Day, National Flashlight Day, Underdog Day, Look on the Bright Side Day, Forefathers' Day, Phileas Fogg Wins a Wager Day, and Kiwi Fruit Day.

According to one interpretation of the Mayan Calendar, today brings the End of the World. If you're reading this, we've either dodged a bullet or we're about to go *poof*!

Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, takes place on December 21st or December 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere this year. In the Southern Hemisphere, today brings Summer Solstice.

Anne and Samantha Day is observed on both the Winter Solstice and Summer Solstice, in an effort to honor Anne Frank and Samantha Smith on postage stamps. The two girls lived with courage and died as teens.

Yule is also celebrated on the Winter Solstice. Pagans and Wiccans set up yule alters, celebrate goddess rites, and welcome back the sun.

Global Orgasm for Peace Day, also known as GORG, takes place today at Solstice, UTC time, at 11:11. Convert to your local time here. The intent is for everyone to think about peace during the, uh, critical moment.
 
Shab-e Yalda, celebrated in Iran, commemorates the Eve of the Birth of Mithra, the Sun God.

Since 1990, National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day has been observed on the Winter Solstice. The event, meant "to bring attention to the tragedy of homelessness and to remember our homeless friends who have paid the ultimate price for [the United States'] failure to end homelessness," is sponsored by the National Coalition for the Homeless, the National Consumer Advisory Board, and the National Health Care for the Homeless Council.

Celebrate your inner Ebenezer Scrooge on Humbug Day. Go on, it's okay. All of us embody at least a smidge of Scrooge sometimes.

National Flashlight Day takes place each year on December 21st, despite the fact that many neighborhoods are brightly lit with holiday lights. Oh, well. If someone blows a fuse, that flashlight will come in handy.

Underdog Day honors the little guy, the second banana, the unsung hero.... You get the idea. This holiday, always the third Friday in December, was founded by the late Peter Moeller in 1976. He used to crown an "Underdog of the Year." So-called winners included Lee Iacocca, Harry Reasoner, Dennis Kucinich, and Phyllis Schlafly. Who would you select as this year's "Underdog?"

Look on the Bright Side Day is easy to celebrate today, given the plethora of glowing holiday lights and shining flashlights.

Forefathers' Day commemorates the Pilgrims' arrival at Plymouth Rock in 1620 on December 21st.

Today is Phileas Fogg Wins a Wager Day, the day when the fictional Fogg collected on his $20,000 bet that he could travel Around the World in Eighty Days.

On Kiwi Fruit Day, enjoy a fruit that's not only good for you, but is also delicious and looks beautiful served in slices or quarters. Add some kiwi to your holiday buffet!

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Ursid Meteor Shower 2012

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73, FreeDigitalPhotos.

The 2012 Ursid Meteor Shower will be at its peak near Winter Solstice, December 21st and 22nd. Perhaps the End of the World is also at hand, according to one interpretation of the Mayan Calendar. The shower is visible in the northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere.

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. The current first quarter moon will limit visibility somewhat.

Meteor showers are named for the constellation they appear to be near. The Ursid Meteor Shower appears near the constellation Ursa Minor, the Little Dipper.

Check out these sites for more information about the Ursid Meteor Shower, including recommended viewing times for your corner of the globe.

• EarthSky: 2012 Ursid meteor shower active around winter solstice
• Viewing the Ursid Meteor Shower in 2012
• Spacedex
• EarthSky's meteor shower guide for 2012
• StarDate 2012 Meteor Showers
• American Meteor Society
• Starry Skies: Ursa Minor

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Regifting Day, Mudd Day, Sangria Day, more

December 20th, 2012, is National Regifting Day, Mudd Day, Go Caroling Day, Cathode-Ray Tube Day, International Human Solidarity Day, Sangria Day, and National Fried Shrimp Day. 

On National Regifting Day, we are urged to "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle... Regift." You may not appreciate the Chia Obama your cousin gave you, but perhaps your neighbor will love it! You can even print out a custom Regifting Day gift tag at the the Regifting Day website. Some celebrate this holiday on the Thursday before Christmas.

Mudd Day is the time to consider the case of Dr. Samuel A. Mudd, convicted to life in prison for setting the broken leg of John Wilkes Booth, after Booth assassinated U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. In defense of Dr. Mudd, Booth was wearing a disguise at the time. Dr. Mudd was later pardoned by President Andrew Johnson. On Mudd Day, consider the possible ramifications of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

"Deck the halls with boughs of holly....O come, all ye faithful....Dashing through the snow, on a one-horse open sleigh....On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...." You get the idea. Today is Go Caroling Day! Find many lyrics here.

Cathode-Ray Tube Day celebrates the technology that used to light our television screens. Do you remember watching the little dot gradually disappear after turning off the TV?

The United Nations supports International Human Solidarity Day, intended to celebrate unity in diversity.

Sangria Day offers an excellent excuse to drink. Celebrate Spanish culture - you need more fruit in your diet, right?

National Fried Shrimp Day is the perfect time to enjoying an appetizer or entree from the sea, breaded and deep fried to succulent perfection. Hungry now?

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Look for an Evergreen Day, Hard Candy Day, more

December 19th, 2012, is Look for an Evergreen Day, A Christmas Carol Day, United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation, Oatmeal Muffin Day, and National Hard Candy Day.

It's easy to celebrate Look for an Evergreen Day anywhere Christmas is celebrated. Behold the tree lots, the malls, the homes of friends and family. Come to think of it, look for evergreens in their natural habitat - the great outdoors! If you celebrate Christmas but haven't chosen a tree this year, today could be your lucky day.

Only the greeting card sites seem to mention A Christmas Carol Day, so it's origin and meaning are a mystery. Nevertheless, send an ecard if you're so inspired.

The United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation is meant to "promote and implement technical cooperation among developing countries."

If you and your body yearn for some healthy food - specifically fiber - during this appetizer-and-cookie season, celebrate Oatmeal Muffin Day.

Nothing quite says "it's the holiday season" like a crystal bowl overflowing with old-fashioned hard candy. It's colorful, shiny, beautiful, and delicious, whether in the shape of ribbons, buttons or other shapes. Find a candy store that sells retro candy and buy a bag! Happy National Hard Candy Day.

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Flake Appreciation Day, Wear a Plunger on Your Head Day, more

December 18th, 2012, is International Answer the Phone like Buddy the Elf Day, Flake Appreciation Day, Wear a Plunger on Your Head Day, International Migrants Day, National Roast Suckling Pig Day, and Bake Cookies Day.

International Answer the Phone like Buddy the Elf Day requires you to channel your inner Will Ferrell. He played Buddy the Elf in the 2003 film, Elf.

Flake Appreciation Day is a time to celebrate dantruff, if you choose, but most of us will choose to admire crystalline, six-sided wonders that fall from the sky in cold weather. Here's a tutorial to help you create stunning paper snowflakes:

Wear a Plunger on Your Head Day is a holiday to celebrate at your own discretion. At least use a new plunger, please, and be sure to duck through doorways.

The United Nations supports International Migrants Day on December 18th. In 2011 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote: "When their rights are violated, when they are marginalized and excluded, migrants will be unable to contribute either economically or socially to the societies they have left behind or those they enter. However, when supported by the right policies and human rights protections, migration can be a force for good for individuals as well as for countries of origin, transit and destination."

I don't know about you, but I'm too intimidated to celebrate National Roast Suckling Pig Day. If you do roast a pig today, especially a suckling pig, please invite me to sample! I'll bring dessert.

Today is Bake Cookies Day. If you took my advice back on National Cookie Day, all you have to do today is pop some dough in the oven. Sweet!

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Talk with a Fake British Accent Day, Reconciliation Day, more

December 17th, 2012, is National Talk with a Fake British Accent Day, Wright Brothers Day, Pan American Aviation Day, Reconciliation Day, and Maple Syrup Day.

Blimey! Today is International Talk with a Fake British Accent Day. 'ave you 'eard of it? Jolly good. This colourful day was founded by Big Apple Brits - blokes and birds with real British accents living in New York City. Try out your accent - it's a doddle!

Wright Brothers Day commemorates the first successful heavier-than-air flight by Orville and Wilbur, back in 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Continuing in the aviation vein, today is Pan American Aviation Day, celebrating the importance of air travel in the Western Hemisphere.

Day of Reconciliation has been celebrated on December 16th - or the Monday after if the 16th falls on a weekend - every year in South Africa since the end of Apartheid in 1994. The holiday is a time for ethnic groups to come together in peace and harmony. Under Apartheid, December 16th was known as Day of the Vow, Day of the Covenant, or Dingaan Day. Apartheid comes from the Afrikaans words "apart" and "heid," meaning "aparthood."

On Maple Syrup Day, don't use the fake stuff! Enjoy your pancakes, waffles, or other breakfast treats with real maple syrup. Or add maple syrup to your dinner repertoire with these recipes.

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Barbie and Barney Backlash Day, Chocolate-Covered Anything Day

December 16th, 2012, is Barbie and Barney Backlash Day and National Chocolate-Covered Anything Day.

Barbie and Barney Backlash Day recognizes many people's visceral dislike of Barney and/or Barbie. Celebrate or ignore, as best suits your inner child.

Today is National Chocolate-Covered Anything Day. Hard to imagine anyone disliking this holiday, unless the chocolate-covered item in question is a favorite sweater, a white sofa, or perhaps garlic.

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Cat Herders Day, Cupcake Day, more

December 15th, 2012, is Cat Herders Day, Bill of Rights Day, National Cupcake Day, and National Lemon Cupcake Day.

If the whirlwind of activity leading up to the holiday season causes you stress, consider something more relaxing, like cat herding. That's right - today is Cat Herders Day. Cat herding, an all-but-impossible task, can be compared with organizing the minutae of your crazy job or getting everything done in time for Christmas, Chanukah, or Kwanzaa.

Bill of Rights Day honors amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee citizens certain rights. Read the Bill of Rights for yourself, to understand and appreciate the power of those amendments.

Like things that are portable? Love cake? Then today is your day - National Cupcake Day. Cupcakes are perfect for holiday parties, by the way.

Perhaps the vast array of cupcake flavors and decorating options is too overwhelming, especially given the general atmosphere of holiday stress in December. Narrow down your options and celebrate National Lemon Cupcake Day instead.

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Monkey Day, Salesperson's Day, Bouillabaisse Day

December 14th, 2012, is Monkey Day, National Salesperson's Day, and National Bouillabaisse Day.

Monkey Day was created in 2000 by comic strip artist and blogger Casey Sorrow. Sorrow writes, "Monkey Day is an annual celebration of all things simian, a festival of primates, a chance to scream like a monkey and throw feces at whomever you choose....(note: for legal reasons, the publishers of the Monkey Day website in no way endorse throwing feces in any manner at any time.)" Ditto for The Holiday Whiz, okay, people?

The second Friday in December is National Salesperson's Day. Do something special for the talented salesperson in your employ, or for the insightful salesperson who helped you find just the right item.

I'm not sure which is tougher - preparing bouillabaisse or spelling it. Nevertheless, celebrate National Bouillabaisse Day!

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Violin Day, Ice Cream Day, Cocoa Day, more

December 13th, 2012, is Violin Day, St. Lucia Day, Republic Day (Malta), Ice Cream Day, and National Cocoa Day.

Violin Day celebrates a stringed instrument that is equally at home playing classical, country, or pop.

St. Lucia Day is celebrated in Sweden, Denmark, and Finland today, with children spreading cheer through hospitals, nursing homes, and such, singing the "Santa Lucia Song." The girl chosen to portray Lucia wears a white robe and a headpiece with candles.

Malta observes Republic Day on December 13th, commemorating the formation of its republic in 1974.

If you don't mind the cold, embrace Ice Cream Day today. Otherwise, wait until the third Sunday in July, for National Ice Cream Day.

If the thought of ice cream in December gives you the shivers, how about an alternative? December 13th is National Cocoa Day. Celebrate with your biggest mug and several marshmallows.

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Geminid Meteor Shower 2012

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73; FreeDigitalPhotos.

The 2012 Geminid Meteor Shower, potentially visible from December 7th to December 17th, will be at its peak on the night of December 13th through December 14th. The Geminid, visible in both hemispheres, is the final major meteor shower of the year. It is known as Winter's Fireworks, because the meteors appear in a variety of colors.

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. Happily, the new moon allows optimal viewing of this year's light show.

Meteor showers are named for the constellation they appear to be near. The Geminid Meteor Shower appears near the constellation Gemini the Twins.

Check out these sites for more information abou tthe Geminid Meteor Shower, including recommended viewing times for your corner of the globe.

• Spacedex
• EarthSky's meteor shower guide for 2012
• StarDate 2012 Meteor Showers
• American Meteor Society
• Starry Skies: Gemini
• The Holiday Whiz: Gemini, May 21 to June 20

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12-12-12, Poinsettia Day, Gingerbread House Day, more

December 12th, 2012, is 12-12-12, Poinsettia Day, National Ding-a-Ling Day, Unmentionable Thoughts Festival, Bonza Bottler Day, Virgin of Guadalupe Festival, Neutrality Day (Turkmenistan), Independence Day (Kenya), National Ambrosia Day, and Gingerbread House Day.

Today is 12-12-12, a great day for number geeks and OCD types. (I'm one of them!) Don't miss today's 12-12-12 Concert for Sandy Relief, the world's largest music event, to benefit the survivors of Hurricane Sandy.

UPDATE: Today is World Hoop Day, promoting "peace, community and healthy living." People on six continents are hula-hooping for fun and exercise.

Poinsettia Day is celebrated on December 12th, marking the death anniversary of politician Joel Robert Poinsett, for whom the flower is named. The holiday also honors Paul Ecke, Jr., the father of the poinsettia industry. Surprisingly (to me at least), poinsettias are the best-selling potted plant in the U.S. and Canada. That's a lot of holiday cheer!

National Ding-a-Ling Day is probably a tribute to Chuck Berry and his famous 1972 song, "My Ding-a-Ling." The lyrics mention two bells on a string, along with a lot of innuendo.

The Unmentionable Thoughts Festival is mentioned on many holiday sites, but with no details given. Too unmentionable, I suppose.

The twelfth and final Bonza Bottler Day of 2012 is here at last, celebrating the orderliness of a matching month number and date - 12/12.

The Virgin of Guadalupe Festival honors the patron saint of Mexico. Thousands of people make a pilgrimage to the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City, and fiestas are held throughout Mexico.

Turkmenistan observes Neutrality Day on December 12th.

Kenya observes Independence Day today, celebrating independence since 1963.

Ahhhh....the food of the gods! Even the well-known Sims of simulation game fame enjoy their ambrosia. Gather your citrus, chill your cream, celebrate National Ambrosia Day.

Today is Gingerbread House Day. Some are quite elaborate, as at the White House in Washington, D.C. Since most gingerbread houses are used more as decoration than as dessert, feel free to begin your construction project today, thirteen days before Christmas. Alternatively, do as I do - buy a kit or set up a ceramic gingerbread house display.

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Mountain Day, Noodle-Ring Day, more

December 11th, 2012, is International Mountain Day, Proclamation of the Republic (Burkina Faso), and National Noodle-Ring Day.

The United Nations supports International Mountain Day on December 11th, to raise awareness of the importance of mountain forests in a Green Economy. The theme for 2012 is "Celebrating Mountain Life."

Burkina Faso observes Proclamation of the Republic today.

What's a henway? About 3 pounds. Wbat's a noodle-ring? A firm noodle casserole baked in a ring pan, then unmolded to serve. Happy National Noodle-Ring Day  to all.

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Nobel Day, Human Rights Day, Lager Day, more

December 10th, 2012, is Green Monday, Festival for the Souls of Dead Whales, Dewey Decimal System Day, Nobel Day, Human Rights Day, and National Lager Day.

THIS JUST IN: The second Monday in December is known as Green Monday, traditionally the biggest shipping day prior to Christmas. Have you mailed your holiday gifts yet?

Festival for the Souls of Dead Whales is a phantom holiday floating around on many holiday sites. The holiday, supposedly an Inuit tradition, is unknown to Inuit experts. It's an intriguing idea for a festival, however, and for the sake of completeness I'm including it here.

December 10th is Dewey Decimal System Day, honoring the birth date of Melvil Dewey. He created the numerical classification of books used by libraries, known as the Dewey Decimal System.

Nobel Day brings the awarding of this year's Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway.

The United Nations promotes Human Rights Day on December 10th. Follow the action on Twitter at #VoiceCount.

If you're worn out from this season's holiday prep, prop up your feet and have a cold one in honor of National Lager Day. Cheers!

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Choral Day, Candle Lighting Day, Christmas Card Day, more

December 9th, 2012, is World Choral Day, Worldwide Candle Lighting Day, Weary Willy Day, Christmas Card Day, International Anti-Corruption Day, Independence Day (Tanzania), and National Pastry Day.

The International Federation for Choral Music sponsors World Choral Day. The event was proposed by Alberto Grau during the 1990 2nd World Symposium on Choral Music in Helsinki, Finland, to foster "solidarity, peace, and understanding."

December 11th is Worldwide Candle Lighting Day, created by the Compassionate Friends. At 7:00 p.m., your local time, "light a candle for all children who have died...that their light may always shine."

Weary Willy Day celebrates the clown character created by the beloved Emmett Kelly. Kelly was born on December 9th, 1898.

Christmas Card Day is, presumably, a subtle kick in the pants for those of us who haven't started working on our Christmas cards yet.

The United Nations supports International Anti-Corruption Day. In 2011 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote: "On this International Anti-Corruption Day, let us pledge to do our part by cracking down on corruption, shaming those who practice it and endangering a culture that values ethical behaviour."

Tanzania observes Independence Day on December 9th.

National Pastry Day offers a great excuse to indulge. Enjoy your pastry sweet or savory - or both!

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Hanukkah, Santa Speedo Run, Lemon Squeezer Day, more

December 8th, 2012, is Hanukkah, Santa Speedo Run, International Shareware Day, Day of the Horse, Take It in the Ear Day, Winter Flowers Day, Mother's Day (Panama), Feast of the Immaculate Concepction, Lemon Squeezer Day, and National Brownie Day.

The first menorah candle is lit at sundown today, commemorating the first day of Hanukkah in 2012. The Festival of Lights is spelled many different ways, including Chanukkah.

Today brings Boston's annual Santa Speedo Run - yes, it's what you think it is. Check out the photos on their site, if you dare! The runners brave the cold to raise money for children's charities.

The second Saturday in December is International Shareware Day. Shareware is software offered on the honor system - if you use a program and choose to keep it, you're expected to make a donation to the programmer. Today, in the spirit of giving, send a check to a programmer and make their day.

The second Saturday in December is the Day of the Horse, celebrating the role horses have played in the history and economy of the United States.

December 8th is Take It in the Ear Day, but no one seems to know what we're supposed to take in the ear, or how to take it, or why. This holiday should just go in one ear and out the other.

Winter Flowers Day could be a tribute to the flowers in your yard or your local botanical garden, but at this time of year poinsettias are my flower of choice.

Panama celebrates Mother's Day today, with great fanfare.

December 8th honors the Virgin Mary with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Lemon Squeezer Day commemorates a patent granted to John T. White on this date in 1896, for an improvement to the lemon squeezer. Not sure why the original inventor isn't remembered instead. Just go make some lemonade and don't worry about it.

National Brownie Day - yum! You know what to do!

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Letter Writing Day, Cotton Candy Day, more

December 7th, 2012, is Letter Writing Day, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, International Civil Aviation Day, and National Cotton Candy Day.

In honor of Letter Writing Day, turn off the electronics for a while. You'll be okay. Gather some paper and a pen - remember those? Oh, and you'll also need an envelope and a stamp - remember those? Write a letter to someone who would love to hear from you. They'll be surprised and charmed.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day commemorates the day in 1941, during World War II, when Japanese forces attacked Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt called December 7, 1941, "a date which will live in infamy."

The International Civil Aviation Organization established International Civil Aviation Day in 1994, the fiftieth anniversary of the organization.

National Cotton Candy Day celebrates a fun fair food, consisting of spun sugar in pastel colors. What we know as cotton candy in the U.S. goes by many other names: candy floss in the UK; fairy floss in Australia; Papa's beard in France; and sugar thread in Italy.

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Mitten Tree Day, Put On Your Own Shoes Day, Gazpacho Day, more

December 6th, 2012, is Mitten Tree Day, Put On Your Own Shoes Day, St. Nicholas Day, Pawnbrokers Day, Dia de la Constitucion, Independence Day (Finland), Microwave Oven Day, and National Gazpacho Day.

Mitten Tree Day offers an opportunity to donate mittens to someone in need or share the book, The Mitten Tree, by Candace Christiansen. Better yet, do both!

Believe it or not, today is Put On Your Own Shoes Day. I can't top Hallmark's description of the holiday, so I won't even try. I'm exhausted after putting on my shoes, anyway.

St. Nicholas Day honors "Father Christmas" - a prelude, if you will, to Christmas. The focus is meant to be on giving, rather than receiving. Some Northern Europeans stash surprise gifts in each others' shoes.

Pawnbrokers Day is observed on the same day St. Nicholas is honored, because St. Nicholas is the patron saint of pawnbrokers.

Dia de la Constitucion (or Constitution Day) celebrates the 1978 adoption of Spain's new constitution.

Finland observes Independence Day on December 6th. Enjoy this tribute to Finland by the fine fellows of "Monty Python's Flying Circus":

Foodie snobs may turn their noses up at the mention of the microwave oven, but I'll bet they secretly use one to heat up chowder or leftover souffle, or even to bake a potato or cook bacon. Celebrate Microwave Oven Day.

National Gazpacho Day commemorates a Spanish vegetable soup, best served cold (like revenge). In the winter months that might not seem appealing, but give it a try. If you're not pleased, heat it in your microwave.

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Blue Jeans Day, Sacher Torte Day, more

December 5th, 2012, is Blue Jeans Day, Bathtub Party Day, Repeal Day, Day of the Ninja, International Creep like a Ninja Day, National Commute with your Baby Day, International Volunteer Day, Ashura, Discovery Day (Haiti), National Day (Thailand), and Sacher Torte Day.

In honor of Blue Jeans Day, wear a (nice) pair of jeans to work or school if allowed. Otherwise, change clothes and relax when the work day is over, ASAP.

December 5th is Bathtub Party Day, for whatever it's worth. I'll skip this one, thanks, since I'm rather a private person and I prefer showers.

Repeal Day marks the end of Prohibition, in 1933, in the United States. I'll drink to that - responsibly, of course.

What's that noise? Is someone following us? Beware, for today is the Day of the Ninja, also known as International Creep like a Ninja Day. The date commemorates the 2003 release of the film, The Last Samurai.

According to several holiday list sources, today is National Commute with your Baby Day. Sadly, none offer details. I'm including the holiday here because it's unique. Please comment below if you have any information - after you've arrived safely at your destination with your baby.

The United Nations supports International Volunteer Day on December 5th. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "On International Volunteer Day, we recognize the dedication of volunteers, their admirable spirit of service, and their wide-ranging efforts to promote the goals of the United Nations. With the world population having surpassed seven billion this year, we must tap every person's potential to help others. Everyone can make a difference. Volunteering matters."

Discovery Day is observed in Haiti, commemorating the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492.

Thailand celebrates National Day on the birth date of the reigning king. The current ruler is King Bhumibol Adulyadey, Rama IX, born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on December 5th, 1927.

Sacher Torte Day introduces the uninitiated to an Austrian cake with apricot jam, named for the majestic Hotel Sacher. Enjoy!

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Santa's List Day, Wear Brown Shoes Day, Cookie Day, more

December 4th, 2012, is Santa's List Day, Wear Brown Shoes Day, National Dice Day, Chase's Calendar of Events Birthday, Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day, International Hug Day, Feast Day of Saint Barbara, and National Cookie Day.

Christmas is just three weeks away. On Santa's List Day, stop to consider if you're on the good list or the bad list. Do you need to improve your position? While you're at it, consider your own list. How's your shopping coming along?

Not sure why, but today is Wear Brown Shoes Day. Can you picture Santa in brown shoes?

National Dice Day is a good day to play a classic game involving dice, such as Monopoly, Yahtzee, or Trouble. For even more fun, count up how many dice you have in your house - you might be shocked.

A tip of the hat in honor of Chase's Calendar of Events' Birthday. On this date in 1957, the first copies of Chases' Calendar of Annual Events were printed. Chase is an invaluable source of holiday information for the Holiday Whiz!

Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day is the time to recognize your fellow team members or some team who works to make your life better. Postpone your thanks until tomorrow, a business day, if necessary.

International Hug Day is a great opportunity to hug family and friends, of course. But the original participants of International Hug Day hugged strangers in public places, as shown in this viral music video by Sick Puppies of Australia. Hug a stranger if you dare!

The Feast Day of Saint Barbara honors the patron saint of artillerymen, fireworks manufacturers, firemen, and stone masons. She is also the patron saint against sudden death, fires, and storms.

National Cookie Day celebrates all things cookie. Here's a tip: make a batch or three of your favorite cookie dough, scoop the dough into mounds on parchment paper, then freeze unbaked. Store unbaked cookies in your freezer, ready to bake at a moment's notice!

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Make a Gift Day, Day of Persons with Disabilities, more

December 3rd, 2012, is Make a Gift Day, National Roof Over Your Head Day, and International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Make a Gift Day gets to a basic sentiment of the holiday season. A homemade gift comes from the heart. Cookies, crafts, personalized coupons - the choices are endless.

National Roof Over Your Head Day is a time to be grateful if you have a roof over your head, and an opportunity to help those who don't.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities was founded in 1992 by the United Nations, "to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities."

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World Computer Literacy Day, Mutt Day, Walter Plinge Day, more

December 2nd, 2012, is World Computer Literacy Day, National Mutt Day, Walter Plinge Day, International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, Special Education Day, National Day (United Arab Emirates), National Day (Laos), Advent, and National Fritters Day.

World Computer Literacy Day is meant to highlight the fact that we are not yet a global village, because Internet access is not widely available on some parts of the globe. Draw attention to this fact and consider the importance of the Internet in your own life by giving up technology for the day. Can you do it?

Celebrate the lovable, loyal, one-of-a-kind dog on National Mutt Day. Even though mixed breeds tend to be healthier, they are less likely to be adopted than pure bred dogs.

The UK observes Walter Plinge Day, honoring a London pub owner. Plinge allowed actors to credit his name in theatrical programs, to conceal the fact that one actor was playing more than one role in a production. The United States observes a similar holiday, George Spelvin Day, on November 15th.

The United Nations supports International Day for the Abolition of Slavery on December 2nd. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "Today, governments, civil society and the private sector must unite to eradicate all contemporary forms of slavery... Together, let us do our utmost for the millions of victims throughout the world who are held in slavery and deprived of their human rights and dignity."

Special Education Day commemorates the anniversary of IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, enacted on this date in 1975.

The United Arab Emirates observes National Day on December 2nd.

Laos also observes National Day today.

Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and continues until Christmas Eve. The season celebrates the birth of Jesus and the anticipation of his return.

Today's foodie holiday is National Fritters Day. Fry up a batch of small cakes, sweet or savory, as a snack or a meal.

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ClauWau, Day With(out) Art, Eat a Red Apple Day, more

December 1st, 2012, is ClauWau, Santa Claus World Championship, Bifocals at the Monitor Liberation Day, Day With(out) Art, World AIDS Day, Civil Air Patrol Day, Independence Day (Portugal), Great Union Day (Romania), Teacher Appreciation Day (Panama), and Eat a Red Apple Day.

Today and tomorrow Samnaun, Switzerland, hosts ClauWau, the Santa Claus World Championship. Events include Santa's Zipfybob Race, Creative Santa Snow Sculpture and Gingerbread Hearts, Santa's Sleigh Race (an obstacle course involving a horse-drawn sleigh in which gifts are delivered), and Santa's Chimney Climbing. Ho Ho Ho!

Today is Bifocals at the Monitor Liberation Day, but "liberation" is an odd word to use. Most bifocal wearers are unable to abandon their glasses. Nevertheless, if you wish to celebrate, shed your glasses, lament your plight, or consider laser eye surgery.

Day With(out) Art began as Day Without Art in 1989. Groups shut down museums and other cultural centers to draw attention to the plight of AIDS victims and allow interested museum staff to volunteer with AIDS services. Over the years the day evolved to offer programs within cultural centers rather than shutting them down - thus the new name, Day With(out) Art. 

World AIDS Day is also observed on December 1st, to raise awareness and funds. This year a limited-edition red ribbon brooch with red crystals is being sold - slightly larger than last year's version.

Civil Air Patrol Day commemorates the 1941 founding of the Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary unit of the United States Air Force.

Portugal observes Independence Day today, celebrating independence from Spain since 1640.

Romania celebrates Great Union Day on December 1st, commemorating the unification of Moldova, Wallachia, Transylvania, Crisana, Banat, and Maramures in 1918.

Panama observes Teacher Appreciation Day on this date every year.

Nestled between foodie days celebrating Bavarian Cream Pie (November 27th), mousse (November 30th), Sacher Torte (December 5th), and other fancy desserts is the simply basic Eat a Red Apple Day. Enjoy - your waistline will thank you.

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December 2012 month-long celebrations

In December many are gearing up for the holiday season - whether Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa,  or other special days. Deviate from the crowd by adding a lesser-known celebration to your repertoire. Simply choose a cause or holiday from the following list. Events are listed alphabetically, with descriptive words such as "National" and "World" omitted.

3D Month
Advent - December 2nd to December 24th
AIDS Awareness Month
Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count - December 14th to January 5th
Awareness Month
Bingo's Birthday Month
Calendar Awareness Month
Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month
Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month
Eggnog Month
Food Service Safety Month
Fruitcake Month
Hi Neighbor Month
Human Rights Month
Learn a Foreign Language Month

MADD's Tie One On for Safety Holiday Campaign - Thanksgiving to New Year's Day
Million Minute Family Challenge - September 1st to December 31st

Most Fun Month
Operation Santa Paws

Read a New Book Month
Safe Toys and Gifts Month
Seasonal Depression Awareness Month
Sign Up for Summer Camp Month
Spiritual Literacy Month
Stress-Free Family Holiday Month
Take a New Year's Resolution to Stop Smoking (TANYRSS) - December 17th to February 3rd (Superbowl Sunday)
Tie Month
Write a Business Plan Month
Write a Friend Month

If you know of other month-long celebrations that should be included in this list, please provide info in the Comments section below. Happy December!

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