Small Business Saturday, Cities for Life Day, Mousse Day, more

November 30th, 2013, is Small Business Saturday, Buy Nothing Day, ClauWau, Santa Claus World Championship, Chitlin Strut, Cities for Life Day, Stay Home Because You're Well Day, Computer Security Day, National Methamphetamine Awareness Day, Feast Day of Saint Andrew, St. Andrew's Day (Scotland), Independence Day (Barbados), Bonificio Day (Philippines), and National Mousse Day. 

In the aftermath of Black Friday, give small businesses a chance on Small Business Saturday. You'll find unique items, great prices, and personal service.

While some in the US observed Buy Nothing Day yesterday, the rest of the world observes Buy Nothing Day today. Follow the action on Twitter via #buynothingday.

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!

Salley, South Carolina hosts the 48th annual Chitlin Strut, featuring a Chitlin Queen, Hawg Calling, and the Chitlin Strut Idol Contest. Chitlins, or chitterlings, are pig intestines, usually boiled or fried.

Since 2002, November 30th has brought Cities for Life Day. About 1,400 cities and municipalities around the world participate, each creating a "live logo" by lighting a monument in a unique way. The day's message, "No Justice Without Life," is a plea to abolish the death penalty.

November 30th is Stay Home Because You're Well Day.Many of us get to stay home on Saturday anyway, but if you're supposed to work, good luck with your boss.

Got firewalls? On Computer Security Day, stop to consider the security of your electronic information. Do you use antivirus software? Are your passwords creative? Think about all of your devices that contain electronic data, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is meant to highlight the dangers of meth, as well as the dangers of meth labs.

The Feast Day of Saint Andrew honors the patron saint of  Scotland, Greece, Russia, Ukraine, and Romania. Scotland, in fact, celebrates St. Andrew's Day as a festive holiday.

Barbados observes Independence Day, celebrating freedom from British Rule since 1966.

Bonificio Day is a public holiday in the Philippines, honoring Andres Bonificio, a key player in the revolutionary forces against Spanish Colonial Rule in the 1800s.

National Mousse Day honors a delectable French dessert, mousse, not to be confused with the largest extant member of the deer family, the moose. Enjoy!

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Black Friday, Green Friday, You're Welcomegiving, more

November 29th, 2013, is Black Friday, Buy Nothing Day, Green Friday, You're Welcomegiving, Sinkie Day, National Day of Listening, Native American Heritage Day, Flossing Day, Square Dance Day, Electronic Greetings Day, International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, and Throw Out Your Leftovers Day.

A personal note: Chances are, the folks who obsess over Black Friday are too busy shopping to read this, but I would urge everyone to scale back a bit. Must we force retail employees to cut their celebrations short in order to open their doors at 4:00 am on Black Friday or even on Thanksgiving evening? Just think about it. (Stepping down from my soapbox now.)

The day after Thanksgiving brings holidays related to the shopping season, notably the infamous Black Friday. Kudos to you if you camped out for days to get the best deal on a new flat-screen TV. No kudos to you if you elbowed people aside, used pepper spray, or worse. Never forget the true meaning of the holiday season.

At the opposing end of the philosophical spectrum is Buy Nothing Day in the US. Internationally, the event takes place tomorrow. Just relax, reflect on yesterday's celebration, retain your healthy bank balance, and stay away from the mob scene.

Some areas, notably New York City, observe Green Friday, encouraging shoppers to skip the big stores and shop second-hand or non-profits instead.

You're Welcomegiving (or simply You're Welcome Day) logically follows Thanksgiving, if you think about it.

The day after Thanksgiving also brings a food-related holiday. Brought to you by the International Association of People Who Dine over the Kitchen Sink, today is Sinkie Day! Enjoy those no-muss, no-fuss holiday leftovers.

National Day of Listening is the time to thank a special teacher by recording your experiences online. A U.S. map features states that turn brighter orange as more citizens participate.

Native American Heritage Day is always observed on the day after Thanksgiving, just as the National Day of Mourning is always observed on Thanksgiving.

Yet another post-Thanksgiving holiday is Flossing Day. The National Flossing Council asks everyone to "Help Spread Peace of Mouth."

Swing your partner! Do-si-do! Turn up the music and celebrate Square Dance Day. Now promenade!

Save some stamps this holiday season, if you're not too much of a traditionalist. Send ecards instead of paper in honor of Electronic Greetings Day.

The United Nations sponsors International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on November 29th. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "Let us, on this International Day, reaffirm our commitment to translating solidarity into positive action. The international community must help steer the situation towards a historic peace agreement."

November 29th is Throw Out Your Leftovers Day. In 2013, however, this holiday is only one day after Thanksgiving, so please don't toss the turkey and dressing just yet!

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Thanksgivukkah, Thanksgiving, Turkey Leftover Day, more

November 28th, 2013, is Thanksgivukkah, Thanksgiving, National Day of Mourning, Turkey-Free Thanksgiving, Make Your Own Head Day, Red Planet Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, Ascension of Abdu'l-Baha, Independence Day (Albania), Independence Day (Mauritania), Independence Day (Panama), Turkey Leftover Day, and National French Toast Day.

Image courtesy of Beaniebeagle, dreamtime.com.

It is a rare year when Hanukkah has its first full day on Thanksgiving. Some have coined the term Thanksgivukkah. Send your loved ones an e-card! The two holidays last converged in 1861, before Thanksgiving was officially celebrated, and - get this - they won't converge again for about 75,000 years!

Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday in November in the United States, is about more than turkey, dressing, and pumpkin pie. It's about sharing your bounty with others and expressing gratitude for your good fortune. The first Thanksgiving was celebrated by Pilgrims and Native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

While many Americans have celebrated Thanksgiving over the years, some Native Americans lamented their loss of land and culture. In 1970, a large group of protestors walked out of a Thanksgiving feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts, thus founding the National Day of Mourning.

Some choose to celebrate Turkey-Free Thanksgiving, but most Americans want to see a turkey or ham at the holiday table.

Not into today's endless football? Tired of what you see in the mirror? Feeling crafty? Then gather your supplies and celebrate Make Your Own Head Day. Go realistic or abstract. Use clay, beads, paper mache, pipe cleaners, yarn, glitter, cardboard, water bottles, computer parts, old socks, butter, Thanksgiving leftovers, whatever. Show the world the real you.

Red Planet Day honors the planet Mars, our neighbor in the solar system. On this date in 1964 Mariner 4 departed earth, then it cruised by Mars almost a year later. Currently the Mars Rover Curiosity is exploring the surface of the red planet. Right now experts are diagnosing an electrical issue with the rover, but think positive and follow @MarsCuriosity on Twitter, if you're curious.

If you're a regular reader of this blog, you know that the 28th of every month is Gone-ta-Pott Day.

Followers of the Baha'i faith observe the Ascension of Abdu'l-Baha, remembering the death of the son of Baha'u'llah.

The countries of Albania, Mauritania, and Panama celebrate Independence Day on November 28th.

Oddly, this year Turkey Leftover Day falls on Thanksgiving. Consider this a planning phase, either for tomorrow or for a late-night snack. How about some turkey soup or turkey tetrazzini for a yummy change of pace?

National French Toast Day honors a delicious breakfast food that is neither French nor toasted. Life is funny sometimes.

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Hanukkah, Thanksgivukkah Eve, Tie One On Day, more

November 27th, 2013, is Hanukkah, Chanukah, Tie One On Day, Pins and Needles Day, and National Bavarian Cream Pie Day.

The first menorah candle is lit at sundown today, commemorating the first day of Hanukkah in 2013. The Festival of Lights is spelled many different ways, including Chanukah. 

ADVANCE NOTICE FOR TOMORROW: It is a rare year when Hanukkah has its first full day on Thanksgiving. Some have coined the term Thanksgivukkah. The two holidays last converged in 1861, before Thanksgiving was officially celebrated, and - get this - they won't converge again for about 75,000 years!
 

Tie One On Day is always celebrated on the day before Thanksgiving. EllynAnne Geisel, the holiday's creator, writes, "On the day before Thanksgiving... pause in the preparation of your own meal, wrap a loaf of bread or other baked good in an apron, tuck a prayer or note of encouragement in the pocket, and tie one on...an apron, of course! and deliver the wrapped bundle to someone without your bounty...  a neighbor, friend or family member in need of physical or spiritual sustenance, a bit of recognition or just a kind word." What a lovely sentiment, invoking the true spirit of the season!

Pins and Needles Day sounds like just another novelty holiday, celebrating either anticipation or that feeling you get when your circulation has been cut off. Actually, the holiday commemorates the anniversary of the opening performance of the only union-produced musical, called Pins and Needles.

If you've had enough pumpkin pie for a while, or if you've simply run out, try something different today in honor of National Bavarian Cream Pie Day.

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Day of the Covenant and National Cake Day

November 26th, 2013, is Day of the Covenant and National Cake Day.

Followers of the Bahai'i faith celebrate the Day of the Covenant, honoring 'Abdu'l-Baha. He did not wish to be honored on his birthday, May 23rd, because that day already belonged to the Bab. But on November 26th, 'Abdu'l-Baha made a promise - the Covenant - that "in exchange for his followers' obedience He would ensure their unity and through them establish the Kingdom of God on Earth."

Image courtesy of stremelife, FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

The holiday calendar features a bewildering array of specific cake celebrations, but today the choice is yours. Celebrate National Cake Day with your favorite flavor.

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Shopping Reminder Day, Parfait Day, more

November 25th, 2013, is Shopping Reminder Day, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, National Day of the Bible, Feast Day of Saint Catherine, Independence Day (Suriname), and National Parfait Day.  

As if anyone needs this holiday, November 25th is Shopping Reminder Day, to remind us that Christmas is exactly one month away.

The United Nations sponsors the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25th. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes: "I welcome the chorus of voices calling for an end to the violence that affects an estimated one in three women in her lifetime. I applaud leaders who are helping to enact and enforce laws and change mindsets. And I pay tribute to all those heroes around the world who help victims to heal and to become agents of change."

National Day of the Bible is observed on the Monday before Thanksgiving. One recommendation of the National Bible Association is to meet in a public place at noon on this date for scriptural readings.

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Catherine, patron saint of unmarried women, students, philosophers, craftsmen who use wheels, lacemakers, and milliners. French milliners parade their wares today, in honor of the single "Catherinettes" who wore special hats and made pilgrimage to Saint Catherine. According to fisheaters.com, women under 25 prayed, "Lord, give me a well-situated husband. Let him be gentle, rich, generous, and pleasant!" Women between 25 and 30 prayed, "Lord, one who's bearable, or who can at least pass as bearable in the world!" And those over 30 prayed, "Send whatever you want, lord; I'll take it!"

Suriname observes Independence Day on November 25th.

If you've had enough pumpkin pie and such, enjoy an ice cream and fruit concoction on National Parfait Day. Don't forget nuts and whipped cream!

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Stir-Up Sunday, Evolution Day, more

November 24th, 2013, is the Vertical Marathon, Stir-Up Sunday, Lhabab Duchen, Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day, D.B. Cooper Day, and Evolution Day.

Today's Vertical Marathon requires participants to scale 1,336 steps - that's 73 stories - of the Swissotel the Stamford in Singapore. Whew! I'm exhausted just blogging about it.

The Sunday before Advent is known as Stir-Up Sunday in the UK, because it's the traditional time to stir up a batch of Christmas Pudding. Christmas Pudding Day, as the event is also known, is losing popularity due to changing tastes and busy lives. Celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Raymond Blanc are trying to reestablish the popularity of the traditional dish. Here's Jamie Oliver's Christmas Pudding recipe.Seems to be a British equivalent of our much-maligned fruitcake.

Lhabab Duchen is the time to celebrate the descent of the Buddha to Indra's Heaven. Buddhists believe that on this day the effects of positive or negative actions are multiplied ten million times!

November 24th is Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day. If your unique talent involves bank robbery, by some crazy twist of fate, see the holiday that follows!

Today marks the 41st anniversary of skyjacker D.B. Cooper's famous leap from a 747, wearing a business suit and a parachute, plummeting toward earth with $200,000 in cash. He has never been found, alive or dead, but the case is apparently closed. Today is D.B. Cooper Day.

Evolution Day commemorates the anniversary of the publication of Charles Darwin's Origin of Species (On The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or The Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life) in 1859.

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Aura Awareness Day, Eat a Cranberry Day, more

November 23rd, 2013, is International Aura Awareness Day, Family Volunteer Day, National Survivors of Suicide Day, National Adoption Day, TARDIS Day (proposed), Fibonacci Day, National Espresso Day,, and Eat a Cranberry Day.

Today marks the 12th annual International Aura Awareness Day. It is possible, according to realityshifters.com, to energize your aura through visualization and meditation.

The Saturday before Thanksgiving is Family Volunteer Day, encouraging families to do good works as a unit, spreading good will and fostering family unity.

The Saturday before Thanksgiving is also National Survivors of Suicide Day, a "day of healing for bereavement after suicide in English, Spanish & French."

National Adoption Day, again always the Saturday before Thanksgiving, is a time to celebrate and support adoptive families.
 
A holiday has been proposed for November 23rd - TARDIS Day - commemorating the date in 1963 when the BBC aired the first episode of "Doctor Who." You can help, by signing this petition. Clever clever writers, creating a character who regenerates, enabling the show to go on and on and on, thus ensuring the writers' long-term employment....

1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21,... Today is the day to celebrate this odd sequence, known as Fibonacci numbers. Have you figured out the formula? Each number is the sum of the previous two. Happy spirals to you on Fibonacci Day.

Espresso yourself! Today is National Espresso Day. Fortify yourself with lots of caffeine and work on your holiday plans.

Eat a Cranberry Day always falls on November 23rd, a bit premature this year. I don't think many people eat just one cranberry, as the holiday seems to dictate, although I did that once. When I was maybe eight years old, one of my friends swore that fresh cranberries were the yummiest thing ever. Yeah, she laughed while I puckered.

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Start Your Own Country Day, Maize Day, more

November 22nd, 2013, is Start Your Own Country Day, Go for a Ride Day, Feast Day of Saint Cecilia, Independence Day (Lebanon), Maize Day, and Cashew Day.

Start Your Own Country Day sounds like fun, but it also sounds like a lot of hard work. As leader, you'll have to name your country, keep a tight reign on your minions, monitor production, and create some new traditions.

On Go for a Ride Day, take a ride around your new country. If it's really small, that won't take long.

November 22nd is the Feast Day of Saint Cecilia, patron saint of musicians.

Lebanon observes Independence Day on November 22nd.

The fourth Friday in November is Maize Day, honoring the importance of corn its importance in indigenous cultures. Why did I strike out corn? Turns out that maize and corn are not synonymous - maize is harvested at maturity, while corn is harvested before maturity. Now we've all learned something today.

Go nuts today - it's Cashew Day! Cashews, grown in the tropics, contain mono-unsaturated fats, magnesium, and copper. They're also great with chicken.

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Sagittarius the Archer, November 22 to December 21

Sagittarius. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Everyone born between November 22nd and December 21st is a Sagittarius, the sign of the Archer.

For more information about Sagittarius:

• Sagittarius Daily Horoscope
• What's-Your-Sign for Sagittarius
• Astrology.com: Sagittarius Sun Sign
• StarDate: Sagittarius, the Archer
• Astrology on the Web: Sagittarius the Archer
• Farmers' Almanac: Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained

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Biggest Liar Competition, Television Day, more

November 21st, 2013, is the World's Biggest Liar Competition, Great American Smokeout, World Philosophy Day, Beaujolais Nouveau Day, World Hello Day, UN World Television Day, Gingerbread Day, and Pumpkin Pie Day.

Today brings the World's Biggest Liar Competition, sponsored by the Jennings Brewery at the Bridge Inn, Santon Bridge, Holmrook, Cumbria, England. Or is it?

The Great American Smokeout, always the third Thursday in November, is a day to stop smoking. Stopping for even one day can lead to bigger steps, working toward a healthier life. The event is sponsored by the American Cancer Society, "The Official Sponsor of Birthdays."

The theme of World Philosophy Day 2013 is : "Inclusive Societies, Sustainable Planet." Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, writes, "This day is an invitation to rethink the conditions for inclusion and sustainability in societies that are increasingly diverse and ever more interconnected, between themselves and with their environment."

While you're philosophizing, how about a nice glass of French wine? Celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau Day.

World Hello Day began in response to the conflict between Israel and Egypt in late 1973. To participate, simply greet ten people today.

The United Nations promotes UN World Television Day in recognition of television's impact on society. According to the UN, "World Television Day is not so much a celebration of the tool, but rather the philosophy which it represents. Television represents a symbol for communication and globalization in the contemporary world."

Ah, gingerbread. A quintessential holiday scent. Ushering in the holiday season is Gingerbread Day. If you're looking for a new twist, join me in trying Vanilla Flan with Gingerbread Crumbs.

Pumpkin Pie Day is observed both today and Christmas Day, December 25th. Why not have pumpkin pie twice?

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Name Your PC Day, GIS Day, Peanut Butter Fudge Day, more

November 20th, 2013, is Name Your PC Day, Absurdity Day, False Confession Day, Alascattalo Day, Globally Organized Hug a Runner Day (GOHARD), GIS Day, Education Support Professionals Day, World COPD Day, Universal Children's Day, World Day of Transgender Day of Remembrance, African Industrialization Day, National Peanut Butter Fudge Day, and Mallomar Day.

Today is Name Your PC Day. I never thought about naming my computer before. Hmmm. Actually, we have several PCs at our house, including desktops, laptops, even a tablet and smartphones. So many names to determine! For inspiration, check out this list of "Unique, Wacky, Beautiful Celebrity Baby Names." Some might translate to the PC.

Embrace the absurd today, Absurdity Day. Just starting now, to plan a Thanksgiving feast for a crowd, might be absurd.

I'm not sure why anyone would want to take the fall for a crime they didn't commit, but if you're of a mind, today is False Confession Day.

Alascattalo Day, founded by Steven C. Levi, is a time to appreciate humor - especially Alaskan humor. (That probably doesn't include jokes about Sarah Palin.) Apparently the date varies, but Alascattalo Day always occurs in November. The alascattalo is, believe it or not, a cross between a moose and a walrus. Who knew?

November 20th, 2013, is the third Globally Organized Hug a Runner Day, also known as GOHARD.

On GIS Day, celebrate all aspects of geographic information systems.

The National Education Association honors all secretaries, classroom aides, maintenance people, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and others who serve our schools and students on Educational Support Professionals Day.

World COPD Day is meant to increase awareness and understanding of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. According to the World Health Organiazation, key risk factors are tobacco smoking, air pollution, and occupational dusts and chemicals.

The United Nations promotes Universal Children's Day, a time to foster the well-being of children around the globe.

Transgender Day of Remembrance memorializes individuals who lost their lives in the past year, due to the intolerance of others.

November 20th is African Industrialization Day. The theme for 2013 is: "Job creation and entrepreneurship development: a means to accelerate industrialisation in Africa."

If your sweet tooth is yearning for a special treat and peanut allergies are not a concern, celebrate National Peanut Butter Fudge Day.

If your sweet tooth is still calling out for fulfillment, celebrate Mallomar Day. Nabisco first introduced these marshmallowy, chocolatey cookie confections 100 years ago, back in 1913.

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Toilet Day, Have a Bad Day Day, more

November 19th, 2013, is World Toilet Day, Have a Bad Day Day, International Men's Day, Equal Opportunity Day, Gettysburg Address Day, Dedication Day, and National Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day.

Today is World Toilet Day. You're bound to use yours today, multiple times even, so take a moment to appreciate your easy access to sanitation.

Have a Bad Day Day is apparently the time to wish people a bad day instead of a good day. Celebrate at your own risk.

The theme of International Men's Day 2013 is "Keeping Men and Boys Safe."

U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower declared November 19th, the anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, to be known as Equal Opportunity Day. The day is also celebrated as Gettysburg Address Day and Dedication Day.

Many of us need no special encouragement to consume cola beverages and such, but just in case, be aware that today is National Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day.

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Mickey Mouse Day, Vichyssoise Day, more

November 18th, 2013, is Mickey Mouse Day, Married to a Scorpio Support Day, Push-Button Phone Day, Occult Day, William Tell Day, and National Vichyssoise Day.

Mickey Mouse Day commemorates the 1928 birth date of Disney's favorite mouse. Enjoy one of Mickey's most famous performances:

November 18th is a day of moral support. It's Married to a Scorpio Support Day! Answers.com recommends you spouses should "hide their household flowcharts." Nice idea, but your loved ones probably have extra hard copies or the original file on a flash drive. If you're the Scorpio in your household, try to relax a little.

Push-Button Phone Day is a time to remember when dial phones were the norm and push-button phones were a newfangled novelty - back in 1963.

On Occult Day we celebrate the weird, the supernatural, the magical. Feel that chill in the air? Shall we have a seance?

On this date in 1307, William Tell supposedly shot an apple off of his son's head. Today is William Tell Day. Eat an apple or practice archery, but please don't aim near anyone's head.

Here's a holiday I wasn't sure how to spell - National Vichyssoise Day. This famous French soup is made with leeks, potatoes, and (of course) plenty of butter. Ooh la la!

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Black Cat Day, Peace Day, Homemade Bread Day, more

November 17th, 2013, is World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, National Black Cat Day (Italy), Electronic Greeting Card Day, National Unfriend Day, Take a Hike Day, International Day of Students, World Prematurity Day, World Peace Day, National Baklava Day, and Homemade Bread Day.

The World Health Organization supports World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. Stay safe out there, readers of mine, and never text while driving.

The Italian Association for the Protection of Animals and the Environment promotes National Black Cat Day, to stop the inhumane killing of black cats in Italy. Many believe black cats bring bad luck or are associated with witchcraft. National Black Cat Day is held on the 17th because many Italians believe the number 17 is also unlucky.

November 17th is Electronic Greeting Card Day. Here are several great sites to get you started: 123Greetings; Blue Mountain; Rattlebox; Someecards; and WrongCards.

Jimmy Kimmel, of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on ABC, is promoting National Unfriend Day. Use the opportunity to prune your friend list on Facebook if you want, but nobody actually equates online friending with real face-to-face, I'll-be-there-if-you're-in-trouble friendship anymore, do they?

Now that the weather is cooling (on my half of the planet, at least), some of us are becoming couch potatoes. If you're in that category, take a cue from today's holiday, Take a Hike Day. Conquer a mountain or walk your dog around the block. It's all good.

International Day of Students is a commemoration of student activism. In 1939 on this date, Nazis stormed the University of Prague.

To commemorate World Prematurity Day, the Global Alliance asks Facebook users to post the following as their status: "I honor the million babies born too soon worldwide who died this year and 12 million more struggling to survive. Join me on World Prematurity Day at http://on.fb.me/nartrr."

Don Morris, who goes by the moniker "Peaceguy," encourages everyone to spread the word about his cause on World Peace Day.

National Baklava Day honors one of my favorite sweet treats. Triangular layers of flaky pastry are laced with honey and nuts. Travel to the Mediterranean via its cuisine.

Nothing makes a house homier than the smell of bread baking in the oven. Celebrate Homemade Bread Day!

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Full moon names for November 17th and 18th, 2013

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for November 2013 takes place on November 17th or 18th, depending on your location.

Following is a list of full moon names for November, ranging from common to surprising.

Freezing River Maker Moon - Abenaki
Full Beaver Moon - Algonquin
Freezing Moon - Anishnaabe
When the Rivers Start to Freeze - Arapaho
Frost Moon - Assiniboine
Il Poya - Buddhist
Dark Moon - Celtic
Trading Moon - Cherokee
Deer Rutting Moon - Cheyenne
White Moon - Chinese
Sassafras Moon - Choctaw
Beaver Moon - Colonial American
Heading to Winter Moon - Comanche
Thanking Moon - Comanche
The Moon the Rivers Begin to Freeze - Cree
Iholi-Frost - Creek
Moon When the Water Is Black with Leaves - Creek
Moon When Horns Are Broken Off - Dakotah Sioux
Hunter's Moon - Deborean
Snow Moon - English Medieval
Snow Moon - Haida
Dev Diwali - Hindu
Kartik Poornima - Hindu
Tripurai Purnima - Hindu
Fledgling Raptor Moon - Hopi
Month of Fledgling Hawk - Hopi
Itartoryuk Moon - Inuit
Dark Moon - Janic
Dead Moon - Janic
Mourning Moon - Janic
Moving Inside for Winter - Kalapuya
Geese-Going Moon - Kiowa
Ring-Finger Moon  (counting on fingers, beginning in August) - Klamath
Snow Moon - Klamath
Halatai - Kumeyaay
Moon When the River Freezes - Mandan-Hidatsa
Time of Much Poverty - Mohawk
Large Tree Freeze - Mountain Maidu
Frosty Moon - Native American
Big Wind - Navajo
Tree Moon - Neo Pagan
Snow Moon - Pagan
Freezing Moon - Passamaquoddy
Cold Begins - Pomo
Month of the Turkey and Feast - Potawatomi
All Gathered Moon - San Juan Native American
Long Moon - Shawnee
Cold Moon - Shoshoni
Moon of the Falling Leaves - Sioux
Corn Harvest Moon - Taos
Moon When All Is Gathered In - Tewa Pueblo
Scraping Moon - Tlingit
Fog Moon - Unknown
Mad Moon - Unknown
Moon When Deer Shed Antlers - Unknown
Oak Moon - Unknown
Storm Moon - Unknown
Winter Divided - Valley Maidu
Mourning Moon - Wiccan
Little Bear's Moon - Winnebago
Snowy Mountains in the Morning Moon - Wishram
Animam Meecha - Yaqui
Cold Time - Yurok
Yachun kwa'shi'amme - Zuni

Sources for full moon names:

• Farmers' Almanac - Full Moon Names and Their Meanings
• Moon Names
• Indian Moons, Days and Other Calendar Stuff
• Hindu Blog - Purnima 2013-2014
• Spring Wolf's Pagan's Path - Full Moon Names
• About.com: Paganism/Wicca - Moon Phase Names in the Southern Hemisphere
• Willow Grove - Esbats and Full Moon Names
• Moon Names for a Full Year
• Wikipedia - Full Moon

More about the moon:

• Keith's Moon Page
• USNO Data Services
• Google Moon
• National Geographic - Moon Facts
• Calendars through the Ages - A month of moons
• The full moon calendar 2013
• Lunar calendar for 2013 year

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Games Day, Button Day, Tast Food Day, more

November 16th, 2013, is International Games Day, Button Day, Have a Party with your Bear Day, International Day for Tolerance, Day of Declaration of Sovereignty (Estonia), and National Fast Food Day.

International Games Day is the new global incarnation of Gaming Day. The event, now celebrated on the 3rd Saturday in November, is hosted by participating libraries.

Today is Button Day. If the day is meant to celebrate the sort of buttons that fasten shirts and such, I'm good to go. I have a large collection of buttons, new to antique, to sort through and appreciate. If, on the other hand, Button Day  is meant to celebrate campaign buttons and other graphic messages that are pinned on, my collection is rather sparse. Then again, there are buttons on phones, buttons on elevators, belly buttons, and the "Easy Button" at Staples. Honor the button of your choice!

Gather your favorite teddy bear and your best tea party supplies. Today is Have a Party with your Bear Day! Stay home from work, if necessary.

The United Nations promotes the International Day for Tolerance on November 16th. In 2011 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote: "At times of change, we must stay true to the ideals and principles that are at the heart of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Among those core values is tolerance. Our practice of tolerance must mean more than peaceful coexistence, crucial as that is. It must be an active understanding fostered through dialogue and positive engagement with others."

Estonia observes the Day of Declaration of Sovereignty on November 16th, commemorating their break with the Soviet Union.

For better or for worse, today is National Fast Food Day. Depending on your point of view, pro or con, have a triple burger or look up some healthy recipes to prepare at home. 

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Leonid Meteor Shower 2013

The 2013 Leonid Meteor Shower, potentially visible from November 6th through November 30th, will be at its peak on the night of November 16th through early November 17th. The Leonid is one of the most famous annual meteor showers. Every 33 years it puts on its showiest spectacle. The next peak will be in 2023, but this year's shower should produce 20 meteors per hour. The Leonid is visible in both hemispheres.

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. Sadly, the full moon will interfere with the view for this year's Leonid Meteor Shower.

Meteor showers are named for the constellation they appear to be near. The Leonid Meteor Shower appears near the constellation Leo the Lion.

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73; FreeDigitalPhotos.

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

• Spacedex
• EarthSky's meteor shower guide for 2013
• StarDate 2013 Meteor Showers
• American Meteor Society
• StarrySkies: Leo
• The Holiday Whiz: Leo the Lion, July 23 to August 22

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George Spelvin Day, Spicy Hermit Cookie Day, more

November 15th, 2013, is George Spelvin Day, I Love to Write Day, National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day, America Recycles Day, National Raisin Bran Cereal Day, National Bundt Pan Day, and National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day.

George Spelvin Day celebrates an actor credited with many roles, spanning over a century. And furthermore, the actor in question doesn't exist! George Spelvin (or feminine variations) is a name used on theatrical programs to conceal the fact that one actor is playing more than one part. George Spelvin has dramatic relatives, including Walter Plinge and Alan Smithee.

2013 marks the 12th annual I Love to Write Day. John Riddle, author and ghostwriter, founded this inspirational event. I'd say more, but suddenly I'm experiencing writer's block....

If I can't write, maybe I'll clean out my fridge. What's that green stuff, anyway? Guacamole? Soup?  Today is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day.

Now that the fridge is cleaned out, what to do with the empty plastic containers? Conveniently, today is America Recycles Day.

Time for breakfast. Enjoy a healthy and delicious dose of iron, fiber, and calcium in a bowl on National Raisin Bran Cereal Day.

Now shift focus to a holiday featuring a hole, either in a cake or in a pan. Depending on your mood, celebrate either National Bundt Day or National Bundt Pan Day.

National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day celebrates a sweet and spicy cookie. If you bake these, you won't be alone for long, so who knows why they're called hermits?

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American Teddy Bear Day, Girls Day, Pickle Day, more

November 14th, 2013, is Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day, National American Teddy Bear Day, International Girls Day, Ashura, Operating Room Nurse Day, Children's Day (India), Spriit of NSA Day, World Diabetes Day, National Pickle Day, and National Spicy Guacamole Day.

Here's the perfect holiday for a Monday - Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day. Take it to heart!

Even today, with fancy electronic gadgets and toys to promote every new family movie, we leave space on the shelf for a true classic. Celebrate National American Teddy Bear Day.

International Girls Day honors the potential within all girls. Encourage a special girl in your life. Share a skill. Read a book together. Maybe even give her a sweet teddy bear to cuddle.

If you've ever had surgery, you know the importance of a well-trained, caring, conscientious staff supporting the surgeon. November 14th is Operating Room Nurse Day.

While many countries observe Universal Children's Day on November 20th, India celebrates Children's Day on November 14th, the birth date of India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharial Nehru, because of his love for children.

Ashura is observed by Muslims on the 10th of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, which falls on November 14th in 2013. Ashura commemorates the death of Hussein, grandson of Muhammad, in the year 680.

Spirit of NSA Day pays tribute to the National Speakers Association.

World Diabetes Day is sponsored by the International Diabetes Federation. Stay informed via Twitter, #wdd.

Who among us is unwilling to celebrate National Pickle Day? Pickles add a special zing to sandwiches, or they're great eaten right out of the jar. Besides, the founders of the unofficial National Pickle Day threaten we'll be, um, haunted by Queen Oniony if we don't spread the word.

Today isn't plain old National Guacamole Day. That was way back in September. Today, my friends, is National Spicy Guacamole Day. Be generous with the hot sauce and chiles.

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World Kindness Day, Indian Pudding Day, more

November 13th, 2013, is World Kindness Day, Educational Support Professionals Day, and National Indian Pudding Day.

November 13th is World Kindness Day. According to the World Kindness Movement, World Kindness Day is a time to "look beyond ourselves, beyond the boundaries of our country, beyond our culture, our race, our religion; and realise we are citizens of the world."

The National Education Association honors all secretaries, classroom aides, maintenance people, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and others who serve our schools and students on Educational Support Professionals Day.

National Indian Pudding Day honors a custard featuring corn meal, molasses, and sometimes apples. Oddly enough, Indian pudding seems to be an invention of the Pilgrims, not the Native Americans.

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Young Readers' Day, Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, more

November 12th, 2013, is National Young Readers' Day, Chicken Soup for the Soul Day, Wear Blue Jeans on World Pneumonia Day, Elizabeth Cady Stanton Day, Birth of Baha'u'llah, and National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day.

National Young Readers' Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday in November. Share a good book with your little ones!

Chicken Soup for the Soul Day celebrates the mega-successful Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, but feel free to indulge in a soul-satisfying bowl of actual chicken soup.

If you like to flaunt your support of worthy causes, step into your favorite jeans today. It's Wear Blue Jeans on World Pneumonia Day.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton Day commemorates the birth date of a pioneer in women's rights. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony founded the National Woman Suffrage Association.

Members of the Baha'i faith celebrate the Birth of Baha'u'llah today. Baha'u'llah is the founder of the Baha'i faith.

Here's a fun holiday - National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day. The anchovies will live to see another day! Meanwhile, your pizza could include pepperoni, sausage, pineapple, pickles, herring, chocolate chips, whatever. Enjoy!

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Veterans Day, Remembrance Day, more

November 11th, 2013, is World Orphans Day, Veterans Day (U.S), Death/Duty Day, Armistice Day, Remembrance Day, Bonza Bottler Day, Martinmas, Independence Day (Angola), Independence Day (Rhodesia), and National Sundae Day.

Too many children grow up without the love and security of a loving family. The second Monday in November is World Orphans Day.

On November 11th the United States observes Veterans Day to honor all veterans, thanking them for their service and sacrifice.

Death/Duty Day honors soldiers who died on November 11th, 1918, the end of World War I. The day is also known as Armistice Day.

Canada and other countries observe Remembrance Day on November 11th, honoring their soldiers present and past.

Bonza Bottler Day occurs once a month, when the month's number coincides with the date. Today is 11/11, in case you haven't noticed.

Martinmas honors Saint Martin of Tours. Many eat goose on this date, because a honking goose revealed the hiding spot of Saint Martin when he was hiding from clergy who wanted to make him Bishop. Old folklore holds that one can stand in the back of a church on Martinmas and see auras around the heads of congregants who will not be living by the next Martinmas.

Angola observes Independence Day on November 11th.

Rhodesia celebrates Independence Day today.

It pleases me when National Sundae Day falls on a Sunday. (In my part of the world, the dessert and the day are pronounced the same way.) Many other sundae holidays are on the calendar, including National Strawberry Sundae Day on July 7th and National Hot Fudge Sundae Day on July 25th, but today's sundae day is non-specific. Go crazy!

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North Taurids Meteor Shower 2013

The 2013 North Taurids Meteor Shower occurs from October 12th to December 2nd, but is expected to be at its peak on November 11th and 12th. (This meteor shower overlaps with the South Taurids Meteor Shower, which peaked on November 4th and 5th.)

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. The first quarter moon may interfere somewhat with viewing for this year's North Taurids. The peak number of meteors is expected to be about 7 per hour.

Meteor showers are named for the constellation they appear to be near. The North Taurids Meteor Shower appears near the constellation Taurus the Bull.

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73, FreeDigitalPhotos.

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

• Spacedex 2013 Meteor Shower viewing guide
• StarDate 2013 Meteor Showers
• EarthSky's meteor shower guide for 2013 
• American Meteor Society
• Meteor Showers Online: Taurids
• Chandra X-Ray Observatory: Taurus the Bull
• The Holiday Whiz: Taurus, April 20 to May 20

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Forget Me Not Day, McHappy Day, Vanilla Cupcake Day, more

November 10th, 2013, is Forget Me Not Day, Area Code Day, Sesame Street Day, McHappy Day, USMC Day, World Science Day for Peace and Development, Martinmas Eve, and National Vanilla Cupcake Day.

Forget Me Not Day is a time to reconnect with someone special. Make the day extra special with a bouquet of forget-me-nots.

To celebrate Area Code Day, make some phone calls. Here's a nice area code map, in case you're really into this holiday.

Sesame Street Day celebrates the anniversary of the famous show's debut on November 10th, 1969. (Don't worry - I'm not going to say anything snarky about Mitt Romney and Big Bird.)

McHappy Day is an annual fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

USMC Day commemorates the founding of the United States Marine Corps in 1775, then known as the Continental Marines. Semper Fidelis!

The United Nations promotes World Science Day for Peace and Development on November 10th, as part of the International Week of Science and Peace.

November 10th is Martinmas Eve, leading up to the Feast of Saint Martin of Tours on November 11th.

On National Vanilla Cupcake Day, not just any old cupcake will do. Be sure it's vanilla!

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Sadie Hawkins Day, Scrapple Day, more

November 9th, 2013, is Sadie Hawkins Day, Chaos Never Dies Day, World Freedom Day, Kristallnacht, Night of Broken Glass, Tag der Erfinder, National Donor Sabbath, Virgen de la Almudena, Independence Day (Cambodia), and National Scrapple Day.

Sadie Hawkins Day was brought to life in the comic strip "Lil' Abner," by Al Capp, in November of 1937. Sadie Hawkins, the homeliest girl in Dogpatch, couldn't find a beau, so her father organized a special footrace. Single gals chased the single guys, and the ones who got caught were forced to marry. The race became an annual November event in the comic strip, but the date varied. Most celebrate now with girls-ask-guys dances on the first Saturday in November.

You overslept, your cell phone is ringing, your project's overdue, your favorite jeans are in the laundry, and all you can find to eat for breakfast is loopy cereal with orange juice. Don't worry - you're right on track to celebrate Chaos Never Dies Day!

World Freedom Day commemorates the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The organizers state: "Our aim is to have organisations around the world celebrate World Freedom Day by releasing white balloons, and to commemorate the historical importance of this day by holding conferences or colloquia, or private discussions."

Kristallnacht, the "Night of Broken Glass," is a remembrance of horrific anti-Jewish events that took place on November 9th and 10th, 1938, in Germany, Austria, and parts of Czechoslovakia. Streets were lined with shards of glass from shattered windows of synagogues, Jewish-owned businesses, and family homes.

Germany observes Tag der Erfinder, or  Inventors' Day, on the birth date of actress Hedy Lamarr. She and composer George Antheil submitted a patent application on this date in 1941 for a secret communication system!

The patron saint of Madrid, Spain, is honored on Virgen de la Almudena.

Cambodia observes Independence Day on November 9th.

Today is National Scrapple Day. For the uninitiated, scrapple is a combination of pork heart, ribs, liver, seasoning, broth, and cornmeal, baked in loaves, then sliced and fried in butter. The Pennsylvania Dutch aren't famous for low-cal dishes, after all.

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Ample Time Day, Cook Something Bold and Pungent Day, more

November 8th, 2013, is National Ample Time Day, National Dunce Day, Abet and Aid Punsters Day, National Parents as Teachers Day, Cook Something Bold and Pungent Day, National Harvey Wallbanger Day, and National Cappuccino Day.

On National Ample Time Day, take time to relax, slow down, and "smell the coffee," so to speak. As Craig Ferguson sings in his nightly theme song, "Tomorrow's just your future yesterday."

National Dunce Day honors a philosopher named John Duns Scotus, who believed that cone-shaped hats increased learning potential! Later the Duns/dunce cap came to symbolize the student who couldn't (or wouldn't) learn. Who knew?

Today is Abet and Aid Punsters Day, so if you hear any puns, laugh as if you think they're punny.

National Parents as Teachers Day raises awareness of a nationwide program, based in St. Louis, Missouri, that enables parents to help their children reach their full academic potential.

Today is Cook Something Bold and Pungent Day. Now, what's bold and pungent to one person might be just another Thursday's dinner to someone else, so follow your own instincts. Hot sauce, durian, Limburger cheese, anchovies, crickets, Bertie Bott's Jelly Beans, scrapple - so many options!

National Harvey Wallbanger Day celebrates a drink made with vodka, orange juice, and Galliano liqueur. Some say a surfer named Harvey drank too many Galliano drinks and banged into too many walls.

After you've sampled your pungent food and sipped your Harvey Wallbanger, it's the perfect time for a lovely cappuccino. Luckily, today is National Cappuccino Day.

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