February is a month that bridges new-year momentum with deeper cultural, historical, and spiritual observances. It’s a time to honor the legacy of Black communities, strengthen heart-health awareness, deepen interfaith understanding, and acknowledge global calls for justice and wellbeing. From Black History Month to the beginning of Ramadan, February offers ERG leaders, people teams, and culture builders powerful opportunities to foster belonging and connection.

Planning your ERG programming for February? Verbate gives ERG Leaders & Program Managers resources, community and recognition for their ERG work. Learn more here. 

February at a Glance

A quick, scannable overview of February’s key observances to support planning and inclusive engagement.

Key February Heritage & Awareness Observances

Black History Month (All Month)

Founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 and expanded to a month in 1976, Black History Month honors the history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. The observance aligns with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Feb 12) and Frederick Douglass (Feb 14), symbolizing liberation and justice.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Read or share works by Black authors, artists, and scholars.
• Share your Black ERG’s internal efforts & spotlight their leaders.
• Support Black-owned businesses and organizations.
• Host events centered on heritage, storytelling, and dialogue.

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American Heart Month (All Month)

A national observance promoting heart-health awareness and prevention. The “Go Red for Women,” initiative highlights the unique risks women face, with National Wear Red Day falling on February 7 in 2026.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Encourage heart-healthy habits (exercise, nutrition, stress management).
• Participate in “Wear Red Day” programming.
• Plan an intersectional conversation with your Women/Gender ERG
• Support screenings or local heart-health nonprofits.

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National Freedom Day (February 1)

Honors the signing of the resolution that became the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery in the U.S. The Liberty Bell is traditionally rung in Philadelphia in recognition of freedom and unity.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share educational resources on the 13th Amendment.
• Host conversations on freedom, civil rights, and democracy.
• Discuss how this intersects with Black History Month efforts.
• Support civic engagement organizations.

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Imbolc (February 2)

A Wiccan and Pagan holiday marking the halfway point between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. Imbolc symbolizes purification, light returning, and seasonal renewal.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share educational content about Pagan traditions.
• Highlight themes of renewal and seasonal transition.
• Encourage reflective grounding or seasonal intention-setting.

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Rosa Parks Day (February 4)

Rosa Parks Day honors the life and legacy of Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her bus seat in 1955 became a defining moment in the civil rights movement. The observance highlights the power of individual courage and its ripple effects on collective action. It's an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing work toward racial justice, equity, and dignity for all.

Inclusive Ways to Observe

• Share historical resources about civil rights activism.
• Host discussions on courage, resistance, and social change.
• Find and share archival documents and imagery.

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World Cancer Day (February 4)

World Cancer Day is a global initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) that aims to raise awareness, encourage prevention, and promote equitable access to treatment. The day serves as a reminder of the millions of people impacted by cancer - patients, survivors, caregivers, and communities. It also highlights disparities in healthcare access and the importance of early detection.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share prevention, early detection, and screening resources.
• Highlight stories of survivors and caregivers within your community.
• Invite a medical expert or advocate to speak about cancer equity.
• Support local or global cancer research and patient-support organizations.
• Offer resources for employees balancing caregiving responsibilities.

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National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (February 7)

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day brings attention to the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on Black communities across the U.S. The day emphasizes the importance of education, testing, treatment access, and community-led advocacy. It also highlights the need for culturally responsive healthcare and the role of stigma reduction in improving outcomes.

Inclusive Ways to Observe

• Share culturally relevant educational and health resources.
• Partner with local Black-led health organizations for workshops or screenings.
• Promote HIV testing, PrEP awareness, and prevention tools.
• Highlight intersectional experiences within Black LGBTQ+ communities.
• Support awareness campaigns amplifying hope, healing, and resilience.

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World Interfaith Harmony Week (Feb 1-7)

World Interfaith Harmony Week was established by the United Nations in 2010 to encourage peace, understanding, and collaboration among people of different faith traditions. The observance recognizes that interfaith dialogue plays a crucial role in fostering mutual respect and reducing religious-based conflict. It invites workplaces and communities to create space for learning, listening, and connection.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Host interfaith roundtables, storytelling sessions, or panel discussions.
• Highlight the religious diversity present within your organization.
• Share messages of unity, peace, and spiritual inclusion.
• Partner with interfaith organizations for community service activities.
• Offer quiet rooms or reflection spaces that support diverse spiritual needs.

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International Epilepsy Day (February 8)

International Epilepsy Day raises global awareness about epilepsy, a neurological condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Many individuals living with epilepsy experience stigma or misunderstanding, making education and open dialogue essential. The day encourages communities to amplify stories, support research, and advocate for accessible healthcare.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share educational resources on epilepsy.
• Highlight accessibility and accommodations.
• Discuss caregiving support at your workplace.

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Safer Internet Day (February 10)

Safer Internet Day focuses on building safer, more responsible digital spaces for people of all ages. With the rise of online communication, this day highlights key issues like cyberbullying, digital privacy, and media literacy. It encourages individuals and organizations to promote healthy online habits and strengthen digital wellbeing.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share cybersecurity and privacy tips.
• Partner with your IT org to discuss best practices internally.
• Host digital safety workshops.

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International Day of Women & Girls in Science (February 11)

This United Nations observance promotes gender equity in STEM and celebrates the contributions of women and girls to scientific advancement. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in many scientific fields, making this day an important reminder of the systemic barriers that persist. It encourages institutions and communities to uplift women innovators and expand pathways into STEM careers.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Spotlight women scientists, engineers, researchers, and inventors.
• Share mentorship, internship, or scholarship opportunities for girls in STEM.
• Partner with STEM-focused ERGs or external organizations.
• Host a fireside chat with women leaders in science or tech.
• Promote equitable practices in hiring, pay, and STEM education access.

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Valentine’s Day (February 14)

Valentine’s Day is widely recognized as a celebration of care, connection, and love across cultures. While traditionally associated with romantic love, many communities now embrace it as a day to honor friendships, family connections, and community bonds. It can also be a meaningful moment to spotlight emotional wellbeing and gratitude.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share messages of appreciation across teams.
• Encourage wellbeing and community connection.
• Discuss different traditions and highlight intersections. 

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Nirvana Day (February 15)

Nirvana Day is observed by many Buddhist communities to commemorate the Buddha’s transition into final Nirvana. The day symbolizes peace, liberation, and the transcending of suffering. It encourages contemplation, gentle awareness, and gratitude for teachers, wisdom, and compassionate living.

Inclusive Ways to Observe

• Highlight teachings of mindfulness, compassion, and non-attachment.
• Offer a quiet space for meditation or reflection.
• Share educational resources about Buddhist traditions.
• Encourage wellbeing practices such as mindful breathing or gratitude moments.

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International Childhood Cancer Day (February 15)

International Childhood Cancer Day raises awareness about the experiences of children and families affected by cancer. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis, equitable access to treatment, and compassionate long-term support. The observance encourages communities to stand in solidarity with children facing cancer and advocate for quality pediatric care worldwide.

Inclusive Ways to Observe

• Share advocacy resources.
• Support pediatric cancer organizations.
• Create space for your Parents / Caregivers ERG to discuss or share ersources.

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Maha Shivaratri (February 15)

Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolizing introspection, devotion, and spiritual renewal. Observers may fast, meditate, or participate in all-night prayers as a form of discipline and connection. The holiday invites reflection on inner transformation and the cycles of creation and destruction.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share information about the significance of Shiva and festival traditions.
• Respect fasting practices and offer flexible scheduling where possible.
• Collaborate with ERGs or local cultural organizations.
• Highlight themes of renewal, discipline, and community.

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Family Day (Canada - February 16)

Family Day is a Canadian holiday that emphasizes rest, togetherness, and the importance of family and chosen family relationships. It's observed across several provinces as a moment to slow down, connect, and nurture supportive communities. Many workplaces use the day to highlight work-life balance and holistic wellbeing.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Invite employees to share family traditions.
• Encourage a wellbeing or connection-focused activity.
• Partner with family-focused ERGs and groups.

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Chinese / Lunar New Year - Year of the Horse (February 17)

Chinese / Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is celebrated by millions of people globally. In 2026, the Year of the Horse symbolizes energy, independence, and forward momentum. Traditions include family gatherings, cultural performances, festive meals, and symbolic acts honoring renewal.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share educational content about Lunar New Year customs and symbolism.
• Highlight your Asian and Pacific Islander ERGs.
• Be mindful of time-off or schedule adjustments for employees who observe.

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Mardi Gras (February 17)

Mardi Gras, also known as “Fat Tuesday,” is celebrated in many Christian and cultural traditions as the final day before Lent. Cities like New Orleans hold parades, music events, and community celebrations.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Share the history and cultural significance of Mardi Gras.
• Highlight cultural traditions, music, and art.
• Encourage joyful team activities or cultural education.

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Ramadan Begins (Evening of February 17)

Ramadan begins at sundown and marks a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. Fasting (sawm) is one of Islam’s Five Pillars and serves as a reminder of empathy, gratitude, and community.

Inclusive Ways to Observe

• Be mindful of fasting colleagues (avoid required meals in events).
• Learn about iftar (the evening meal that breaks the fast).
• Offer schedule flexibility when possible.

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Ash Wednesday (February 18)

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a season of fasting, prayer, and reflection for many Christian traditions. The observance invites individuals to contemplate purpose, humility, and renewal. Many people may attend services or abstain from certain foods as part of their practice.

Inclusive Ways to Observe

• Respect time needed for religious services or observance.
• Offer flexible meeting times and avoid food-centered gatherings.
• Share educational content about Lent for interfaith learning.
• Ensure quiet or reflective spaces are available when possible.

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World Day of Social Justice (February 20)

World Day of Social Justice, established by the United Nations, highlights global efforts to advance equity, workers’ rights, fair wages, and social protections. The observance calls attention to systemic issues that marginalize communities and impede access to opportunity. It encourages individuals, organizations, and governments to work toward a more just and inclusive world.

Inclusive Ways to Celebrate

• Host conversations on economic justice, equity, or human rights.
• Share learning resources on global and local justice movements.
• Partner with community organizations supporting labor rights or social equity.
• Highlight your organization’s commitments and progress.

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Looking Ahead — Building Awareness and Connection in February 2026

February’s observances highlight themes of justice, health, unity, spiritual renewal, and collective wellbeing. These observances invite organizations to deepen understanding, strengthen community ties, and plan proactively for the year ahead.

Explore Verbate’s full Heritage Months & Cultural Calendar to support your planning and programming. And for Heritage & Recognition month planning, check out 3 tactical tips in our guide here.

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