The Department of Health Sciences is pleased to recognize the following observances and celebrations for the month of April:
Ramadan/Ramazan (Islam)
March 2 – April 21, 2023
Focusing on faith, this holy observance celebrates the Quran being revealed for the first time during this month on the night of Laylat al Qadr. Common traditions include fasting during daylight hours, eating the iftar meal each night after reading the Quran, refraining from any bad habits and attending night prayers at Mosques.
Passover/Pesach (Jewish)
April 5-13, 2023
Honoring the emancipation of the Jewish slaves from ancient Egypt and the delivering of the subsequent delivering of the 10 Commandments from God. Common traditions include the ritual seder meal, reading from the Haggadah, family gatherings and lighting of the ahrzeit memorial candle.
Good Friday (Christian)
April 7, 2023
Commemorating the execution of Jesus, this holy day occurs the Friday before Easter. Common traditions include attending church service, praying and fasting.
Easter (Christian)
April 9, 2023
Recognizing Jesus’ resurrection from death. Common traditions include gifting others with colorful eggs and candy (sometimes chocolate-shaped bunnies) and gathering with family for a large meal.
Baisakhi/Birthday of the Khalsa (Sikh)
April 14, 2023
Celebrating the New Year and founding of Sikhism in 1699. Common traditions include dance, music, parades and the chanting of scripture.
Pascha (Eastern Orthodox)
April 16, 2023
Recognizes Jesus’ resurrection from death. Twelve weeks of preparation precede this holy day. Celebrated with a collection of services combined as one.
Laylat Al Qadr (Islam)
April 18, 2023
Commemorating the Quran first being revealed to Muhammed, this holy day is traditionally celebrated on the 27th day of Ramadan. Common traditions include praying late into the evening.
Ridván (Bahá’í)
April 21-May 2, 2023
Commemorating when Bahá’u’lláh proclaimed his mission as God’s messenger. Common traditions include reading excerpts recounting Bahá’u’lláh’s stay in the Garden of Ridván. On the first day, elections for the democratically elected bodies, or spiritual assemblies, that help govern the Bahá’í community occur.
Eid Al-Fitr (Islam)
April 22, 2023
Signifying the last day of Ramadan and the end of the fasting period. Common traditions include exchanging gifts, praying, and feasting with friends and family.
UNC-Chapel Hill provides a calendar of Holy Days and Observances as a resource for education and accommodation. The Department of Health Sciences will share monthly observances and recognitions as a part of its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.