Complete list of worldwide holidays, observances, and special events in January 2026
Complete list of holidays and observances around the globe
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The first day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, celebrated worldwide with fireworks, parties, and resolutions.
Public holiday in most countries
Observed to raise awareness about the importance of braille as a means of communication for blind and partially sighted people. Commemorates the birth of Louis Braille, inventor of the braille system.
Observance, not a public holiday
Observed on the third Sunday in January, promoting inter-faith understanding and harmony by emphasizing common elements of different religions.
Observance, not a public holiday
Christmas celebration for Orthodox Christians who follow the Julian calendar. Major celebration in Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, Belarus, and other Eastern European countries.
Public holiday in countries with significant Orthodox populations
Also known as Old New Year, this is the start of the new year according to the Julian calendar, which is still used by some Orthodox churches for liturgical purposes.
Observance in countries like Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Serbia, and Montenegro
Federal holiday in the United States honoring the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observed on the third Monday of January, near his birthday of January 15.
Federal holiday in the United States
An annual event dedicated to hugging. It was created with the aim of encouraging people to openly express their feelings by hugging.
Observance, not a public holiday
A day proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to celebrate the role of education in peace and development. It highlights the importance of inclusive and equitable quality education.
UN observance, not a public holiday
Australia's national day, commemorating the arrival of the First Fleet at Port Jackson in 1788. Celebrated with ceremonies, concerts, and community events across the country.
Public holiday in Australia
Recognizes the role of customs officials and agencies in maintaining border security, facilitating international trade, and collecting duties and taxes.
Observance, not a public holiday
UN-designated day to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust. Marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and death camp.
UN observance, not a public holiday
Month-long awareness campaigns and celebrations
Encourages blood donations during winter, when donations typically decrease due to holidays, travel, and inclement weather.
Raises awareness about cervical cancer, HPV, and the importance of early detection through regular screenings.
Encourages people to pursue new hobbies or dedicate more time to existing ones, promoting personal growth and stress relief.
Celebrates the comfort and warmth of soup during the cold winter month, encouraging people to try new recipes.
Promotes awareness about braille literacy and its importance for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Highlights the positive impact of mentoring and encourages more people to become mentors to young people.
Celebrates the world's second most consumed beverage and its various health benefits during the cold winter season.
Promotes the health benefits of oatmeal, a nutritious breakfast option that helps lower cholesterol and provides essential nutrients.
Special weeks celebrated during January
Encourages people to write and send handwritten letters, preserving the traditional art of letter writing in our digital age.
Promotes activities and practices that increase happiness and well-being during what is often considered one of the most depressing times of the year.
Encourages people to declutter and organize their email inboxes, improving digital productivity and reducing stress.
Raises awareness about educational options available to children and families, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, and homeschooling.
Free printable January calendars with holidays
Standard monthly calendar with all major holidays and observances marked. Perfect for planning your month.
DownloadMonthly calendar with extra space for notes and reminders. Ideal for tracking appointments and tasks.
DownloadHorizontal layout calendar with holidays. Great for desk planning or wall display.
DownloadCreate a personalized January 2026 calendar with your own events, holidays, and design preferences.