As we welcome the new year, January brings opportunities to celebrate the rich cultural and historical diversity within our school community. We are excited to honor several important holidays and observances this month, each representing unique traditions and values.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
On Monday, January 19, 2026, we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a time to reflect on Dr. King’s vision of equality, justice, and peace. In school, we will engage students in activities and discussions about the Civil Rights Movement and how we can all contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.
While Martin Luther King Jr. is honored nationwide with a federal holiday that bears his name, his legacy as a civil rights activist holds a particularly special place at Brandeis. Read more about why and see our archives. Hint: He visited our campus!
Other January Observances
January also includes:
Epiphany (January 6), is observed by many Christian communities as the end of the Christmas season.
Orthodox New Year (January 7), is celebrated by Eastern Orthodox Christians.
Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi) (Japan) (January 12th)
Japan celebrates its youth turning 20 with ceremonies recognizing their new adulthood. Dressed in traditional attire, these young adults participate in formal events, enjoy family celebrations and partake in special prayers for a prosperous future in a respected Japanese tradition.
Lohri (January 13), Celebrated primarily in Punjab, Lohri (India Festival) marks the end of winter with bonfires, folk songs and dances like the vibrant Bhangra. Communities gather to throw sesame seeds and sweets into the fire, symbolizing a farewell to winter and the welcoming of warmer, longer days ahead.
Makar Sankranti (January 14), According to Britannica, this Hindu festival celebrates “the entrance of the sun into the astrological sign of Makara (corresponding to Capricorn)”, symbolizing the return of longer days. People enjoy kite flying, bathe in holy rivers for blessings and indulge in sweets made of sesame and jaggery, celebrating a fresh start for health, happiness and prosperity.
Burns Night (Scotland) (January 25)
Scots honor poet Robert Burns with Burns Night, gathering for a traditional supper featuring haggis, whisky and poetry recitals of Burns’ work. Festivities include toasts, music and Highland dancing, reflecting pride in Scottish culture and the rich literary legacy of Robert Burns.
Australia Day – January 26
Scots honor poet Robert Burns with Burns Night, gathering for a traditional supper featuring haggis, whisky and poetry recitals of Burns’ work. Festivities include toasts, music and Highland dancing, reflecting pride in Scottish culture and the rich literary legacy of Robert Burns.
Thank you to our source: https://www.classpop.com/magazine/january-holidays
How You Can Participate
We encourage families to share their own cultural traditions with us!
If you or your child would like to contribute to our celebrations through a presentation, food, or decorations, please let us know.
As we come together to honor these holidays, let’s celebrate the diversity that makes our school community vibrant and unique. Thank you for your continued support in fostering an environment where all students feel seen, valued, and celebrated.