INTERNATIONAL DAY

All Saints Day

On this day, we honor the memories of those who have passed, and celebrate their contributions to our lives and communities.

NOV1

Sunday, November 1Every year on November 1

days to go

Roots: Christian tradition
Vibe: Reflective and celebratory
Also on Nov 1: Autistics Speaking Day · Day of the Dead · Daylight Saving Time Ends
Hashtag: #AllSaintsDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Honor a saint

Read about a saint who inspires you and reflect.

WITH FRIENDS

Attend a service

Join a community gathering or service of remembrance.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Share an inspiring story

Tell a colleague about someone whose goodness guides you.

Fast facts

Observed in many countries

Associated with the Catholic Church

The story

All Saints Day has its roots in the early Christian Church, where it was observed as a day to honor martyrs and saints. Over time, the day evolved to include the deceased, and its traditions and customs have been shaped by various cultures and societies.

Read the full story

In many countries, All Saints Day is a significant public holiday, marked by parades, processions, and other festivities. In the United States, the day is not a federal holiday, but it is observed by many Christian denominations and communities.

The day is often associated with the Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos, a celebration of life and death, where families honor their loved ones with altars, decorations, and traditional foods.

As a day of remembrance and celebration, All Saints Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the lives and contributions of those who have passed, and to honor their memories in meaningful ways.

Did you know?

Origins

Feasts commemorating all Christian martyrs date back to the 4th century

Global Observance

November 1 is a public holiday in France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal

Catholic Tradition

The day is an important part of Catholic tradition and heritage

Protestant Observance

Some Protestant denominations also observe All Saints Day

Eastern Orthodox

The Eastern Orthodox Church observes a similar day, called the Sunday of All Saints

Lutheran Tradition

In Lutheran tradition, the day is observed as a day of remembrance and celebration

Anglican Communion

The Anglican Communion also observes All Saints Day, with special services and liturgies

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

FRFrench TraditionsIn France, All Saints Day is a public holiday, marked by church services and cemetery visits
MXDía de los MuertosIn Mexico, the day is celebrated with vibrant parades and festivities
ITItalian CustomsIn Italy, All Saints Day is observed with traditional foods and family gatherings
PTPortuguese HeritageIn Portugal, the day is marked by church services and processions
ESSpanish TraditionsIn Spain, All Saints Day is a significant public holiday, with festivities and celebrations
USAmerican ObservanceIn the United States, the day is observed by many Christian denominations and communities