July 9 Martyrdom of The Báb Bahá’í Commemorates The Báb’s execution in 1850, after which his teachings continued to spread. 13 O-Bon (The Festival of the Dead) Buddhism Shinto The spirits of the dead are welcomed back home with two days of feasting and dancing. In some places, this festival takes place in mid-July. 18 Dharma Day Buddhism Commemorates Buddha’s first teaching to the five ascetics in the Deer Park near Benares, India. 23 Birthday of Emperor Haile Selassie I Rastafarianism A holy day of commemoration for Rastafarians. 26 Khordad Sal Zoroastrianism (Qadimi) In the Shahenshai calendar, this is the Prophet Zarathushtra’s birthday, which Zoroastrians celebrate symbolically. |