February 6th, 2026
February 2026 Days of Significance
As February begins, we are excited to highlight the meaningful Days of Significance we are observing for February: Black Heritage Month, Family Day, Lunar New Year, the beginning of Ramadan, and Ash Wednesday. These observances offer an opportunity for us to learn, reflect, and engage with the diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences that enrich our workplace and community.
Black Heritage Month
At Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region, we have shifted towards calling this observance Black Heritage Month instead of Black History Month. The term “heritage” broadens the scope beyond history, recognizing the ongoing contributions, culture, and lived experiences of Black communities. It emphasizes honoring the richness of Black identity and its relevance in the present day.
📚 Learn More
- About Black History Month – Canada.ca
- Black Heritage Month – City of Kitchener
- Black History Month Masterclass – Federation of Black Canadians
- 28 Days of Black History
🎉 Events & Resources
- Film: John Lewis: Good Trouble | Feb 21 at Princess Cinemas
- White Questions, Black Answers with Author Grace Ibrahima | Feb 28 at Waterloo Public Library
- Building Forward Together: Black History Celebration | Feb 22 with Rhythm & Blues Cambridge
- TRACES 2026 African Cultural Showcase | Feb 14 at University of Waterloo
- Dimensional Interlude Art Exhibit at Kitchener Public Library
- A Recipe for Rhyme and Rescue with Wanda Taylor | Feb 17 at Kitchener Public Library
- Children’s Dancehall Delight | February 21 at Kitchener Public Library
- 15 Books to Read During Black History Month and Beyond – Innocence Project
Family Day – February 16
Observed on the third Monday of February (falling on February 16 in 2026), Family Day is a provincial statutory holiday in Ontario designed to give hard-working individuals a break during the winter to spend quality time with their loved ones.
🎉 Events & Resources
Lunar New Year – February 17
The Lunar New Year, celebrated by many East and Southeast Asian cultures, marks the start of the lunar calendar. It’s a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and sharing hopes for prosperity and health. This year, Lunar New Year falls on February 17.
📚 Learn More
- Lunar New Year – National Museum of Asian Art
- What Does Lunar New Year Mean to You? | University of Alberta International
🎉 Events & Resources
- 2026 The Year of the Horse New Year Gala | February 15 with Waterloo Region Chinese Canadian Association
- Korean Lunar New Cooking Class | February 22 at Taste of Seoul Express Kitchener
Ramadan – February 17 – March 19
Ramadan, beginning on February 18*, is a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide. It is a time for fasting, prayer, and reflection, fostering spiritual renewal and a sense of community.
📚 Learn More
- What is Ramadan and when does Ramadan happen? – BBC Bitesize
- Ramadan Information: Understanding its Significance and Practice
- Ramadan 2026 – Info, Dates & Donate | Islamic Relief Canada
🎉 Events & Resources
- Fueling Your Fast: Healthy Habits for Ramadan | Kitchener Public Library
- SWAY’s 5th Annual Ramadan Market 2026 | Feb 7
- Time Hoppers: The Silk Road (Muslim Animated Film) | Feb 7-8 at Landmark Cinemas
- Sifa Creations Ramadan Bazaar in Cambridge | March 7
Ash Wednesday – February 18
Ash Wednesday marks the official start of Lent, a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and repentance leading up to Easter Sunday. In 2026, it falls on February 18.
📚 Learn More
We invite you to explore these resources, attend community events, and join us in honouring these Days of Significance.
