November 3rd, 2026
November 2026 Days of Significance
Dear EAFWR Community,
November brings opportunities to celebrate, reflect, and connect across cultures and experiences. This month, we recognize Diwali, Remembrance Day, and the International Day for Tolerance. From celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, to honouring those who have served and sacrificed, to fostering greater understanding and respect for one another, these observances remind us of the values that unite our community and strengthen our commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
Diwali – November 8
Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance – also known as Deepavali from Sanskrit, transliterating to ‘row of lights’ or ‘line of lamps.’ In most of India, Diwali is a five-day event, with the “main day” of Diwali falling in the middle of the festival. Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Newar Buddhists in Nepal – though each religion has different spiritual associations with the festival. Celebrations include lighting clay lamps (diyas), rangoli designs with coloured rice and powder, fireworks, preparing sweets and food, and spending time with family.
📚 Resources:
- Diwali—Festival of Lights | National Geographic Kids
- Diwali 2026: What Is Diwali? | Dates and Traditions | The Old Farmer’s Almanac
- What is Diwali? – BBC Bitesize
- Diwali | Indian Religious Holiday, Observances, & Facts | Britannic
🎟️ Events:
- Bespoke Diwali Marketplace at Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum | November 7
- Celebrating Diwali 2026 at Waterloo Public Library | November 7
Remembrance Day – November 11
Remembrance Day is a national memorial day observed annually on November 11 to honour and remember armed forces members who have died in the line of duty. Originally called Armistice Day, it marks the end of First World War hostilities, which officially concluded at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Today, it serves as a solemn tribute to the more than two million Canadians who have served throughout history, and those who continue to serve.
📚 Resources:
- Remembrance Day – Canada.ca
- Reflections for Remembrance Day 2026 | Waterloo Public Library
- Remembrance Day ceremonies and City facility closures | City of Kitchener (Will be updated closer to November 11)
🎟️ Events:
- Kitchener Rangers Remembrance Day Game | November 6
- Remembrance Every Day – Book Launch | November 8
- Time of Remembrance Reception at Cambridge Public Library | November 11
- Find your local Remembrance Day ceremony
International Day for Tolerance – November 16
The International Day for Tolerance is a UN-designated observance celebrated annually on November 16. Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1996, this day aims to foster mutual understanding, respect, and dialogue across diverse cultures. It serves as a global call to combat intolerance, promote universal human rights, and recognize that acceptance is both a moral duty and a legal requirement for peaceful societies.
📚 Resources:
- The International Day for Tolerance 2026 | SDG Resource Centre
- International Day for Tolerance: 16 November | United Nations
These November observances remind us that through celebration, remembrance, and understanding, we strengthen our shared commitment to a community where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to belong.
As always, keep an eye on our social media channels for upcoming events in Waterloo Region for these days of significance!
- Filed under Adult, Blog, Children, Community, Direct Support People