Religious observances allow the university to reflect on and practice the values that we as a campus community openly espouse, including sensitivity and respect for all cultures and religions. We are a community that embraces our diversity and encourages the celebration of multicultural traditions.
This resource includes dates, descriptions and information about some of the many religious holy days celebrated by faculty, staff and students at St. Cloud State. Also included with many are recommended accommodations to assist with planning classroom activities and other academic and co-curricular events.
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Shavuot (Jewish) - June 11-13, 2024 |
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Description: Commemorates receipt of the Torah on Mount Sinai (two of three pilgrimage festivals) General Practices: Evening of devotional programs and studying the Torah, lighting of Yahrzeit memorial candle at sundown on the second night of Shavuot. |
Future Dates: June 1-3, 2025 May 21-23, 2026 |
Eid al-Adha (Muslim) - June 16-17, 2024 |
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Description: Eid al-Adha is a major festival that celebrates the willingness to make sacrifices in the name of one’s faith. This holiday celebrates the prophet Ibrahim’s total faith in God, and Muslims view this holiday as an important annual reminder. Ibrahim was ordered to sacrifice his son in God’s name. When Ibrahim was prepared to kill his son, God stepped in and gave him a sheep to sacrifice instead. Begins at sundown. Due to the differing interpretations of the lunar calendar, Muslims may differ as to when then they celebrate Eid al-Adha. General Practices: Prayers and gift giving. Recommended Accommodations: Avoid scheduling important academic deadlines, events and activities on the first day. |
Future Dates: June 6-7, 2025 May 26-27, 2026 |
Litha / Midsomer / Alban Hefin / Summer Solstice / (Pagan, Wiccan, Druid) - June 20, 2024 |
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Description: A celebration of the longest day of the year and the beginning of summer. Celebration of the Goddess manifesting as Mother Earth and the God as the Sun King. For some Pagans the Summer Solstice marks the marriage of the God and Goddess and see their union as the force that creates the harvest's fruits. General Practices: Lighting to bonfires and watching the sun rise. |
Future Dates: June 20, 2025 June 20, 2026 |
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