Feb. 1 Imbolc -- Pagan and Wiccan
serves as the halfway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox; celebrates fires, light, and the return of life
Feb. 2 Candlemas -- Christian
also called Presentation of the Lord, Presentation of Christ in the Temple, or Hypapante in the Greek church; occurs 40 days after Christmas and commemorates the Mary's dedication of Jesus to God in the Temple
Feb. 5 Tu Bishvat -- Jewish
called "The New Year of the Trees," in contemporary contexts is an ecological awareness day; celebrated by planting trees and eating dried fruit and nuts
Feb. 15 Parinirvana -- Mahayana Buddhism
known as Nirvana Day; commemorates Buddha's death and attainment of final nirvana
Feb. 18 Shivaratri -- Hindu
an annual festival giving reverence to the Lord Shiva god; devotees fast, meditate, and chant; representations of Lord Shiva are decorated with flowers and garlands
Feb. 18 Lailat al Miraj -- Islam
celebrates Muhammad's pilgrimage from Mecca to Jerusalem and subsequent ascension into Heaven; practitioners attend special prayer services and remember the story
Feb. 22 Ash Wednesday -- Christian
marks the beginning of Lent; serves as a reminder of the Easter season, and is often observed by fasting, repentance, and receiving a cross of ashes on the forehead
Feb. 22 - April 6 Lent -- Christian
the 40-day period of reflection, prayer, and fasting before Easter; observances may include dietary restrictions, additional prayer times, and attendance at services
Feb. 24 Festival of Ayyam-i-Ha -- Baha'i
festival highlighting charity, hospitality, gift-giving, and preparation of fasting before the New Year
