Events
Lady of Aparecida Day (Brazil)
Our Lady of Aparecida Day honors Nossa Senhora Aparecida, the patron saint of Brazil. The day commemorates the 1717 discovery of a small clay statue of the Virgin Mary by fishermen in the Paraíba River, which became a symbol of hope and faith. Over centuries, devotion to Our Lady of Aparecida grew into one of Brazil’s most cherished traditions. Millions of pilgrims visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of Aparecida, one of the largest churches in the world, to pay tribute.
Pope Leo XIV
Pope Leo XIV was elected as the 266th successor to St. Peter on May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis. His election marked a historic moment as he became the first American-born pope and the first member of the Augustinian order to ascend to the papacy.
Victory Day in Wallis and Futuna
Victory Day is a public holiday in Wallis and Futuna. It commemorates the Allied victory in Europe during World War II, marking the formal surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945. As a French overseas collectivity, Wallis and Futuna observes this day in alignment with France's national holiday.
Victory over Fascism Day (Slovakia)
Victory over Fascism Day in Slovakia commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945, the liberation of Slovak lands, and the sacrifices of both Slovak partisans and Allied soldiers. Established after WWII, it continues today as a reminder of the nation’s struggle for freedom, democracy, and resistance to totalitarianism.
Victory Day (France)
Victory Day in France honors the end of World War II in Europe, the defeat of Nazi Germany, and the sacrifices made for freedom, with nationwide ceremonies and an official public holiday.