you are here: home > Issues > FAQ > Special Days

Special Days in Markham

The Town of Markham is a diverse community in background, culture and religion.

Over the months ahead, I am going to attempt to a a brief description of each of the special days that are being recognized my members of our communities.  This is a project that I'm doing for my own education, and with the thoughts that others may also wish to know and understand.  If I have omitted something, or there are errors, please let me know.  You may contact me here.

Diwali

Diwali, is a major Indian festival that is very significant in Hinduism and Jainism. Celebrated by approximately 1 billion Hindus and Jains and known as the "Festival of Lights," and lamps (called diyas or kandils) are lit as a sign of celebration and hope for humankind. The lights also represent the time when Rama came back from conquering the evil, and the people of Ayodhya (the capital of his kingdom) lit lamps to welcome him back home. Celebrations focus on lights and lamps, particularly traditional dipa or deeya. Diwali is a colloquial name used in North India, while the festival is formally called Deepavali in South India.

During this time, homes are thoroughly cleaned and windows are opened to welcome Laksmi, goddess of wealth. Candles and lamps are lit as a greeting to Laksmi. Gifts are exchanged and festive meals are prepared during Diwali. The celebration means as much to Hindus as Christmas does to Christians.

Top of Page

Remembrance Day

The eleventh day of the eleventh month - this is Remembrance Day in Canada. We gather at cenotaphs and memorials in over 2,000 cities, towns and villages throughout the country. We stand with our heads bowed and we wear a poppy. We take part in a simple, but moving ceremony to honour the many Canadians who were killed in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and on United Nations Peacekeeping Operations throughout the world. During the two minutes of silence we think of these brave people who were in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Merchant Navy. They paid the supreme sacrifice to ensure that this great country of ours remains free and democratic.

For those who are not able to attend a Service, you are encouraged to observe 2 minutes of silence at 11:00 a.m. on that day to honour those who have made the sacrifice for Canada.

Top of Page