The following list of Commonly Observed Dates of Religious Significance is meant as a guide to religious accommodations for students.

The guide has been compiled in consultation with York’s student Interfaith Council to ensure it is inclusive for York’s student body. You can also consult the Interfaith Calendar (not maintained by York). The complete policy, guidelines and procedures for Accommodation for Students' Religious Observances can be read on the York Secretariat Policies website.

There are many religious observation dates associated with various faiths, and the absence of such dates on this list should not be interpreted to mean that accommodation will not be provided to students who observe those days. To learn about the holidays when the University is closed, read about the statutory holidays for the academic year.

University event planners and faculty members are encouraged to take these days into consideration when scheduling events and due dates.

Want to learn more about religious accommodation?

Review the Accommodating Creed (Religion): A Guide for Students, Faculty, and Staff) created by the Centre for Human, Rights, Equity & Inclusion.

Commonly Observed Dates of Religious Significance: 2022-2023

*Some observances are based on the lunar calendar, and thus may vary by one or two days. Local or regional customs may also use a variation of the dates listed below.

**Lunar New Year - The first day after the new (dark) moon is a religious and cultural festival celebrated by Chinese, Vietnamese and Koreans of Buddhist and other backgrounds as New Year's Day. Tibetans celebrate on a different date. Religious accommodation for special worship may be required for this observance/holy day.