Like many other faiths, Mormons revere certain days of the calendar and set them apart due for religious reasons and purposes. LDS is unlike Jehovah's Witnesses, for example, who don't celebrate holidays. Some sacred days that Mormons observe are shared with Christianity while others are unique to the Mormon religion.
In addition to the holidays listed below, Mormons celebrate national and regional holidays, along with birthdays and anniversaries.
Easter and Christmas
Mormons celebrate the two main Christian holidays of Easter and Christmas, which mark the resurrection and birth of Christ, respectively.
Pioneer Day
The main specifically Mormon holiday is Pioneer Day, celebrated on July 24 of each year. Pioneer Day celebrates the first entry of Mormons into Salt Lake Valley in 1847, after the long journey westward to escape religious persecution.
Mormons worldwide honor the pioneer heritage of the Church on this day, but it is especially popular in the western United States.
Founding of the LDS Church
Another special day occurs on April 6, which is the anniversary of the founding of the LDS church in New York in 1830.
John the Baptist's Visit
On May 15 some Mormons celebrate the story of John the Baptist visiting Joseph Smith.
Sources
- "Holidays and other special occasions." Mormon.org (an official LDS website).
- "Mormon Holy Days and Holidays." MormonBeliefs.com (a Strangite website).
