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Handmade gnomes at a Christmas market
Handmade gnomes at a Christmas market
They"ve got long beards, red hats and a knack for stealing a tad bit of Santa"s thunder every Christmas. Meet the gnome—known as "tomte" in Sweden and "nisse" in Norway—whose traditions vary across regions. Rooted in Scandinavian folklore, these tiny guardians watch over homes and farms, keeping families safe through long, dark winters. But there"s a catch: treat them kindly, or they may play tricks. A warm bowl of porridge on Christmas Eve is their favourite reward. Said to bring luck and laughter, they might even befriend your garden gnomes, since they often resemble them.Desktop Version
International Mountain Day
International Mountain Day
Every December 11, we celebrate International Mountain Day, honouring the majestic peaks that shape our planet and the glaciers that support life. From the rolling Alps to the towering Himalayas, mountains cover nearly a quarter of Earth"s land and host 15% of the world"s population and nearly half of its biodiversity hotspots. Mount Everest, the world"s highest peak at over 8,800 metres, stands as a symbol of human aspiration and natural beauty. Its glaciers feed rivers sustaining millions, showing that mountains are more than scenery—they are lifelines.Desktop Version
International Whale Shark Day
International Whale Shark Day
If you"ve never seen a nearly 18-metre, polka-dotted fish gliding past coral reefs, you are missing out. Today is International Whale Shark Day, a reminder that these slow-motion giants need our attention. First observed in 2008, the day is used by researchers and marine advocates to spotlight conservation efforts and threats like vessel strikes, plastic pollution and unregulated tourism.Desktop Version
Spine-cheeked anemonefish
Spine-cheeked anemonefish
That bright fish hiding in the anemone? That"s the spine-cheeked anemonefish, or the maroon clownfish, and it is not just a cute creature. Native to the Indo-Pacific, from western Indonesia to Taiwan and the Great Barrier Reef, this species lives on the edges of coral reefs. This fish is easily distinguished by the spine extending from each cheek—hence the name. Groups of spine-cheeked anemonefish form around a single dominant female, and if she disappears, the top male steps up—literally changing sex to take her place. It thrives in warm, shallow waters and sticks close to its chosen sea anemone.Desktop Version
Shark Awareness Day
Shark Awareness Day
Sharks have been around for over 400 million years—outlasting dinosaurs, surviving ice ages and weathering mass extinctions. They are symbols of ocean health, which is why Shark Awareness Day draws attention to these apex predators that help maintain balance in marine ecosystems. Protecting sharks means preserving the health of entire ocean environments—and ultimately, securing a sustainable future for all life. With many shark species facing the threat of extinction, this day is all about appreciating their ancient legacy and learning how we can help keep them off the endangered list.Desktop Version
International Day of Friendship
International Day of Friendship
What do giant handshakes painted on the ground have to do with friendship? Quite a lot, actually. Celebrated every July 30, the International Day of Friendship reminds us that tackling global challenges, like poverty, violence and injustice, starts with something surprisingly simple: human connection. That"s exactly what artist Saype had in mind with "Beyond Walls," a series of massive, biodegradable land-art murals featuring interlinked hands. Symbolising unity and solidarity, these works have stretched across five continents. At Expo 2020 Dubai, Saype"s 11th installation covered over 1,486 square metres of grass in Al Forsan Park. It formed a striking black-and-white handshake that could only be fully appreciated from above, as seen here. The piece, made with eco-friendly paint, was unveiled on Switzerland"s National Day, supported by the Swiss Pavilion.Desktop Version
World Rainforest Day
World Rainforest Day
World Rainforest Day is not just a calendar event—it"s a call to action. Established in 2017 by Rainforest Partnership—a nonprofit environmental organisation—the day raises awareness about the importance of rainforests and mobilises efforts to protect them.Desktop Version
Asteroid Day
Asteroid Day
Each scar on Earth from a meteorite impact tells a story—from the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs to the lesser-known craters that dot the planet. Asteroid Day highlights ongoing research into asteroids and the potential threats they pose. Started in 2015 and backed by the United Nations, this day marks the anniversary of the Tunguska event—a massive explosion that occurred in Siberia on June 30, 1908. This explosion flattened over 2,070 square kilometres of Siberian forest near the Tunguska River. The blast released energy equal to 10–15 megatons of trinitrotoluene (TNT), a standard measure of explosive force. Since then, craters like Arizona"s Barringer, Quebec"s Manicouagan and others have helped scientists study what happens when space rocks hit Earth.Desktop Version
Eastbourne Pier, East Sussex, England
Eastbourne Pier, East Sussex, England
When it comes to seaside icons, Eastbourne Pier doesn"t just make waves—it has been riding them for over 150 years. Opened in 1870, this Victorian marvel in East Sussex has survived tempests, fires and even wars. Stretching gracefully into the English Channel, the pier started life as a docking point for steamers. Over time, it evolved into a place where you can stroll above the water, lose a few coins to an arcade machine and gain a few back in memories.Desktop Version
Colourful house in Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil
Colourful house in Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil
Colour feels at home in Olinda. The house seen in today"s image, painted in bold, joyful tones, reflects a city where history and creativity live side by side. Founded in the 16th century in Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil, Olinda grew from a colonial stronghold into a cultural landmark shaped by Portuguese architecture, Afro-Brazilian traditions and centuries of artistic expression. Its hills are lined with pastel facades, baroque churches and narrow cobblestone streets that seem designed for wandering rather than rushing.Desktop Version
Fall colours below Mount Sneffels near Ridgway, Colorado, United States
Fall colours below Mount Sneffels near Ridgway, Colorado, United States
It"s that time of year when the hills shed their summer greens, unveiling a blaze of colours that lights up the season. The change usually begins in September and early October, with higher slopes turning first, followed by the lower valleys. Among the stars of this display are the aspens, whose leaves shimmer like gold coins in the sunlight. The magic of aspen colours, however, isn"t guaranteed year after year. Their golden glow depends on many factors—tree health, local weather shifts, soil moisture and where they grow in terms of elevation and latitude. Healthy aspens are the true stars of the season: strong, thriving groves burst with brighter colours and hold onto their leaves longer, while stressed or weakened trees often fade quickly, offering only a glimpse of their usual brilliance. A spot that dazzled one fall might look muted the next.Desktop Version
Red fox, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, United States
Red fox, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, United States
A red fox standing in the snowfall of Grand Teton National Park is more than a picturesque moment—it offers a glimpse into the resilience of one of North America"s most adaptable predators. This small carnivore is instantly recognisable by its sharp gaze and thick, fiery coat that helps it thrive even in Wyoming"s harsh winter conditions. Snow muffles sound, yet the animal"s extraordinary hearing allows it to detect prey moving beneath the surface. You can almost imagine it pausing amid the drifting flakes, ears rotating, body perfectly still, waiting for the faintest rustle.Desktop Version
Great grey owls in their nest, Finland
Great grey owls in their nest, Finland
Silent hunters of the night sky, owls are among the most intriguing creatures in the animal kingdom. Their ability to turn their heads up to 270 degrees—combined with silent flight and exceptional night vision—showcases their remarkable adaptations. With over 200 species found across the globe, these birds contribute to ecological balance and are deeply woven into cultural traditions. Celebrated annually on August 4, International Owl Awareness Day not only honours their presence in nature but also raises awareness about the threats they face.Desktop Version
Independence Day of the Argentine Republic
Independence Day of the Argentine Republic
Argentina, a nation of sweeping pampas, rich culture and a bold identity, celebrates its Independence Day today. This pivotal date marks the moment in 1816 when delegates from across the region gathered in the city of San Miguel de Tucumán to declare freedom from Spanish colonial rule. The road to independence was not easy; it followed years of internal struggles and revolutions influenced by global movements, including the American and French revolutions. But the resolve of the Argentine people prevailed.Desktop Version
Barracudas at Shark Reef, Ras Mohammed National Park, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
Barracudas at Shark Reef, Ras Mohammed National Park, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
Being surrounded by a shimmering spiral of silver—that"s what it feels like to encounter a school of blackfin barracuda at Shark Reef in Ras Mohammed National Park, Egypt. These streamlined fish, marked by sharp V-shaped stripes, move in near-perfect unison. Their slow, deliberate spirals aren"t random—they"re an evolutionary strategy that offers both safety in numbers and an edge in hunting. Blackfin barracudas are found throughout tropical waters, from the Red Sea to the central Pacific. During the day, they gather in tight, coordinated groups near the reef, scattering at dusk to pursue prey.Desktop Version
Burns Night in Scotland
Burns Night in Scotland
Each January 25, Scots and friends around the world raise a toast to Robert Burns, Scotland"s beloved national poet. A Burns Night supper blends warmth and wit: the centrepiece is haggis, a savoury pudding made from minced meat, oats and spices, served with neeps (mashed turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes). Add plenty of good cheer, readings of Burns"s verse and a dram of whisky and you have a celebration that ends with a rousing chorus of "Auld Lang Syne."Desktop Version
World Jellyfish Day
World Jellyfish Day
They don"t have brains, bones or even hearts, yet jellyfish have pulsed through Earth"s oceans for half a billion years. Today, on World Jellyfish Day, these wobbly wonders get their moment in the sun—or at least under the sea. The day promotes efforts to protect jellyfish habitats from threats like pollution, nutrient-rich runoff and ocean acidification.Desktop Version
A herd of impalas, Londolozi Game Reserve, South Africa
A herd of impalas, Londolozi Game Reserve, South Africa
What stands out about Londolozi Game Reserve in South Africa isn"t just the wildlife—it"s the long-term commitment behind it. Since 1926, its 150 square kilometres have supported research and monitored wildlife behaviour in their natural habitat. Located within the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, it is home to Africa"s Big Five. Londolozi is part of a larger open system that connects with Kruger National Park, allowing animals such as elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, zebras and many antelope species to move freely without fences holding them back.Desktop Version
World Dolphin Day
World Dolphin Day
With lifelong bonds, signature whistles and echolocation, dolphins are more than just smart swimmers. First observed in 2022, World Dolphin Day shines a light on these intelligent marine mammals and the oceans they rely on. The day encourages people to learn about their behaviour and the threats they face. Over 40 dolphin species swim our seas, from the Māui dolphin to the Irrawaddy dolphin. They"re expert navigators, problem-solvers and team players. Some even form superpods—temporary gatherings of hundreds or thousands of dolphins moving together offshore.Desktop Version
World Olive Tree Day
World Olive Tree Day
Ancient yet vibrant, twisted yet resilient, olive trees can live for over a thousand years. Even when scarred or hollowed, their trunks still send out fresh leaves each season—a living record of survival through drought, wind and fire. In 2019, UNESCO established November 26 as World Olive Tree Day, recognising these trees that have been cultivated by humans since about 6,000 BCE. Olives have carried both practical and symbolic weight through the ages: their oil was pressed for anointing, medicine and daily sustenance; crowns of their leaves graced Olympic victors; and their branches became a lasting emblem of peace.Desktop Version
Maritime forest in Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia, United States
Maritime forest in Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia, United States
Before you hit the beach, you"ll hear it—the rustle of leaves in salty air, the creak of twisted trunks, the hush of an old world. Welcome to the maritime forest of Cumberland Island National Seashore on the southernmost stretch of Georgia"s Atlantic coast in the United States. Salt spray, sandy soil, hurricanes? The trees here stand their ground. Live oaks bend but don"t break. Saw palmettos crowd the ground like leafy bodyguards, while Spanish moss hangs from branches like nature"s fringe. This maritime forest is one of the best remaining examples of this rare habitat in the United States. Thanks to its national seashore status, the island has been spared from the concrete creep seen on other coastlines.Desktop Version
Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan, India
Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan, India
High on a hill rising over 180 metres in Rajasthan, India, Chittorgarh Fort spans approximately 3 square kilometres. It stands as a proud witness to the valour of the famed warrior clans—the Rajputs. Their name comes from the Sanskrit "rajaputra," meaning "son of a king," and they are celebrated for their noble lineage and martial traditions across northern India. The fort"s stone walls have witnessed centuries of courage, pride and romance, remembered in the songs of Rajasthan"s bards. According to legend, Bhim, a hero from the Hindu epic "Mahabharata," first laid its foundations.Desktop Version
International Day of the Tropics
International Day of the Tropics
Every June 29, the International Day of the Tropics shines a light on the equator-hugging zone where the sun sticks around, and climate conversations get real. The tropics span a broad region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, including parts of Asia, Africa, Oceania, Central America and South America. Nearly 40% of the global population lives in this band, which also hosts 80% of the world"s biodiversity. It"s rich in culture, nature and history—but also under pressure from rising temperatures, deforestation and fast-paced urban growth.Desktop Version
International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend
International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend
Built to brave storms and steer ships to safety, lighthouses now glow as symbols of heritage, wonder and connection. Each year on the third weekend of August, the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend brings together people from around the globe to celebrate these coastal icons. The event was launched in 1998 by John Forsyth and Mike Dalrymple of Scotland"s Ayr Amateur Radio Group. It aims to raise awareness about preserving lighthouses and lightships while also promoting amateur radio and encouraging international goodwill.Desktop Version
Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time
Every March, Daylight Saving Time begins across most of Canada, shifting clocks forward by one hour to extend evening daylight. The seasonal change has historically been linked to making better use of natural light and reducing energy use during longer spring and summer days. The idea can be traced back to 1784, when Benjamin Franklin humorously suggested earlier rising to conserve candle use. Most provinces and territories follow the shift, though Saskatchewan and a few communities in British Columbia and Nunavut remain on standard time throughout the year. The time change is known for disrupting sleep patterns, which is why the Monday after the clock change is informally known as Napping Day.Desktop Version