23 June - Jura Independence Day

 

Jura Independence Day, or Fête d’Indépendance, is celebrated every year on June 23 and is a regional public holiday held in the Republic and Canton of the Jura. This holiday celebrates Jura becoming a canton of Switzerland on this date in 1979.Jura was once a part of the canton of Bern? Yes, for over 160 years, Jura was a part of the canton of Bern and remained so until they decided to join the Swiss Confederation as the 26th Swiss Canton.

Canton of Jura is the newest of the 26 Swiss cantons, located in the northwestern part of Switzerland. The history of Jura begins in 999 when the king of Burgundy donated much of the land that makes up the current canton of Jura to the bishop of Basel. This piece of land was a sovereign state within the Holy Roman Empire for more than 800 years. All this changed after the Congress of Vienna in 1815 when the Jura region became a part of the canton of Bern. However, the problem with this situation was that Jura was predominantly Catholic and spoke French, while Bern was mainly Protestant and spoke German which led to several tense situations throughout history.

After World War II, a separatist movement voiced for the secession of Jura from the canton of Bern. In 1978, the split was made official after the Swiss people voted in favor and Jura joined the Swiss Confederation as a full member on June 23, 1979. Today, Jura is a major tourist attraction for people worldwide. People across the world visit Jura both in summer and, increasingly, also in winter to experience the great skiing tracks.

23 June - Typewriter Day

 

Typewriter Day is a celebration that honors the invention and legacy of the typewriter. It is observed on various dates throughout the year in different countries, but the most widely recognized Typewriter Day is on June 23rd.

The typewriter revolutionized the way people communicated and conducted business before the advent of computers and digital technology. It was invented by Christopher Latham Sholes in the late 19th century and played a crucial role in the advancement of writing, journalism, administration, and many other fields.

Typewriter Day is an opportunity to commemorate the typewriter's contributions to society and acknowledge its historical significance. It serves as a reminder of how written communication has evolved over time and the impact of technology on our daily lives.

On Typewriter Day, enthusiasts and collectors often showcase their vintage typewriters, organize exhibitions, share stories and experiences related to typewriters, and engage in various activities that pay tribute to this iconic device. It's also a day to appreciate the craftsmanship, mechanical intricacies, and nostalgia associated with typewriters.

Moreover, Typewriter Day encourages individuals to reflect on the importance of effective writing and the role that typewriters played in shaping literary works, official documents, and personal correspondence in the past. It highlights the art of typewriting and the unique experience of typing on a traditional typewriter, with its distinctive tactile feedback and rhythmic sound.

Whether you're a typewriter enthusiast, a writer, or simply someone interested in the history of communication technology, Typewriter Day provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the typewriter's enduring legacy.

23 June - Victory Day (Estonia)

 

Victory Day in Estonia, also known as Võidupüha, is celebrated annually on June 23rd. It commemorates the decisive victory of the Estonian forces over the Baltic German Landeswehr and the Bolsheviks in the Battle of Võnnu (Cēsis) during the Estonian War of Independence in 1919.

Victory Day holds significant historical and patriotic importance for Estonia. It symbolizes the country's successful struggle for independence and the preservation of its sovereignty. The Battle of Võnnu was a crucial turning point in the war, contributing to Estonia's eventual independence from foreign forces.

On Victory Day, various events and activities are organized throughout Estonia to honor and remember the sacrifices made by the Estonian soldiers during the War of Independence. These may include military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, concerts, cultural performances, and exhibitions showcasing the country's history and achievements.

The celebrations also serve as an opportunity to promote national unity and pride. Many people dress in traditional Estonian folk costumes, and communities come together to celebrate their shared heritage and independence. It is a day for reflection, remembrance, and paying tribute to those who fought for Estonia's freedom.

In recent years, Victory Day has become part of a two-day celebration, as it is followed by St. John's Day or Midsummer's Day, a traditional summer solstice festival that holds cultural significance in Estonia. These two occasions combined make for a festive and joyful period of celebration and reflection in the country.

23 June - Luxembourg National Day

 

Luxembourg National Day, also known as the Grand Duke's Birthday, is celebrated on June 23rd each year. It is the official national holiday of Luxembourg and holds significant historical and cultural importance for the country.

Luxembourg National Day commemorates the birthday of the reigning monarch, the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. The current Grand Duke, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, is Grand Duke Henri. The celebrations usually take place in Luxembourg City, the capital of the country.

The festivities on Luxembourg National Day typically include various events and activities. One of the key highlights is the Te Deum, a religious ceremony held at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City. The Grand Duke and other members of the royal family, along with government officials and dignitaries, attend this ceremony. Afterward, there is often a military parade and a procession through the city, which includes traditional music, performances, and crowds cheering on the royal family.

In addition to the official ceremonies, Luxembourg National Day is also celebrated by the people of Luxembourg through various activities such as concerts, fireworks displays, and street parties. It is a day for the citizens to come together, express their national pride, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Luxembourg National Day serves as an important occasion to honor the country's history, culture, and unity. It is a day to celebrate Luxembourg's independence and reaffirm the nation's identity and values.

23 June - International Olympic Day

 

International Olympic Day is celebrated annually on June 23rd. It commemorates the establishment of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on June 23, 1894, and aims to promote the Olympic values and encourage participation in sports worldwide.

The primary objective of International Olympic Day is to promote the ideals of the Olympic movement, including friendship, respect, and excellence. It encourages people of all ages and abilities to engage in sporting activities, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle.

On this day, various events and activities are organized globally, ranging from sports competitions and exhibitions to educational seminars and workshops. These activities aim to promote the Olympic values and inspire individuals to participate in sports and physical activities.

International Olympic Day serves as a reminder of the positive impact of sports on individuals and communities. It emphasizes the importance of fair play, teamwork, and striving for personal best, while also celebrating the international unity and camaraderie that the Olympic Games represent.

 

23 June - Public Service Day

 

Public Service Day is observed annually on June 23rd. It is a United Nations designated day that aims to highlight the value and virtue of public service to the community and recognize the contributions of public servants to the development and well-being of society.

Public Service Day provides an opportunity to promote the importance of public service in the delivery of services, policy implementation, and fostering social progress. It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to celebrate and appreciate the work done by public servants and to inspire others to pursue careers in public service.

Various events and activities are organized on Public Service Day to recognize the efforts and achievements of public servants. These may include award ceremonies, conferences, seminars, and public outreach programs. The day also serves as a platform to discuss challenges, innovations, and best practices in public service.

Public Service Day aims to enhance public trust, transparency, and accountability in governance and to promote the value of public service as a vital component of sustainable development and good governance.

23 June - Gujarat’s ‘Rani Ki Vav’ and Himachal’s ‘Great Himalayan National Park’ were included in the World Heritage List.

 

Rani Ki Vav, also known as the Queen's Stepwell, is a magnificent stepwell located in the town of Patan in Gujarat, India. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on June 23, 2014. Rani Ki Vav is renowned for its intricate and elaborate architecture, which features intricate carvings depicting mythological scenes, deities, and other cultural motifs. It is considered a significant cultural and architectural marvel in India.

 

The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a national park in India, located in Kullu region in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The park was established in 1984 and is spread over an area of 1171 km2; elevations within the park range between 1500 and 6000 m. The Great Himalayan National Park is a habitat to numerous flora and more than 375 fauna species, including approximately 31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and 127 insects. They are protected under the strict guidelines of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972; hence any sort of hunting is not permitted.

In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites,under the criterion of "outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation".