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Bio-Rad Cultural Calendar, January 2026

January 2, 2026

At Bio-Rad, we publish a monthly Cultural Calendar of events that are commonly celebrated in the United States and in other countries in which we operate. Our goal is to feature a variety of events that help bring cultural awareness to various groups' histories, traditions, and accomplishments while also highlighting events important to us both as a company and a community. We also publish a calendar internally with an even broader variety of events commonly celebrated in countries that Bio-Rad operates within.

Kaapse Klopse: January 2

The Kaapse Klopse, or Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, is a vibrant celebration held every January 2 in Cape Town, South Africa. Also known as Tweede Nuwe Jaar (“Second New Year”), it fills the streets with thousands of brightly dressed minstrels playing lively music and dancing in colorful troupes. Rooted in 19th-century traditions, this joyful festival celebrates community, rhythm, and the rich cultural spirit of the Cape. To learn more, click here. 

Farsang: January 6-February 17 

In Hungary, Farsang is traditionally for merrymaking and courting, and even weddings. Various folk traditions are related to making winter go away and spring come sooner, including dressing up as scary things to ward off evil (because winter is believed to be kind of evil as it can kill you with cold and starvation). Internationally, one of the best-known Farsang-related traditions is the “Busójárás” at the tail of Farsang, when people in fur coats and heavy wooden masks have a parade through the city making noise and lighting a bonfire at night. This tradition, however, is particular only to the region of Mohács, in the Southern part of Hungary. Click here to learn more. 

Epiphany/Three Kings' Day: January 6

At Epiphany, Christians celebrate the manifestation of Jesus to the world, primarily through the visit of the Magi (the three wise men) who brought gifts to the infant Jesus. The holiday, also known as Three Kings' Day, is celebrated on January 6 and marks the official end of the Christmas season. Some traditions also focus on the baptism of Jesus. To learn more, click here.

Coming of Age Day: January 12

Coming of Age Day is a national holiday in Japan that is observed on the second Monday of January each year. The day marks a significant milestone in the lives of young people who have turned 20, as they are recognized as adults in society. For young people, it serves as a moment to take on responsibilities and awareness as members of society. Across the country, various municipalities hold a celebratory ceremony called Coming of Age Ceremony for the young people living in their areas.

Read more about Coming of Age Day here. 

Watch a video here.

Makar Sankranti/Pongal: January 14

Sankranti translates to “transfer.” It is a harvest festival and social celebration dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya offering thanks for success and prosperity. There are multiday festivals with various customs that go by many regional names, including Pongal, Maghi, Sukarat, and Uttarayana.

Read about Makar Sakranti here.

Watch a video here.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day: January 15

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, celebrated on the third Monday of January, honors the life and legacy of a leader who reshaped the nation through courage, hope, and nonviolent action. As the powerful voice of the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. King challenged racial discrimination and inspired sweeping legislative changes that continue to shape our society today. This day invites us not only to remember his impact, but to carry forward his vision of equality, justice, and unity in our own communities.

Read more about MLK Day here.

Watch a video here.

Franco-German Friendship Day: January 22

Since 2004, January 22, the date when the Elysée Treaty was signed in 1963, has been known as ‘Franco-German Day’. French president Jacques Chirac and German chancellor Gerhard Schröder introduced the Franco-German Day on the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Élysée Treaty in 1963. It is mainly celebrated in institutions such as schools and even results in events such as student exchanges, where French and German students take part in different activities.

Learn more about Franco-German Friendship Day here.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day: January 27 

In 2005, the United Nations established International Holocaust Remembrance Day to ensure the world never forgets these atrocities or the human cost of hatred. On January 27, we come together to honor the victims, reflect on the lessons of history, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring such cruelty is never repeated. To learn more, click here.