January 14 – International Kite Day

International Kite Day was originated in India, in the state of Gujarat. The inhabitants of Gujarat begin manufacturing the kites months in advance so they can be sure to have enough, as millions of people visit Gujarat during it. The kite festival, called Uttarayan in Hindi, celebrates the day at the end of winter and the arrival of summer, as well as the upcoming harvest season, and the kites symbolize the spirits of the gods that are awaking from their deep winter sleep.

January 16 – International Hot and Spicy Foods Day

For one red-hot day a year, the world’s chilli heads, heat-seekers and extreme eaters can take their passion to extremes. International Hot and Spicy Foods Day sparks a wildfire of events, from habanero-eating challenges to fancy-dress contests and cook-offs of popular recipes. Among serious aficionados, it also re-kindles the great debate: which chilli pepper tops the official Scoville heat scale?