Overview

August 15 is the 227th day of the year in a common year and the 228th in leap years. In either case there are 138 days left until the end of the year. It falls in late summer in the Northern Hemisphere and late winter in the Southern Hemisphere. The date is associated with seasonal holidays, travel peaks and a number of national and religious observances.

Religious observance

For many Christians, especially in Roman Catholic and some Orthodox traditions, August 15 is the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The feast commemorates the belief that Mary was taken up into heaven at the end of her earthly life. It is a holy day of obligation in several countries and is marked by Masses, Marian processions and local festivals at well-known shrines.

National and public holidays

This date is a national day or public holiday in several countries. Most prominently, India marks Independence Day on August 15 (1947), commemorating the end of British rule. In Korea, August 15 is celebrated as Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol) to mark the end of Japanese colonial rule in 1945. In Italy and other parts of southern Europe, Ferragosto is observed on this date—a summer holiday with roots in the ancient Roman Feriae Augusti.

History and notable events

August 15 has been the date of widely reported historical moments. In 1945 Emperor Hirohito announced Japan's acceptance of surrender terms in World War II on August 15, an event which is remembered in several countries. Across centuries the date has acquired layered cultural meanings because of both sacred observance and modern political events.

Contemporary significance and customs

Today the day combines religious rites, national ceremonies and popular leisure activities. In Catholic regions churches hold special services and processions; many cities and towns schedule parades or official flag ceremonies for national observances. It is also a popular date for family gatherings, concerts and summer festivals. The date sits in the Leo zodiac sign and commonly appears in calendars, almanacs and holiday planning resources in the Gregorian calendar.

Quick facts and common observances

  • Day number: 227 (228 in leap years).
  • Days remaining: 138.
  • Major religious event: Feast of the Assumption (Christianity).
  • Notable national holidays: India (Independence Day), South Korea (Liberation Day), Italy (Ferragosto).