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Making Connections & Finding Joy: 10 Ways We're Celebrating September

Rosh Hashanah, Grandparents Day, Talk Like a Pirate Day and more happening in September

By Macaroni KID August 31, 2023

Fall arrives this month, bringing crisp air, shorter evenings, and the routine of busy school days. But that's not all that's happening this month. Here are ten holidays and events that will fill your September with joy and meaningful connections:



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Labor Day
Sept. 4

Bid farewell to summer in style with Labor Day. A day dedicated to honoring the contributions of hardworking Americans, it's also the perfect opportunity for a laid-back end-of-summer BBQ. Spend the day enjoying good company, delicious food, and toasting a summer well spent.

Check out these Virginia and East Coast Labor Day Getaways: Beaches, Zoos, Outdoor Fun



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National Cheese Pizza and Pepperoni Pizza Days
Sept. 5 and Sept. 20

Two chances to revel in the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza? Absolutely! Kick off the month by celebrating National Cheese Pizza Day, and a few weeks later, savor the occasion once more on National Pepperoni Pizza Day. Whether you're ordering in or getting creative on the grill, pizza nights are a surefire way to delight the kids. 



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National Grandparents Day 
Sept. 10

Grandparents are special. If your children's grandparents are local, spend time showing them just how important they truly are to your family. 

If they aren't local, plan ahead and send a handmade card and a hug: Simply tape together a few pieces of newspaper or use the white side of wrapping paper and outline your child with their arms outstretched. Let your kids color themselves in. Fold it up, put it in an envelope and send that hug to grandma!

Here's 20 Ways to Celebrate Grandparents Day in Lynchburg



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National Day of Service and Remembrance 
Sept. 11 

Pause to remember the somber events of September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to the heroes who emerged from the tragedy. This day invites us to reflect on our resilience as a nation and express gratitude to the first responders who put their lives on the line for our safety every day. 

The 6th Annual Field of Honor takes place from Sept. 9 - 23 next to Automated Conveyor Systems, Inc. on Graves Mill Road in Lynchburg. Opening Ceremony: Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 4 PM. 9/11 Ceremony: Monday, September 11, 2023 at 6:30 PM. You'll find more information about Field of Honor on our website and the Rotary Club of Forest website.



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Rosh Hashanah
Sept. 15-17

Embrace the spirit of new beginnings with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. As the sun sets on September 15, gather around a table featuring cherished dishes like challah and honey-dipped apples, symbolizing hopes for sweetness in the coming year. Try this amazing recipe for Jewish Apple Cake, another popular recipe at Rosh Hashanah celebrations.



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Hispanic Heritage Month 
Sept. 15-Oct. 15

Taste the richness of culture with this delicious Arroz con Leche recipe recipe, handed down through generations. This month, honor the histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic communities from all backgrounds.

Mark your October calendars for these fun events to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!

Visit the Lynchburg Public Library Downtown Branch on Oct. 6 at 6 PM for Bienvenidos: Legends of the Spanish Speaking World at Downtown Branch

Visit the Academy Center of the Arts on Oct. 7 at 7 PM for “Ritmo Latino: A Vibrant Fiesta of Hispanic Heritage” at Academy Center of the Arts



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International Talk Like a Pirate Day
Sept. 19

Ahoy, landlubbers! Inject some swashbuckling fun into your day by adopting your best pirate accent with your junior mateys.



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First Day of Fall 
Sept. 23

Bid a colorful welcome to autumn as the equinox ushers in cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Make the most of the new season by exploring local fall events! 

Here's When and Where to See Fall Leaves in Lynchburg and Central Virginia



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Yom Kippur 
Sept. 24-25

Experience the solemnity and introspection of Yom Kippur, the "Day of Atonement." Engage in personal reflection and reconnect with your faith as Jews worldwide observe this sacred day through fasting and contemplation.



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Good Neighbor Day 
Sept. 28

Foster a stronger sense of community by being a good neighbor. Here are three ideas: Invite neighbors to gather on a weekend to help an elderly neighbor with yard work, start a neighborhood garden, or pool your tools for a neighborhood tool-sharing co-op.