North Koreans dread February because of two consecutive patriotic holidays that require them to attend propaganda lectures, political events, and commemorative performances. The two holidays leading up to Feb. 16, Kim Jong Il’s birthday, are especially arduous, with workers required to attend numerous events that stretch late into the night. The holidays are also a financial hardship, as many families struggle to make ends meet because the women from many households do not have time to make a living due to participation in events all day long. Many North Koreans criticize the authorities for organizing these events, saying they do not understand why they make the peoples’ lives harder.