Different Cultural Holidays Celebrations
Celebrations and festivals bring people from all over the world together. Every culture has its unique norms, values, and traditions that reflect their beliefs and lifestyle. The cultural holidays and festivals differ in terms of dates, customs, and rituals, but they all share the same purpose- to bring people together and promote unity.
Here are some of the most popular cultural holidays celebrated worldwide:
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is one of the most celebrated festivals in Asia and marks the start of the New Year in the Chinese calendar. Celebrations last for around two weeks, and on New Year’s Eve, families gather for a reunion dinner, followed by fireworks at midnight. Red decorations and the giving of red envelopes filled with money are seen throughout the holiday.
Holi
Holi is a Hindu festival that typically takes place in March. It’s also known as the ‘festival of colours’ and sees participants throwing coloured powder and water over each other. Holi is a symbol of unity and inclusivity, where everyone participates regardless of their position or status.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month-long period of fasting for Muslims. The festival involves special prayers, feasting, and giving charity to those in need. It is a time of forgiveness, reflection, and spending time with family and friends.
Diwali
Diwali is known as the ‘festival of lights’ and is celebrated across India and abroad. It spans over five days, and each day has a specific significance. People light candles and lamps, decorate their houses with colourful lights, and exchange gifts with loved ones. Diwali is a representation of the victory of good over evil.
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It’s a time of giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. Families and friends gather to share a meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.
Christmas
Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrated worldwide on the 25th of December. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, and the festivities usually begin with decorating Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and gathering with family and friends.
In conclusion, cultural holidays and festivals are an essential part of people’s lives as they provide an opportunity to connect with loved ones, reflect on the past, and look forward to the future. Regardless of where you are in the world, there are always people coming together to celebrate their traditions and customs.