The world is home to some amazing traditions and festivals. It’s truly human nature to celebrate the good things in life and the most momentous events. We will touch on some celebrations that have millions of participants, yet you may never have heard of them.
TET
TET is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Celebrations begin on the first day of the Lunar New Year and typically last for 4-7 days. It’s considered an important holiday for spending time with family members.
This celebration creates a crazy environment in Vietnam. In the lead-up weeks, families will be cleaning their homes, hanging decorations, and stocking up on food.
Once the holiday officially begins, Vietnam comes to a standstill. Most businesses close throughout the country, so that people can eat, drink, and party. This is the time when many people have a few beers with lunch (or even breakfast) and then sing karaoke all night. Poker also becomes popular during this period, and many card games take place on the side of the streets.
The Day Of The Dead
The Day of the Dead is a holiday celebrated throughout Mexico (and acknowledged internationally in many cultures). Its purpose is to honor dead loved ones. Numerous festivals and parades are held throughout Mexico with many participants donning undead costumes. It’s not just about partying, as many families visit the grave sites of relatives and leave behind gifts.
The celebration runs from October 31st to November 2nd.
Hanukkah
Hanukkah celebrates the religious freedom of the Jews after decades of struggle. It has many other names including Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, and the Feast of Dedication.
The festival lasts for eight days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev (as found in the Hebrew calendar). This date can occur anytime from late November to late December.
Each day a candle is lit on a candelabrum until all eight are burning on the final night.
Festival Of Colors
Known as Holi, the Festival of Colors is an Indian and Nepalese spring festival. It celebrates the end of winter, as well as the triumph of good over evil. Participants are found throughout the Indian subcontinent as well as other countries with significant Hindu populations.
The occasion is celebrated for one day and one night, beginning on the Full Moon Day found in the Hindu calendar. This time typically occurs between the end of February and the middle of March.
The night before Holi, participants undertake religious rituals in front of bonfires to prevent evil. The next day the reason for the festival’s name becomes apparent. People smear each other with paint and drench each other with water guns and water balloons. This fun and games occur throughout Indian’s streets, parks, and temple courtyards.
Final Thoughts
How many of these celebrations have you heard of before? We reckon it’s just a couple, and chances are you didn’t know that much about them to begin with. Regardless of culture, people have one thing in common: they all love to party and celebrate.