Home -> Encyclopedia -> History – Famous festivals and holidays across the world
- Thanksgiving (U.S.A): An annual national holiday marked by religious observances and a traditional meal, celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States. The holiday commemorates a harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621 and is a symbol of gratitude.
- Bastille Day (France): Celebrated on July 14 each year, the French national day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a pivotal event at the start of the French Revolution. The day is characterized by military parades, parties, and fireworks.
- Carnival (Brazil): Renowned globally for its vibrant and colourful parades, samba, and extravagant costumes, this annual festival draws droves of people from around the world to Rio de Janeiro. Celebrations are held before Lent, typically in February, and have roots in Portuguese culture.
- Hanami (Japan): Literally meaning “flower viewing,” Hanami is typically associated with the public outdoor enjoyment of the transient beauty of cherry blossoms (sakura) in Japan. It is usually celebrated from late March to early May.
- Dia de Los Muertos (Mexico): Also known as the Day of the Dead, this Mexican holiday is focused on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember loved ones who have died. It is celebrated on November 1 and 2, and celebrations often feature altars, decorated skulls, marigold flowers, and favorite foods of the deceased.
- Diwali (India): Also known as Deepavali, this Hindu festival of lights is one of the most important holidays in India. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, typically involving family gatherings, fireworks, the lighting of lamps, and sharing of sweets. It usually occurs in October or November.
- Oktoberfest (Germany): The world’s largest beer and travelling funfair festival. Celebrated in Munich, Bavaria, it runs for 16 to 18 days from late September to the first weekend in October. An important part of Bavarian culture, the tradition dates back to the 19th century.
- Chinese New Year (China): A major holiday in China, marking the start of the lunar new year. It is a time for family reunions and celebrations that include dragon and lion dances, traditional meals, lantern festivals, and red envelopes with money.
- Mardi Gras (U.S.A): Known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras refers to the events of the Carnival celebrations that start on or after Epiphany and culminates on the day before Ash Wednesday. Most famously celebrated in New Orleans, it’s known for its parades, masks, and beads.
- Songkran (Thailand): Known as the Thai New Year, Songkran is one of Thailand’s grandest and most important events. It’s a water festival that marks the start of the traditional Thai New Year, starting from 13 April to 15 April, with water fights and street parties.