Festivals
Seville Fair, Spain
The Seville Feria (fair) is a weeklong festival in Spain that begins two weeks after the Semana Santa, or Easter Holy Week. Dancing, eating, drinking, horse parades, and colorful tents are all part of the celebration.
Gathering of Nations
The Gathering of Nations is one of the largest powwows in North America, bringing together Native American and Indigenous peoples to celebrate their diverse cultures through traditional dance, music, and arts. This annual event, held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, serves as a vibrant and significant gathering that fosters unity, cultural exchange, and the sharing of traditions…
Lei Day
Lei Day honors Hawaii's people and their unique heritage. The common celebration of Lei Day includes giving gifts of leis to others.
Hana Matsuri, Japan
Hana Matsuri, also known as the Flower Festival, is celebrated in Japan to commemorate the birth of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha's birthday).
El Colacho, Spain
El Salto del Colacho, also known as The Baby Jumping Festival, is a Spanish ritual in which men dressed as the devil jump over babies born within the year. Traditionally, the “devils” jump over the babies to lure away evil spirits and leave the babies blessed and pure.
Dragon Boat Festival, China
The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu or Tuen Ng Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday. Celebrated with dragon boat races, zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and the hanging of medicinal herbs, the festival commemorates the poet Qu Yuan and is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good health and protection. Click HERE…
Festival of the Sun, Peru
Inti Raymi is an ancient Incan festival celebrated in honor of the Sun God, Inti. Held on the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere, the festival involves elaborate ceremonies, processions, and rituals to express gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy and seek blessings for the upcoming year. Click HERE for information and resources.
Festival of Giants, France
During the first weekend in July, the north of France celebrates Fêtes de Gayant (Festival of Giants). Most northern cities have a patron giant that is said to protect the city and its people. Carried through the streets, these giants are made of wood and measure between six and eight and a half meters in…
Tanabata (Star Festival)
Tanabata, also known as the "Star Festival," is celebrated every year on July 7 in Japan. Read more.
Naadam Festival
Naadam is a traditional festival marking Mongolia's independence from China. The 3-day holiday blends traditional arts and sports with competitions in wrestling, horse racing, and archery.