Celebrations Around the World

Many people of different cultures and faiths around the world celebrate various days of significance, ranging from cultural festivals, religious holy days, important birthdates of world leaders and faith founders to commemorative dates. Each celebration has its unique traditions and they share many common themes including family and friends, light and goodwill, food and drinks, gift-giving, prayers, and respect and understanding. Peace in the world will only be achieved with the understanding that all cultures and faiths have equal value.

January 1 New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day is the first day of the Julian calendar year. Traditionally, many families and friends visit each other to bear good wishes for the new year. Many people make New Year’s resolutions, which they hope to fulfill in the coming year.

January Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Canadians and Americans celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on the third Monday of every January. Dr. King brought hope and healing to many people. It commemorates the important values he lived and shared: courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service.

January Pongal

This Hindu harvest festival is celebrated in mostly in South India in the state of Tamil Nadu. The festival has different names depending, on the region of India it is celebrated. For four days, people throw away old clothes; boil rice with fresh milk topped with brown sugar, cashew nuts and raisins; participate in taming a wild bull contest; and visit beaches and theme parks.

January Twelfth Night/Dia de los Reyes

This Christian festival includes many different types of foods and drinks, such as tortell and king cake, which are baked on Twelfth Night.