Upcoming Festivals
Festivals around the world
Tendong Lho Rum Faat
Tendong Lho Rum Faat is an annual holiday celebrated by the Lepchas, an indigenous tribe in Sikkim, India. The holiday marks the first day of autumn and is celebrated with traditional songs and dances, offerings of food to the mountain gods, and a grand gathering of the tribe. On this day, the Lepchas pray for a good monsoon season and for their agricultural harvest.
Canadian Tulip Festival
The Canadian Tulip Festival is an annual event held in Ottawa, the capital of Canada. It celebrates the return of spring with millions of colorful tulips of various species blooming in public parks. It is a three-week celebration with displays, performances, and activities for all ages. Tall ships, live music, and fireworks are some of the popular features. There is also a international buskers' competition, culinary events, and an artisan's marketplace. It is a time to relax and enjoy the outdoor festivities of the city in May.
Eid-al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is a Muslim holiday celebrated to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan, which is a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. It is an occasion of joy for Muslims around the world. It is celebrated by the exchange of gifts, feasting on traditional dishes, and attending prayer services. Muslims often dress in their finest clothing and share special visits with family and friends. Eid al-Fitr marks a time of celebration, joy, and thanksgiving for Muslims who have spent the month of Ramadan fasting and praying.
Nag Panchami
Nag Panchami is an important Hindu festival celebrated in honour of Lord Vishnu's serpent epitome, Ananta-Shesha. On this day, devotees pray to the deity and revere him in the form of live snakes or idols made of brass or silver. Ritualistic offerings such as fruit, milk, flowers and incense are made to the Lord in the form of a puja. Processions are held with locals wearing traditional clothing and chanting religious mantras, followed by folk performances, poojas and feasting.
Esala Perahera
Esala Perahera is an annual Buddhist festival celebrated in Sri Lanka. The festival is celebrated for ten days in July or August and is the most sacred Buddhist pageant in Sri Lanka. It is held in Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, to commemorate the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. During the festival, elephants, dancers, and torch-bearing drummers parade the streets representing the four guardian gods. Esala Perahera is a colorful event and is attended by thousands of devotees.
Umhlanga Reed Dance Day in Swaziland
Every year on September 4, the Umhlanga Reed Dance is celebrated in the kingdom of Swaziland. During this festival, women gather to perform traditional dances and songs in their finest attire. Eswatini's King and Queen Mother address the gathering, followed by all the virgin girls in attendance. After singing and dancing, the girls present reeds, which symbolize purity, fertility, and energy. This holiday is an integral part of the Swazi culture, and is celebrated to honor the country's heritage and traditions.
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
Founded in 1976, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the world’s most highly respected film festivals. Featuring screenings of hundreds of films from around the world, the festival provides filmmakers and moviegoers a platform to come together and celebrate the cinematic arts. During its annual event, held each September, TIFF showcases emerging talent and shines a bright light on global cinematic gems.
International Country Music Day
International Country Music Day is an annual holiday celebrated on September 17. It is a day to appreciate and recognize the legacy of country music, its artists, and its influence on popular culture. Events and celebrations to commemorate the holiday range from concerts and live performances to film screenings and parties. Additionally, special events highlighting the importance of country music are held throughout the day.
Oktoberfest in Germany
Oktoberfest is an annual event famously held in Munich, Germany, that celebrates German culture and beer. Every year for 16 days beginning in late September, large tents and beer gardens host millions of revelers, serving traditional Bavarian beer, carnival rides, German cuisine, live music, and dances. It's a must-see event for locals and visitors alike!