“Traditions are memory makers
Of the best kind…and give us a
More meaningful and deeper
View of life.”
During the Autumn season…many cultures from around the world celebrate and give thanks for the abundant harvests and for loved ones they hold dear. Some of these celebrations and festivals are religious in nature and some are not…but they can and do make for fun and joy filled celebrations for all.
THE TRAILING OF THE SHEEP FESTIVAL IDAHO
October 5-9 finds this 150-year-old tradition in mountain communities of Idaho. Rooted in deep cultural history…this festival includes educational sessions…music…dance…yarn crafting…fine eating…and the trailing of the sheep parade…and a big Sheepherder’s Ball.
THE GREAT NEW MOON CEREMONY CHEROKEE NATION
This is celebrated on the first October New Moon. Feasts to celebrate harvests…dances…offerings to the sacred fire and purifying rituals are all part of this celebration held by the Cherokee.
Because Cherokee history states that the world was created during the Autumn season…this festival is one of the most revered of all Cherokee traditions.
MEHREGAN IN IRAN
This Autumn Festival Of Harvest in Iran is one of the most ancient festivals known to humankind. During this time…Persians celebrate with bonfires and fireworks. Some traditionalists also rub antimony around their eyes which serves as a good omen…and throw fistfuls of lotus…sugar plum seeds and wild marjoram while hugging and greeting family and friends.
DIWALI IN INDIA
This Hindu festival is held October 24th…and lanterns are lit across cities and released into the air. Many gods and goddesses are honored during this festival but the focus of this festival is that good conquers evil and light overcomes darkness. Garlands of jasmine are hung around homes and colored sand in the shape of lotus flowers are out in doorways to serve as a symbol of welcome
HALLOWEEN IN SCOTLAND
October 31st brings the fun and mystery to Scotland. Children get dressed in costumes and go trick or treating…and have to perform jokes or songs in return for sweets. The general rule of thumb is that it’s okay to knock at people’s doors who have carved pumpkins outside or if you know them. Another tradition in Scotland…is that turnips are carved out with a candle inside and carried as lanterns instead of pumpkins.
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS…DAY OF THE DEAD
Rooted deeply in Aztec culture… on November 1-2 this celebration honors the dead while also emphasizing the importance of life. During this holiday altars are constructed in memory of passed loved ones. The deceased favorite foods and drinks as well as sugar skulls…flowers…candles…and clothing are placed around the altar to celebrate loved ones who are deceased. Gravesites are also decorated and family members gather at their graves to honor their deceased loved ones.
Besides Mexico…this celebration is also honored throughout Latin America.
THANKSGIVING IN USA
Thanksgiving is celebrated the 4th Thursday in November. Thanksgiving traditions in America include a turkey dinner with all the fare…football games…watching Thanksgiving parades. It is a time for family and friends and giving thanks for all the blessings everyone has.
Keep traditions alive…
Victoria