Educating children about different cultures around the world is important to broaden their perspective and understand that there is a diversity of traditions, beliefs, and customs. Holidays can be an excellent way to learn about these diverse cultures and their customs. Here is a rundown of some of the world’s most amazing holidays for you to explore with your children.
- Chinese New Year (January 1st)
Chinese New Year is the most significant holiday in China and represents the beginning of the lunar year. It is a 15-day-long celebration that showcases the bright side of the moon, so the colors red and gold are commonly associated with the holiday. Fireworks, dragon and lion dances, and family gatherings are some of the cultural traditions celebrated during this time.
- Diwali (October/November)
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a five-day celebration in India, Southeast Asia, Fiji, and other countries with a significant Indian diaspora. The celebrations include lighting candles, exchanging gifts, and opening family homes to guests. Dishes like samosas, Indian sweets, and chai are enjoyed during the festivities.
- Day of the Dead (November 1st to 2nd)
In Mexico and other countries in Latin America, Día de Muertos is an important cultural and religious holiday that celebrates the lives of those who have passed away. Family members gather at cemeteries to clean the graves, bring offerings like marigolds and sugar skulls, and share a family meal to honor the memories of their loved ones.
- Chanukah (December 24th to 30th)
Chanukah is a Jewish holiday that marks the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Temple of the Lord) in Jerusalem. It is also known as the Festival of Lights. During the eight-day holiday, families celebrate by enjoying traditional dishes like latkes and sufganiyot and singing “Maoz Tzur.”
- Easter and Easter eggs (Date varies)
Easter is a Christian festivity that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, holiday savings although it is observed or celebrated uniquely by Christians due to Byzantine Emperor Constantine. The holiday symbolizes new life, and joy when the egg stands for new life. Families exchange Easter eggs, and in some countries, the egg race is a popular activity.
- Holi (February)
Holi is a Hindu spring festival celebrated in India and Nepal. People throws colors and water on each other to celebrate the arrival of spring, celebrating the Hindu deity Lord Krishna, who is said to have played with colors during his life.
- Children’s Day (June 1st)
Children’s Day is a Japanese holiday celebrated on June 1st to honor children and raise awareness of children’s rights and needs. Schools and homes arrange events, games, and activities to entertain the children from various walks of life.
- Hogmanay (December 31st)
Hogmanay is a Scottish festivity celebrated on December 30th and 31st with a record of its form in Viking times. Families take part in the celebration which usually includes parades, fire-related traditions, such as lighting the “Hogmanay torch”.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (mid-September)
Mid-Autumn Festival is an Asian holiday where families come together to appreciate the moon, mythical creatures, and performances with lanterns and dragon boats.
By exposing children to various cultures and their traditions, we help children understand holiday calendar and appreciate diversity. It could be that they may have never learned about what cultures and traditions that may not be available in the curriculum. Get them engaged with new experiences such as trying traditional Indian or Chinese delicacies, learning about Hindu or Buddhist symbolisms and myths, and even trying holiday food familiar to these cultures. Encourage families to plan trips to countries such as India, China, or Israel to get an ideal firsthand experience of the countries.
Exploring different cultures and traditions through family travel can offer a unique way to engage children in a new adventure and promote open-minded perspectives. It’s important to instill in our children a love for exploring diverse cultures and traditions, which may not be covered in the curriculum. By exposing children to various cultures and their traditions, we help create an appreciation of the world and its diverse culture.
In conclusion, by learning about the holidays and traditions celebrated in diverse countries is not limited to India, Nigeria, Egypt, China, and Israel. This will make them great ambassadors of such importance for their children. It will instill a sense of wonder and curiosity in children. Encouraging awareness of various cultures will make children more aware of the world and it will help in developing a love for the diverse cultures around the world.