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Cultural festivals are an important part of life around the world. They are a way for people to come together and celebrate their shared history, traditions, and culture. From large-scale events to smaller local festivals, these gatherings provide a unique opportunity for people to express themselves and learn about the diversity of cultures around them.
Our cultural festival calendar gives travelers the opportunity to not just experience a new destination, but to immerse themselves in the lives of the locals, leaving them with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
January
Feast of st. Basil
Greece
The Feast of St. Basil, celebrated in Greece every January 1st, is a time of great joy and celebration. It marks the beginning of the new year and is a time to celebrate the life and legacy of St. Basil, a 4th century saint who was known for his charity and kindness.
The feast is celebrated throughout Greece with parades, music, dancing, and feasting. The most popular activity during this holiday is the traditional Greek dance called the Syrtos. This dance involves two lines of dancers who move in circles around each other while singing traditional Greek songs. The dancers are often dressed in traditional costumes and carry colorful flags or ribbons.
In addition to the dancing and feasting, there are many other activities associated with this holiday. For example, on New Year’s Eve it is customary for families to gather together for a special dinner called Vasilopita which includes a cake that has coins hidden inside it. The person who finds the coin in their slice of cake will have good luck throughout the year!
Another popular tradition during this holiday is the exchange of gifts among family members and friends. This custom dates back to ancient times when Greeks would exchange gifts as tokens of their appreciation for each other’s friendship and loyalty throughout the year. Gifts exchanged during this holiday are usually small items such as candles or sweets but can also include more expensive items such as jewelry or clothing.
The Feast of St. Basil also has religious significance in Greece as it marks the start of Epiphany season which commemorates Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. During this period many churches hold special services where believers can receive blessings from priests or bishops for health, wealth, and happiness in the new year ahead.
Finally, no celebration would be complete without fireworks! On New Year’s Eve fireworks light up the night sky all over Greece as families come together to celebrate St Basil’s feast day with joyous cheers and laughter ringing out across cities and towns alike!
The Feast of St Basil is an important part of Greek culture that brings people together from all walks of life to celebrate life itself! It is a time for families to come together to enjoy traditional food, music, dancing, gifts exchanging, fireworks displays – all while remembering Saint Basil’s legacy of charity and kindness that still lives on today!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
cLASSIC GREECE
This week long Greece tour provides a great introduction to Athens, some of the surrounding highlights from ancient Greek history, and a taste of the country’s beautiful scenery.
february
Oruro Carnival
Bolivia
The Oruro Carnival is an annual celebration of culture and tradition in Bolivia. It is one of the most important festivals in the country and draws thousands of people from all over the world. The carnival takes place in the city of Oruro, located in western Bolivia, and is celebrated for several days leading up to Easter Sunday.
The origins of the Oruro Carnival date back to pre-Columbian times when it was a ritualistic celebration dedicated to the goddess Pachamama. Today, it is a vibrant mix of indigenous and Catholic traditions that have been blended together over time. The festival has become a symbol of national pride for Bolivians and has been declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
At the heart of the Oruro Carnival are its traditional dances, known as diablada or “devil’s dance”. This dance is performed by hundreds of dancers dressed in colorful costumes that represent various characters from Bolivian folklore such as devils, angels, witches, and animals. The dancers move in intricate patterns to traditional music played by brass bands and accompanied by drums and flutes.
In addition to the traditional dances, there are also parades featuring floats decorated with flowers and other symbols associated with Bolivian culture. These floats are often accompanied by dancers wearing elaborate costumes that represent different characters from Bolivian folklore such as mermaids, dragons, jaguars, eagles, and more.
The Oruro Carnival also features other activities such as bullfighting events, fireworks displays, street performances, food stands serving traditional dishes like salteñas (a type of empanada), music concerts featuring local artists, art exhibitions showcasing local artwork, and much more.
The festivities come to an end on Easter Sunday when a procession known as “the procession of silence” takes place during which participants dress in black robes with hoods covering their faces as they march in silence through the streets carrying crosses or statues representing Jesus Christ or saints from Catholicism.
The Oruro Carnival is an incredible event that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate culture and tradition through music, dance, artistry and more! It’s a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Bolivian Encounters
Join us on this 15-day in depth tour of Bolivia’s highlights. This tour starts in La Paz with a visit to the main sites of this remarkable city, which is nestled in between the peaks of the Andes.
March
Holi Festival
India
Holi is a Hindu festival that is celebrated throughout India and other parts of the world. It marks the beginning of spring, and is a time for joy and celebration. The festival usually takes place in March or April, depending on the lunar calendar.
Holi is also known as the “festival of colors” because it involves throwing colored powder, called gulal, at each other. People also use water guns to spray each other with colored water, and sometimes even have water fights! The colors represent joy and happiness, and are meant to bring people together in celebration.
The festival has its roots in ancient Hindu mythology. According to one legend, Holi celebrates the victory of good over evil. It commemorates the story of Lord Krishna who killed a demon named Holika by tricking her into sitting on a bonfire with him. Another legend tells the story of Radha and Krishna’s love for each other; it is said that Krishna was so enamored by Radha’s beauty that he wanted to color her face with his own colors!
The day before Holi is known as Holika Dahan or Chhoti Holi (small Holi). On this day, people gather around bonfires in their communities to perform rituals such as singing songs, praying for prosperity and health, and offering food to the fire as an offering to God. This ritual symbolizes burning away all negative energies from within us so that we can start fresh with new beginnings on Holi Day.
On the actual day of Holi itself, people gather together in large groups to celebrate with music, dancing, feasting on traditional Indian sweets called gujiyas, playing games like dandiya raas (a type of stick dance), flying kites, spraying each other with colored water or gulal powder and just generally having a great time! Everyone wears bright clothes – usually white – so that they can be covered in all the colors thrown around during celebrations.
At nightfall there are fireworks displays which light up the sky with vibrant colors – this is known as Rang Barse (colored rain). People gather around these displays while singing traditional songs about love and friendship. Afterward they enjoy delicious meals prepared especially for this occasion such as puran polis (sweet flatbreads) or bhang lassis (a type of milkshake made from cannabis leaves).
Holi is an important religious festival but it has also become a popular cultural event celebrated by all Indians regardless of their faith or background. It’s a time for joyous reunions between family members who may have been separated due to work or studies; it’s also an opportunity for friends from different backgrounds to come together in celebration and unity. In recent years there have even been special events held outside India where people from different cultures come together to experience this unique festival!
No matter how you choose to celebrate it – whether you join in traditional rituals or just splash around with your friends – Holi is sure to bring you lots of laughter, joy and colorful memories!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
incredible India
This 9-day north India tour covers India’s classic Golden Triangle route of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, with several other stops, activities and experiences added in as well to give you a more varied, interesting and comprehensive taste of the region.
April
Songkran
Thailand
The Songkran Festival in Thailand is a celebration of the traditional Thai New Year. It is celebrated from April 13th to April 15th and is one of the most important holidays in the country. The festival is a time for families to come together, for people to give thanks for the past year, and to look forward to the new year with hope and joy.
The name “Songkran” comes from a Sanskrit word meaning “astrological passage” or “transition” which is fitting since it marks the transition from one year to another. During this time, people clean their homes, pay respects to their elders, and make merit at temples. They also take part in water fights which are a major part of Songkran celebrations.
The water fights are symbolic of washing away bad luck and starting anew. People throw buckets of water at each other or use hoses and squirt guns as they parade through town on floats or in trucks. This tradition has become so popular that it has spread throughout Thailand and even other parts of Asia such as Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and even India!
In addition to water fights there are also parades with floats carrying images of Buddha or other religious figures as well as dancers dressed in traditional costumes performing traditional dances. There are also beauty pageants where young women compete for prizes such as Miss Songkran Queen or Miss Water Fight Queen.
On top of all this fun there is also an element of tradition that runs through Songkran celebrations. People will often go to temples during this time to make merit by offering food or money to monks or by helping out with temple activities such as cleaning up around the grounds. This act of making merit is believed to bring good luck for the upcoming year.
At night there are fireworks displays which add an extra layer of excitement and color to the festivities. The whole atmosphere during Songkran Festival is one full of joyous celebration and excitement!
In conclusion, Songkran Festival in Thailand is a time for families to come together and celebrate the transition from one year into another with hope and joy! It’s a time for fun water fights but also has an element of tradition with people making merit at temples or participating in beauty pageants or parades with floats carrying images of Buddha or other religious figures. All these activities come together creating an atmosphere full of excitement that can be enjoyed by everyone!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
thai spice
This 7-day tour exploring the major sights of Bangkok and the surrounding area is the perfect introduction to beautiful Thailand. Visit the Grand Palace, floating markets and the historical sites of Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya.
May
Buddha Jayanti
Nepal
The Buddha Jayanti festival is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Nepal. It marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by Buddhists all over the world.
The festival is usually celebrated in late May or early June each year. On this day, Buddhists gather at various monasteries and temples to pay homage to the teachings of Gautama Buddha. They also commemorate his life and teachings by performing special rituals such as chanting mantras, offering flowers, incense, and food to the deities, and performing Buddhist prayers.
In Nepal, this festival is celebrated with much pomp and show. People from all walks of life come together to celebrate this special day with their families and friends. On this day, people dress up in traditional attire such as kurtas (long shirts) for men and saris (dresses) for women. They also decorate their houses with colorful flags and banners depicting scenes from Buddha’s life.
The main event of the festival takes place at Swayambhunath Stupa in Kathmandu Valley where Buddhists from all over Nepal gather to offer prayers to Lord Buddha. This stupa was built by King Manadeva I in 464 AD and is considered one of the holiest sites for Buddhists in Nepal. At this stupa, devotees offer flowers, incense sticks, fruits, sweets, lamps filled with ghee (clarified butter), etc., as offerings to Lord Buddha. After offering these items they circumambulate around the stupa three times while chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Buddha’s teachings.
Another important event during this festival is a procession that takes place from Swayambhunath Stupa to Bodhnath Stupa which is located about 5 kilometers away from Swayambhunath Stupa. During this procession people carry a large statue of Lord Buddha on their shoulders while chanting mantras dedicated to him along with musical instruments such as drums and cymbals which add more fervor to the occasion.
Apart from these events there are also cultural programs such as traditional dances performed by local artists which add more color to this festive occasion. People also exchange gifts among themselves during this time as a sign of goodwill among them all while celebrating the teachings of Lord Buddha which promote peace and harmony among all living beings on earth regardless of caste or creed.
The celebration ends with a grand feast where people enjoy traditional Nepali delicacies such as momos (dumplings), sel roti (rice doughnuts), chhoila (spicy buffalo meat), etc., along with other dishes prepared especially for this occasion such as sweet rice pudding known as kheer or jalebi (deep fried sweet). People also enjoy drinks like lassi (yogurt-based drink) or thandai (cold milk-based drink).
The celebration of Buddha Jayanti Festival not only brings joyous moments but it also serves as an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together in harmony and celebrate the teachings of Gautama Buddha which promote peace, compassion and understanding among all living beings on earth regardless of caste or creed thus making it one of the most important festivals celebrated in Nepal every year!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Classic nepal
This comprehensive tour of Nepal takes you on a journey across one of the most spectacularly beautiful countries in the world. Amazing mountain scenery mixed with lush, wildlife rich jungles, ancient hilltop villages stand in contrast to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
June
World Sacred Music Festival
Morocco
The World Sacred Music Festival in Morocco is a celebration of music, culture, and spirituality that has become a beloved annual event. Held in the city of Fez, this festival brings together performers from around the world to share their music and their stories. It’s an incredible opportunity to experience different cultures and to learn more about the power of music.
The festival was founded in 1994 by Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Meryem of Morocco. Her vision was to create an event that would bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate sacred music and its ability to bring people together. Since then, the festival has grown into one of the most popular events in Morocco, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
At the World Sacred Music Festival, you’ll find performances from many different cultures and religions. From traditional Moroccan music to Sufi chants from India, there’s something for everyone at this festival. There are also lectures and workshops that explore different aspects of sacred music and its role in society. The festival also hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, poetry readings, and other activities that help bring people closer together through shared experiences.
The World Sacred Music Festival is more than just a music event; it’s a celebration of culture and spirituality as well. The performances are often accompanied by traditional dance or storytelling that helps bring the music alive for audiences. The atmosphere is one of respect for different cultures and beliefs, making it a safe space for everyone who attends. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about the history behind sacred music and how it has been used throughout time as a way to connect with our spiritual selves.
In addition to performances from around the world, there are also local artists who perform at the festival each year. These artists often come from rural areas or small villages where they may not have had access to larger stages before coming to Fez for this event. It’s an amazing opportunity for them to share their work with a larger audience while also learning more about other cultures’ musical traditions in the process.
The World Sacred Music Festival isn’t just about entertainment; it’s also about education and understanding between different cultures and beliefs. There are workshops on topics such as interfaith dialogue or cultural exchange which help attendees gain insight into how we can all work together towards peace and understanding despite our differences. This type of learning experience can be invaluable when it comes time to build bridges between different communities in our own lives or on a global scale as well.
The World Sacred Music Festival is an incredible event that celebrates culture, spirituality, education, understanding, and peace through its unique blend of musical performances from around the world accompanied by traditional dance or storytelling elements as well as educational workshops on topics such as interfaith dialogue or cultural exchange – all taking place within an atmosphere of respect for different beliefs making it a safe space for everyone who attends!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Moroccan Circuit
This 9-day Morocco small-group tour uncovers both ancient cities, impressive ruins and busy medinas in the north of the country, and then crosses the Atlas mountains to discover the sand dunes of the Sahara desert.
july
Baalbeck International Festival
Lebanon
The Baalbeck International Festival in Lebanon is an annual event that brings together people from all over the world to celebrate the culture and history of the country. The festival takes place in the ancient city of Baalbeck, which is located in the Bekaa Valley, and is one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. The festival has been running for over 50 years and is one of Lebanon’s most important cultural and artistic events.
The festival usually takes place over a period of three weeks in July and August and features a wide variety of performances from local, regional, and international artists. There are concerts featuring traditional Lebanese music, as well as performances by renowned international artists such as Sting, Elton John, and Shakira. There are also plays, dance performances, art exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, workshops, conferences, and other activities. The festival also includes a number of cultural activities such as traditional cooking demonstrations and craft workshops.
The Baalbeck International Festival has become an important part of Lebanese culture over the years. It is not only a celebration of Lebanese culture but also a platform for dialogue between different cultures from around the world. It has become a symbol of unity among different cultures as well as an opportunity to learn about different cultures through music, dance, art exhibitions and other activities.
The festival is organized by a committee made up of members from various organizations including local government officials, representatives from NGOs such as UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization), private sponsorships from companies such as PepsiCo International Inc., private donors from around the world who support the event financially or with their time or expertise; volunteers; media representatives; academics; artists; musicians; dancers; writers; photographers; film makers; theatre directors; actors etc.. All these people come together to make sure that everything runs smoothly during the event.
The Baalbeck International Festival also provides an opportunity for people to experience some unique aspects of Lebanese culture that they may not otherwise experience on their own. For example visitors can enjoy traditional Lebanese food such as hummus or kibbeh (a type of stuffed pastry), take part in folkloric dancing performances or attend workshops on traditional crafts such as pottery making or basket weaving. In addition there are often special events held during the festival such as folkloric parades where participants dress up in traditional costumes to celebrate their heritage or participate in traditional sports like falconry or horseback riding competitions.
The Baalbeck International Festival has become an important part of Lebanese culture over its 50 year history and continues to be an important event for both locals and visitors alike each year. It provides an opportunity for people to come together to celebrate their culture while learning about other cultures through music, dance art exhibitions etc.. It also provides an opportunity for dialogue between different cultures which can help foster understanding between them which can ultimately lead to peace between them all.
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Lebanon Encounters
This tour spends 8 days exploring Lebanon, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Though small, Lebanon is rich with history, culture and was the site of some of the world’s oldest human settlements.
August
Perseids Meteor Shower
Jordan
The Perseids Meteor Shower is an annual event that takes place in Jordan and is one of the most spectacular astronomical events of the year. It occurs when the Earth passes through a stream of debris left behind by comet Swift-Tuttle. This debris consists of small particles, ranging in size from dust grains to pebbles, and when they enter Earth’s atmosphere they burn up, producing a stunning display of light and color in the night sky.
The Perseids Meteor Shower takes place each year between July 17th and August 24th, with the peak activity occurring around August 12th or 13th. During this time, Jordan experiences a flurry of meteors shooting across the sky, often at rates of up to 100 per hour! This is an amazing sight to behold and one that many people look forward to each year.
The best way to experience the Perseids Meteor Shower in Jordan is to find a dark spot away from city lights and look up at the night sky. The meteors will appear as streaks of light moving across the sky at different speeds, so it’s important to have patience when observing them. It’s also helpful to bring binoculars or a telescope so you can get a better view of any meteors that you may see.
In addition to viewing the Perseids Meteor Shower from Earth, there are also other ways to experience it in Jordan. One popular option is taking part in an organized tour or camping trip where you can watch the meteor shower away from city lights with other like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for astronomy. These tours are usually led by experienced astronomers who can provide valuable insight into what you’re seeing in the night sky.
For those looking for something more interactive than just watching meteors shoot across the sky, there are also opportunities for space exploration activities such as stargazing or attending lectures on astronomy topics related to meteor showers like this one. These activities are great for both adults and children alike as they provide an opportunity for learning about our universe while also having fun!
The Perseids Meteor Shower is an incredible event that happens every year in Jordan and provides a unique opportunity for people of all ages to experience something truly special. Whether you choose to observe it from your own backyard or take part in an organized tour or activity, experiencing this natural wonder will be sure to leave you with lasting memories that will stay with you for years to come!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Jordan Encounters
This is our signature Jordan small-group tour. The tour features Jordan’s most famous highlights like Petra and Jerash, with some different experiences and activities to really show you as much of Jordan’s different scenery, culture, food and history as possible.
September
Hermanus whale watching festival
South Africa
The Hermanus Whale Watching Festival in South Africa is an annual event that celebrates the majestic creatures of the ocean. Every year, thousands of people flock to the small coastal town of Hermanus to observe and appreciate the whales that migrate to this area during the summer months. The festival is a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about these incredible creatures, as well as enjoy some fun activities and entertainment.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Festival was first established in 1992, and has been held every year since then. During this time, it has grown into one of South Africa’s most popular festivals, attracting tourists from all over the world. The festival usually takes place in late September or early October and lasts for around three days.
The main attraction at the festival is, of course, whale watching. Visitors can take part in boat trips out into Walker Bay, where they can observe Southern Right whales as they migrate from Antarctica towards their calving grounds off the coast of Hermanus. It’s an amazing experience to be able to watch these gentle giants up close and personal!
In addition to whale watching trips, there are also plenty of other activities taking place during the festival. There are live music performances from local artists, art exhibitions featuring work by local artists, educational talks about whales and their habitats, craft markets selling handmade items from local vendors, food stalls offering delicious treats from all over South Africa, and a variety of other activities for visitors to enjoy.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Festival also provides a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about whales and their habitats. Throughout the festival there are various educational talks given by experts on topics such as whale behavior and conservation efforts in South Africa. There are also interactive displays set up around town which provide information on whales and their habitats.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Festival is a great way for visitors to experience South African culture while learning more about these amazing creatures at the same time! Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or just want to relax and take in some beautiful scenery, this is definitely an event you won’t want to miss!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
The Garden route
After experiencing the famous sights of Cape Town, you travel along the beautiful Garden Route, stopping to see all its main highlights. These include Cape Agulhas, Hermanus, the Cango Caves, Knysna, the Bloukrans Bridge, Oudtshoorn and more.
october
Abu simbel sun festival
Egypt
The Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt is a celebration of the sun god, Ra, that has been held for centuries. Every year on October 22nd, the sun god is honored with a grand procession and ceremony at the Abu Simbel temples. This festival is one of the most important events in Egypt and it is a time for people to come together to celebrate their culture and history.
The Abu Simbel temples were built by Pharaoh Ramses II in 1244 BC. The two temples were carved out of solid rock and are located on the west bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt. The larger temple was dedicated to Ra, while the smaller temple was dedicated to Ra’s mythological wife, Hathor. The temples were designed so that twice a year on February 22nd and October 22nd, the sun would shine directly into the inner sanctum of both temples.
At dawn on October 22nd each year, thousands of people gather at Abu Simbel to witness this incredible event. As the sun rises over the horizon, its rays penetrate through an opening in front of Ramses II’s statue inside the temple and illuminate three statues inside: Ra-Horakhty (the combination of Ra and Horus), Ptah (the god of creation) and Amun-Ra (the king of gods). This phenomenon is known as “The Sun Festival” or “The Festival of Rejoicing”.
The celebration begins with music from drums and flutes as people dance around a bonfire that has been lit at sunrise. Afterward, priests enter into each temple carrying offerings such as incense, flowers, fruits and grain which they place before each statue as an offering to Ra. Afterward, they recite prayers which are then followed by more music from drums and flutes as people continue to dance around the bonfire until sunset when it is time for everyone to go home.
This festival has been celebrated for centuries by Egyptians who believe that it brings good luck for them throughout the year ahead. For many years after its construction, Pharaoh Ramses II was believed to be a living incarnation of Ra himself so he was honored during this festival with special ceremonies performed by priests in his honor. Today this festival still serves as an important reminder of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and its connection with religion throughout history.
The Abu Simbel Sun Festival is an incredible event that celebrates one of Egypt’s most important gods and allows us to experience a part of their culture firsthand. It is a unique opportunity for visitors to witness something truly remarkable while also learning about ancient Egyptian traditions that have been passed down through generations over thousands of years. We can all be thankful that this amazing event still takes place today so we can continue to appreciate its beauty every year!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Abu simbel sun festival
Our Abu Simbel Sun Festival tour, which departs on 18th February and 18th October each year and takes in time in Cairo seeing the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum, the ancient Pharaonic temples at Luxor, a felucca trip on the Nile, and of course a trip to Abu Simbel.
November
Black-necked crane festival
Bhutan
The Black-necked Crane Festival in Bhutan is an annual event that celebrates the arrival of these majestic birds to the country. The festival is held in the Phobjikha Valley, which is a protected area and home to many of these cranes. The festival is a celebration of nature, culture, and tradition and has been celebrated for centuries.
The Black-necked Crane Festival takes place in November every year and lasts for three days. During this time, locals gather to celebrate the cranes’ arrival with music, dance, and traditional Bhutanese food. People also come from all over the world to witness this unique event.
The Black-necked Crane is an endangered species found mainly in Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Tibet. They are considered sacred by the locals and have been revered since ancient times. The cranes migrate from their summer breeding grounds in Tibet to their winter homes in Bhutan during October and November every year.
During the festival, visitors can observe these majestic creatures as they fly over the valley or feed on its wetlands. There are also traditional performances such as mask dances that tell stories about the cranes’ journey from Tibet to Bhutan. Local villagers also put on special performances such as archery competitions and folk songs dedicated to these birds.
The festival provides an opportunity for visitors to learn more about Bhutanese culture and traditions while enjoying nature at its best. It also serves as a reminder of how important it is to protect these endangered species so that future generations can continue to enjoy them as well.
The Black-necked Crane Festival has become a popular tourist attraction in recent years due to its unique mix of culture and nature. It serves as a reminder that we must protect our environment so that we can continue to enjoy its beauty for generations to come. So if you ever find yourself in Bhutan during November make sure you don’t miss out on this amazing event!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Bhutan Encounters
This 8-day tour of Bhutan provides a fantastic chance to explore one of the world’s most remote and fascinating countries. The itinerary is designed to provide a balance between some historic and cultural sightseeing with some short walks through the Bhutanese countryside and some beautiful scenery.
december
Christmas in the Holy Land
Israel
Christmas in the Holy Land of Israel is a unique experience. It is a time of celebration, reflection, and joy for Christians around the world. In Israel, Christmas is celebrated in a unique way, with its own special customs and traditions.
The celebration of Christmas in Israel begins on December 25th. On this day, many churches hold special services to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is one of the most popular destinations for pilgrims who come to celebrate Christmas in the Holy Land. Here, people can visit the site where Jesus was born and join in special services held by local clergy.
In addition to religious services, many people also take part in traditional Christmas activities such as caroling, decorating trees and exchanging gifts. Many towns and cities throughout Israel host special events such as parades or concerts to mark this special day. In Jerusalem, a large Christmas tree is lit up each year on Christmas Eve to mark the start of the festive season.
Christmas decorations are also popular in Israel during this time of year. Streets are often adorned with festive lights and decorations while homes are decorated with wreaths and other festive items such as poinsettias or Nativity scenes. In some areas, it is even customary for people to hang mistletoe from their doorways!
Food is an important part of celebrating Christmas in Israel too! Traditional dishes such as kugel (a sweet noodle pudding) or latkes (potato pancakes) are often served during holiday meals while sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) are a popular treat enjoyed by many families during this time of year.
Christmas Day itself is usually spent at home with family members enjoying a festive meal together followed by gift-giving and singing carols around the tree or fireplace. For those who wish to attend church services on this day, some churches offer special midnight mass services which begin at 11pm on December 24th and end at 1am on December 25th – perfect for those who want to experience a truly unique religious ceremony!
Christmas Day may be over but that doesn’t mean that celebrations end there! On January 6th each year, many Christians celebrate Epiphany which marks the arrival of three wise men bearing gifts for baby Jesus – an event which is commemorated through special church services held throughout Israel on this day.
In conclusion, celebrating Christmas in Israel can be an incredibly meaningful experience for those who wish to pay homage to Jesus’s birth while also taking part in traditional activities associated with this time of year such as decorating trees or exchanging gifts with family members. From attending religious services at Bethlehem’s Church of Nativity to indulging in delicious traditional dishes like kugel or latkes – there really is something for everyone when it comes to celebrating Christmas in the Holy Land!
RECOMMENDED TOUR
Biblical Israel
On this fascinating 8-day Israel tour, you’ll have the opportunity to discover sites of biblical and historical importance with a focus on Christianity. We visit locations that played an important role in Jesus’ life and Bethlehem; Tiberias and the shores of the Sea of Galilee; Nazareth and Cana, Jerusalem, including the Mount of Olives, and so much more!
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