It’s December and for many, the holiday season. The major holiday that comes to mind during winter is Christmas but what do other people that will not be celebrating Christmas do over the break? Several other religions also have festivals or celebrations late in the year.
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated from December 20th to 28th this year. This eight day holiday commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Participants burn another candle on the Menorah, a ceremonial candle, each night. They also exchange gifts and eat foods fried in olive oil like doughnuts and potato pancakes. Children play with a four-sided top called a dreidel.
Another holiday is Pancha Ganapati. During this five day festival celebrated in the Hindu religion from December 21st to 25th, participants elaborately decorate their family room. A statue of Lord Ganapati or Lord Ganesha is placed on a shrine and draped daily with decorations in different colors (yellow, blue, red, green, and then orange). Children receive presents that are placed next to the shrine until the last day on which they can open them.
Kwanzaa, another winter festival, is not actually affiliated with any distinct religion. Maclana Karenga created this celebration in 1966 to commemorate universal African-American heritage and culture. From December 26th to January 1st people celebrating Kwanzaa give gifts, light a ceremonial candle holder, and have large feasts.
So this break, no matter what you’re doing, think about the other festivals happening. They’re all different but they share one distinct purpose, to bring people together.
Article By: Cara Loehding
