Importance of Traditional Festivals
What is a traditional festival?
A traditional festival is community event that is cultural, religious, or historical.
But what exactly is “traditional?”
Traditional means that it is “passed down through generations.”
What is "continuity?"
Continuity is like having a regular routine that makes us feel safe, helps us learn and grow, and keeps us happy and healthy.
Okay, but is it really that important to continue practicing these kinds of festivals, even today?
Yes, traditional festivals help preserve our cultural heritage!
When and where did La Tomatina start?
La Tomatina started in 1992 in Bunol, Spain.
What is an example of something traditional from your country?
(Answers may vary)
But what is a “ritual?”
A ritual is a set of actions that are performed in order and have special meaning.
What is "jubilation?"
It’s time to take a break from everyday work. We can dance, sing, and feast!
So how do festivals manage to preserve cultural heritage?
As we enter the future, our world changes a lot, and quickly! Therefore, it’s important to keep continuity in our lives.
What is the importance of the Hermanus Whale Watching Festival?
It helps remind everyone how important it is to take care of our oceans and the wonderful animals that live in them.
Why did people start practicing these kinds of celebrations?
Traditional festivals started with ancient rituals about nature and agriculture.
So what does that have to do with “agriculture?”
Agriculture is the farming of crops. It is affected by the changing seasons and weather, so many festivals happen at the same time every year.
What is "globalization?"
Globalization is about connecting with different people and ideas from all around the world.
Okay, but what if I’m not religious? Nor am I a farmer. I’m a student! Must I continue these traditions?
These days, traditional festivals are more about bringing friends and families together. They can also help you meet new people as well!
What is the importance of Diwali?
It reminds us of the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
So what other kinds of milestones do traditional festivals typically honor?
Many festivals celebrate important religious and historical dates as well.
So seasonal change is a kind of “milestone,” otherwise known as…
…an important event that shows you’re making progress!
What is "homogenization?"
Homogenization is when different things mix together and become more alike, losing some of what made them special and different.
Festivals certainly sound fun! But alas, I’m always in school. Every. Single. Day.
Don’t worry! These kinds of festivals are times for jubilation!
What is the importance of Day of the Dead?
It teaches us to remember our loved ones with joy and to celebrate happy memories we have of them.
Is globalization bad?
No, but while we learn more about other cultures, we mustn’t forget about what makes us so special!
What does it mean to "preserve our cultural heritage?"
“Preserve” means to keep something safe over a long time, and “heritage” includes all the special things from the past that people want to remember and keep alive.
What is the Sanskrit word for "passing" or "approaching?"
Songkran
So, what are the two most important reasons why we must continue to practice our traditions?
1. Globalization and 2. Homogenization
Why did the people of Kyoto start Gion Matsuri in 869?
There was a big sickness, and people wanted to make it go away.