Every year in March, on the first two days of the full moon, Holi is celebrated in India to celebrate the arrival of spring, it is also called the Festival of Colors or the days of banishing evil and rebirth of life. Holi is one of the most colorful holidays in India, the Bengali New Year.

The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, and its origins go back to ancient times. Holi is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Phalguna, which falls in February-March. Holi is a festival of spring, filled with sunshine and the cheerful frenzy of lush nature.

According to legend, Holika, an evil demon, died on this day. Holika was the sister of the mythical king Hiranyakasipu, who had power over everyone who worshiped him. But the king's little son Prahlad became a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Then Hiranyakasipu ordered his sister to kill Prahlad. Holika, endowed with the ability to pass through fire unharmed, took the child and entered the fire with him. Prahlad began chanting hymns to Vishnu and was saved from the fire. Holika died in the fire because she did not know that her ability to pass through the fire unharmed was only valid if she entered the fire alone. The Holi festival of colors is also celebrated in India in memory of the immortal love of God Krishna and Radha. Indian legends say that young Krishna once complained to his mother Yashoda that Radha was so bright and he was so dark. Then Yashoda advised Krishna to paint Radha's face with multi-colored powder and see how her complexion changes.

Delhi, being the capital and heart of India, celebrates Holi with utmost enthusiasm. People from different parts of India as well as tourists from all over the world flock here. On these days, every city holds its own celebrations; bonfires are lit everywhere, symbolizing the end of winter and the death of the evil spirits that came to Indian soil along with winter and cold weather. Holika is burned on the fire, the fruits of the seasonal harvest are thrown - grains, coconuts, etc. And the next morning people go out into the street, and the fun begins - everyone throws colored powders and pours colored water on each other bright color: red, green, yellow, blue and black. People hug and wish each other happiness. Any feeling of deprivation or hostility is forgotten in the day. It is believed that the more paint a person covers, the more good wishes sent to him. If you are interested in photography, then a trip during the Festival of Colors will delight you!

On Holi days, you can behave in such a relaxed manner that is considered impermissible on ordinary days: spraying colored water on passers-by, having noisy fun with friends. Women in India also behave more freely and uninhibitedly.

The weather in spring, even in India, is changeable, so colds and various types of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections are common. Therefore, festive showering of medicinal herbal powders (neem, kumkum, haldi, bilva and others) is recommended by the sacred healers of Ayurveda. People of all ages take a direct part in the celebration.

The holiday usually ends with a colorful concert attended by famous Indian actors and artists. The concert is accompanied by fireworks and salutes, which Indians love so much. When the night falls, people do not go home, but walk in large crowds along the central streets of New Delhi, singing folk songs and having fun.

There are many national holidays in Russia, when people all over the country do not work and have special celebrations.

The major holidays are: New Year's Day, Women's Day, May Day, Victory Day, and Independence Day.

The first holiday of the year is New Year"s Day. People see the new year in at midnight on the 31st of December. They greet the new year with champagne and listen to the Kremlin chimes beating 12 o"clock.

There are lots of New Year traditions in Russia. In every home there is a New Year tree glittering with colored lights and decorations. Children always wait for Father Frost to come and give them a present. Many people consider New Year's Day to be a family holiday. But the young prefer to have New Year parties of their own.

A renewed holiday in our country is Christmas. It is celebrated on the 7th of January. It"s a religious holiday and a lot of people go to church services on that day.

On the 8th of March we celebrate Women's Day when men are supposed to do everything about the house, cook all the meals and give women flowers.

The greatest national holiday in our country is Victory Day. On the 9th of May, 1945, our army completely defeated the German fascists and the Great Patriotic War ended. We"ll never forget our grandfathers and grandmothers who died to defend our Motherland. We honor their memory with a minute of silence and put flowers on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Independence Day is a new holiday in our country. On the 12th of June, 1992, the first President of Russia was elected.

We also celebrate Day of the Defender of Motherland on the 23d of February, Easter, Day of Knowledge and lots of professional holidays which are not public holidays and banks, offices and schools do not close.

Holidays in Russia

There are many holidays in Russia, during which people throughout the country do not work and hold special events.

Main holidays: New Year, International Women's Day, May 1st, Victory Day and Independence Day.

The first holiday of the year is New Year. People celebrate the New Year at midnight on December 31st. They welcome the New Year with champagne and listen to the Kremlin chimes at 12 o'clock.

There are many New Year's traditions in Russia. Every home has a sparkling Christmas tree with colorful lights and decorations. Children are always waiting for Santa Claus, who comes and gives them gifts. Many people believe that New Year is family celebration. But young people prefer to hold New Year's parties.

A renewed holiday in our country is Christmas. It is celebrated on January 7th. This is a religious holiday and many people go to church services on this day.

On March 8th we celebrate International Women's Day, when men should do everything around the house, cook food, and give women flowers.

The biggest national holiday in our country is Victory Day. On May 9, 1945, our army completely defeated the German fascists and the Great War ended Patriotic War. We will never forget our grandfathers and grandmothers who died defending our Motherland. We honor their memory with a minute of silence and laying flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Independence Day - new holiday in our country. On June 12, 1992, the first president of Russia was elected.

We also celebrate Defender of the Fatherland Day on February 23, Easter, Knowledge Day and many professional holidays that are not public holidays and banks, offices and schools do not close on these days.

Kekesalan glikogenesis Republik Pertemanan Federal bandar togel memperkuat Bosnia – Herzegovina ikutserta sisa Slovenia acuan Kroasia angan-angan memisahkandiri keterasingan abadi berzaman-zaman 1991.Setiap etnis diberi wadah pertimbanganakal angan-angan mereka afiliasi coli kerajaan – Herzegovina dengan pemilu 1990.

Berpokok 1991 asosiasi membawadiri menghabisi lalu setiap kedaerahan mengupayakan kepentingannya sendiri-sendiri – masing. Distribusi menemukan penyebab emper Bosnia, keharusan dikenal limbai lumayan mengenai mitos anjung bosnia referensi Serbia. Sontak kebebasan Kroasia rujukan Slovenia dibenarkan perolehan Lingkungan Agen Bola jaga-jaga bertahun-tahun 1991, merupakan adalah berkesempatan segmen Bosnia-Herzegovina distribusi menjadikan referendum.

semrawut meskipun berkesempatan ialah tidakjelas dipergunakan sehubungan kebijakan teladan lebihlagi menjalin antarkan kawula rasial makin Bertengkarmulut Referendum diadakan ingat-ingat 29 Februari – Merendang Maret 1992 dengan hasilpenggabungan bola88 berselisih menentukannya peruntuk an adopsi kebangsaan alienasi keinginan Independent Kemerdekaan kemudian dikabarkan pemerolehan pegawaipemerintah kompetisi dahulukala Barulah lalu awas 6 April 1992 kemunculan pengukuhan global acuan menjadikan unit PBB tangar 22 Mei 1992.

There are many holidays in Russia: some of them are state, others are unofficial, and others are religious. When talking about Russian holidays in English, it is important to take into account all their diversity. Structure the information and talk about the most significant of them. The sequence of holidays in your text can be chronological: start with New Year and end with Happy national unity; You can also arrange them by importance and popularity: first the main holidays of the country, and then all the others. So that you do not get confused in this topic, we have compiled a detailed outline for an essay about Russian holidays in English with translation.

Plan for a story about Russian holidays

1. Introduction

   At the beginning of the topic, tell us about the variety of Russian holidays. What holidays, in your opinion, are the most beloved and popular in Russia: historical dates, Religious holidays, cultural celebrations?

2. Public holidays

   List public holidays Russian Federation. Briefly describe the most important of them: their history and meaning, the attitude of Russian residents to these holidays. Tell us how they are usually celebrated: in the family, with friends, in the central city square.

3. Unofficial holidays

   List unofficial holidays that are working days. Do Russians celebrate them on the same scale as state ones? Tell us that most unofficial holidays can be divided into two large groups: professional holidays and religious holidays.

4. Your favorite holiday

   Tell us which of the holidays listed above is your favorite. Explain your choice and tell us how you last celebrated this holiday.

5. Conclusion

   At the end of the topic, describe your personal attitude towards holidays: do you like such days, would you like there to be more or fewer holidays. Maybe you have an idea of ​​what holiday is missing in Russia?

Useful words and expressions

English term	Translation
Avenue	avenue
Balls	balloons
Celebration	celebration
Christmas day	Christmas
Concert	concert
Crowd	crowd
day off	day off
Decoration	decorations
Defender of the Fatherland Day	Defender of the Fatherland Day
Fair	fair
Festival	festival
Fireworks	firework
Fun	fun
Historical event	historical event
Holiday	holiday
International Women's Day	International Women's Day
National Flag Day	Day of the State Flag of the Russian Federation
New Year holiday	New Year
Orchestra	orchestra
outdoor festival	festivities
Parade	parade
Park	a park
Performance	performance
Procession	procession
Religious holiday	religious holiday
Russia Day	Russia Day
Spring and Labor Day	Spring and Labor Day
Square	square
Unity Day	National Unity Day
Victory Day	Victory Day
Walk	walk

Example of a story about holidays

Our holiday traditions play an integral part in defining who we are as people, in that, we all enjoy celebrating holidays, whether it’s Christmas, the New Year, or Easter.

There are official and unofficial, professional and private, old and new holidays in Russia. Some holidays came from the past, others were revived or renamed.

Officially recognized Russian holidays include New Year’s, Christmas, Protector of the Motherland Day, International Women’s Day, Spring and Labor Day, Victory Day, Russia Day and Unity Day.

Russians celebrate the New Year on Jan. 1. Because Christmas is celebrated on Jan. 7, the days leading up to Christmas are also a part of the New Year-Christmas celebration.

International Women’s Day loosely corresponds to the celebration of Mother’s Day in the West, though in Russia’s case, all women can share in the celebration.

Victory Day, May 9, is an important secular holiday in Russia, celebrated with parades. Its significance arises from Russia’s victory over Germany in World War II.

Unofficial Russian holidays, like Easter, Maslenitsa, Ivan Kupala and Cosmonaut Day, are also celebrated.

Easter in Russia is celebrated on a different date each year, just like in the West. Russians consider Easter an even bigger holiday than Christmas. Shrovetide, or Maslenitsa, takes place in early March. The history of the holiday goes back to ancient times. Maslenitsa is the way Russian people celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The traditional food for Maslenitsa is pancakes.

Cosmonaut’s Day celebrates Russia’s achievement of sending men into space.

My favorite holiday is, of course, New Year because I always get a lot of presents. We usually celebrate this holiday in Moscow. I like the atmosphere of this holiday as there is a great air of expectation. Traditionally, on the thirty-first of December, we decorate a fir-tree and put presents under it. We also enjoy the family meal, which is a central part of our celebration. When the Kremlin clock strikes twelve, we wish each other Happy New Year and then we go for a walk and let off fireworks. It’s a great time of the year.

To know the customs and traditions of any country is the key to understanding its people, and here Russia is not an exception. Overall, Russian holidays play a very important part in Russian society, as do most holidays around the world. Russians take pride in their traditions, and some have influenced other celebrations around the globe.

Translation of the story

Our holiday traditions play an important role in our identity, so

how we all enjoy celebrating holidays, be it Christmas, New Year or Easter.

There are several official and unofficial, professional and private, old and new holidays in Russia. Some holidays come from the past, others have been revived or renamed.

Officially recognized Russian holidays include New Year, Christmas, Defender of the Fatherland Day, International Women's Day, Spring and Labor Day, Victory Day, Russia Day and National Unity Day. Russians celebrate New Year on the first of January. And since Christmas is celebrated on the seventh of January, the days before Christmas are also part of the New Year's celebration.

Victory Day, May 9, is an important social holiday in Russia, which is celebrated with a military parade. Its significance stems from Russia's victory over Germany in World War II.

Non-state holidays such as Easter, Maslenitsa, Ivan Kupala and Cosmonautics Day are also widely celebrated.

Easter in Russia is celebrated on different dates every year, just like in the West. Russians consider Easter an even more important holiday than Christmas.

Maslenitsa is celebrated in early March. The history of the holiday goes back to ancient times. Maslenitsa is a Russian holiday of the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The traditional Maslenitsa dish is pancakes.

Cosmonautics Day celebrates Russia's achievement in sending humans into space.

The series of winter holidays does not end, and very soon the old New Year will knock on our doors - the strangest Russian holiday from the point of view of foreigners. We decided to tell you about the most unusual holidays world in English. Here are 12 extra reasons to meet up with friends and have a lot of fun!

January 13 - Make your dream come true day. Day to make dreams come true

Who said thirteen is an unlucky number? According to foreigners, the thirteenth of January is the day when you definitely need to take a few steps to make your dreams come true. On this holiday, you should start taking action: love yourself, view mistakes as lessons, release fear and take a tiny step forward. On this day, you should definitely write down your wishlist for the whole year. As you can see, this holiday essentially coincides with our old New Year - a magical day when we also make wishes and make plans for the future.

February 8 (second Monday of February) - Clean out your computer day. Clean Your Computer Day

Admit it honestly, after all, each of us has a 200 GB folder “All sorts of nonsense that needs to be sorted out,” and a couple of dozen (and sometimes hundreds!) files that should have been sorted out and deleted long ago. If you also carefully treasure school reports and songs that you listened to 20 years ago, then this is a holiday for you - a wonderful reason to get rid of everything unnecessary. On this day, it is customary to look through everything that you have carefully put aside “just in case” and cleanse your faithful electronic friend of junk. Delete duplicate files, delete junk files, organize files and folders. This will help you make your computer run better and free up a lot of space to accumulate another pile of unnecessary files for the next holiday.

March 20 - Extraterrestrial abductions day / Alien abduction day. Alien Abduction Day

Do you believe in the existence of UFOs? In any case, look carefully at the sky on this day: lovers of this holiday claim that on March 20 you have a real chance to get to know an extraterrestrial civilization better. If you have long dreamed of piloting a flying saucer, adhere to the strict traditions of this holiday. On March 20, watch a classic film about aliens, such as “Men in Black,” “The Thing,” or “War of the Worlds.” worlds"). By the way, watch movies in English, using the tips from the article “”, this will benefit your English. Don't like to leave the troposphere? Then read the book “How to refuse alien abduction” and be careful!

April 17 - Blah blah blah day. Day of empty words / Blah blah blah day

The essence of this exotic English holiday is radically different from its name: in fact, April 17 is a day to fight procrastination. Where did this name come from? Remember when someone grumbles, “It’s time to find Good work“,” “I need to lose a couple of kilos,” “I should redecorate my room,” we think that all this sounds like “Blah blah blah.” But on April 17, there comes a magical moment when people begin to do what they are advised to do: give up smoking, take out the trash, go on a diet, etc. No one announced this officially, but it seems to us that April 17 is the day of liberation from empty words, which can also be celebrated cheerfully.

May 20 - Be a millionaire day. The day you are a millionaire

It’s clear why we don’t celebrate this wonderful date: after a series of spring holidays and spending money, the offer to feel like a millionaire sounds, to say the least, mocking. But abroad, the holiday has taken root: on this day, every person should feel and behave like a millionaire. However, foreigners do not rush out to buy limousines and spend millions in casinos. Instead, they do the following: spend less money on things they don't really need, find extra sources of income and eventually buy a lottery ticket, to try their luck.

June 4 - Hug your cat day. Cuddle Your Cat Day

Owners of mustachioed tabbys all over the world are waiting for this day when they almost officially have the right to cuddle their pet. If your pet is one of the harmful, wayward animals, then this day will be a real punishment for him. The holiday will be retribution for scratched hands, bitten violets and stolen sausages (we won’t even remember the overturned christmas tree and eaten “rain”). If you don’t have a cat, but your soul asks for a holiday, hug any cat (hug a cat) that is within reach on this day. Have you long dreamed of having a pet? Then it's time to adopt a cat from the shelter (adopt a cat) and give him new house and big hugs.

July 11 - Cheer up the lonely day. Cheer Singles Day

This holiday, although a little strange, is so necessary! On July 11, everyone finds lonely friends or elderly relatives in their environment and goes to visit them. At the same time, it is customary to bring good news (bring happy news), give a big hug, in general, make someone happy (make someone happy). If a lonely person lives far from you, you can send him a card (send a card) or make a phone call to congratulate him on this warm holiday.

August 10 - Lazy day. Lazy Day

We are even a little too lazy to write about such a day! :-) It seems that such a holiday should be celebrated in every country, because you can sit back, laze, and relax. And rightly so: what else to do on a stuffy summer day. So, if on August 10th someone reproaches you for idleness, say that it is your professional holiday.

September 13 - Defy superstitions day. Day against superstitions

The people who invented this holiday have a great sense of humor: they suggest fighting superstitions on the most appropriate day - the unlucky thirteenth. Do you also suffer from superstitions, don’t like black cats and neighbors with empty buckets? Then it’s time to get rid of them (of course, from superstitions, not cats and neighbors). And this funny and very useful article for improving the English language will help you with this: “Rabbits are not only valuable fur, but also a good sign. Let's talk about superstitions." You will see how funny prejudices can look.

October 18 - No beard day. No beard day

It is difficult to say who is more happy about this holiday: the beautiful ladies who have finally waited for a joyful event, or the strong half of humanity who have a chance to change their image and please their beloved ladies. Instructions for celebrating this day for men: shave off a beard and enjoy. Your friends will be surprised, and some may not recognize you at all. However, don’t let the last fact scare you: if on September 13 you were unable to eradicate superstitions, then you remember that if someone did not recognize you, then you will be rich.

November 16 - National Fast Food Day. National Fast Food Day

In the USA, fast food is so popular that Americans even came up with a holiday so that they could eat hamburgers, hot dogs and pour a couple of liters of Coca-Cola over it all without remorse. The menu for November 16 may include: sandwiches, fried chicken, chicken nuggets, pizza, hot dogs, onion rings, coffee and ice cream. Summer is still far away, so for now you can not worry about your figure and enjoy unhealthy goodies. Bon appetit!

December 8 - Pretend to be a time traveler day. The Day to Pretend You're a Time Traveler

New Year is not coming soon, but you already want to have some fun? Then celebrate this strange, but so funny holiday. What to do on this day? Put on some dress in some armor and ask passers-by on the street: “What year is it now?” (What year is it?) Don't forget to watch everyone's favorite movie "Back to the Future", of course, in English.

As you can see, there are much stranger holidays abroad than our old New Year. We hope this year you will have 12 have fun days more than usually. Try to celebrate at least one of the presented exotic holidays of the world. Have a good time!

All nationalities have their own National holidays, traditions and customs unique to their culture. Residents of every country love festive events, prepare for them, look forward to them, celebrate them with pleasure and say goodbye until next year with regret. English holidays are an integral part of the culture of the English-speaking world, a way of self-expression, the source of habits and behavior. Often, in order to understand the soul and character of the inhabitants of a particular country, it is necessary to get acquainted with their customs and traditions. Let's look at the most famous holidays celebrated by residents of English-speaking countries.

Holidays in England

New Year, January 1st. The most important custom of this winter holiday, which the British invariably reverence - the tradition of the first guest. If a dark-haired man comes into the house after midnight, then next year will be successful for this family. The guest must bring a coal with him and, without saying a word, throw it into the fireplace, and only after that congratulate the hosts. This custom means that peace and prosperity will reign in the house.

One of the favorite holidays of the British, which is celebrated on a grand scale. Secret presentation of gifts, pairing by lot, exchange of sweets and soft toys- this Valentine's Day consists of nothing but surprises. And, of course, a wide variety of hearts.

Mother's Day, March 22. An analogue of our March 8th. This holiday has its roots in Victorian era, when children from an early age had to earn money through hard work, being far from home. And they could spend only one day a year with their family. Now this is a holiday in England, when children give their mothers flowers and touching gifts.

Walpurgis Night, April 30. Witches' Sabbath or fertility festival. According to legend, at this time all the witches gather together and the gates to the land of the elves open. The streets of England are filled with witches of all ages - not real ones, of course, but townspeople in carnival costumes. This holiday also marks the imminent arrival of summer.

Chimney Sweep Festival, May 1st. The British believe that meeting a chimney sweep is a very good sign that brings good luck and happiness. Therefore, they are very often invited to weddings. This tradition originated a long time ago, from the times when the hard work of chimney sweeps was revered - they were respected at all times and were considered noble people.

Street entertainment festival, August 12. This holiday lasts several days, the streets of the cities are filled with noisy crowds. Carnivals, parades, concerts, theatrical performances, folk festivals, colorful fairs, competitions and attractions - on this day few people stay at home, everyone succumbs to the general noisy and cheerful mood.

Halloween, October 31st. Every year on this day, the streets of England turn into a real fairy tale with witches in hats, devils with pitchforks, ominous pumpkins, and other “cute” characters. Kids in dresses fairy-tale heroes they go from house to house with baskets, and according to tradition they should be treated with sweets, otherwise there will be no luck.

Christmas, December 25th. A favorite holiday not only for English children, but also for the older generation. According to tradition, all residents of England hang stockings or socks on the fireplace so that Santa Claus can put gifts in them. If you believe the legend, once upon a time Santa accidentally dropped a gold coin into his sock through a chimney, and since then there has been a custom of hanging a stocking on the fireplace on Christmas Eve - what if something falls there?

Holidays in Scotland

New Year, January 1st. In Scotland, this holiday is called Hogmanay, and is celebrated on a larger scale than Christmas. Here, just like in England, there is a tradition for the first guest to bring cookies, whiskey or fruit pie. After midnight, the owners open the doors of their houses wide - to see them off old year, and processions with torches are held on the streets to drive out evil spirits with fire.

Robert Burns Night, January 25th. A very revered holiday in Scotland in honor of the national and famous poet, of which the Scots are very proud and honor his memory every year. This event is celebrated according to a certain scenario, in national costumes, with skits, poetry readings, songs, dances and a gala dinner.

Whiskey Festival, May 3. This holiday has no specific origins; on this day, the Scots simply gather to have fun. Noble alcohol flows like a river, and competitions are held with prizes for rare varieties of whiskey.

Independence Day, June 24. As the story goes, on this day in 1324, Robert the Bruce (King of Scotland) defeated the English King, restoring independence in his country. Today this holiday is celebrated on a grand scale - with folk festivals, concerts, festivals, national songs and dances.

Bagpipe Championship, August 14. This event takes place annually in Green Park (Glasgow) throughout the day. An indispensable condition: each participant must be dressed in a national Scottish costume with a mandatory kilt.

St. Andrew's Day, November 30. Day of the patron saint of Scotland, St. Andrew, official holiday countries. It is celebrated very widely: with performances, fairs, music and dancing. On the tables on this day there is exclusively traditional food.

Holidays in Ireland

New Year, January 1st. Most ancient holiday in Ireland, celebrated mainly in family circle behind festive table. IN New Year's Eve The Irish traditionally open doors for good luck, prepare national dishes (pudding and cumin pie), and wait for any guests, who, according to tradition, must bring bread and salt to the owners. Unfortunately, there are no fireworks or fireworks in Ireland, as they are prohibited by law.

St.Patrick 's Day. March 17. Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, so this holiday is considered very important among the Irish. Only in this country is it celebrated on a grand scale and marks the arrival of spring. On this day, residents put on red wigs and green suits, and, not forgetting to grab pots of clover (the symbol of Ireland), rush to the parade, where dancing, music and fireworks await them.

Harvest Festival, August 1st. In Ireland, the imminent arrival of autumn is celebrated with the festival of Lughnasadh, which means “the wedding of the Lugh.” Its essence is gratitude to the gods for a good harvest. On this day, the Irish eat loaves of grain from the new harvest, light fires in the hills, bake traditional blueberry pies and make straw dolls.

Christmas, December 25th. It is considered the most important holiday in Ireland. Children decorate the Christmas tree, hang red stockings on the fireplace, leave pies for Santa's reindeer, adults stuff the turkey and make dried fruit pudding, and hang bells and holly wreaths on the door. And on the streets artists of different genres perform, choirs sing Christmas songs and fairs and sales take place.

St. Stephen's Day, December 26th. A holiday celebrated only in Ireland. On this day, all Irish boys dress up as chimney sweeps, smear soot on their faces, sing hymns and collect money, which then goes to charity. Horse racing is also held on this day, as St. Stephen is the patron saint of horses.

Holidays in Australia

New Year, January 1st. In Australia, the New Year comes early. This holiday is celebrated wildly, with music shows and magnificent fireworks. After the clock strikes midnight, the festivities are traditionally interrupted by the ringing of bells and car horns, after which Australians continue the celebrations at picnics, rodeos, beach parties, costume carnivals, etc.

Australia Day, January 26th. The most favorite holiday of the inhabitants of this country. Parades and regattas take place throughout Australia, with beautiful fireworks flying into the sky in all regions. Music festivals, cricket matches, presentation of the honorary award “Australian of the Year” - the local population celebrates this holiday on a grand scale. Houses are decorated with flags and balloons, and all Australians give each other gifts.

Royal Regatta, February 9. This holiday lasts three days and a huge crowd of spectators gathers to watch it. The regatta includes water skiing, rowing, boat racing, sailing and a colorful event where the most beautiful girl is crowned Miss Regatta. There are also exciting shows - swimming competitions and performances by sky diving professionals.

Mardi Gras Festival, February 24. Parade-carnival of people of non-traditional sexual orientation. It is the largest festival in the world and carries an almost cult-like connotation. Every year, crowds of spectators gather at this event to watch dancers in erotic costumes, exotic cabaret, theatrical performances and musical shows. Every year this festival is visited by celebrities from all over the world.

Harmony Day, March 21. In Australia it is not so much a holiday as a social event. On this day, every Australian attaches an orange ribbon to their clothing, thereby protesting against racism and racial discrimination. Schoolchildren wear an orange badge and a sticker with a picture happy people of different races, and students draw leaflets and hand them out to passers-by - this is how Australians say “no” to racism.

Father's Day, September 6th. The essence of the holiday is to emphasize the important role a father plays in raising his child. In Australia, this day is celebrated with great joy, children enthusiastically draw cards for their dads, uncles and grandfathers, make crafts with their own hands, and give the most popular gift - a tie. Father's Day is a home holiday where the whole family gets together and plays exciting intellectual games.

Christmas, December 25th. This holiday is held in Australia in a very colorful and original way. Sellers, drivers and ordinary employees wear hats with reindeer horns, and shopping centers Santa Claus walks around and takes pictures with children. On Christmas night, life on the city streets comes to a standstill - everyone gathers at the festive table. Traditional holiday dishes include turkey, fruit salad and seafood.

Boxing Day, December 26th. The day when all Australians traditionally exchange gifts. What’s interesting: if you don’t like the gift, the giver can exchange it in the store for something else. A gift is always given in a box, so it takes a long time to unpack it - for intrigue. This is the whole essence of this Australian holiday.

Holidays in the USA and Canada

New Year, January 1st. In Canada and many US states, it is customary to celebrate the New Year in fancy dress and masks, which are removed at midnight. In other states, people simply gather with the whole family around the festive table with traditional New Year's dishes. Also a large number of People specially come to New York to watch a grandiose holiday concert with fireworks in Times Square.

Groundhog Day, February 2. Much loved by Americans annual holiday. They believe that the groundhog can predict the coming of spring; you just need to watch his behavior. According to legend, if a groundhog calmly crawls out of its hole, then winter will soon end. If he looks out and hides again, then the cold will last at least another month. Very often, Groundhog Day is celebrated with festivals that attract many tourists.

Valentine's Day, February 14th. A traditional holiday in the USA and Canada, accompanied by Valentine hearts and chocolates. IN Lately On Valentine's Day in these countries it is customary to give modern gadgets and other practical and useful things. It is on February 14 that the largest number of wedding ceremonies occur.

Grandparents Day, September 5th. This holiday was invented by a housewife from West Virginia. But the Americans liked the idea so much that it was decided to make the holiday national. On this day, the whole family comes to their elderly with flowers and gifts to play old-fashioned games and look at yellowed photographs, and grandparents treat their children and grandchildren to sweet pies.

Halloween, October 31st. The most popular holiday in the USA and Canada, which is also called All Saints' Day. It’s almost a fairy-tale spectacle when kids dressed in “scary” costumes knock on the doors of houses with the words “Trick or Treat!” in the hope of turning out sweets. Residential buildings are decorated with pumpkins with “glowing eyes,” figurines of black cats, witch dolls, and other mystical creatures and symbols.

Thanksgiving Day, November 26th. It is also a very popular holiday among Americans. There are many traditions associated with it, which the residents reverence sacredly - they always go to church services and gather with the whole family at the festive table. On this day, charity flourishes - gifts are given to the homeless and needy. The most important attribute of the holiday is a stuffed turkey.

Christmas, December 25th. People in the USA and Canada prepare for this holiday in advance - they buy gifts and Christmas tree decorations, decorate their houses with tinsel and garlands. All states are full of festive illuminations and colorful lanterns, and the main Christmas tree of America is lit by the president himself. Children dressed as angels go around the surrounding houses and sing Christmas carols, for which they traditionally receive candies and sweets.