Spring Festivals Celebrated Around the World

Spring is finally here, which means countries worldwide are preparing for celebrations to welcome one of the most beloved seasons. From South America, all the way to Scandinavia and beyond, countries have beautiful, vibrant festivals. Here are some spring celebrations that take place around the world. Semana Santa Semana Santa, which translates to “Holy Week,” is an important holiday celebrated in Catholic countries, such as Mexico and Spain. This holiday was established in the 16th century by the Catholic Church to explain the story of the Passion of Christ to non-religious individuals. Semana Santa lasts one week, including vibrant parades, fireworks, masses, and ceremonies. In 2022, Semana Santa will begin on Sunday, April 10th, and end on Saturday, April 16th. Holi Holi is a celebration that occurs in India that is celebrated by Hindus for the arrival of the spring season and the many colors that come along with it. It is also said that Holi is the reenactment of Lord Krishna, a Hindu god, played with Radha, his consort. It is a day that celebrates happiness, love, good harvest, and events that occurred in Hindu mythology. Holi also symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. This Hindu celebration occurred on Friday, March 18th, 2022. Nowruz Nowruz, which translates to “New Day,” is also known as the Persian New Year. It is celebrated on the day of the astronomical northward equinox and marks the beginning of spring. In Iran, Nowruz marks the first day of the year (the solar calendar for Iranians begins with the vernal equinox). The Persian New Year has been celebrated for more than 3,000 years in Iran, Persia, and Central Asia. Nowruz occurred on Sunday, March 20th, 2022. Walpurgis Night Walpurgis Night, named after Saint Walpurga, an English missionary, is celebrated throughout Scandinavia and Northern Europe. Precisely six months after All Hallows’ Eve (Halloween), Walpurgis Night is celebrated with bonfires, dancing, and singing traditional spring folk songs. In German folklore, Walpurgis Night is particularly associated with witches.