Diwali, one of the biggest holidays in Indian culture, is a five-day festival of lights celebrated worldwide by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains. The word “Diwali” means ”rows of lighted lamps” and is known as the Festival of Lights because houses and shops are decorated with candles and colorful lights to show the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Diwali (October 19th)
Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration held in the United States and other nations in the West African diaspora in the Americas that highlights African heritage in African-American culture. Each day focuses on one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga to celebrate family, culture and heritage, and is modeled after the first harvest celebrations in Africa.
Kwanzaa (December 26th – January 1st)
On Bodhi Day, Buddhists recognize the day Siddhartha Gautama experienced the enlightenment that transformed him into the Buddha or “Awakened One.” It is a day for meditation and remembrance. Many Buddhists reflect upon their heritage and enjoy the company of family and friends to observe the holiday. Observing the day includes studying the Dharma, reading Buddhist texts, and practicing mindfulness in actions.
Bodhi Day (January 5th)
Yule marks the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and is a holiday celebrating the rebirth of the sun and the beginning of winter, observed by Wiccans, Druids, and Pagans. Yule is one of the oldest winter celebrations, as the winter solstice, or the longest night and the shortest day of the year, has been marked by mankind for centuries.
Yule (December 21st – January 1st)