Autumn festivals around the world – 说会英语 Talkspace

Autumn brings stunning warm shades of yellow and orange to nature. Colourful falling leaves, cool weather and the vibrant festivals accentuate the subcontinent’s beauty and truly is a season of joy.

Festivals Autumn is a season rich with vibrant festivals that celebrate the bounty of the harvest, the beauty of fall foliage, and important cultural and historical events. From the Mid-Autumn Festival in Asia to Thanksgiving in North America, each festival brings its own traditions and flavors to this colorful time of year.

Celebrated widely across East Asia, the Mid-Autumn Festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Families gather to admire the full moon, a symbol of harmony and unity, and enjoy mooncakes and pomelo. Lantern displays and dragon dances are also common, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Diwali is one of the most well-known fall festivals in India. The festival is named after the lights that are lit to symbolically shine a light on the spiritual emptiness and darkness that one may feel. It’s an incredibly important holiday for those that practice Hinduism around the world.

Also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, Moon Festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunisolar calendar. This coincides with the full moon between September and October. A three-day national holiday takes place during the Moon Festival in China. Furthermore, families gather together to enjoy the festival and the elaborate illuminations that decorate China’s major cities. Another Moon Festival tradition is the eating of Mooncakes, a pastry treat made especially for the festival. The three principles of the Moon Festival are: gathering, thanksgiving and praying. Many believe that the Moon Festival is a time of good fortune.

Known commonly as the ‘Lantern Festival, Loy Krathong is one of the most spectacular autumn festivals around the world. The festival takes place on the night of the full moon on the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar. Usually, this is during the month of November. Although events take place throughout Thailand, the most significant lantern displays are seen in Chiang Mai. Traditionally, celebrations involve releasing a floating lantern, or Krathong, into a river or into the sky. A symbol of new beginnings, this optimistic festival is also the chance to wish for good luck and abundance in your life. The festival is popular with visitors, who are welcome to participate by purchasing or making their own lantern to join in this shared ritual.

Samhain (Ireland, Scotland)

This ancient Gaelic festival marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Participants light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off malicious spirits. Many believe that Samhain is the origin of modern-day Halloween.

Oktoberfest (Germany)

Originating in Munich, Oktoberfest is now celebrated worldwide. However, the heart of the festivities remains in Germany, where people come together for beer, pretzels, sausages, and lively folk music in this multi-week event.

The kids are back in school, the air is turning crisp and the leaves are starting to change, but that doesn’t mean it’s time for you and the kids to hibernate. Whether you want to partake in quirky traditions or kid-friendly events, there are plenty of seasonal activities to pique your interest. If you’re ready to celebrate October in an exciting destination, don a costume and trick-or-treating bag and check out these 11 locales that embrace witchcraft, festive displays and holiday happenings each October.