Last Friday was World Festival Day at my school. My name is Seojun, and my group chose four festivals from around the world. Our teacher said that a festival is a time when people gather to celebrate.
I started with Chuseok, which is a Korean harvest festival in the fall. On this day, many people travel far to see their families. They make songpyeon, small rice cakes shaped like half-moons. They also thank their ancestors for the good crops of the year.
Next, my friend Priya told us about Holi, a spring festival in India. On this bright day, people throw colored powder and water at each other. Crowds sing and dance in the streets, too. Priya said that Holi welcomes spring and shows that good can win over evil.
Then Lucas talked about the Day of the Dead in Mexico. It is not a scary day. Instead, it is a time to honor loved ones who have died. People decorate tables with orange marigolds, old photos, and the foods that their loved ones liked best.
Last, Mei shared how people in China celebrate the Lunar New Year. They hang red lanterns and red paper for good luck. They also eat dumplings with their families. Korea and Vietnam celebrate this New Year too. In Korea, it is called Seollal.
Each festival has its own tradition, but I learned that they all share one thing. They bring people closer and help us learn about a new culture.