Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam that is fulfilled by traveling to the Holy City of Mecca. During Hajj, thousands of Muslims gather in the Holy City to unite in prayer and harmony. During this time, Muslims leave behind any signs of wealth or class by dressing in simple white garments and sandals and abstaining from cutting their hair or fingernails. During pilgrimage, Muslims must also abstain from sexual activity and violent acts.
When Do Muslims Travel to Mecca?

Although Muslims may travel to the Holy City at any time, the tradition is to travel during the 12th month of the Islamic Calendar, known as Dhu’l-Hijjah. During this month, over three million Muslims flood the city to gain spiritual purity. Visits that occur outside of the 12th month are known as Umrah and are encouraged, but not obligatory. January 24th is the celebration of the Birthday of Prophet Muhammad during which Muslims gather in mosques to listen to readings from the Quran and celebrate with traditional dishes and family. Those who are able to do the pilgrimage to Mecca do so during this time. Something important to know about the pilgrimage to Mecca is that although Muslims must travel there once in their lifetimes to fulfill one of the Five Pillars of Islam, only those who are physically and financially able to do this are held accountable for their fulfillment. Those who can afford to go every year, must do so as they are able and should demonstrate respect by making the pilgrimage.
Who Can Travel to Mecca?

Only Muslims are allowed to travel to Mecca. Access into the Holy city is extremely strict and non-muslims are not allowed into the city. If you are not Muslim and travel try to travel to Mecca, the penalty will be deportation from the country.

Why are Non-Muslims Banned?

Many people believe that the government of Saudi Arabia acts in exaggeration when they learn that non-muslims are strictly banned from entering the Holy City. This decision comes from a reading in the Quran that states that those who do not believe in the Muslim faith are nearly speculators who do not understand the prayers and observations of the Muslim faith. Therefore, those people who do not have the understanding, are not allowed to observe since they cannot comprehend. The Holy City is a pure city where even those of the Muslim faith must demonstrate through every action grace, dignity, and respect. To ensure that the Holy City remains one of pure worship, the government of Saudi Arabia has come to the agreement that banning non-muslims from the city entirely is the only solution.
How Do Muslims Travel to Mecca?

A Muslim who is prepared to travel to the Holy City must first contact an immigration office and speak with the appropriate Saudi sponsor to approve the visit. After this, there are a few different ways of traveling to western Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Arabian government has made special accomodations for Muslims traveling to the Holy City. Options of transportation include the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro, the King Abdulaziz International Airport, the Jeddah Seaport, or personal vehicles and taxis.
What attractions are there in Mecca?

Mecca is home to various sacred places. The most important include the following:

• The Masjid Al Haram

                Also known as the Grand Mosque, this place of worship is the greatest in the world and can hold up to 1.2 million Muslim worshipers at the same time. Within the Grand Mosque there is the Zamzam Well which is believed to hold holy water generated by God himself and the Kaabba, which is a black, cubed structure believed to have been built by Ibrahim and his son Ishmael. The Kaabba is believed to be a replica of a house located in heaven.

The Masjid Al Haram

• The Alkiswah Factory

                This factory produces the special silk and gold thread Drape of the Kaaba, or Kiswah. This piece of cloth is significant because it drapes the Kaaba and at the end of the Hajj, it is cut into millions of pieces and given to pilgrims as a remembrance of their visit to Mecca. The tour of the Alkiswah Factory allows pilgrims to observe the process of making the cloth.

• Thour Mountain

                Perhaps the most significant site in Mecca after the Grand Mosque, Thour Mountain houses Thour Cave which is believed to be the place where Prophet Muhammad spent three days whilst fleeing persecution in Mecca.

• Al Nour Mountain

                Another significant site in Mecca, Al Nour Mountain is home to the Hira’a Cave which is the place where Prophet Muhammad received his first message from God and where he performed all his prayers and reflections before becoming God’s messenger.

Al Nour Mountain

• Al Jaaranah Mosque

                This Mosque is believed to be the site in which Prophet Muhammad clothed himself in white garments before traveling to Mecca to fulfill Hajj. Close to this site is also a drinking well called the Prophet’s well.
Traveling to the Holy City of Mecca is a significant and fulfilling experience to every individual practicing the Muslim faith. This is a time of concentrated worship and purity of spirit. Fulfilling Hajj is not only a significant act toward the Muslim faith, but also fulfills personal satisfaction.

• January 1, New Year’s Day – The Bahrainis greet the New Year with the usual celebrations. Those who choose to celebrate the New Year the traditional way, like Christians or non-Muslim tourists, by gathering with friends and family during the New Year. Loud music, fireworks and alcohol are popular choices during this holiday. On the other hand, there are also several Bahrainis who want to stay true to their culture by setting a few limitations during New Year’s Day like having a quiet party with family or close relatives without any alcohol.

• January 24, Milad-un-Nabi or the Birth of the Prophet Muhammad – Technically there are a couple of Muslims in Bahrain who do not celebrate Milad-un-Nabi, or Prophet Muhammad’s birthday because they believe that Muhammad himself did not celebrate it. Nonetheless there are still many Bahrainis who commemorate this day by telling stories or performing plays about the life of the prophet Muhammad. People also offer songs and decorate their houses with bright lights. There are two Islamic sects in Bahrain, the Sunnis and the Shiites. Both sects celebrate Milad-un-Nabi however they celebrate this holiday on different dates. Celebrations for Milad-un-Nabi are very simple and quiet because although it marks the day of the Prophet’s birth, it is his death anniversary at the same time.

• July 9, Start of Ramadan – Considered to be the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is the time when Muslims will fast from dawn up to sunset for about 30 days. There is no definite day for Ramadan every year but on 2013, Ramadan will start on the 9th day of July. Although Bahrain has lenient Islamic laws, Ramadan is a holiday that is strictly observed in Bahrain. Even non-Muslims are expected to follow the Ramadan rules in public. Tourists and non-Muslims alike are expected to be culture sensitive on this day. Keep in mind that failure to follow the rules of Ramadan can land anyone to jail. After sunset, Muslims will offer their evening prayers, which is then followed by a large meal with friends or family.

• August 8, Eid al-Fitr or the End of Ramadan – Ramadan will last for approximately 30 days, making August 8 the End of Ramadan for 2013. The End of Ramadan is known in Islam as Eid al Fitr, which literally means the ‘breaking of the fast’. During the End of Ramadan, the Bahrainis will honor the day by having daytime feasts. Everyone will then gather with their loved ones and start giving gifts. During this day, people are expected to be at their best. Sweets are popular dishes during the End of Ramadan feasts.

the End of Ramadan

• October 15, Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice – During the Eid al-Adha, Muslims all over the globe remember the great sacrifice that was performed by the prophet Abraham or Ibrahim. It is said that Abraham sacrificed his firstborn son, Ishmael, as his way of submitting completely to the power of Allah. Like many Muslim holidays, there is no definite annual date for the Eid al-Adha. This holiday is celebrated on the 10th day of the Dhu al-Hijjah and will last for about 4 days. Bahrainis who will celebrate the Eid al-Adha are expected to dress in their finest clothes. A wide-open congregation is held in mosques, where people can offer their prayers. Wealthy Muslims usually give out a cow as a sacrifice. Other types of animals are also offered like camels, rams or sheep.

• November 4, Al-Hijrah or the Islamic New Year – The Islamic calendar is composed of 12 months or 354 days. When compared to the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is about eleven to twelve days shorter. This means that the date of the Al-Hijrah eleven or twelve days after the previous year’s Islamic New Year. During the Al-Hijrah, a night prayer is offered for a prosperous new year. Celebrations for the Islamic New Year tend to be very simple and private.

• November 14, Ashura – The Ashura is a religious holiday where Muslims in Bahrain pray and remember Imam Hussein’s death. Imam is the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims in Bahrain visit ma’atams where they can honor Ashura. This religious public holiday is celebrated within 10 days of the Islamic calendar’s first month.

The Ashura

• December 16, National Day – Every 16th day of December, Bahrain will celebrate their National or Independence Day. Technically the British forces withdrew their troops and armies from the Suez on August 15, however the Bahrain Government decided to celebrate the day of their independence on December 16 so that it will occur simultaneously with the anniversary of Isa bin Salman al Khalifa’s coronation. Spectacular firework displays are released on this day.

Many people come to Malaysia for their share of exotic beach holidays. But to make the trip even better, here’s a list of the public holidays, so people can plan their trips accordingly.

Knowing these holidays can help you maximize your enjoyment of the street markets and beach hideaways to make your own tailor-made holiday stay.

January 1: New Year’s Day

 The coming of the New Year is celebrated much as it is in the rest of the world, with fanfare and feasting. A popular destination for this event is Kula Lumpur’s Merdeka Square. For those who are young or young at heart, or more mature, Penang’s Gurney Drive also offers a good experience.

January 14: Yang di-Pertuan Besar
This day is the birthday of Yang di-Pertuan Besar, ruler of the state of Negeri Simbilan. Celebrations are held in that state only.

January 20: Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday

Celebrations will be held in Kedah.

January 24: The Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Maulidur Rasul)
The Prophet’s Birthday is a national holiday, and is celebrated as a day of prayer and feasting. In some areas, the celebrations last for a month. It is important to ask advice from locals on how they celebrate this event, as each area may have slight differences in observance.

January 27: Thaipusam
This holiday marks a victory of the Hindu gods and their worshippers over demons. It is marked in the sky by a star, Pusam, which is at its highest point in the sky at this time. Commemorative processions in Kuala Lumpur and Penang are the events to see for this event.

February 1: Federal Territory Day
This holiday celebrates the formation of the Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory, when it was ceded by the Sengalor State to the Federal Government of Malaysia in 1974.

Kuala Lumpur from Bukit Tabur

February 10: Chinese New Year
When the Christmas decorations come down in the malls, they are replaced by Chinese New Year decorations. Expect public performances of classical Chinese music, as well as dragon dances and fireworks. Family reunions happen at these times, with multi-course meals, in either homes or restaurants. Yee Sang is the traditional good-luck food, a raw fish salad; the higher you toss it with your chopsticks, the more prosperous your year will become. Oranges are a common traditional gift, as well as Ang-poh envelopes for the children, which are little red envelopes with some money inside. The celebrations last for 15 days, ending with the Chap Goh Mei, or 15th night. This is when family reunions with food and music reach their height.

March 4: Anniversary of Installation of the Sultan of Terengganu
This is celebrated only in Terengganu.

March 29: Good Friday

This Christian celebration is observed in Sarawak and Sabah only, and is a subdued holiday, when Christians meditate and pray.

April 15: Declaration of Malacca as a historical city

This is celebrated in Malacca only.

April 19: Sultan of Perak’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Perak only.

April 26: Sultan of Terengganu’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Terengganu only.

May 1: Labor Day

This is a national holiday.

May 7: Hari Hol Pahang

This is a public holiday in Pahang.

May 17: Raja Perlis’ Birthday
This is celebrated in Perlis only.

May 24: Vesak Day
This holiday commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. The celebration begins at dawn, when Buddhists all across the nation go to their temples to meditate. Donations, food and incense offerings are common on this day. The highlight is a candle procession.

May 30-31: Harvest Festival (Sabah and Labuan)
This is the end of the rice harvest, and is marked by feasting, drinking, and general merriment. Traditional dances are a high point of the festivities.

June 1: Agong’s Birthday / June 1-2 Hari Gawai
This is the date of the King’s Birthday. The Hari Gawai, on the other hand, is similar to the harvest festival, but also commemorates the beginning of the new season as well.

June 6: Israk and Mikraj
This holiday commemorates the Night Journey of the Prophet, when he travels to the farthest mosque to lead believers in prayer and then ascends to heaven, where Allah talks to him and shows him how people should pray. The event is commemorated by prayers and with lighting of candles or electric lights at night.

July 7: Georgetown World Heritage City Day

This is a public holiday celebrated in Penang only.

July 10: Awal Ramadan
This is the start of a month of fasting for Islamic believers. Feasting happens at night, but the daytime is a solemn time of fasting and prayer.

July 13: Penang Governor’s Birthday

This is celebrated in Penang only.

July 26: Nuzul al-Quran
This is an Islamic holiday celebrated in Kelantan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Selangor, and Terengganu only.
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August 8-9: Hari Raya Puasa
This is the Malaysian version of Eid al-Fitr, and is celebrated accordingly. Shopping malls and bazaars will be filled with people who are buying shoes, clothes, and food. Wealthier families take this time to go on vacation, as their servants and security guards go home to celebrate with their families. Special festive food preparations are also served at this time. This event is one of the biggest for the year.

August 31: National Day
Expect parades, exhibitions and contests all over, as well as public appearances of royalty and influential politicians.

September 7: Sarawak Governor’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Sarawak only.

September 16: Malaysia Day
This national holiday celebrates the creation of the Malaysian federation.

October 5: Sabah Governor’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Sabah only.

October 12: Malacca Governor’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Malaccah only.

October 15-16: Hari Raya Haji
This is the Malaysian celebration of Eid al-Adha, which commemorates the faith of Ibrahim and his son Ismail. Prayers and the distribution of food to loves ones, friends, and the less fortunate are key to this event.

October 24: Sultan of Pahang’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Pahang only.

November 2: Deepavali
Also known as the Festival of Lights, this is a time when "open houses" are held, where Hindu Malaysians welcome others of different races and religions into their house for a fantastic meal. It is also known as the Diwali festival.

November 5: Awal Muharram / Maal Hijrah
This day is marked as the Islamic New Year, where believers commemorate the migration of the Prophet and his believers from Mecca to Medina.

November 11-12: Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday

This is celebrated in Kelantan only.

November 22: Sultan of Johor’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Johor only.

December 9: Hari Hol Almarhum Sultan Johor
This is celebrated in Johor only.

December 11: Sultan of Selangor’s Birthday
This is celebrated in Selangor only.

December 25: Christmas
Christmas in Malaysia is celebrated in much the same way as it is done around the world.

Pagi Eid ul Akhbr

Ukraine Holidays for 2013

• January 1, New Year’s Day – New Year is one of the favorite and most heavily celebrated holidays in Ukraine. New Year’s Day is also the sole Slavic feast that is widely observed in the country. Ukrainians celebrate their New Year’s Day very much like how Western countries celebrate Christmas Day. Locals have their very own ‘New Year Tree’ and beneath this tree is where Ukrainians will leave their presents on New Year’s Eve. An hour or so before New Year, a presidential speech is broadcasted nationwide. Once the clock officially hits midnight, locals celebrate with large feasts and fireworks. Some locals will even write down their aspirations for the New Year, drop it in their glass and drink it along with their wine.

Ukrainian Catholic Church

• January 7, Orthodox Christmas – Ukrainians observe their Christmas on January and celebrations will last for one whole week. During the Christmas week, families will go house-to-house while wearing folk-type outfits to wish each other well and sing songs of praise. The songs Ukrainians sing are called “schedrivky” and “kolyadky”. During the Christmas week in Ukraine, it is customary for people to give food or sweets to those who are singing them songs or wishing them prosperity for the year. These house-to-house visits are also referred to as ‘Schedruvannya’ or ‘Kolyaduvannya’.

• March 8, International Women’s Day – International Women’s Day is an official state holiday in Ukraine, meaning most public and private offices are closed to commemorate this day. During International Women’s Day, people remember how women fought for their rights. The holiday is celebrated on March 8 because it was on this day when female workers of shoe and cloth factories assembled in New York to fight for better working conditions and salaries that are equal to the pay for male employees. Ukraine first recognized International Women’s Day as an official state holiday in 1965.

• May 6, Orthodox Easter Monday – Orthodox Easter is celebrated just two weeks after the Easter of Catholics. Ukrainians celebrate Easter to honor both the release of the Jews from Egypt and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross. There is no definite date for Orthodox Easter. To find out when Orthodox Easter is celebrated, people use the same calendar used by the Church. During the Orthodox Easter season in Ukraine, locals serve Easter cakes. These are basically biscuits with bits of raisins mixed in. Ukrainians also celebrate Orthodox Easter by attending church services. Before their feast, it is traditional for clergymen to sprinkle their food with holy water. Locals believe that this holy water contains healing properties.  Ukrainians also greet each other by saying “Khrystos Vostkres”, which literally means ‘Christ is arisen’. The appropriate response to this is “Voyistynu Voskres”, which means “Truly arisen”.

•  May 9, Victory and Commemoration Day – For the Ukrainians, Victory and Commemoration Day is a time for celebration and sorrow as well. Services are held to remember those who fought during World War 2. During the Victory and Commemoration Day, every city will have their own area called The Eternal Fire. The Eternal Fire is where Ukrainians will gather pay tribute to the war veterans and to those who perished during the war.

Ukrainian eggs Pysanka plural “pysanky”

• June 24, Orthodox Whit Monday – Whit Monday is also called Pentecost Monday or the Monday of the Holy Spirit and it is celebrated right after Pentecost. Services are held in several churches throughout the country to honor the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit descended to the apostles of Jesus Christ.

• June 28, Constitution Day – Every year during June 28, Ukrainians will celebrate Constitution Day to toast the anniversary of the Ukrainian Constitution’s adaptation. Just like on Independence Day, Constitution Day is celebrated with breathtaking fireworks and hip musical events.

• July 6, Ivan Kupala Day – This holiday is celebrated to pay tribute to “Dazhbog” or the God of the Sun. Locals believe that the sun is at its strongest on this day. Ivan Kupala Day is often linked with nature, which explains why many locals believe that this holiday is the perfect day to collect medicinal herbs from dawn until dusk. After gathering herbal plants, locals will then attend church services.

• August 24, Independence Day – Ukraine declared their sovereignty and independence on August 24, 1991. Independence Day is considered to be the biggest state holiday in Ukraine. To celebrate Independence Day, Ukrainians have firework displays as well as large communal parties and concerts.

• September 1, Day of Knowledge – The Day of Knowledge is a minor Ukrainian holiday that is honored by students of primary schools, colleges and universities. The Day of Knowledge signifies the start of a whole new school year. Neatly dressed students carrying flowers are common sights during this day.

• December 6, Ukrainian Army Day – Celebrated annually on the 6th day of December, Ukrainian Army Day is when locals observe and honor the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s establishment.

• Jan 24 or 29, Milad un Nabi or the Prophet’s Birthday – During the MIlad un Nabi, Muslims will celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s birth. There is no precise date on when Milad un Nabi will be celebrated annually. Like all Islamic holidays, Milad un Nabi follows the lunar calendar and it is celebrated on the Islamic calendar’s third month. The date for the Milad un Nabi will also vary on the Islamic sect. Sunnis will commemorate the birth of the prophet Muhammad on the 12th day, while the Shias will commemorate it on the 17th. The way in which Milad un Nabi is celebrated varies per country. In some countries people celebrate the Prophet’s Birthday with loud and pumped up activities, while some areas prefer to celebrate in a more serene way. These people usually spend their Milad un Nabi relaxing, praying with their families or giving treats and food to the less fortunate.

Milad un Nabi

• June 5 or 23, Lailat Al Miraj – The Muslim believe that the prophet Muhammad travelled to the ‘Farthest Mosque’ from Mecca so that he can ascend to heaven and be purified from all his sins. During his purification, Muhammad was also given the task to instruct his fellow Muslims to pray 5 times daily. Lailat Al Miraj serves as a day when Muslims remember Muhammad’s journey. Although Lailat Al Miraj is celebrated on the 27th day of the Rajab month, the rituals for this religious holiday begin a day before, after sunset the previous day. Lailat Al Miraj is considered to be a big day for Muslims. People commemorate this holiday by visiting mosques and attending prayer services. After offering their prayers in mosques, Muslim families will then spend a quiet day at home.

• July 9, the Start of Ramadan – For about 30 days each year, Muslims from every corner of the globe will fast from wee hours of the morning until sunset. The purpose of Ramadan is to let people experience the hardships of the weak, poor or those who cannot afford their own food or water. Muslims also believe that by denying their bodies of nourishment, they are able to purify their souls. According to tradition, the heavens gave the Quran to the Muslim people on this month. Many Muslims also believe the statement mentioned by Muhammad. He said that during Ramadan the gates of Hell are closed but Heaven’s gates are wide open. The start of Ramadan will be on the 9th month of the Islamic calendar.

•  August 3, Laylat Al Kadr – Laylat Al Kadr, or the Night of Power, is the day when Muslims celebrate the night when the first few verses of the Quran was given to the prophet Muhammad. The Laylat Al Kadr is usually celebrated within the last few days of Ramadan, but most preferably on a date with an odd number. Muslims consider Laylat Al Kadr as the holiest of all nights and Muslims are encouraged to worship and offer prayers on this night. For the Sunnis, the Night of Power is celebrated on the last five odd nights of Ramadan. Shias will honor Laylat Al Kadr on the last 10 odd nights.

• August 8, Eid al-Fitr or the End of Ramadan – After fasting for a month, Muslims will then celebrate Eid al-Fitr or the Festival of Fast Breaking. Eid al-Fitr officially marks the end of Ramadan for the year. Once Ramadan is over, large feasts are made and everyone is expected to take part in the celebration. Eid al-Fitr is also the time when people thank Allah for giving them the perseverance and strength to fast for 30 whole days. This major religious holiday is also the time to forgive, share and unite with old friends and family members.

• October 14, Waqf Al Arafa or the Day of Arafa – The Day of Arafa is another important holy holiday in Islamic culture. It is said that when the Day of Arafa is celebrated, the religion has been perfected. This holiday is observed on the Dhul Hijja’s 9th day, exactly 70 days after the final day of Ramadan. According to Islamic tales, the past and future sins of the people who fast on this special day will be completely forgiven.

• November 4, Islamic New Year – Since the Islamic calendar does not follow the Gregorian calendar, a different date is given for the Islamic New Year every year. The Islamic New Year is celebrated annually on Muharram’s first day, Muharram being the first month in the Islamic calendar. Although the celebrations for the Islamic New Year are not as festive or flamboyant as other Islamic holidays, this holiday is still celebrated with a lot of optimism, hope and joy.

Islamic New Year

•  November 13, Day of Ashura – The Day of Ashura is also named the Day of Mourning. This Islamic holiday is solemnized every 10th day of the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is during the Day of Ashura when the Muslim people remember the death of Imam Hussein. Imam is the grandson of the great prophet Muhammad.

• January 1: English New Years Day

Indian media covers a great amount of New Years celebrations on New Years Day and people celebrate this ocassion by attending many parties and night clubs as well as attending a festive and superbly colorful parade. During New Years, there is a lot of dancing and wearing of colorful garments. The streets are full of music and lights and people old and young enjoy traditional Indian dishes and a feat of beautiful firework displays right before the New Year rings in.

Holi Festival, the Indian festival of color

• Lohri or The Harvesting Festival

Lohri is a celebration that marks the entrance of the sun into the northern hemisphere. This festival takes place at the end of the winter period and celebrates life as given by the warmth of the sun. It is a time to celebrate fertility and abundance. The Lohri Festival is very significant for married couples, especially those who have recently made vows. The first Lohri Festival of a married couple is significant because it brings about ideas of family and children. The tradition is to light a bonfire with the setting of the sun and consume sweets while performing dances and singing.

• Makar Sankranti

This festival marks the beginning of a Holy Transition. On Makar Sankranti, the days start to become longer and warmer and the harvest is in abundance. This is also the day of the Sun God and people throughout India celebrate it with different local rituals.

• Republic Day

The Republic Day Festival is the greatest festival in India and it is regarded as a national holiday. The great Republic Day Parade is held on this day in New Delhi and the streets are full of boisterous folk dance, music, and elaborate and detailed cultural displays. The festival of Republic Day is so huge that even the Air Force is involved- At the end of the festival, they zoom across the sky, leaving colorful trails of smoke.

• March 10: Maha ShivaRatri

This festival is held in honor of Lord Shiva, who is a Hindu God. During this day, Indians fast for an entire day and night and spend it instead worshiping Lord Shiva. This Hindu God is believed to be the representation of an ideal husband and because of this, women dedicate this day to praying for a husband in his image. This day can also be seen as day of the husbands because on this day, they are worshipped and their health is prayed for. It is tradition to bathe in the Ganga River on this day and perform a Shiva Lingum ritual that involves washing with milk and honey.

• March 26: Holi/Holika Dahan

The Holi festival celebrates the colors of spring. During this day, the gods of fertility and harvest are celebrated. An interesting aspect about this festival is that people are allowed to drink toxic beverages and plenty of sweets. These delicacies are prepared with opium. This is a day of happiness and people leave behind any negative aspects of social pressures.

• April 14: Baisakhi

Baisakhi is a combination of multiple festivals, including the Hindu New Year, the founding of the ‘pure ones’ and the day of harvest. Depending on which holiday is observed, there are a variety of celebrations going on including day parades, dinners with family and friends, and different traditional rituals and folk dances.

• April 19: Ram Navami

Ram Navami is celebrated on the day in which the moon is brightest. On this day, the beginning of the Indian year is celebrated by remembering the life of Rama Navami who was also born on this day. During this day, Indians ask for human perfection by fasting the entire day. Those who are stricter in the tradition fast for nine days.

• May 12: Mother’s Day

In India, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second monday of May. During this day, women are treated with special attention and children give their mothers plenty of flowers and hand made cards with their expressions of love and affection. During this day, special preparations are made and mothers across India enjoy a day of pampering and relaxation.

• May 25: Buddha Purnima

Buddha Purnima is Buddha’s Birthday and it is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist festivals as Buddha is believed to have reached enlightment on this day. During this day, people practice harmony and peace by meditating and sending out messages of peace and well-being to loved ones. During this day, crowds of people gather in Buddhist temples to offer prayers.

• August 11: Naga Panchami

Snakes are revered in Hindu culture and as such, Naga Panchami celebrates the festival of snakes. Many cultural dances and displays that explain the importance of the snake in Hindu culture are performed during this day.

• September 9: Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is the birthday of the God of Wisdom, Lord Ganesha. During this day, idols depicting Lord Ganesh are decorated in beautiful clothing and people pray for wisdom in their daily life decisions.

big boat full race

• October 2: Gandhi Jayanti

As the name suggests, this day is dedicted to the Father of the Nation, the one and only Mahatma Gandhi. This day is dedicated to the great achievements of Gandhi, including his enormous role in liberating India from the British. On this day, many parades and processions fill the streets as Indians celebrate the birthday of this great man.

• November 3: Diwali

Diwali is the great Indian Festival of Lights. During this day, the streets and homes are decorated with thousands and thousands of beautiful lights. These lights are supposed to protect the home and the spirit against the powers of evil since the lights signify the victory of good over bad. During this holiday, people also clean out their homes and welcome new energies that are free from ill intentions.

• November 4: Gowardhan Puja

This is the fourth day of Diwali celebrations and people celebrate by building hills made of cow dung. This act symbolises the mountain dwelling of Lord Krishna. Indian people then worship these hills to show Lord Krishna their respect and devotion.

• December 25: Christmas Day

As western culture influences the rest of the world, Indian people have also come to accept and celebrate Christmas. Just like in any other country, Christmas is celebrated by decorating the homes with plenty of lights and the giving and receiving of gifts and sweets.

• January 1: New Year’s Day

                New Years Day is more of an English holiday for Indians, but it is celebrated in a big fashion regardless. During New Years Day, there are colorful parades, loud music, and festive decorations filling the streets and homes of India. There are also many locations to witness the countdown to the new year and many night clubs have special New Year events.

• January 13: Lohri

                Better known as the Harvest Festival, Lohri celebrates a new period of fertility and abundance. During Lohri, a huge bonfire is lit in the evening and people celebrate the new harvest season with food, dance, and folk dances. Lohri is a holiday of fertility and as such, it is a very significant time for newly wed couples and new parents. Lohri blesses the new families with positive energy and abundance.

• January 26: Republic Day

                The Republic Day Festival is the greatest festival in India other than Diwali. This national holiday celebrates the day that India’s Constitution became valid. Republic Day is celebrated with a huge parade in New Delhi with great patriotic fervor. The Republic Day Parade is known all over the world for its elaborate displays. The processions feature different scenes of Indian history as well as music and dance numbers. Finally, the parade ends with the Indian Air Force flaring accross the sky, leaving colorful trails of smoke.

• February 14: Vasant Panchami

                Vasant Panchami is a festival dedicated to the Goddess Saraswati. The goddess is an Indian symbol of wisdom and she brings with her the spring. A beautiful festival full of the color of yellow mustard flowers and children flying kites is dedicated to the Goddess of Spring and food offerings and rituals in her name are performed.

• March 10: Maha ShivaRatri

                Maha ShivaRatri is a great Hindu deity and this festival is dedicated to his worship. According to legend, this night celebrates the night the god Shiva saved the world from doom. It is believed that the worship of Shiva is necessary to maintain the god’s interest in keeping the world safe. Hindu temples are decorated on this day to honor Lord Shiva and offerings of iced water and milk are placed at his altar.

• March 26: Holi/Holika Dahman

                The Holi festival or Holika Dahman celebrates the new produce of spring and harvest. During this festival, beverages and sweets made with opium are consumed and people are supposed to forget about inequalities, grudges, and ill-will toward one another.

• May 25: Buddha Purnima

                The day of Buddha Purnima is both the birthday of the great Buddha and simultaneously, the day Buddha reached enlightment. During this day, Indians attend temples to dedicate prayers and positive energies toward their fellow peers and loved ones. Buddha Purnima is a day of peace and harmony, dedicated to the founder of Buddhism.

• July 10: Jagannath Rath Yatra

                Also known as The Chariot Festival, Rath Yatra is a festival in which eleaborately decorated chariots are used to pull huge idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and their sister, Goddess Subhadra through the streets as a symbol of their journey to their garden palace. This festival is very visually beautiful as the chariots and idols are pulled along the streets by thousands of followers.

• August 15: Independence Day

                India’s Independence Day is one of the most famous in the world as it was achieved through non-violent resistance. India celebrates its independence day with a huge festival and a public event held in Delhi featuring the hoisting of the Indian flag. On this day, it is customary to display the Indian flag on garments of clothing, streamers on the streets, and displays of painting.

• August 20: Raksha Bandhan

                This festival celebrates the love that exists between a brother and a sister and the obligation for the strong to protect the weak. During the Raksha Bandhan festival, a sister ties a gold or silver thread made from silk around her brother’s wrist to signify her love for him. The Rakhis thread is also tied around the wrist of neighbors and close friends to strengthen harmony between families.

• August 28: Krishna Janmashtami

                Krishna Janmashtami is the birthday of the most powerful human incarnation in the Hindu faith. This day is significant because Lord Krishna’s existence occured for the sole purpose of his ridding the world of evil forces. A significant and symbolic gesture on this day is rocking a baby cradle to signify rocking baby Krishna to sleep. People also celebrate with song and dance.

• September 9: Ganesh Chaturth

                Ganesh Chaturth is a festival honoring Lord Ganesha. This celebration lasts for ten days and it involves worshipping a clay model of the lord built months prior to the celebration. On the last day of worship, the idol is taken through the streets in a large procession accompanied by colorful crowds of dancing people singing hymns to Lord Ganesha.

• October 2: Gandhi Jayanti

                Gandhi Jayanti is the celebration of one of India’s and the world’s most beloved leaders. The Father of the Nation is celebrated on this day full of peaceful prayers and positive energies. During Gandhi Jayanti, alcohol is prohibited and schools, colleges, public places and religious establishments pray for peace and harmony throughout the world.

• November 3: Diwali

                Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s greatest celebrations. During Diwali, many small clay lamps are lit to signify that good outpowers evil in the world. Diwali is also a time of cleansing and welcoming new things into the world and this is demonstrated by cleaning out the home to welcome those new things. The second concept of Diwali is understanding the inner light we all possess within us.

• December 25: Christmas Day

                Christmas day is also celebrated in India with a huge Christmas Day Parade, many colorful lights, and the exchange of gifts and sweets. During Christmas, families enjoy a festive dinner and celebrate with warm music and songs.

• January 24: Prophet’s Birthday

Prophet Muhammed’s birthday is celebrated on the 12th day of the Islamic month called Rabi’al-awwal. Prophet Muhammed is believed to be the last prophet and messenger of God and all of the Muslim Holidays have something to do with periods of Prophet Muhammad’s life. During the Prophet’s birthday, his words and deeds are remembered by citing the Hadith, which holds the accounts of his life. This day is full of celebration and streets are full of processions and parades. Homes and mosques are also decorated for the occassion. Many people still believe that celebrating Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is against Islamic law, but most Muslims celebrate in a respectful manner.

• March 20: March Equinox

The March Equinox marks the first day of spring and is signaled by the rising of the sun directly in the east and setting directly in the west. The March Equinox occurs when the sun is shining directly on the equator- this causes the day and night time to be almost exactly equal in lenth, hence the term "equinox", which means "equal night" in latin. Instead of being a celebration, the March Equinox marks the beginning of a new season.

• June 21: June Solstice

The June Solstice is marks the beginning of a season rather than being a celebration or holiday. The Solstice occurs when the sun is the farthest away from the equator.

• July 9: Ramadan Begins

Ramadan is a religious observance in Saudi Arabia as well as many other countries whose major religious group are Muslims. Ramadan signifies the beginning of a month of fasting. This is the most significant religious observation in the entire world. The importance of Ramadam comes from the belief that during this time, the Prophet Muhammad began to receive messages from God and record them in the Holy Quran. Muslims pay respect to this celebration by going on a strict fast that prohibits the consumption of food and even water from sunrise until sunset. During fast, sexual activities, smoking, or engaging in violent acts is also prohibited. Although fasting is extremely strict during the day, there are two allowances of a light meal. One right before dawn and after the morning prayers- this is called Suhoor. The second meal is allowed after the sunset prayer and is called Iftar. Some exceptions are allowed, but they are only for pregnant and nursing mothers, the elderly or very young, and the sick.

• August 8-14: Eid-Al-Fitr or End of Ramadan

The festival of Eid-Al-Fitr is celebrated right after the fasting period, Ramadan. This holiday lasts a few days and people begin to celebrate it right after the dawn of their last fasting day. During this time, people attend mosques the world over and pray to Allah facing the Holy City, Mecca. People take this time to offer prayers, read from the Quran, travel to see family and friends, and enjoy great feasts of traditional dishes. After Ramadan, the streets, mosques, and private homes are decorated to welcome the festival of Eid-Al-Fitr and Muslims once again go into a period of harmony and peace.

End of Ramadan

• September 22: September Equinox

Like the March Equinox, this is a time of the year during which the day and night occur for roughly the same amount of time. This is not a holiday or celebration period, but it is observed as the beginning of a new season.

• September 23: Saudi National Day

Saudi National Day was founded by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Saud in 1932 and is celebrated by public demonstrations such as playing traditional music and shouting patriotic greetings to other Saudi Arabians. The celebration of National Saudi Day changes each year as the government and society begin to accept new forms of celebration. Recently, the governments started showing plays and displays in museums depicting scenes from Saudi History. Young people usually celebrate by holding private dinners and parties with friends and family.

• October 10-20: Eid-Al-Adha Holiday

Eid-Al-Adha is perhaps the greatest Muslim Holiday, marking the peak days of Hajj, a time that many Muslims choose to visit the Holy City, Mecca. This celebration marks the time during which God tested Ibrahim’s loyalty by asking him to sacrifice his only son, Ishmael. This holiday is also known as the Feast of Sacrifice and the Muslim families who are financially able, sacrifice a small animal such as a goat or lamb and then share the meat with families who cannot afford a sacrifice themselves. Traditional greetings during this time are "Eid Mubarak" and "Eid Saeed".

• November 5: Muharram

Muharram is the Muslim New Year and marks the first day of the Islamic calendar. This day is also the anniversary of the death of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Husayn ibn Ali. During Muharram, people are forbidden to fight as this is considered a sin. Many people also fast during daylight on Ashura, or the 10th day of the Islamic calendar. People also take pilgrimages to the site of Husayn ibn Ali’s grave which is located in Imam Husayn Shrine. There is also a big parade known as matam which many Muslims attend during the Muharram.

Muharram

• December 21: December Solstice

During the December Solstice, the sun is at its lowest altitude. This is not a holiday, but merely the marking of a season that ends with the June Solstice, during which the sun is at its furthest point from the equator.

• January 1, New Year’s Day or Republic Day – On the first day of January, locals will celebrate two special holidays. Taiwan will commemorate New Year’s Day and Republic Day on this day. During New Year’s Eve, children return to the homes of their parents to celebrate the coming of a new year. On New Year’s Day locals will start their days by praying to their ancestors for a prosperous year. The Taiwanese will also visit their friends or watch the spectacular and unique parades, dragon dancing and other local activities. Along with New Year’s Day, the Taiwanese also celebrate their Republic or Foundation Day on January 1. This is because the Republic of China was founded on January 1, 1912.

• February 10-13, Chinese New Year – The first day of the Chinese New Year is on the first day of the first lunar month and this 2013, it will be celebrated on the tenth day of February. Chinese New Year is the longest holiday in Taiwan, and it is also one of the most important celebrations. Chinese New Year lasts for 15 days. During the first day of the Chinese New Year, Taiwanese families will wake up extra early on this special day to give their offerings and prayers to their ancestors. Many locals will also travel from temple to temple to light up incense sticks and offer their prayers. Folk theatre groups will perform a traditional play called the ‘Tiao Chia Kuan’ or the Dance for Receiving Official Promotion during the Chinese New Year.

• February 24, Lantern Festival – The Lantern Festival heralds the end of the Chinese New Year, and it is a holiday that is hosted every year by the Tourism Bureau of Taiwan. During this magical day, thousands of lanterns are lit and released in Taiwan’s Pingxi District. The lanterns are traditionally printed with zodiac signs and are at least 10 meters tall.

Lantern Festival

• February 28, Peace Memorial Day – During Peace Memorial Day, the Taiwanese remember an unfortunate event named the White Terror. On February 28, 1947, thousands of Taiwanese were wrongfully imprisoned and executed. For many years the government did not acknowledge the incident until in 1995 when President Lee Teng-Hui announced a formal apology to the public. From then on February 28 serves as a day that commemorates the horrific incident. Many locals also call Peace Memorial Day as ‘228 Memorial Day’.

• April 4, Children’s Day – Declared as a public holiday in 2011, Children’s Day is one of the newest holidays in Taiwan. During Children’s Day, special activities, games and sporting events will be held for children. Parents are also expected to accompany their kids during this day. Along with Children’s Day, Women’s Day is also celebrated on April 4.

• April 5, Tomb Sweeping Day – Tomb Sweeping Day has two other names. This holiday is also sometimes referred to as the Ching Ming Festival or the Remembrance of the Ancestors Day. ‘Ching’ basically means refined or clean, while ‘ming’ means brightness. If you combine the two together, Ching Ming would mean clean and just. The Ching Ming Festival or the Tomb Sweeping Day is an opportunity for the Taiwanese to remember their departed family and friends. Families will travel to the tombs of their ancestors to honor and clean their gravesites. Both the young and old will pray, clean and offer food and incense sticks to their ancestors. The Ching Ming Festival is also a day when the Taiwanese remember those who died in events that are considered to be sensitive in Taiwan and in China.

• May 1, Labour Day – Labour Day is celebrated annually on the first day of May in Taiwan. It is considered to be a public holiday and workers are entitled to a free day from work. Since Labour Day is included in the Holiday Pay Rule, workers still get paid for this day. Local Taiwanese spend their Labour Day relaxing with their friends or family.

• June 12, Dragon Festival – The Dragon Festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. This public holiday is commemorated to the memory of Chu Yuan, a minister of the state during the Warring States. When Chu Yuan wrote a poem for China’s ex-emperor, the new emperor had Yuan banished. Chu Yuan drowned himself in the lake and the dragon boats symbolize how the citizens of China tried to save him. The Dragon Festival is said to ward off harmful spirits.

Dragon Festival

• September 19, Mid-Autumn Festival – Every 15th day of the 8th lunar month, the Taiwanese celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. Locals and tourists alike get to enjoy the traditional festivals on this magical day. No Mid-Autumn Festival is complete without mooncakes filled with red beans, sesame and walnut. These mooncakes are best eaten during the night and under the bright moon.

• October 10, National Day – In Taiwan, National Day is also called as the Double Ten Day. The celebration for National Day starts at the Presidential Building with the raising of the flag and the singing of the national anthem. Festivities are then held during the day, along with the customary lion dance and drum teams.

• October 13, Double Ninth Day – Following the National Day comes the Double Ninth Day or the Autumn Remembrance. The holiday is named ‘double ninth’ because it is celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th lunar moon. Locals believe that it is considered to be lucky to travel on this day, which is why many Taiwanese go on trips during the Double Ninth Day.

Thailand Holidays for 2013

• January 1, New Year’s Day – The first day of the Gregorian calendar is called New Year’s Day. This special holiday is celebrated throughout the globe; although there are several countries that celebrate both the global New Year’s Day and their own traditional New Year’s, like for example Hong Kong, Singapore, China and Thailand with Chinese New Year and Songkran. Nonetheless, January 1st still serves as an official holiday in Thailand. During New Year’s Day, locals will visit their friends and family, or spend a quiet day at home. Many people also prefer to spend their New Year’s Day in the country’s popular resorts.

• February 25, Magha Puja – Magha Puja or Makha Puchua is also known as the Full Moon of Tabaung in English terms. This national holiday is a very important event for Buddhists in Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. Magha Puja is celebrated on a full moon day during the third lunar month. This holiday serves to honor and remember Buddha’s veneration and all the teachings that he had passed down. Buddhists in Thailand will usually spend Magha Puja visiting Buddhist temples to do charitable deeds and several other Buddhist activities. During the evening, all the Buddhist temples in Thailand will have a “wian tian” or a candlelight procession. Those who’ve joined the procession will then circle the ordination hall three times. The three circumambulations represent the Three Jewels, which are the Buddha, Sangha and Dharma.

• April 6, Chakri Memorial Day – During the 6th day of April every year, the Thais will observe the Chakri Memorial Day. This holiday serves to remember the Chakri dynasty and the contributions they’ve given to the nation. The Chakri dynasty has been reigning over Thailand since 1782. During the Charki Memorial Day, ceremonies will be held for all kings in the Chakri dynasty, including the present ruler named King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The king, along with several members of the royal family, will then lead a religious service to pay homage to all of his ancestors. The Prime Minister of Thailand and other government officials will then join the king for the wreath-laying ceremony.

• April 13, Songkran Festival – The Songkran Festival is celebrated from April 13 up to April 15. Songkran is basically the traditional New Year’s Day in Thailand. During the Songkran Festival, locals will roam around the streets carrying water guns or buckets of water. These people will then proceed to drench anyone who passes by. Aside from this quirky activity, locals are also expected to visit monks, elders, friends, and loved ones to pay their respects. Thais will also cleanse their Buddha images in Buddhist shrines. Locals believe that by cleansing their Buddha images, they will be granted good luck for the whole year.

Songkran Festival

• May 1, Labour Day – Labour Day is an official national holiday celebrated in many different parts of the globe. This holiday serves to honor workers and employees for their social and economic achievements. Both public and private offices are closed on Labour Day.

• May 5, Coronation Day – Coronation Day, or the Wan Chatramongkhol, is a public holiday held in May 5 of every year. During Coronation Day, Thais toast to the coronation of Thailand’s present king, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Although the King’s older brother passed away in 1946, it wasn’t until on May 5, 1950 when King Bhumibol was crowned because he was given the option to finish his studies first.

• May 24, Vesak – Vesak is one of the holiest Buddhist holidays in Thailand. It is celebrated on the 6th lunar month during the full-moon day. This day celebrates the three pivotal events in Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment and discovery of Nirvana. Thai Buddhists consider Vesak to be a big family holiday where they will visit Buddhist temples. Some locals also prefer to practice the Five Precepts of Buddhist teachings on Vesak.

• July 22, Asalha Puja – Asalha Puja is another Buddhist holiday celebrated in Thailand. During Asalha Puja, Buddhists will commemorate the day when Buddha gave his very first sermon. Buddhist temples are decorated with lotus flowers and candles. Just like in other Buddhist holidays observed in Thailand, Buddhist Thais will visit temples to pay their respects.

• October 23, Chulalongkorn Day – Every 23rd day of October, Thais will celebrate Chulalongkorn Day to give homage to one of their most beloved kings, King Chulalongkorn. King Chulalongkorn managed to keep Thailand an independent country despite the number of colonial powers that wished to conquer the nation.

• December 5, The King’s Birthday – December 5 is a public holiday because it commemorates the birthday of Thailand’s present king. Aside from being the King’s Birthday, December 5 also serves as the National Father’s Day and National Day.

• December 10, Constitution Day – Constitution Day is when Thais remember the abolishment of absolute monarchy in the country. The Thais believed King Prajadhipok was too young and unfit to rule and handle the effects of the Great Depression, which had a severe impact on the Thai economy.

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