As autumn casts its spell, cultures around the world celebrate with festivals steeped in folklore and tradition. These celebrations offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of beliefs and customs that have been passed down through generations. Travellers eager to experience the world beyond the surface will discover that these seasonal celebrations offer a chance to engage with local cultures, explore ancient customs, and enrich their journeys with meaningful cultural experiences.
Samhain, observed on 31 October, is an ancient Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter. Deeply rooted in folklore, it is believed that during Samhain, the veil between the living and spirit worlds is at its thinnest. People light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off malevolent spirits. Traditional activities include storytelling and divination, reflecting the festival's mystical origins.
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, celebrated on 1 or 2 November, is a vibrant Mexican festival honouring deceased loved ones. This celebration is infused with folklore, as it is believed that the souls of the departed return to visit their families. Altars are adorned with marigolds, sugar skulls, and offerings of food and drink to welcome these spirits. The festival's roots can be traced back to ancient Aztec traditions that honoured the cycle of life and death.
Loy Krathong, celebrated on the night of the full moon in November, is a festival rooted in Thai folklore. Participants release intricately decorated floating lanterns into rivers as offerings to water spirits, seeking forgiveness for past misdeeds. In Chiang Mai, thousands of lanterns are released into the sky during Yi Peng Festival, creating a breathtaking spectacle that symbolises letting go of misfortune.
Chuseok, South Korea's harvest festival, was celebrated from 28 to 30 September this year. It is a time for families to pay homage to their ancestors through rituals known as "charye." Folklore plays a significant role as Koreans believe that ancestral spirits return to bless the living with good fortune. Traditional games such as "ssireum" (Korean wrestling) and folk dances are performed to celebrate this connection between past and present.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, usually falls in October or November. This Hindu festival celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. According to folklore, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. Homes are illuminated with oil lamps and candles, symbolising hope and renewal. Fireworks light up the sky as families exchange gifts and sweets in joyous celebration.
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