diwali

November 5th, 2010

Diwali

image from: belgravecoop.org.uk

While Americans are counting down the days till turkey time, people on the other side of the globe are celebrating their blessings and harvest today with the Diwali festival. Dawali is an official holiday in India, Nepal, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Fiji , and Suriname.  The annual holiday gives a chance to spend time with family and friends and give thanks. Much like Thanksgiving, the origins of the holiday are believed to be a celebration for a successful harvest.

The festival begins at sunrise with family reunions and the swapping of treats, and continues throughout the day as families perform traditional games and activities together. Another traditional custom is the placement of lights outside of houses, which has gotten more elaborate over the years – much like the Macy’s Day Parade floats!

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