Celebrations Across Nations 5

Oktoberfest

Description: Oktoberfest started with the royal wedding of King Ludwig I
who married Princess Therese on October 12, 1810. Today, the
Oktoberfest in Munich is the largest festival in the world. In Germany, at
the huge Oktoberfest grounds there are also carousels, roller coasters
and all forms of fun for the enjoyment and excitement of visitors of all
ages. The festival has become a worldwide tradition—celebrated
throughout the world and not only in Germany.

Traditions: It is common to consume large amounts of beer.

Rosh Hashanah

Description: In Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah is the first day of the
first month called Tishrei. Rosh Hashanah marks the creation of Adam
and Eve. It also commences a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates into the Yom Kippur holiday.

Traditions: The month preceding Rosh Hashanah, the shofar (a ram’s
horn) is traditionally blown each morning for the entire month of Elul, as
well as lighting candles each evening, eating festive meals with sweet
delicacies during the day and night, and attending services at
synagogue.

St. Patrick's Day

Description: St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17, his religious
feast day and the anniversary of his death in the fifth century. St.
Patrick's Day falls during the Christian season of Lent. The Irish have
observed this day as a religious holiday for thousands of years. Today,
St. Patrick's Day is celebrated by people of all backgrounds.

Traditions: Many people wear something green on St. Patrick’s Day
which has become known as a way to celebrate Irish heritage. People
also wear Shamrocks to signify their Irishness because of its traditional
connection with St. Patrick.