Around the World in Five Springs
Blossom. Pink. Longer days. More daylight. Baby animals. These are just some of the words that surface my mind when envisaging Spring – the classics. As Spring is an annual season, there is no doubt that it becomes challenging to offer a fresh perspective without boring readers to death. After much contemplation and research, it was decided. Colourful, flowery, wet and fiery, I present to you a list of festivals celebrated around the world which are either associated with, or welcome Spring.
> Tulip Festival – Canada Canada’s Tulip Festival was first celebrated in 1953 and is symbolic of friendship and international peace. The festival showcases over 1,000,000 tulips and is usually held in Ottawa, Canada’s capital. It is said to be one of the largest tulip festivals in the world, welcoming friends and families to engage in festivities including live performances and art exhibitions. The historical roots of the festival go back to World War Two, when the Dutch royal family sought refuge in Ottawa, during the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands. At the end of the war, the Royal family sent 100,000 tulips as a way of showing their gratitude. This year, the festival will take place from the 11th of May until the 21st.
> Holi – India Also known as the ‘festival of colours’, Holi is traditionally celebrated by Hindus and is increasingly being recognised by communities across the globe. Holi has gained recognition from Rangwali Holi; the second day, where people are given a chance to throw coloured powder mixed with water at each other all in the name of fun. Based on various religious stories in Hinduism, it is representative of good conquering evil. It focuses on equality, a time where differences such as age, gender and caste may be eliminated. The day before is Holika Dahan where bonfires are lit to symbolise the burning of the demon Holika by God Vishnu. This year, Holi will take place at the beginning of March. 14