Category: Culture

Last time, I specifically discussed the Mid-Autumn Festival in China. However, this holiday occurs in other countries, including Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and other eastern and southeastern Asian countries. While all of these celebrations resemble China’s Mid-Autumn Festival, they all have noticeable differences worth discussing. In Japan, the Mid-Autumn Festival is called Tsukimi. This holiday also… Read more

One of the unique ways that people can celebrate Asian cultures, or any culture, as a matter of fact, is through cultural festivals. Defined as a ​​celebration of the traditions of a particular people or place, cultural festivals allow others to engage with the cultures of other groups. If you’re interested in learning more about… Read more

Vesak, also known as Buddha Day, is one of the most significant festivals in the Buddhist calendar, celebrated by millions of Buddhists around the world. This auspicious day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha. Observed on the full moon day in May, the date varies across countries due… Read more

While many people associate the month of May with spring, flowers, or even school coming to an end, it’s also considered Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States. The purpose of this month is to recognize the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders on the United States. History… Read more

Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year festival, is celebrated annually from April 13 to 15. Known for its vibrant water festivities, Songkran marks the beginning of the solar year and is a time for renewal, cleansing, and family gatherings. The name “Songkran” comes from the Sanskrit word “Saṅkrānti,” which means “astrological passage,” reflecting its significance… Read more

Many of you have probably heard the name Holi, but what is it? The Hindu holiday is known as the “Festival of Colors” because of the vibrant colors involved, celebrating the arrival of spring and the end of winter. This year, the festival is taking place in a couple of days on March 25. How… Read more

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by over a billion Muslims worldwide. Lasting 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon, the holiday is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a period dedicated to deepening one’s… Read more

With Lunar New Year approaching, I would like to share a little bit about what this holiday entails. If I were to tell you to imagine what Lunar New Year is like, what would you think of? Chinese Lanterns? Dragon dances? Well, Lunar New Year is a lot more than how many people imagine it.… Read more