Culture: Holidays by Ashiyana

The time between Thanksgiving and New Years is a joyous time filled with gatherings and time with family. Although this year presents some challenges with Covid 19, the holidays are still a wonderful time of year. Let’s learn about some holidays that happen during this time of year!

Thanksgiving - November 26, 2020

Thanksgiving commemorates a supposed feast between the Pilgrims, a group who arrived in the New World (what America was called prior to colonization) in the 1600s and the local Native population, the Wampanoags. While the historical accuracy of the feast and surrounding tales have been disputed, it is still a joyous holiday.

People celebrate by having a large dinner with family and friends. Dishes at the table include turkey (taking the whole day to prepare it), cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, green beans, and various dishes depending on cultural background.

Chanukah - December 10, 2020

Chanukah is a holiday celebrated by members of the Jewish faith. It celebrates victory over Greek religious persecution. It is also called the Festival of Lights. The festivities last 8 days and is a time spent with family.

Small gifts are also given to family and friends to mark the holiday.

Christmas - December 25, 2020

Christmas is a holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus. However, Christmas has become of cultural significance beyond religion as well. Some attend church on the morning of Christmas and many celebrate the day before as well. Gifts are often given and children can write letters or leave cookies for Santa.

There are many songs and games as well as other traditions associated with the holiday.

Kwanzaa - December 26, 2020

Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday, celebrated for 7 days beginning December 26th. It celebrates history, culture and community and began in California in 1966 by a man named Dr.Maulana Karenga.

There are 7 symbols associated with the holiday: the corn, the mat, the crops, the candle holder, the seven candles, the unity cup, and the gifts.

New Years Eve - December 31

New Years Eve is the day before the New Year where people gather with family and friends to celebrate the coming of a new year. People host parties and dress up.

There are many ways New Years Eve is celebrated and varies throughout the world based on culture. In America the most prominent celebration is in New York City with the annual ball-drop in Times Square.

The holidays are a joyous time of year meant to be celebrated together and has a warm spirit to it even if one does not celebrate a specific holiday.

The Angrezi Journey family wishes you a happy and safe holiday season!