The 14 Holidays
So many people get offended when someone says “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas” but did you know that Happy Holidays is actually the most respectful way to provide a warm sentiment to others? There are no less than 14 holidays between Thanksgiving and Christmas and not all of them are based on strictly Christian beliefs. The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is one of the most festive times of the year, filled with a variety of holidays that are celebrated by different cultures and traditions. Here’s a look at those 14 holidays that bring joy and togetherness during this special season:
1. Thanksgiving (Fourth Thursday in November)
Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season in the United States with a feast to express gratitude for the harvest and blessings of the past year. Families and friends gather to enjoy turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie.
2. Black Friday (Day after Thanksgiving)
Although not an official holiday, Black Friday has become a major shopping event, signaling the start of the Christmas shopping season with significant sales and discounts.
3. Hanukkah (Dates vary)
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It involves lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, and enjoying foods like latkes and sufganiyot.
4. Advent (Starts four Sundays before Christmas)
Advent is observed by many Christians as a time of preparation for Christmas. It involves lighting candles on an Advent wreath and reflecting on themes of hope, peace, joy, and love.
5. St. Nicholas Day (December 6)
Celebrated in many European countries, St. Nicholas Day honors the patron saint of children. It often involves giving small gifts or sweets to children, reminiscent of Santa Claus.
6. Bodhi Day (December 8)
Bodhi Day marks the day that Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Buddhists celebrate with meditation, study, and acts of kindness.
7. Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 12)
This important Catholic feast day commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego in Mexico. It is celebrated with masses, processions, and traditional music.
8. St. Lucia Day (December 13)
Observed mainly in Scandinavia, St. Lucia Day celebrates Saint Lucia, a martyr who brought food and aid to Christians hiding in the Roman catacombs. The day is marked with processions, singing, and saffron buns.
9. Las Posadas (December 16-24)
A Mexican tradition, Las Posadas re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before Jesus’ birth. Each night, participants go from house to house, singing and praying, ending with festivities and piñatas.
10. Winter Solstice (December 21 or 22)
The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. Celebrations vary, including Yule in pagan traditions, which involve lighting candles and fires to symbolize the return of light.
11. Christmas Eve (December 24)
Christmas Eve is celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and midnight masses in anticipation of Christmas Day. Many people also exchange gifts and decorate Christmas trees.
12. Christmas Day (December 25)
A global celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas Day is marked by festive meals, gift-giving, and various traditions such as caroling and nativity plays.
13. Kwanzaa (December 26 – January 1)
Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration of African-American culture and heritage, emphasizing seven principles: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.
14. New Year’s Eve (December 31)
New Year’s Eve marks the end of the year with parties, fireworks, and countdowns to midnight. It’s a time for reflection on the past year and anticipation of the new one.
This festive period is rich with cultural and religious celebrations, each bringing its own unique traditions and joy. Whether it’s through feasting, lighting candles, or spending time with loved ones, these holidays offer an opportunity to appreciate the diverse ways people come together to celebrate and reflect on the year.
May your holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and meaningful connections!