History of the Holiday: The roots of Brazilian Carnaval can be traced back to the European tradition of pre-Lenten celebrations, brought to Brazil by Portuguese colonizers in the 17th century. The modern Carnaval as it is known developed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, influenced by various musical styles such as samba, marchinhas, and frevo
Traditions and Symbols: Brazilian Carnaval is a lively festival with colorful costumes, music, and dancing. Samba schools compete in parades with extravagant floats and choreographed routines. Common symbols of Carnaval include masks, confetti, streamers, and the rhythmic beat of drums and percussion instruments
History of the Holiday: Chinese New Year dates back thousands of years and originated from ancient agrarian societies in China. It has evolved over time and is deeply rooted in Chinese culture
Traditions and Symbols: Red takes center stage, with decorations like lanterns and envelopes warding off evil spirits and beckoning good fortune. Reunion dinners overflow with symbolic dishes like fish (representing abundance) and dumplings (signifying wealth), while lion and dragon dances bring thunderous blessings and chase away misfortune
Traditions and Symbols: Traditionally, exchanging heartfelt messages penned on cards, often adorned with red hearts. The iconic red rose, symbolizing passionate love, remains a popular gift, along with chocolates, another symbol of sweetness and affection. Candlelit dinners and romantic gestures weave a tapestry of togetherness, while some cultures hold unique traditions, like exchanging handwritten poems or leaving anonymous love notes
Traditions and Symbols: Leap Day is associated with various traditions, customs, and superstitions. One of the most well-known traditions is the concept of women proposing marriage to men, particularly in countries like Ireland and Scotland