- #1
Loren Booda
- 3,125
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As the winter solstice approaches, how do you plan to commemorate the return of lengthening days?
How will you celebrate a festival of light?
- Thread starter Loren Booda
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In summary, the winter solstice is a time to celebrate the lengthening of days by doing things like getting a job, having food and alcohol, and sleeping.
- #2
check
- 145
- 0
I think I'll celibrate by getting a job.
- #3
franznietzsche
- 1,504
- 6
Much food, alcohol, and sleep. And then winter quarter starts. Bah.
- #4
Smurf
- 443
- 3
Sounds good to me, I think I'll do that too!
- #5
BobG
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
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That's a pretty big celebration here in Colorado Springs. We have a "Festival of Lights" parade, biggest parade of the year.
It's almost as cool as the hot air balloon festival we have every year around Labor Day.
It's almost as cool as the hot air balloon festival we have every year around Labor Day.
- #6
relskid
- 33
- 0
sitting around, doing nothing, or spending all my free time studying or working.
there's a thin line between those two.
there's a thin line between those two.
- #7
Andy
- 73
- 12
Festival of light? Is that one of those festivals where everyone gets their fag lighters out?
- #8
Moonbear
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
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Loren, I love that you phrased it that way. When I was in college, we had a ceremony at the chapel each year that brought together the common theme of all the winter holiday celebrations...light. But, keep in mind, they aren't to celebrate the lengthening of days, but to appeal to the gods to stop shortening them. That's been my understanding, that ancient people feared the days would continue shortening until the sun went out, so had the holidays to appease the gods to ask for the light back.
Anyway, I'll be celebrating Christmas at my sister's house, around a tree decorated in blue and white Hannukah ornaments, seeing if I can win the coveted "favorite aunt" award as I spoil my nephew with a huge pile of presents. The only thing I REALLY miss is that my brother-in-law doesn't eat ham, so we never get a Christmas ham anymore. Ham, I want ham! I live alone, I can't make a whole ham for myself, so I want a Christmas ham! Jews are no good at making traditional Christmas dinners.
Anyway, I'll be celebrating Christmas at my sister's house, around a tree decorated in blue and white Hannukah ornaments, seeing if I can win the coveted "favorite aunt" award as I spoil my nephew with a huge pile of presents. The only thing I REALLY miss is that my brother-in-law doesn't eat ham, so we never get a Christmas ham anymore. Ham, I want ham! I live alone, I can't make a whole ham for myself, so I want a Christmas ham! Jews are no good at making traditional Christmas dinners.
- #9
Loren Booda
- 3,125
- 4
How scary it must have been for the ancients to anticipate that the Sun might eventually wink out. Now all we need concern with is for the darn thing to go nova!
FAQ: How will you celebrate a festival of light?
How do different cultures celebrate festivals of light?
Different cultures have unique ways of celebrating festivals of light. For example, in India, Diwali is celebrated by lighting diyas (oil lamps) and setting off fireworks. In Jewish culture, Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting a menorah and exchanging gifts. In Christianity, Christmas is celebrated by decorating homes with lights and exchanging gifts.
What is the significance of celebrating festivals of light?
Festivals of light often have religious or cultural significance. They can represent the triumph of good over evil, the renewal of life, or the victory of light over darkness. These festivals also serve as a time for communities to come together and celebrate their shared beliefs and traditions.
How can I celebrate a festival of light in an environmentally friendly way?
To celebrate a festival of light in an environmentally friendly way, you can use energy-efficient LED lights instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. You can also opt for eco-friendly decorations made from sustainable materials. Additionally, consider using natural sources of light, such as candles or solar-powered lights, to reduce energy consumption.
What are some traditional foods associated with festivals of light?
Traditional foods vary depending on the festival and culture. For example, during Diwali, Indian families often prepare dishes such as samosas, kaju katli (cashew fudge), and gulab jamun (deep-fried dough balls in syrup). For Hanukkah, Jewish families may enjoy latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly donuts). Christmas is often associated with dishes like roasted turkey, gingerbread cookies, and fruitcake.
How can I involve my children in celebrating a festival of light?
There are many ways to involve children in celebrating a festival of light. You can teach them about the significance and traditions of the festival, involve them in making decorations or traditional foods, or have them participate in cultural activities such as dancing or singing. You can also take them to local events or festivals to experience the celebrations in person.