Purim: March 8

Purim is a public holiday in Israel.

Purim or Feast of Lots is a three-day festival in Israel celebrating the deliverance of the Jews from planned mass extermination by Haman, or Haman the Agagite, a high-ranking political minister of the Persian Empire. And as with all other public celebrations in Israel, Purim based itself in the Bible. Haman was extensively and generously described in the Book of Esther.

Israelites consider this day as one of the most important holidays in the country. The observance of Purim reminds each citizen about the victory and blessing for having been spared of the wrath and destructive plans of Haman against the Jews.

History of Israel Purim

The history of Purim is recorded in the Book of Esther, one of Old Testament’s (Hebrew Bible) books. The recordings in the book formed the basis of the celebration of Israel’s Purim and a living testament to the love of God according to the Jews.

Haman, a Persian nobleman, was described in the Book of Esther as the plotter to the total annihilation scheme of the Jews. His plan was later revealed by his wife and queen, Esther (Queen of Persia), as described in the book. The revelation allowed the Jews to prepare and plan for the destruction of their enemies instead.

The ruthless Haman was the Persian nobility during the time when the Jews were held in captivity during the reign of the Persian Empire in Babylonia. This captivity, popularly known as Babylonian captivity, clearly describes Jews’ exile from their homeland to Babylon.

Esther’s disapproved Haman’s plot to exterminate the Jews and requested the King of Babylon to allow the Jews to defend themselves. It was a bold move on Esther’s part as she was made aware of the possible consequence of her own action. The Fast of Esther describes how he notified the Jews of this impending danger and how she fast for the purpose of saving the Jews from Haman’s wrath.

Esther required the Jews to celebrate the merriment celebration of the occasion and to perform charity to the less fortunate (Esther 9:22,28).

Israel Purim: Traditions, Customs and Activities

Purim is considered as a national holiday in Israel. Although it is a public holiday, government and private offices still operate aside from other areas that were restricted from doing so during the celebration. Prayers are read called Al ha-Nissim (For the Miracles) three times within the day at specific time usually in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Book of Esther required all Jews to feast during the occasion. Celebration within the house of worship such as the Jewish synagogue is allowed during that time including lambasting the name of Haman verbally or in action, a practice dates back to the medieval times.

A certain degree of boisterousness is also allowed during the celebration some of which includes stamping of the feet when Haman’s name is mentioned including widespread hissing and rattling. Some would even write Haman’s name on a piece of paper and put them on the soles of their foot as a sign of disrespect.

Jews celebrate the festival cheerfully by allowing children to dress up and play characters involved in Purim where most saunter the streets with masks. They sometimes join in parades or parties in carnival mood. During this occasion, people are allowed to drink, indulge in food, and conduct public performances including street concerts, parties both public and private. To add to the festive mood, a noisemaker or Purim gragger called ‘ra’ashan’ by some Jews is spun whenever people mention Haman’s name on the street.

Over the years, performing any form of charity and gift giving has also popular in some families. The holiday is likened to that of Halloween in the US. For tourists, this is the best time to visit Israel and take part in a festive mood. Make sure that you book months before as hotel room prices skyrocket during the actual celebration.

Independence Movement: March 1

Independence Movement is a public holiday in South Korea

South Koreans commemorate the liberation movement that happened in March 1, 1919 against the Japanese occupational period of the country. The popular event has caused the lives of more than 7,000 brave Koreans who bravely resisted the occupation on that date spreading to all parts and major cities of South Korea. The movement is also called ‘Manse Demonstrations’ or ‘Samil Movement.’

History of South Korea’s Independence Movement

The start of South Korea’s demonstration was sparked by the proclamation made by the then US President Woodrow Wilson at the Paris Peace Conference in 1999. The Paris Peace Conference was a meeting held by the winners of World War I where participating countries discuss important issues surrounding peace agreement and how Germany would pay repatriation to all the winners of war.

Upon hearing the news, Korean students who were then studying in Tokyo began writing publications calling for the Independence of the South Korean nation. The declaration of the independence was made at Taehwagwan Restaurant in Seoul were 33 journalists were there to cover the issue and read the publication in front of the crowd.

The Declaration of Independence of South Korea was written by the historian and writer Choe Nam-seon (April 26, 1890- October 10, 1957) and the Buddhist poet monk Manhae (August 29, 1879 – June 29, 1944). The peace declaration was then sent to Japan’s Governor General at that time where the latter informed the central police station in Seoul to halt and arrest people who are taking part in public demonstration.

Even before the declaration of the independence was made, people in the media took part in demonstrating just how unjust the Japanese government is when it comes to labor laws, election and appointment to public offices, imposition of taxes, state administration, employment, education, among other things. They pointed out reasons why the Koreans are suffering from the hands of the Japanese government and why independence is needed. The manifold complaints were all influenced by Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points’ speech.

One student, in the name of Chung Jae-yong as written in some literature, read the declaration of independence publicly amidst of all the nationwide tensions created by it. The declaration attracted huge crowd and even before the Japanese people knew it, there were already thousands of people at Pagoda Park taking part in the processions for peace and independence of the region. Meanwhile, delegates throughout the important region of South Korea also made the same declaration and read it in front of attending crowd. At the height of the nationwide declaration, the Japanese Imperial forces in the area were instructed to dissolve the surmounting resistance against Japanese occupation leading to the deliberate killing of procession partakers.

The more than 2 million Koreans who participated in the more than 1,500 demonstrations across the country faced punishment where many of whom were massacred by the Japanese army, military police, and navy. In an attempt to curtail the growing resistance, the Japanese forces locked male protestors inside a church and burned all of them alive.

The massive loss of lives in this event led to a change in Japan’s administration of South Korea and paved the way for the limited press freedom and allowed women more social and educational opportunities. Some of the most notable women during that time were Sin yoja and Yoja kye.

The result of the movement also gave way for the establishment of Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea stationed China acting as government in exile. Koreans later achieved independence from Japanese rule after coordinated attacks to Japanese forces culminating from the Battle of Chingsanli of 1920, formation of Korean Liberation Army in 1940, to the surrender of Japanese after the end of World War II.

Today, the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in Shanghai, China are preserved and now serves as museums. In 1949, the Korean Government designated March 1 as South Korea’s Independence Movement, a national holiday commemorating those who perished in the demonstration calling for peace and independence of South Korea from the Japanese Government.

South Korea’s Independence Movement: Traditions, Customs and Activities

South Korea celebrates the holiday with parades and street concerts. It is normal to see women wearing traditional Korean dress during the celebration. Non-government organizations and youth associations also organize talks that tackle important current social and political issues and to give honor to people involved in the powerful demonstrations which led to the eventual independence of the country.

Other interesting posts:

• South Korea Independence Day
• Children’s Day in South Korea
• South Korea Family Day needs rewriting

Independence Day of Dominican Republic: February 27

Independence Day is a public holiday in Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic (DR), one of the major island countries in the Carribean, observes its yearly celebration of Independence Day every 27th of February. Dominican Republic share borders with Haiti in the Hispaniola region in the Carribean. The country holds a number of establishments (cathedral, universities, castles, etc.) listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The country is known to have the most advanced technological communication in the Carribean islands and boast itself with its self-sustaining sugar production in the region and an economic infrastructur built upon the foundation of liberal economy. To date, The Dominican Republic holds second place in terms of size of economy in the Carribean.

Dominican Republic is a famous tourist attraction in the Carribean. Golf courses, beautiful beaches and lakes, and hiking sites are the top tourist destinations. DR prides itself with its varied colourful culture and having a great number of talented baseball players.

History of Dominican Republic Independence Day

Dominican Republic is under foreign rule from 16th to the early part of the 19th century. The Spain, France, and Haiti share part of the occupation of the country during the three century of foreign invasion. Dominican Republic however initially declared its independence in 1821 but was re-occupied by Haiti thereafter. It once again regained its short-lived independence when it waged war against the Haitians in 1844 in the Dominican War of Independence. Spain later regained control of the area for the more than seven decades until United States took over in 1916 which lasted more than eight years (1924).

Dominican Republic experienced peace and order under the leadership of Horacio Vásquez Lajara whch served as president from 1924 and 1930. The lawlessness following the assassination of the famous DR dictator Rafael Leonidas Trujillo Molina, has led the then U.S. President Lyndon Johnson of the United States to invade Dominican Republic once again for fear that the country might follow Cuba’s footstep in 1965. The invasion was meant to restore order, cease civil wars, and installs a new government for the county and to stop the spread of Communist government in the Carribean. Year after the invasion, election started and Dominican Republic has once again declared independence from internal and foreign invasion.

Dominican Republic Independence Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

The celebration of Independence Day in Dominican Republic is considered a non-working holiday day to all salaried employees. Public officials including the president offer speeches in public. People either spend their time at home resting or go to public places to watch free concerts, watch parades or other cultural shows.

Other interesting posts:

• Dominican Republic celebrates Restoration Day
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Liberation Day: February 26

Liberation Day is celebrated as a public holiday in Kuwait

Every year aside from their National Day, Kuwait also celebrates is Liberation Day every 26th of February. This official public holiday is celebrated in honor of the country’s independence from Iraq after the first Gulf War.

History of Liberation Day in Kuwait

From the time Kuwait has been released by the British, The government of Iraq found Kuwait to be promising because of the discovery of large oil reserves of the country. In fact, on 1952, the country became the largest exporter of oil in the Persian Gulf Region. Being one of the wealthiest regions in the Arabian subcontinent, Kuwait’s economy sky rocketed and attracted several opportunities from foreign countries.

However, it was on 1982 that Kuwait gone through a short period of deterioration in economic standing and prices in oil all went down. During the Iran-Iraq war, the Kuwaiti market finally recovered and even managed to fund Iraq for eight years on its battle against Iran. But conflict started to develop between Iraq and Kuwait when the latter refused to pardon the former on its billion dollar accountability.

Disagreement developed between the two countries and on 1990, Iraq finally declared war and invaded Kuwait. Because of this, the Persian Gulf War was established which participated by over 34 nations who wished to dismiss the Iraqi rule over Kuwait.

And finally, on February 26, 1991, Iraq’s authority over Kuwait was abolished declaring the country as independent and on full sovereignty.

Liberation Day in Kuwait Traditions, Customs and Activities

The Liberation Day celebration of Kuwaiti is celebrated by the whole country with pride and salutation as the country was able to make a stand and run on its own.

It is a whole day of public gatherings and parades participated and organized by many different civic groups and government organizations. The country also remembers the 605 Prisoners of War who are still in the hands of the Iraqi government up to the present time.

Other interesting posts:

• National Day in Kuwait
• Iraq Celebrates Liberation Day
• Liberation Day Celebrated in Afghanistan

International Marathon: February 25

Tahiti International Marathon is a public holiday in Tahiti

Tahiti International Marathon, or more commonly called Moorea International Marathon is a yearly athletic celebration in Tahiti. It is described as an ‘exotic’ way to exercise and race while you’re in a relaxing vacation on a beautiful Island nation. The marathon has varying length although a 5 km fun run is specifically provided to be joined by an entire family on vacation both for locals and foreigners visiting the area.

The marathon offers visiting athletes with four race game to choose from: 42km, 21km, 5km, and the Family Run. This event is not heavily participated by athletes but also by families or couples who are there to experience the beautiful sceneries and beaches of Tahiti.

History of Tahiti International Marathon

Every year, Tahiti organizes the Tahiti-Moorea International Marathon and asked athletes from different countries to participate in this yearly festivity. The marathon is known for its non-competitive and relaxing feel and theme. Those who have participated in the marathon in the past would surely endorse the breath-taking sceneries around the region especially the areas around the designated track in the long-distance foot race.

The first Tahiti-Moorea International Marathon was organized in 1988 although a local marathon event already took place in one of the Islands of Tahiti in 1971. Tahitians organized this event as a result of the 4th South Pacific Games. It used to be a local event, but due to its local success and the feedback coming from the foreign participants who happened to be in the area, the marathon then opened its door to International athletes who are keen on experiencing an exceptional foot race along the islands of Tahiti. The race starts at Temae beach and runs through the Cook and Opunohu bays.

Tahiti International Marathon: Traditions, Customs and Activities

Apart from the joyful racing among participants, tourists also enjoy other fun activities sponsored by the Tahiti community. Street dancing and free concerts awaits everybody with grand fireworks at night.

Cultural events showcasing Tahiti culture and tradition are also held in entertainment theatres and streets for the public to enjoy. These and other activities aim to drive awareness on the beauty of Tahiti culture and tradition and what the Island can offer international travellers.

Other interesting posts:

• Tahiti Observes Internal Autonomy Day
• Syria Marks International Tourism Day
• International Children’s Day Observed in Many Parts of the World

National Day: Feb 25

National Day is a public holiday in Kuwait.

Kuwait celebrates its yearly National Day celebration every 25th of February. The National Day is the most celebrated holiday in this Arab country. The history behind Kuwait’s National Day is intertwined with its friendship with the British when it became its protectorate in 1897. The British protected the country against the invasion by the Turks in the same year.

1961 is a year when the British totally gave Kuwait the freedom it deserves. The independence of Kuwait from British rule was eyed upon by the Iraq government during that time. However, the invasion was resisted both by the country and the British. The combined movement by both countries made way for the declaration of independence.

History of Kuwait’s National Day

Kuwait has long been friends with the British. The history behind this camaraderie dates back to the late 19th century when the Turks were a threat to the existence of Kuwait. Because of this, the Kuwaiti government sought British protection to protect its borders. The protection accorded by Britain to Kuwait lasted until 1961 but the former agreed to give Kuwait the protection it needs upon request.

The Iraq government took advantage of the release of Kuwait from British protection as a chance to invade and take control of Kuwait. But since Kuwait is still protected by the British military at some degree its request for military support for the British was responded with complete urgency.

The Arab League, composed of Arab nations in Southwest Asia and Northeast Africa also sent troops to defend Kuwait from Iraq’s attack. This forced Iraq to drop its invasion plans and retreat and give Kuwait complete independence which coincides the Arab League’s recognition of Kuwait independence in July 20, 1961. A series of war against Iraq followed including the Persian Gulf War between August 2, 1990 and February 28, 1991 which was done to remove Iraq’s annexation of Kuwait. Since then, Kuwait stood as a neutral country mainly mediating from conflicts between countries in the Middle East.

Kuwait’s Independence Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

National Day in Haiti is a time for Kuwaitis to spend time with one another. Often, Kuwaiti family visits their friends and other family members out of town or go to the beach or roam around the street and the local malls. Get-togethers and family reunions are also organized. The great number of people is seen in beaches such as the Messila Beach, the Green Island, and in parks (Al-Sha’ab Leisure Park).

Buildings and small business establishments both public and private are decorated with colourful lights. Hotels are famous for putting up lights with color patterns much like that of the nation’s flag. And by sunset, the whole city colors itself with spectacular display of light and fireworks that impresses both locals and tourists.

Kuwaiti wears national costume as part of the holiday tradition and to showcase nationalism among the locals. The children and the young-at-heart also spray playful colored foams to one another in the road adding up to the excitement brought about by state-sponsored celebrations and festivities.

Other interesting posts:

• Kuwait Celebrates Liberation Day
• National Iraqi Day Celebrated in Iraq
• Qatar celebrates National Day

Independence Day of Estonia: February 24

Independence Day is a public holiday in Estonia.

Estonia celebrates its independence every 24th of February each year. Originally, Estonians declared independence on February 24, 1918 until the Soviet Union (SU) occupied the country in 1940 before the start of World War II. SU’s occupation of Estonia ended on August 21, 1991 which is brought about by the unstable political status of the socialist state.

History of Estonia Independence Day

Estonia has been subjected to foreign rule. The history has it that Estonia was once occupied by rulers of Denmark, Catholic religious order called Teutonic Order, Sweden and Germany. During the last phase of occupation of Estonia by the Russians was marked with national enlightenment through the Estophile Enlightenment Period which happened between 1750 and 1840.

The enlightenment period was clearly a result of the introduction of rational thinking among the native Estonians in the city from Baltic Germans who share existence with Estonians in the region. This resulted in national propaganda that led to the production of prints in native Estonian language.

After the two year (1918–1920) Estonian War of Independence, Estonia regained its independence under the Tartu Peace Treaty. But after more than 20 years, the World War II brought forth another challenge to Estonia’s national integrity and security and it once again succumbed to the forces of the Soviet Union and later by the Nazis during the war. After the battle against the Germans ensued and with the weakening German influence in the area, the Soviet Union once again occupied the country in 1944.

Soviet Union maintained control over the entire country until the latter part of the 20th century (1991-1944). United States, United Kingdom and France criticized SU for its territorial incorporation (annexation) of Estonia. The pressure made by the call to release Estonia and put it back to what it was and Russia’s internal political issues further weakened the latter’s hold to the country.

The Signing Revolution happened between 1987 and 1990 and the Baltic Way in August 23, 1989 by Latvians, Estonians, and Lithuanians were key to the declaration of Independence of these Baltic countries; the former is a mass demonstration in Tallinn Song Festival Grounds while the latter is a public demonstration where approximately two million people participated in joining hands that calls for the independence of the above three Baltic states from Russia.

In the ensuing years, the Estonian Sovereignty Declaration laid claim to the sovereignty of Estonia over Russia and a few years later, on August 20, 1991 Estonia declared complete independence from Russia. Iceland was the first to recognize Estonia’s independence. SU troops eventually retreated until the last batch of soldiers left in August 31, 1994.

Estonia’s Independence Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

Estonians raise flags both in homes and public and private offices during Independence Day which is pretty much the same as how other countries celebrate Independence. The flag’s tri-color pattern is symbolic of Estonia’s history (blue) and dark past (black) and those that naturally occurs in nature (snow; white).

During the event, Estonians organize concerts, contests (Guinness World Record attempts), and large scale games and festivities happening in major cities around Estonia. Sports marathons such as relay race are also conducted.

Other interesting posts:

• Estonia Remembers Victory Day
• Russia Celebrates Its Independence
• Lithuania Celebrates Independence Day

Republic Day: February 23

Republic Day is a public holiday in Guyana.

Guyana celebrates Republic Day or Mashramani (abbreviated as ‘Mash) on February usually on the 23rd. Guyanese citizens enjoy festive and colourful parades much like that of a carnival, music, and games. Guyanese cook on this special day to mark the birth of a new country.

Mashramani should not be confused with the country’s Independence Day on May 26. After it gained independence from the British in 1966, the Guyanese people established itself as an independent nation or a democratic sovereign country as stated in the British Commonwealth of 1970.

The word Mashramani is an Amerindian word which means to celebrate/celebrating a job well done. It is the most celebrated holiday in Guyana as floats, parades and masquerade party and dancing flood the street a scenery which reflects the country’s proud African heritage.

History of Guyana’s Republic Day

For most foreigners, the idea of celebrating Guyanese Republic Day might be construed with celebrating Independence Day. While the country’s Independence Day marks the act of the British in relegating the sovereignty Guyana have long been wanting for, it is the Republic Day where the Guyanese commemorates the establishment of a sovereign republic after being granted independence from the British rule.

Carnival-like celebration in Guyana has long been practiced in Mackenzie by local members of Junior Chamber International (JCI) or Jaycees. The celebration of Guyana’s Republic Day coincided with the establishment of Jaycees Republic Celebrations Committee headed by Basil Butcher but it was Jim Blackman was appointed to do the job because Butcher had to join the West Indies Cricket Team during that time. Blackman, along with other personnel, organized the first formal government-sponsored carnival activity to happen in Guyana.

Butcher was the one to initially suggest that the name of the festival be based on Amerindian word. Amerindian is a language spoken by indigenous people of the Americas who are sometimes called upon as Native Americans or American Indian. One of Butcher’s personnels, Mr. Allan Fietdkow, a native Amerindian, helped Butcher in coming up with a name for the festival through his consultation with his grandfather. Ultimately, the word Mashramani was suggested.

The first Mashramani in February 23, 1970 was a huge success and well-accepted by the locals; because of that, a government official named David Singh suggested that the festival be brought to the country’s capital – Georgetown. It later was given approval by the president of Guyana back then (President Forbes Burnham).

The celebration of Mashramani is done in various regions in Guyana including Berbice, Linden, and Georgetown but due the largest concentration of events usually happen in Georgetown due in part to sponsorship both from private and public institutions and individuals..

Guyana’s Republic Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

Guyana’s constitutional milestone is celebrated with float parade, dancing and singing, and other fun activities. It aims to mobilize professionals, private individuals, and the youth in participating in the country’s celebration of the country’s political success. The three-day festival is joined by people from all walks of life coming from different regions in Guyana. The Mardi-Gras like celebration encourages both men and women to participate in street dancing and parade wearing colourful costumes. There is no other holiday to look forward to in Guyana other than the fun-filled carnival-like celebration of Republic Day.

Other interesting posts:

• Celebration of the Declaration Day of the Second Republic of Guinea
• Iran’s Annual Celebration of the Islamic Republic Day
• Republic Day Commemorated in the Republic of the Congo

Shaheed Day: February 21

Shaheed Day is celebrated as a public holiday in Bangladesh

Shaheed Day is observed as a National Mourning Day for Bangladesh which is held in memory of the students of Dhaka University who were killed on their battle to protect Bangla as their National language. It is also known to the citizens as Martyrs’ Day and it is one of the most solemnly celebrated holidays in Bangladesh.

History of Shaheed Day in Bangladesh

Bangladesh honors a lot of public national holidays where people rejoice and celebrate for the occasion. Travelers and tourists visit the country all year round to witness and be a part of the Bangladesh tradition. However, there is one holiday in Bangladesh in which the people commemorate the day with grief- The Shaheed Day.

During the 1950′s, the government passed a bill in which its purpose it to proclaim Urdu and Urdu alone as the national state language of Pakistan. And since Bangladesh was then under the ruling power of Pakistan, the Bangladeshis objected to abandon Bangla or Bengali as their official language.

Because of their attempt to fight for the Bengali language, a few brave souls in which majority are students they established rallies and protests against the Pakistani government’s decision. Since the movement was defiance in accordance with the laws of Pakistan, the regime decided to disperse the activists. They had them arrested, persecuted, sentenced to criminal acts and the worst that happened was that hundreds of these protesters were shot and killed.

Because the official language issue turned out to be a chaos in the whole Pakistan, including Bangladesh, the government had to give in and recognize Bengali as the state language of Bangladesh.

Shaheed Day in Bangladesh Traditions, Customs and Activities

In memory of this tragic event in the history of Bangladesh, Shaheed day which happens every 21st of February became the country’s National Mourning Day and is observed in great respect and honor.

During this day, the people wear black and white which signifies their mourning for their martyrs who fought for their language. Most families spend the holiday with quiet activities and offer garlands and flowers to the Minay as a sign of respect.

Presidents’ Day in the USA: February 20

Presidents’ Day is celebrated as a public holiday in the United States of America and its territories.

The United States of America honors and celebrates their yearly Presidents’ Day which is held every third Monday of the month of February. The event is also known as Washington’s Birthday and is considered as a federal holiday in the United States.

History of Presidents’ Day in the USA

President George Washington’s Birthday has long been celebrated by the United States. In essence, it was initially celebrated by the public during the 18th century while President Washington was still in the federal office.

Prior to its official date that the Americans presently observe, the official celebration day for Washington’s Birthday was proclaimed by the 4th Congress to be every February 22nd . But when the Monday Holidays Act was passed by the Congress on 1968, the celebration was formally moved to every third Monday of February in which it was officially named Presidents’ Day in honor of the birthdays of two of the country’s presidents since February is also the birth month of Abraham Lincoln.

The Monday Holidays Act, upon initiation received a lot of negative response as it affected a lot of federal holidays apart from Washington’s Birthday like Memorial Day and Veterans Day. However, its purpose was later on made clear to the public because a lot of American families benefited from this 3-day long weekend by allowing one more additional day for them to spend time with their families together at the same time, promoting tourism in the country.

Presidents’ Day Traditions, Customs and Activities

In today’s generation, the President’s Day holiday would mean a lot of sale and special promotions to different stores all over the country. On the other hand, the true spirit of the celebration is never forgotten to be remembered by the people for it is in this day that they give respect and salutation to what the country is considering as the “Father of the People” and its first ever president.

This is also a chance for educational institutions and civic groups to educate, especially the children about the history of the United States and teach the social responsibilities as citizens of the nation.

Other interesting posts:

• Botswana Presidents Day
• Martin Luther King, Jr. is Commemorated in the United States
• Groundhog Day Celebrated in the United States and Canada