All the world’s a party: What my husband & I have learned as traveling nomads
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Investigative Report: The World’s Festivals and Celebrations Bring Joy in Grim Times
In a world plagued by grim news and constant negativity, it is important to take a step back and reflect on the positive aspects of life. One such aspect that often goes unnoticed is the abundance of festivals and celebrations that take place all over the world. These events not only bring communities together but also serve as a source of joy and respite from the hardships of everyday life. In this investigative report, we will explore the phenomenon of festivals and celebrations and their significance in our global society.
As avid travelers, my husband Michael and I have had the privilege of experiencing numerous festivals firsthand. From the Calle Ocho Music Festival in Miami, Florida, to the Festa della Bruna in Matera, Italy, we have been immersed in the vibrant energy and cultural richness of these events. What initially seemed like a stroke of luck soon turned into a pattern as we found ourselves stumbling upon festivals in every destination we visited.
The Calle Ocho Music Festival, a celebration of Cuban heritage, was our first introduction to the world of festivals. With over a million visitors, it is considered the largest street fair in the world. Salsa music filled the air as we indulged in delicious food and immersed ourselves in the festive atmosphere. Little did we know that this was just the beginning of our festival-filled journey.
Malta, our next destination, was named a European Capital of Culture, and the country pulled out all the stops to celebrate this accolade. Fireworks lit up the night sky as we marveled at the medieval castle that dominated the cityscape. The festivities continued as we explored Matera, Italy, where we stumbled upon the Festa della Bruna. This local festival, described by a friend as more important than Christmas or Easter, involved a procession of an ancient statue of the Virgin Mary on a papier-mâché wagon. The highlight of the festival was when the townspeople tore the wagon apart, believing that possessing a piece would bring them luck for the upcoming year.
Our festival adventures continued as we traveled to Bansko, Bulgaria, where we found ourselves in the middle of a famous jazz festival. The vibrant music filled the air as we danced and celebrated alongside locals and fellow travelers. From there, we embarked on a journey through Asia and experienced the Songkran festival in Thailand. This water-purification ritual, which involves a massive country-wide water fight, was a testament to the Thai people’s ability to embrace joy and let go of any frustrations.
From Hội An, Vietnam’s monthly festival of lanterns to Swiss National Day in the Swiss Alps, we found ourselves immersed in celebrations that showcased the unique traditions and heritage of each culture. Pride celebrations in Sarajevo, Belgrade, and Istanbul reminded us of the importance of standing up for equality and inclusion, even in countries where such gatherings are illegal. Christmas markets, Sinterklaas arrival in the Netherlands, and Australia’s grand celebration of the fifty-year anniversary of the Sydney Opera House were just a few of the many festive experiences we encountered along our journey.
Reflecting on our festival-filled travels, it became clear that these celebrations serve as a reminder of our shared humanity. Regardless of cultural differences or geographical distances, human beings have an inherent need to come together and have fun. Festivals and celebrations provide an outlet for joy, allowing communities to bond and create lasting memories. In a world plagued by division and negativity, these events offer a beacon of hope and unity.
While it may seem like luck that we found ourselves in the midst of these festivals, there is a deeper reason behind our experiences. As nomads, we tend to stay in city centers among locals rather than tourist hubs, allowing us to witness the true essence of a culture. Additionally, the universal desire for celebration and enjoyment transcends borders and manifests itself in festivals and traditions worldwide.
In conclusion, festivals and celebrations are not simply events meant for entertainment; they are an integral part of our global society. They bring people together, foster cultural understanding, and provide a much-needed respite from the challenges of everyday life. In times of darkness, it is crucial to acknowledge the power of joy and celebration. So let us embrace the spirit of festivity and find solace in the fact that, no matter how grim the world may seem, there will always be a reason to celebrate.
Brent Hartinger is a screenwriter and author, who, along with his husband Michael, explores the world as traveling gay digital nomads.
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