an essay on festival in your community

Write An Essay On A Festival In Your Community

I’m excited to share with you all about a festival that holds a special place in my heart. It’s a time when our community comes together to celebrate, share joy, and create lasting memories. So, let’s dive into the details of this wonderful festival that brings so much happiness to everyone.

Table of Contents

Essay: A Vibrant Celebration – The Festival in My Community

Decorations and lights.

The festival in my community is truly a visual spectacle. As the festival approaches, our town starts to transform into a colorful and magical wonderland. Bright and vibrant decorations adorn the streets, houses, and public spaces. Imagine walking down the road with twinkling lights hanging from trees, and colorful banners dancing in the breeze. It’s like entering a world of enchantment where every corner holds a surprise of creativity and beauty.

Traditional Food

Ah, the aroma of delicious food fills the air during the festival. Traditional dishes, rich with flavors and history, are prepared with love and shared among families and friends. From aromatic curries to mouthwatering sweets, the festival offers a feast that tantalizes the taste buds. The heartwarming aspect is that these recipes are often handed down through generations, carrying the essence of our community’s culture and heritage.

Games and Activities

Laughter and cheers fill the festival grounds as people of all ages engage in various games and activities. The event is a hub of excitement and friendly competition. From sack races that tickle the funny bone to sackfuls of goodies for the winners, the festival is alive with the spirit of playfulness. There are games that challenge our skills, teamwork, and agility, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared enjoyment.

Dances and Music

Music, like a magic thread, weaves through the festival, connecting everyone in its rhythmic embrace. Dancing is an integral part of the celebration, and people of all ages join in, moving to the beat of the drums and the melodies that fill the air. From traditional folk dances that tell stories of our history to modern moves that add a contemporary touch, the dances are a reflection of our community’s vibrant spirit.

Traditional Clothes

As the festival approaches, the excitement of dressing in traditional attire builds up. Vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and elegant designs are showcased through these clothes, bringing out the unique cultural identity of our community. Donning these garments is not just about wearing fabric; it’s about wearing a piece of our history and proudly displaying our heritage to the world.

Sharing and Happiness

One of the most beautiful aspects of the festival is the sense of unity and togetherness it brings. The spirit of sharing is at its peak during this time. Families come together to prepare food, which is then distributed to everyone, regardless of age or background. The festival becomes a platform for strengthening bonds, spreading smiles, and reminding us all of the power of compassion and generosity.

Cultural Performances and Showcases

The festival is also a stage for showcasing our community’s talents and creativity. Cultural performances, from plays to music recitals, shine a light on our artistic expressions. Local artisans display their crafts, allowing everyone to appreciate the skills and artistry that exist within our community.

In conclusion, the festival in my community is not just a simple event; it’s a time of coming together, celebrating our culture, and building memories that will last a lifetime. From the enchanting decorations to the sumptuous food, from the joyous dances to the warm sharing of love, every aspect of the festival reflects the essence of our community. As we eagerly await its arrival each year, we’re reminded of the bonds that tie us together, the beauty of our traditions, and the happiness that radiates when we celebrate as one.

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✍️Essay on Festivals: Samples in 150, 250 Words

• Updated on  
• Nov 2, 2023

Festivals are the special occasions celebrated in every religion and country to follow their tradition . They are generally celebrated worldwide to pay tribute to God and Goddesses and to spread joy and positivity. India, known for its diversity and multiculturalism celebrates many festivals throughout the year. Festivals are the best part of the year as they contribute to the unity of the nation and add prosperity to the life of the people. India celebrates different categories of festivals such as regional festivals, seasonal festivals , annual festivals, and national festivals. Stay tuned and read the following essay on festivals!

Also Read: Speech on Dussehra in English

 Essay on Festivals of India 200 Words

Festivals in India are celebrated with great zeal. Indian festivals are worth witnessing as they are the most popular and colourful festivals. Be it Holi, the Queen Festival of Colours or Diwali the festival of crackers and rangoli, all are marked with great historical significance that tells about Indian Mythology. One of the most popular and biggest festivals in the world, Kumbh Mela, is also celebrated in India, where millions of devotees gather to offer their prayers.

Every festival has its own story and belief. People follow and respect their traditional values and do fasting on festivals like Chhath Puja , Govardhan Puja , Bhai Dooj , and Karwachauth. All these Indian festivals play an important role in uniting people belonging to different cultures in the same society. 

Apart from these festivals, Onam, Dussehra , Christmas, New Year, Raksha Bandha, etc are also celebrated in India. Republic Day , Gandhi Jayanti , and Independence Day are the National festivals of India which are government holidays in the Indian Calendar. 

Religious festivals include Eid-Ul-Fitr which ends with Ramadan celebrated by the Muslim community, Guru Nanak Jayanti held on 27 November 2023 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji celebrated by Sikhs, and Christmas celebrated on 25 December every year by Christians. 

Also Read: Why is Onam Celebrated: The Festival of Joy in Kerala 

Essay in Festivals 250 Words

India’s rich diversity and festivals unite people from different backgrounds. It joins people from different states and religions in a single thread for the celebration. Every occasion in India and different countries is celebrated with happiness and joy. Festivals bring joy and prosperity and create a sense of oneness.

The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest festivals in the world, which takes place at four pilgrimage sites in India; Ujjain, Prayagraj, Haridwar and Nashik. On this occasion, devotees take a ritual dip in the holy rivers of Shipra in Ujjain, Ganga-Yamuna-Sarasvati in Prayagraj, the Ganges in Hardwar, and Godavari in Nasik.

People follow the tradition of exchanging sweets and gifts on special occasions. National festivals are marked as Government holidays such as 2 October celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, 26 January celebrated as Republic Day, and 15 August celebrated as Independence Day.

One thing which you find common in all festivals is cleaning the house, decorating, and worshipping God. Festivals are auspicious occasions that bring good health, wealth, joy, and prosperity into the lives of people. 

Apart from the National festivals, Pongal, Onam, Baisakhi and Bihu celebrated in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Punjab and Assam respectively are the seasonal festivals celebrated with very high energy by the people of that particular state. Farmers in India worship God and Goddess of agriculture on such seasonal festivals to seek their blessings and wish for good yields for the successive years.

Thus, the festivals in the given essay on festivals tell about various cultures and diversity in a particular country and about the customs followed by the people in festivals to make them grand and happening.

Also Read: Importance of Makar Sankranti

Relevant Blogs

Festivals hold a significant role in the human life. They are important to continue the traditional culture, religion, and practices of that particular religion and region. It plays a key role in uniting people and filling up the communication gaps thereby increasing the social dependency of people.

Festivals are extraordinary events celebrated to commemorate the traditions followed by our ancestors. It holds a significant role in joining the society and passing on the traditions to the future generations. They create an ambience of positivity, joy, and prosperity all around. Every region and religion follows their own festivals worldwide. 

Festivals are the source of happiness. They are the best part of the year. Festivals are celebrated with people belonging to different cultures and religions and it helps in uniting them and enjoying the feeling of oneness and togetherness. 

Here are 10 lines on why we celebrate festivals: Festivals are a chance for everyone to unite for a cause; It is considered auspicious to conduct prayers and worship God and Goddess. ; People of different religions follow different customs and practices to celebrate festivals.; Festivals create a happy atmosphere all around; In India, people celebrate many festivals throughout the year; Holi and Diwali are the two main festivals in India; Decorating the surroundings, cleaning the house, worshipping god, wearing new clothes, and sharing good wishes, and gifts are some of the important elements of any festival; Festivals are considered incomplete without sweets; The special occasion builds friendship among the people and increases interdependency; These special days are celebrated with utmost pomp and enthusiasm. 

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu .

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Crafting the Perfect Festival Essay: Step-by-Step Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Festivals are an integral part of every culture around the world. They are celebrated w it h great enthusiasm and fervor, bringing together people from all walks of life. Whether it’s a religious festival, a cultural celebration, or a simple get-together, festivals play a vital role in shaping our social fabric . But what makes a festival special? Is it the food, the decorations, the music, or something else altogether? In this essay, I will explore the various aspects of festivals and their significance in our lives.

How Do You Write a Festival Essay?

A festival is a time for celebration, joy, and revelry. It brings people together, creates a sense of unity and belonging, and provides an opportunity to express oneself through art, music, dance, and food. However, if you are tasked with writing an essay about a festival, how do you go about doing so? Here are some tips to help you write a compelling festival essay:

• Choose a topic: The first step in writing any essay is to choose a topic. When it comes to a festival essay, your topic should revolve around the theme of the festival, its history, its significance, or its impact on society. For example, you could write about the origins of Halloween, the evolution of Carnival, or the cultural significance of Diwali.
• Research thoroughly: Once you have chosen your topic, it’s essential to conduct thorough research. Read books, articles, and online resources to gain a deep understanding of the festival and its context. Talk to experts, attend festivals, and observe the rituals and practices associated with them. This will help you develop a rich and nuanced perspective on the subject matter .
• Develop a thesis statement: Your thesis statement should clearly state the main argument or point of your essay. For instance, “The festival of Holi symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the victory of love over hate.” This statement sets the tone for the rest of your essay and helps guide your arguments.
• Outline your essay: An outline is a useful tool for organizing your thoughts and ensuring that your essay flows logically. Divide your essay into introductory, body, and concluding paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on one aspect of the festival and build upon the information presented earlier.
• Use de script ive language: Festivals are sensory experiences, so it’s important to incorporate vivid descriptions of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures into your essay. Use metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to create engaging imagery. For example, you might describe the colors of Holi as “a kaleidoscope of hues,” or the flavors of Indian cuisine as “a symphony of spices.”
• Provide historical context: Festivals often have a rich history, so don’t neglect to include details about their origins and evolution. Explain why certain customs and practices were adopted and how they have changed over time. This will add depth and complexity to your essay.
• Discuss the significance of the festival: Every festival has a purpose or meaning behind it. Explore this significance in your essay and explain how the festival reflects the values and beliefs of the culture it originates from. For example, you might discuss how the festival of Christmas represents the birth of Jesus Christ and the message of love and redemption he brought.
• Conclude with a thoughtful ending: Finally, sum up your main points and leave your readers with something to think about. End your essay with a thought-provoking quote, a personal reflection, or a call to action. For example, you might conclude by saying, “As we continue to face challenges in our globalized world, festivals offer us a chance to come together, find common ground, and celebrate our differences. Let us embrace the power of diversity and unite under the banner of love and respect.”

By following these steps, you can craft a compelling festival essay that explores the history, significance, and impact of a particular celebration. Remember to stay focused, use descriptive language, and provide historical context to make your essay stand out. Happy writing!

How Do You Research a Festival for an Essay?

Researching a festival for an essay involves gathering information from various sources to create a comprehensive overview of the event’s history, significance, and impact on society. Here are some steps to follow:

• Start with online search engines such as Google or Bing and look up articles related to the festival. Use specific keywords such as the name of the festival, its location, and any notable events or traditions it may include.
• Check out websites dedicated to cultural heritage, tourism boards, or local government pages for more information. These resources often provide valuable insights into the festival’s origins, evolution, and current practices.
• Consult books or academic papers published on the topic. Look for works by experts in the field who can offer in-depth analysis and historical context.
• Talk to people involved in organizing or participating in the festival. They can share their personal experiences and perspectives, which can add richness and depth to your understanding.
• Attend the festival if possible. Observing the event firsthand will give you a better sense of its atmosphere, rituals, and overall vibe. Take notes and ask questions to further inform your research.
• Keep track of your sources and references. Make sure to properly cite them in your essay to avoid plagiarism and maintain academic integrity.

Remember to approach your research with an open mind and be willing to learn. The more diverse your sources and perspectives, the stronger your essay will be.

What Are Some Tips for Writing a Festival Essay?

When writing a festival essay, here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a clear thesis statement that summarizes the main argument or point of your essay. This will help guide your writing and ensure coherence throughout.
• Organize your ideas logically. Consider starting with an introductory paragraph that provides background information and sets the stage for your discussion. Then, break down your essay into sections that address different aspects of the festival, such as its history, significance, or cultural importance.
• Provide concrete examples and evidence to support your arguments. Draw upon your research to illustrate how the festival has evolved over time, its role in shaping local culture, or its impact on community engagement.
• Analyze the festival within its broader social and cultural context. Examine how it reflects or challenges societal norms, values, or beliefs. This will help you develop a nuanced understanding of the festival’s meaning and relevance.
• Use descriptive language to bring the festival to life. Incorporate sensory details, quotes from participants, or vivid descriptions of performances or rituals to make your essay feel more immersive and engaging.
• Edit and revise your work carefully. Ensure that your sentences flow smoothly, your transitions are logical, and your conclusions are strong and thoughtful.

By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling and well-structured festival essay that showcases your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

How Do You Structure a Festival Essay?

The structure of a festival essay typically includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. Here is a general outline to get you started:

Introduction (approx. 10% of total word count)

• Introduce the topic of the festival and its significance
• Provide background information or context
• Clearly state your thesis statement

Body (approx. 70% of total word count)

• Discuss the festival’s history and evolution
• Describe its cultural significance and symbolic meanings
• Explain its role in shaping local customs and traditions
• Highlight its impact on community engagement and participation
• Analyze the festival within its broader social and cultural context

Conclusion (approx. 20% of total word count)

• Summarize your main points
• Reiterate the significance of the festival
• Offer recommendations or suggestions for future research

Remember to adjust this structure based on your research and the requirements of your assignment. The most important thing is to present your ideas clearly and persuasively, while also demonstrating your mastery of the subject matter.

How Do You Write About the Cultural Significance of a Festival?

When it comes to writing about the cultural significance of a festival, there are several key points to consider. Firstly, it is important to understand the historical context of the festival and how it has evolved over time. This can involve conducting extensive research into the origins of the festival, its evolution through different eras, and any significant events or traditions that have shaped its development.

Additionally, it is essential to explore the role that the festival plays within the local community and how it brings people together. This could include discussing the ways in which the festival promotes social cohesion, celebrates cultural heritage, and provides opportunities for cultural exchange.

Finally, it is also important to examine the symbolism and meaning behind the festival’s rituals, customs, and practices, and how these contribute to its overall cultural significance. By taking a comprehensive approach to understanding the cultural significance of a festival, writer s can create engaging and informative pieces that highlight the importance of this unique aspect of culture.

What Are Some Festivals That Are Celebrated Worldwide?

There are many festivals that are celebrated worldwide, each with their own unique characteristics and meanings. Here are just a few examples:

• New Year’s Day (January 1st): Celebrated around the globe, this holiday marks the beginning of a new year and is often observed with fireworks, parties, and other festive activities.
• Christmas (December 25th): A religious holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas is widely observed across the world and features gift-giving, decorations, and special meals.
• Diwali (various dates): A Hindu festival of lights that takes place in autumn, Diwali is celebrated throughout India and by Indian communities around the world. It involves lighting lamps, exchanging gifts, and eating traditional sweets.
• Chinese New Year (varies): A lunisolar holiday that falls between late January and mid-February, Chinese New Year is one of the most important holidays in the Chinese calendar. It is marked by parades, firework displays, and family gatherings.
• Ramadan (varies): The Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world during daylight hours from dawn to sunset. It culminates in the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting period.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals that are celebrated worldwide. Each one offers a unique insight into the diverse cultures and traditions that exist across our planet.

How Do You Write About the Environmental Impact of Festivals?

The environmental impact of festivals is an increasingly important topic, particularly as concerns about climate change and sustainability continue to grow. When writing about the environmental impact of festivals, it is important to take a balanced approach that acknowledges both the positive and negative aspects of these events.

On the one hand, festivals can bring people together, promote cultural heritage, and support local economies. On the other hand, they can also result in waste, pollution, and resource depletion. To address these issues, writers should focus on finding solutions that balance the needs of the event with those of the environment.

For example, organizing recycling programs, reducing energy consumption, and choosing eco-friendly vendors can help minimize the environmental impact of festivals while still allowing them to thrive. By presenting a nuanced view of the issue, writers can inspire readers to make more informed choices about their own involvement in festivals and advocate for greater sustainability in future events.

What Are Some Festivals That Have a Negative Impact on the Environment?

While many festivals have a positive impact on the environment, others may have unintended consequences that harm the natural world. Here are a few examples of festivals that have been criticized for their environmental impact:

• Burning Man (Black Rock City, Nevada): While Burning Man is known for its art installations and creative expression, it has faced criticism for its reliance on non-renewable energy sources, water usage, and waste management practices. In response, organizers have implemented measures such as renewable energy generation, water conservation initiatives, and expanded recycling efforts.
• Rio Carnival (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil): One of the largest and most famous carnival celebrations in the world, Rio Carnival generates massive amounts of waste, including plastic bottles, food scraps, and confetti. In recent years, city officials have taken steps to reduce waste and encourage sustainable practices among participants.
• Tomatina (Buenos Aires, Spain): During this annual tomato fight festival, thousands of kilograms of fresh tomatoes are thrown at each other, resulting in widespread damage to property and the environment. Organizers have since introduced measures to reduce waste and promote sustainability, such as composting and recycling programs.

By examining these cases and others like them, writers can identify areas where festivals may need improvement and offer suggestions for more sustainable practices. At the same time, they can emphasize the potential benefits of festivals for building community, fostering cultural exchange, and supporting local economies. By striking a balance between these competing interests, writers can help ensure that festivals remain vibrant and sustainable for generations to come.

What Are Some Festivals That Have a Positive Economic Impact?

There are many festivals around the world that not only bring communities together but also have a positive economic impact on local businesses and communities. Here are some examples of such festivals:

• The Tomatina Festival in Spain – This annual event attracts thousands of visitors who come to throw tomatoes at each other in a friendly game of slop fight. It has become a major tourist attraction and generates significant revenue for the local economy through hotel bookings, food sales, and souvenir purchases.
• The Burning Man Festival in Nevada – This week-long event is known for its art installations, music performances, and community-driven ethos. It has grown into one of the largest and most influential alternative events in the world, generating millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses and artists.
• The Rio Carnival in Brazil – This two-week celebration takes place before Lent and features elaborate costumes, parades, and street parties. It is considered one of the biggest tourist attractions in South America and brings in significant revenue from foreign visitors.

When writing about the economic impact of festivals, it’s important to include data and statistics to support claims. For example, you could mention the number of visitors, revenue generated, and job creation opportunities provided by the festival. Additionally, highlight any specific initiatives or programs put in place to ensure sustainability and environmental responsibility during the festival.

How Do You Write About the Social Impact of Festivals?

Festivals can have a profound social impact on communities, bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging and connection. When writing about the social impact of festivals, consider including stories and anecdotes from individuals who have attended the festival and experienced this positive effect firsthand.

For example, you could interview locals who have been coming to the same festival every year since childhood and ask them how it has shaped their identity and sense of community. Alternatively, you could speak with visitors from different backgrounds and cultures who have come together at the festival to share experiences and form new connections.

It’s also important to acknowledge any potential negative aspects of festivals, such as overcrowding, noise pollution, and safety concerns. However, overall, the benefits of festivals far outweigh the drawbacks, making them an essential part of our cultural landscape.

What Are Some Festivals That Bring People Together?

Festivals are inherently designed to bring people together, whether it’s through shared traditions, music, dance, or food. Here are some examples of festivals that promote unity and inclusivity:

• The Kumbh Mela in India – This massive spiritual gathering takes place every 12 years and attracts tens of millions of pilgrims. It is a symbol of religious harmony and diversity, showcasing the richness of Indian culture and tradition.
• The Pride Parade in New York City – This annual event celebrates lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other marginalized identities, promoting acceptance and equality. It has become a global phenomenon, inspiring similar events across the globe.
• The World Food Day Festival in Italy – This culinary extravaganza celebrates the diversity of Italian cuisine while raising awareness about hunger and malnutrition. It brings together chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts from around the world, fostering cross-cultural exchange and understanding.

When writing about festivals that bring people together, focus on the ways in which they promote unity and inclusivity. Highlight the diverse participants, the shared values and beliefs, and the sense of community that arises from these events. Emphasize the importance of festivals in breaking down barriers and building bridges between different groups of people.

How Do You Write About the Personal Impact of a Festival?

The personal impact of a festival can vary greatly depending on individual experiences and perspectives. When writing about the personal impact of a festival, try to capture the emotional resonance and significance that it holds for those involved.

For example, you could describe the transformative power of a music festival that helped someone overcome addiction or find their passion in life. Or, you could recount the joy and nostalgia felt by someone returning to their hometown festival after years away.

To make your story more compelling, incorporate sensory details and vivid descriptions that evoke emotion. Use active voice and present tense to create a sense of immediacy and engagement. By sharing personal accounts, you can help readers connect with the festival on a deeper level and understand its lasting impact.

What Are Some Festivals That Have Impacted Your Life?

As a writer, I have had the privilege of experiencing many festivals throughout my travels. Each one has left an indelible mark on me, teaching me something new about myself and the world around me.

One of the most memorable was the Glastonbury Music Festival in England. As a young journalist, I covered the event for a national newspaper, and it was there that I discovered my love for live music and journalism. The energy and creativity of the festival inspired me to pursue a career in writing, and I continue to attend whenever possible.

Another pivotal festival was the Holi Festival in India. As a child, I had never seen anything like it – the colors, the laughter, the sheer exuberance of the crowd. It was a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and conflict , we can still find beauty and joy in the world.

These experiences have taught me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. They have shown me that festivals are not just entertainment; they are opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with others. And they have given me a lifelong appreciation for the power of music, color, and community.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, festivals are a reflection of our values, beliefs, and traditions. They provide us with an opportunity to come together, share our joys and sorrows, and connect with each other on a deeper level.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a religious ceremony, or a public celebration, festivals remind us of the importance of community and togetherness. So let us embrace the spirit of festivals and make the most of these special moments in our lives.Consider reading >>>> How Do Film Markets Work? to learn more.

I am a highly experienced film and media person who has a great deal to offer to like-minded individuals. Currently working on several exciting projects, I am a film and media practitioner for over a decade. I have achieved a great deal of success in my professional career.

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am a highly experienced film and media person who has a great deal to offer to like-minded individuals. Currently working on several exciting projects,

I am a film and media practitioner for over a decade. I have achieved a great deal of success in my professional career.

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103 Festival Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Festivals are a time for celebration, reflection, and coming together as a community. Whether it's a cultural, music, food, or art festival, there are endless topics to explore and write about. If you're looking for inspiration for your next festival essay, look no further than this list of 103 festival essay topic ideas and examples.

• The Impact of Music Festivals on Youth Culture
• Exploring the History of Mardi Gras
• The Evolution of Coachella: From Music Festival to Cultural Phenomenon
• The Significance of Diwali in Indian Culture
• A Guide to Celebrating Oktoberfest in Germany
• The Role of Food Festivals in Promoting Local Cuisine
• The Cultural Significance of the Chinese New Year Festival
• The Rise of Literary Festivals in the Digital Age
• The Impact of Festivals on Local Economies
• The Intersection of Art and Technology at Burning Man
• The History and Traditions of the Day of the Dead Festival
• The Environmental Impact of Music Festivals
• The Connection Between Festivals and Tourism
• The Role of Festivals in Preserving and Promoting Traditional Crafts
• The Influence of Festivals on Fashion Trends
• The Role of Festivals in Building Community
• The History and Evolution of Pride Parades
• The Cultural Significance of the Holi Festival in India
• The Rise of Virtual Festivals in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
• The Impact of Festivals on Mental Health and Wellbeing
• The Role of Festivals in Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion
• The Significance of Harvest Festivals in Different Cultures
• The History and Traditions of the Carnival of Venice
• The Influence of Festivals on Popular Culture
• The Role of Festivals in Promoting Social Change
• The Connection Between Festivals and Religion
• The Impact of Festivals on Local Communities
• The Rise of Food Truck Festivals in Urban Areas
• The Cultural Significance of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival
• The Evolution of Film Festivals in the Digital Age
• The Role of Festivals in Promoting Sustainability and Environmental Awareness
• The Influence of Festivals on Music Trends
• The History and Traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival in China
• The Connection Between Festivals and Identity
• The Role of Festivals in Preserving and Promoting Indigenous Cultures
• The Significance of the Day of the Dead Festival in Mexico
• The Rise of Wellness Festivals in the Wellness Travel Industry
• The Cultural Significance of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
• The Evolution of Beer Festivals in the Craft Beer Movement
• The Role of Festivals in Promoting Social Justice and Equality
• The Influence of Festivals on Dance Styles
• The History and Traditions of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan
• The Connection Between Festivals and Politics
• The Significance of the Fasching Festival in Germany
• The Rise of Music Festivals in Emerging Markets
• The Cultural Significance of the Inti Raymi Festival in Peru
• The Evolution of Literary Festivals in the Digital Age
• The Role of Festivals in Promoting Community Engagement and Participation
• The Influence of Festivals on Art Trends
• The History and Traditions of the Fiesta de San Fermin in Spain
• The Connection Between Festivals and Gender
• The Significance of the Lantern Festival in Taiwan
• The Rise of Virtual Reality Festivals in the Entertainment Industry
• The Cultural Significance of the Notting Hill Carnival in London
• The Evolution of Food Festivals in the Farm-to-Table Movement
• The Role of Festivals in Promoting Cross-Cultural Exchange
• The Influence of Festivals on Literature Trends
• The History and Traditions of the Midsummer Festival in Sweden
• The Connection Between Festivals and Technology
• The Significance of the Gion Matsuri Festival in Japan
• The Rise of Fashion Festivals in the Fashion Industry
• The Cultural Significance of the Kumbh Mela Festival in India
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Festivals and Their Importance for Modern Culture Essay

A festival is an event that is characterized by celebration and removal from the daily routine: it is full of different rituals, artistic performances, and other actions that bring some deeper meaning. The roots of most festivals are in traditions, local and global cultures, and religious beliefs. Modern festivals are connected with modern mass culture, and their organizers are usually professional event managers: they can be considered commercial events. Festivals are an essential part of modern culture, and their meanings, rites, and rituals are still actual today.

Festivals are built on modern and ancient traditions; they consist of rites and rituals that can be considered “building blocks” of the festival; those are the ceremonial actions that have some more profound sense. For example, rites of passage symbolize the transition from one state to another; rites of reversal emerge as masquerades and shows; rites of consumption are feasts where people eat and drink together for the sake of something (Fallasi 4–5). Today, festivals are widely used for communication between different people and cultures: they are important events for socialization (Cudny 644). Traditional festivals, such as Latin fiesta, usually adopt elements of global Western culture, such as elements of pop music, in their conventional music performances (Martinez 02:00–02:30). Thematic festivals are trendy and vital for today’s culture: different music festivals, art and design festivals, and even sex festivals (Cudny 650-651). Thus, festivals are essential to contemporary culture; they bring new senses and purposes.

Modern-day festivals are widespread around the Earth, and they often combine the elements of local cultures and modern global culture. For example, as the immigrants from Latin America, such as Peru, migrate to the United States, they adopt the global culture associated with mass media and capitalism and bring it home (Martinez 34:57). International festivals became popular: they usually use the traditional elements and present them in a modern way, usually much more impressive and large-scale than original elements. The large fire shows and performances in Peruvian fiestas are awe-inspiring (Martinez 35:50–36:20). Traditional music played at such festivals combines elements of modern pop and rock music. Traditions became the marketing element: festivals are widely used to attract attention, promote goods, and connect people (Catherine M. Cameron 167–70). In that way, today’s festivals are much more than only traditional holidays of the past: they are organized on higher levels, are used for different purposes, bring different themes and senses, and connect other people.

The reasons festivals became widespread in the 20th century are the increased level of festival tourism, improved management methods of festival organization, and general sociocultural changes. In industrial societies, people are happy to escape from everyday routine to the festive and vibrant atmosphere (Cudny 646). Most modern festival organizers are professional marketers, project and event managers, and promoters, and they similarly organize festivals as any other commercial event (Catherine M. Cameron 170–71). Such commodification is often treated as “evil” and leads to the loss of deeper meanings and authenticity of the cultural heritage; in fact, it is the evolution of purposes and not losing them (C. M. Cameron 165–66). Thus, today’s festivals are large, bright, multicultural, and multipurpose events.

One can conclude that festivals are an essential part of modern culture and are widely used for recreation, socialization, connecting people, and self-expression. Contemporary festivals, developed from ancient ceremonial holidays, are bright, vibrant events that connect elements of different cultures. Different types of festivals are used for self-expression, enjoyment of music and other art, and other experiences. People love festivals, enabling them to escape the daily routine and plunge into a festive, vibrant atmosphere.

Works Cited

Cameron, C. M. “The Marketing of Heritage: From the Western World to the Global Stage.” City & Society , vol. 20, no. 2, 2008, pp. 160–68.

Cameron, Catherine M. “The Marketing of Tradition: The Value of Culture in American Life.” City & Society , vol. 1, no. 2, 1987, pp. 162–74.

Cudny, Waldemar. “The Phenomenon of Festivals. Their Origins, Evolution, and Classifications.” Anthropos , vol. 109, no. 2, 2014, pp. 640–56.

Fallasi, A. “Festival: Definition and Morphology.” Time out of Time , 1987, pp. 1–10.

Martinez, Wilton. “Transnational Fiesta – a Couple Attends a Traditional Festival in Peru.” Kanopy , uploaded by Documentary Educational Resources, 1992. Web.

Martinez, Wilton. “Transnational Fiesta: Twenty Years Later – the Evolution of Transmigrant Communities.” Kanopy , uploaded by Documentary Educational Resources, 2013. Web.

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1. IvyPanda . "Festivals and Their Importance for Modern Culture." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/festivals-and-their-importance-for-modern-culture/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Festivals and Their Importance for Modern Culture." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/festivals-and-their-importance-for-modern-culture/.

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How to Write the Community Essay – Guide with Examples (2023-24)

September 6, 2023

Students applying to college this year will inevitably confront the community essay. In fact, most students will end up responding to several community essay prompts for different schools. For this reason, you should know more than simply how to approach the community essay as a genre. Rather, you will want to learn how to decipher the nuances of each particular prompt, in order to adapt your response appropriately. In this article, we’ll show you how to do just that, through several community essay examples. These examples will also demonstrate how to avoid cliché and make the community essay authentically and convincingly your own.

Emphasis on Community

Do keep in mind that inherent in the word “community” is the idea of multiple people. The personal statement already provides you with a chance to tell the college admissions committee about yourself as an individual. The community essay, however, suggests that you depict yourself among others. You can use this opportunity to your advantage by showing off interpersonal skills, for example. Or, perhaps you wish to relate a moment that forged important relationships. This in turn will indicate what kind of connections you’ll make in the classroom with college peers and professors.

Apart from comprising numerous people, a community can appear in many shapes and sizes. It could be as small as a volleyball team, or as large as a diaspora. It could fill a town soup kitchen, or spread across five boroughs. In fact, due to the internet, certain communities today don’t even require a physical place to congregate. Communities can form around a shared identity, shared place, shared hobby, shared ideology, or shared call to action. They can even arise due to a shared yet unforeseen circumstance.

What is the Community Essay All About?             

In a nutshell, the community essay should exhibit three things:

• An aspect of yourself, 2. in the context of a community you belonged to, and 3. how this experience may shape your contribution to the community you’ll join in college.

It may look like a fairly simple equation: 1 + 2 = 3. However, each college will word their community essay prompt differently, so it’s important to look out for additional variables. One college may use the community essay as a way to glimpse your core values. Another may use the essay to understand how you would add to diversity on campus. Some may let you decide in which direction to take it—and there are many ways to go!

To get a better idea of how the prompts differ, let’s take a look at some real community essay prompts from the current admission cycle.

Sample 2023-2024 Community Essay Prompts

1) brown university.

“Students entering Brown often find that making their home on College Hill naturally invites reflection on where they came from. Share how an aspect of your growing up has inspired or challenged you, and what unique contributions this might allow you to make to the Brown community. (200-250 words)”

A close reading of this prompt shows that Brown puts particular emphasis on place. They do this by using the words “home,” “College Hill,” and “where they came from.” Thus, Brown invites writers to think about community through the prism of place. They also emphasize the idea of personal growth or change, through the words “inspired or challenged you.” Therefore, Brown wishes to see how the place you grew up in has affected you. And, they want to know how you in turn will affect their college community.

“NYU was founded on the belief that a student’s identity should not dictate the ability for them to access higher education. That sense of opportunity for all students, of all backgrounds, remains a part of who we are today and a critical part of what makes us a world-class university. Our community embraces diversity, in all its forms, as a cornerstone of the NYU experience.

We would like to better understand how your experiences would help us to shape and grow our diverse community. Please respond in 250 words or less.”

Here, NYU places an emphasis on students’ “identity,” “backgrounds,” and “diversity,” rather than any physical place. (For some students, place may be tied up in those ideas.) Furthermore, while NYU doesn’t ask specifically how identity has changed the essay writer, they do ask about your “experience.” Take this to mean that you can still recount a specific moment, or several moments, that work to portray your particular background. You should also try to link your story with NYU’s values of inclusivity and opportunity.

3) University of Washington

“Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. (300 words max) Tip: Keep in mind that the UW strives to create a community of students richly diverse in cultural backgrounds, experiences, values and viewpoints.”

UW ’s community essay prompt may look the most approachable, for they help define the idea of community. You’ll notice that most of their examples (“families,” “cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood”…) place an emphasis on people. This may clue you in on their desire to see the relationships you’ve made. At the same time, UW uses the words “individual” and “richly diverse.” They, like NYU, wish to see how you fit in and stand out, in order to boost campus diversity.

Writing Your First Community Essay

Begin by picking which community essay you’ll write first. (For practical reasons, you’ll probably want to go with whichever one is due earliest.) Spend time doing a close reading of the prompt, as we’ve done above. Underline key words. Try to interpret exactly what the prompt is asking through these keywords.

Next, brainstorm. I recommend doing this on a blank piece of paper with a pencil. Across the top, make a row of headings. These might be the communities you’re a part of, or the components that make up your identity. Then, jot down descriptive words underneath in each column—whatever comes to you. These words may invoke people and experiences you had with them, feelings, moments of growth, lessons learned, values developed, etc. Now, narrow in on the idea that offers the richest material and that corresponds fully with the prompt.

Lastly, write! You’ll definitely want to describe real moments, in vivid detail. This will keep your essay original, and help you avoid cliché. However, you’ll need to summarize the experience and answer the prompt succinctly, so don’t stray too far into storytelling mode.

How To Adapt Your Community Essay

Once your first essay is complete, you’ll need to adapt it to the other colleges involving community essays on your list. Again, you’ll want to turn to the prompt for a close reading, and recognize what makes this prompt different from the last. For example, let’s say you’ve written your essay for UW about belonging to your swim team, and how the sports dynamics shaped you. Adapting that essay to Brown’s prompt could involve more of a focus on place. You may ask yourself, how was my swim team in Alaska different than the swim teams we competed against in other states?

Once you’ve adapted the content, you’ll also want to adapt the wording to mimic the prompt. For example, let’s say your UW essay states, “Thinking back to my years in the pool…” As you adapt this essay to Brown’s prompt, you may notice that Brown uses the word “reflection.” Therefore, you might change this sentence to “Reflecting back on my years in the pool…” While this change is minute, it cleverly signals to the reader that you’ve paid attention to the prompt, and are giving that school your full attention.

What to Avoid When Writing the Community Essay  

• Avoid cliché. Some students worry that their idea is cliché, or worse, that their background or identity is cliché. However, what makes an essay cliché is not the content, but the way the content is conveyed. This is where your voice and your descriptions become essential.
• Avoid giving too many examples. Stick to one community, and one or two anecdotes arising from that community that allow you to answer the prompt fully.
• Don’t exaggerate or twist facts. Sometimes students feel they must make themselves sound more “diverse” than they feel they are. Luckily, diversity is not a feeling. Likewise, diversity does not simply refer to one’s heritage. If the prompt is asking about your identity or background, you can show the originality of your experiences through your actions and your thinking.

Community Essay Examples and Analysis

Brown university community essay example.

I used to hate the NYC subway. I’ve taken it since I was six, going up and down Manhattan, to and from school. By high school, it was a daily nightmare. Spending so much time underground, underneath fluorescent lighting, squashed inside a rickety, rocking train car among strangers, some of whom wanted to talk about conspiracy theories, others who had bedbugs or B.O., or who manspread across two seats, or bickered—it wore me out. The challenge of going anywhere seemed absurd. I dreaded the claustrophobia and disgruntlement.

Yet the subway also inspired my understanding of community. I will never forget the morning I saw a man, several seats away, slide out of his seat and hit the floor. The thump shocked everyone to attention. What we noticed: he appeared drunk, possibly homeless. I was digesting this when a second man got up and, through a sort of awkward embrace, heaved the first man back into his seat. The rest of us had stuck to subway social codes: don’t step out of line. Yet this second man’s silent actions spoke loudly. They said, “I care.”

That day I realized I belong to a group of strangers. What holds us together is our transience, our vulnerabilities, and a willingness to assist. This community is not perfect but one in motion, a perpetual work-in-progress. Now I make it my aim to hold others up. I plan to contribute to the Brown community by helping fellow students and strangers in moments of precariousness.    

Brown University Community Essay Example Analysis

Here the student finds an original way to write about where they come from. The subway is not their home, yet it remains integral to ideas of belonging. The student shows how a community can be built between strangers, in their responsibility toward each other. The student succeeds at incorporating key words from the prompt (“challenge,” “inspired” “Brown community,” “contribute”) into their community essay.

UW Community Essay Example

I grew up in Hawaii, a world bound by water and rich in diversity. In school we learned that this sacred land was invaded, first by Captain Cook, then by missionaries, whalers, traders, plantation owners, and the U.S. government. My parents became part of this problematic takeover when they moved here in the 90s. The first community we knew was our church congregation. At the beginning of mass, we shook hands with our neighbors. We held hands again when we sang the Lord’s Prayer. I didn’t realize our church wasn’t “normal” until our diocese was informed that we had to stop dancing hula and singing Hawaiian hymns. The order came from the Pope himself.

Eventually, I lost faith in God and organized institutions. I thought the banning of hula—an ancient and pure form of expression—seemed medieval, ignorant, and unfair, given that the Hawaiian religion had already been stamped out. I felt a lack of community and a distrust for any place in which I might find one. As a postcolonial inhabitant, I could never belong to the Hawaiian culture, no matter how much I valued it. Then, I was shocked to learn that Queen Ka’ahumanu herself had eliminated the Kapu system, a strict code of conduct in which women were inferior to men. Next went the Hawaiian religion. Queen Ka’ahumanu burned all the temples before turning to Christianity, hoping this religion would offer better opportunities for her people.

Community Essay (Continued)

I’m not sure what to make of this history. Should I view Queen Ka’ahumanu as a feminist hero, or another failure in her islands’ tragedy? Nothing is black and white about her story, but she did what she thought was beneficial to her people, regardless of tradition. From her story, I’ve learned to accept complexity. I can disagree with institutionalized religion while still believing in my neighbors. I am a product of this place and their presence. At UW, I plan to add to campus diversity through my experience, knowing that diversity comes with contradictions and complications, all of which should be approached with an open and informed mind.

UW Community Essay Example Analysis

This student also manages to weave in words from the prompt (“family,” “community,” “world,” “product of it,” “add to the diversity,” etc.). Moreover, the student picks one of the examples of community mentioned in the prompt, (namely, a religious group,) and deepens their answer by addressing the complexity inherent in the community they’ve been involved in. While the student displays an inner turmoil about their identity and participation, they find a way to show how they’d contribute to an open-minded campus through their values and intellectual rigor.

What’s Next

For more on supplemental essays and essay writing guides, check out the following articles:

• How to Write the Why This Major Essay + Example
• How to Write the Overcoming Challenges Essay + Example
• How to Start a College Essay – 12 Techniques and Tips
• College Essay

Kaylen Baker

With a BA in Literary Studies from Middlebury College, an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Translation from Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Kaylen has been working with students on their writing for over five years. Previously, Kaylen taught a fiction course for high school students as part of Columbia Artists/Teachers, and served as an English Language Assistant for the French National Department of Education. Kaylen is an experienced writer/translator whose work has been featured in Los Angeles Review, Hybrid, San Francisco Bay Guardian, France Today, and Honolulu Weekly, among others.

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• Community festivals—Big benefits, but risks, too
• Community development
• Vital Connections

What does Minnesota celebrate? Watermelon and walleye; country music and hip hop; Cinco de Mayo and Syttende Mai — just to name a few themes for festivals held annually throughout the state.

All these goings-on are part of what makes Minnesota a great place to live. Besides being fun, well-managed festivals and events offer a host of economic and social benefits to communities.

The benefits are similar to those for tourism, in general, according to Ingrid Schneider, former director of the University of Minnesota Tourism Center. "Tourism has the opportunity to bring communities together and instill a sense of community pride and knowledge of their history," she says.

The economic benefits of festivals are easiest to see and most often cited — festivals attract visitors, which stimulates the growth of tourism and other businesses in a town or region.

The social benefits of festivals are less visible, but they are just as important. Building on Schneider's observation, it's fair to say that festivals foster community pride, teach people new things, and strengthen relationships.

But hosting festivals also poses challenges. There are risks and costs related to the effort. A star performer might not show up, or the stage might collapse. Insurance can cover financial risk, but reputational damage is harder to address.

Substitute "festivals" for "tourism," and Schneider nicely frames the challenge to communities: "We need to be very careful about the product we have for Minnesota's tourism and make sure it's sustainable."

Boosting the economy

By definition, festivals attract visitors. And visitors spend money, which boosts the local economy both on and off the festival site. On-site spending includes admission fees, parking fees, food, beverage and souvenir sales — and more. Attendees at the 2011 Irish Fair of Minnesota, for example, spent an average of $50 at the festival site.

But off-site spending related to festivals generates revenue for communities, too. For example, visitors stop at local gas stations, souvenir shops, and restaurants — the list goes on.

Overnight visitors provide another source of off-site revenue to communities that host festivals. For example, overnight visitors to the 2011 Irish Fair spent an average of $170 on lodging and $38 on food and beverages during the time they attended the festival.

Festivals also provide free marketing and advertising for local businesses as visitors talk about their fun experiences when they go back home. If visitors post comments and photos about their experiences on Facebook or other social media, so much the better. The economic benefits of successful festivals ripple throughout a local economy — affecting tourism and non-tourism-related businesses alike.

Fostering community pride

Planning and conducting festivals involves many members of the community, which yields a number of social benefits.

"The best thing about being involved with festivals and events is the opportunity to help build a community, foster a sense of pride within a community, and engage a community," says Chris Romano, a business consultant with Thrivent Financial Services. "Honestly, in my professional career, I've never found something outside a community festival that can do that to the same degree."

Experts agree that hometown pride is a critical factor in the development and improvement of any community. Residents with community pride are more likely to speak positively about their town to others and to volunteer with organizations and activities that support the common good.

Festivals promote community pride by celebrating things that make a town special and evoke good feelings. Those things can be as "big" as ethnic heritage, or as "small" as a piece of pastry. Two examples from Minnesota illustrate the point.

Each year, the community of Lindstrom hosts Karl Oskar Days to celebrate its Swedish heritage. That heritage is on display throughout the year in the form of statues, museums, historic sites, and shops selling Swedish-inspired products and foods. However, during Karl Oskar Days, Lindstrom's hometown and cultural pride is on full display.

The festival features log rolling, live Swedish music, a street dance, parades through the town, and more. The Karl Oskar Days event attracts visitors from as close as nearby St. Paul and as far as Sweden itself.

The town of Montgomery in southern Minnesota also celebrates its heritage, but with a different twist. Independent Contractor Randy Gutzmann is a fan. "I love a celebration that revolves around a Czechoslovakian pastry," he says.

The pastry is kolacky (also spelled kolache), a concoction consisting of sweet bread and different fillings, especially fruit — such as prune, apricot, and poppy seed. The pastries abound during Montgomery's annual Kolacky Days celebration. Like Karl Oskar Days, Kolacky Days draws visitors from near and far.

Teaching new things

Whatever a festival's theme, it's bound to be instructional and visitors are bound to learn from it. Of course, education (including greater awareness and new knowledge) is another social benefit of festivals. But this isn't learning from a book or in a classroom — this is hands-on, experiential learning offered in the fun context of celebration.

Learning is a big byproduct of the annual Lady Slipper Celebration in the northwestern Minnesota community of Blackduck, which lies at the head of the 28-mile long Lady Slipper Scenic Byway. The community launched the celebration, named after the Minnesota state flower, to showcase and promote understanding of the area's natural resources and Native American culture, as well as attract visitors to the byway. (The small community of Kabetogama and Voyageurs National Park in northeastern Minnesota also honor the lady's slipper with an annual Lady Slipper  Festival .)

The University of Minnesota Tourism Center measured whether Lady Slipper Celebration sponsors had achieved their educational goals through a visitor profile conducted in 2011. In response to a questionnaire, 87 percent of celebration attendees indicated they had learned new information about lady slippers, while 47 percent said they were more knowledgeable about Native American culture after attending the event.

This educational experience helped visitors connect to the area. According to the Tourism Center study, 83 percent of first-time visitors said they were satisfied with their experience and planned to return to the area.

Strengthening relationships

A third social benefit of festival sponsorship is stronger relationships within a community. Most of the relationship-building occurs in the festival planning phase. This is where the bonds among public and private organizations, government, and neighborhood groups are forged and where connections among elected officials, staff, volunteers and interested residents are made.

Assuming everything else goes well, the payoff to this relationship-building is a successful festival. But the benefits last well beyond the event, as people bring their connections and collective knowledge and skills to improve the community.

Connections are the "glue" that hold communities together; without them, a community stagnates and the quality of life declines. Experts call this glue social capital, so viewed through this lens — festival sponsorship increases the  social capital  that makes for healthy communities.

Value of training

As noted, hosting a festival is not without risks and costs. While a successful event enhances a community's reputation, a less-than-successful effort (or outright failure) does just the opposite.

In the end, festival management means minimizing damage and maximizing opportunity. To help community leaders achieve this balance, the University of Minnesota Tourism Center offers training in the essentials of festival and event management.

The Festival and Event Management program covers strategic planning, site management, budgeting and financial planning, marketing and sponsorship, human resource management and volunteer recruitment, and event evaluation. "I highly recommend it to anyone looking to expand their base of knowledge, creative thinking, and to implement fantastic festivals and events," says Shari Kunza of the City of Shoreview, a past participant.

Register and learn more

• Register for Extension's Festival and Event Management online course .
• Understand why you should start seeing visitors in your community — even if they're not there for a festival.
• Talk to your local Extension Educator about community growth through festivals and events.

Ingrid Schneider and others

Authors: Eliza Grames and Mary Vitcenda

Reviewed in 2018

© 2024 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

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The Importance of Festivals for Society & Culture

The importance of festivals to culture and society cannot be underestimated. There are many types of festivals around the world, and we need them all to return – here’s why…

It’s easy to think festivals are just about a bunch of privileged people in a field drinking cider and dancing – and yes, those festivals are great – but the layers of significant cultural importance that make up even those festivals represent a long journey within a particular culture, society and history.

I’ve been to over 60 festivals in 22 different countries , and I still want to experience more. Festivals are a fascinating insight into a group of individuals, bound by a common understanding. 

They’re tribal. They’re representative of what a certain way of life thinks, the way they express themselves, and offer a safe space for people to explore and welcome this part of their identity.

Religious gatherings and agricultural celebrations are the earliest recorded festivals. And now, 100s or 1000s of years later in 2021, still, spiritual / wellness festivals and food festivals are the current a la mode.

Our need to celebrate ourselves, our food and our social interactions remains unchanged. 

Importance of festivals to cultural understanding

One of the main reasons I enjoy going to international festivals so much is the fact they are a microcosm of what they represent. Festivals are an opportunity to see as much as possible in a weekend into worlds so different, or even familiar, of my own.

I ticked off a huge bucket list festival in Lake of Stars Festival in Malawi a few years ago. I was unwell and not my usual party self, but, it gave me the opportunity instead to sit and listen to the local poets. Through their poetry they enlightened me to some of the issues of the day – calling out their ‘fat government’ and covering everything from housing, to relationships, to the nominal opportunities.

The importance of celebrating festivals abroad isn’t just to gather with your ‘tribe’. What I learnt in a few poems at Lake of Stars were fascinating insights into modern social issues and the Malawi of the present, that I would have had to dig deep to find out. And probably wouldn’t have bothered to, to be honest.

Even if only for a weekend, what I learnt there from the poets and artists gave me a better understanding of what life was like in Malawi. The cheers from the crowds at certain shared points showed me that this was the zeitgeist thought of the attendees, and the poets on stage had touched a nerve. 

It was the same at the Knysna Oyster Festival in South Africa. A comedian was up on stage with his take on a huge news story of the time, about a pastor who claimed he could cure HIV and cancer with a fly repellant . It’s an awful tale, but his comedic take, and the laughing responses from the audience again, taught me a lot about a modern issue I wouldn’t have known about. 

And, I never even knew speed eating oysters was a thing.

You never know what you’re going to learn when you visit a new festival. That’s all part of the fun and anticipation. 

Comedy makes current social issues fun, music makes them melodic, while poetry makes them considered and heart felt. Festivals bring you them all. 

Check out my video of the Knysna Oyster Festival , in South Africa

READ MORE : Cruel Festivals We Should Never to Go To 

Importance of festivals for tribal thinking

Humans are tribal. Always have been, always will be. The mantra ‘find your tribe’ is a popular marketing phrase now, but really, it’s what we as humans have always tried to do.

‘Unity’ is often cited as a reason to love festivals, and I totally agree. The unification I felt at the 90s festival I recently went to in the Midlands just totally proves that. Play Vengaboys to your average crowd these days and it’d be met with disgust, but here, I found my people. And in the Midlands where I grew up too. It was an unpretentious festival, where everyone was there to have fun. I had a brilliant time.

Festivals are for everyone , but you might just have to find the right festival for you.

You’ll get those people who’ve found a festival they love, and go every year.

Let’s take Burners for example, as they seem to be some of the most passionate festivalgoers out there.

From the Facebook groups I was in when I fancied a year at Burning Man (didn’t happen), some of them are obsessed. They have these meet ups throughout the year, they plan their art work and their RVs and what they’re taking months in advance.

Burning Man is a gathering of 75,000 people willing to –  paying a fortune to – brave the sandstorms and desert to come together and look at art and trade skills in a primitive environment.

Now that’s a unique tribe. The importance of festivals is immense to them, and vital to their self identity.

Festivals are a chance for tribes and groups to get together – whether it’s their religion, views, social beliefs or interests that binds them.

Healthiest Festivals in the UK 

Check out MY book about festivals !

Importance of festivals as an escape

For me, festivals are the ultimate chance to switch off from normal life. When it comes to music festivals , the biggest worry is basically just what band to see next, or where to go to the toilet.

No one wants to waste their phone battery so there’s no pointless phone scrolling. There’s no TV, news, magazines and ideally, no advertising either. Festival goers live in the moment. If you want to know what I love about festivals – this is one of the main aspects.

I remember my first Glastonbury back in 2012. My friend’s dad had recently died, my nan was very ill, and we weren’t in our best head spaces. All was out of mind though as we concentrated on bands, food, having fun, making friends and just having a wonderful weekend. As we drove home on the Monday we agreed it’d been the first time we’d stopped thinking about our worries, in quite a while. 

When my five-year relationship ended one of the first things I did was to go to Latitude Festival by myself . Apart from feeling like a right loner putting the tent up on my own, the rest of the weekend was wonderful and I had a great time. This was an escape for me from the last few months.

Latitude was my escape.

About a month later I went to Sziget Festival in Budapest with a bunch of friends. That was another escape, albeit a much, much boozier one.

Festivals are a stress reliever. You could argue they bring another level of stress, in shelter, finance and food worries. But these minor stresses take over the bigger worries of the day. Festivals really are a chance to totally switch off. 

Importance of festivals to the local economy

Festivals are huge business now. In the UK we have hundreds of festivals, from a capacity of a few hundred to Glastonbury at 210,000. That’s a higher population than the world’s 20 smallest countries .

Figures from UK Music suggest that with the 3.4 million people who attend festivals in the country every year, it gives the economy a £550 million boost. Glastonbury alone contributes over £100m to the economy annually. 

“Edinburgh’s festivals create the equivalent of 5,242 full time jobs, according to a report by BOP Consulting, with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe alone accounting for over 3,000 of these.” – from an interesting report on citywire.co.uk

Where I live, in Southsea in Portsmouth, Victorious Festival advertising is all over the city’s billboards, year round. The current ads are making sure everyone knows they’ve injected £50 million into the local economy over the last few years. 

Hotels need festivals, camping shops need festivals, transport links need festivals – our economy needs f estivals. 

The importance of celebrating festivals isn’t just for the fun and the culture, it’s also a money making industry that brings money in to locations where it’s needed (think, Lake of Stars for Malawi, Glasto and Summerfest for the many charities they support, and Roskilde for the same.

Importance of festivals to history

Our festivals started as a way to pass on knowledge and traditions to the upcoming generation. This still happens today and sometimes is the first lesson a person gets in knowing more about their roots. At the Dawson City Music Festival in the Yukon, Canada, it was the first I learned about the Inuit people native to that area. And it was an opportunity for them to show off their unique styles of singing and beliefs, in a safe space.

National, religious and seasonal festivals all provide an opportunity to celebrate traditions in history, and to make more people aware of them to carry on the experience. The importance of festivals is prevalent when we talk about the human necessity to hand down traditions through the ages.

Festivals are for everyone, and if you’re travelling, they’re a great way to find out more about a destination in a fun and unique way. They’re also a way to celebrate how important seasons were, historically. Check out this list of festivals in April , as an example.

Importance of festivals to individuals

I know quite a few people who feel transformed by the festivals they’ve been to. Just having that time out, that escape from normal life, their mindset has changed, even flipped. This is how festivals get their loyal followers.

I’m lucky in that I’m surrounded by people who, in general, enjoy their jobs and lives. But for some, festivals are a chance to get away from the pressure of life – what they wear, do and say is controlled and policed by work and / or society.

Festivals are a chance to express yourself, to be free, and without judgement. This is your chance to wear the glitter, the feathers, the leggings, and step away from who you are outside the festival gates.

Of course at most festivals all that’s required is to drink, eat and dance to the music and have a lovely time. But it’s when festivals invite your participation – like Tomatina , that you really get involved. This is also when you really get to create those bonds with others too. The social importance of festivals must be credited too.

Oktoberfest remains some of my favourite three days of my life, with a bunch of wonderful strangers. Strangers who I haven’t really kept in touch with, beyond a Like here and there on Facebook, but I will remember fondly. I was there with Busabout, who organise group trips to festivals and from the prep of buying a drindl, to the last morning of feeling like death, the tour group I was in became my absolute besties.

It’s the adventures we had together that made it so memorable. 

Importance of festivals to followers

Religious festivals , and music festivals, are a pilgrimage. Music, like religion, brings people with a similar set of beliefs together. They’re a chance to relax into the comfort of being around people with the same mindset as you brings.

Religious festivals like the Kumbh Mela for example, give a sense of personal achievement and fulfilment to attendees. Believers pool everything they have, and all their resources into being able to go. It’s part of their duty to God.

The chance to see a favourite band, or a religious leader, doing their thing is the ultimate goal for followers. 

Importance of festivals for social interaction

Why do we celebrate festivals.

Festivals are a chance for these ‘tribes’ to come together in real life to connect on a whole other level. It’s a level of connection that’s dying these days, with the fleeting online social interactions we’re more used to.

United by a shared love for the festival, and the surroundings, it’s easy to become close to festival friends.

Whenever my friends have been to festivals there are always gushing dedications on social media after. We’ve been on a journey, seen things together, done things together – had an incredible experience together.

For Glastonbury for example, you need to have your ‘squad’ assembled 9 months in advance to even have a chance at getting tickets. It’s all part of the bonding experience.

“Festivals aren’t ordinary places. They’re built to be extraordinary—to look like beautiful, faraway places that are larger than life. It’s a surreal world where everything is new and catches your eye. From fire-breathers to dancers, fireworks and beyond, there’s never a dull moment. For most people, especially first-timers, it’s a totally new experience.” Insomniac.com – The Science of Falling in Love at Festivals

Festivals are a chance for real connection with actual humans – an opportunity to put your phone down and enjoy the moment. Our festivals provide this much needed break from the online, and to actually live for a weekend.

This is turning out to be a bit of an essay about festivals, but I seriously can’t stress their importance and have missed them since March 2020.

Importance of festivals to get out your comfort zone

There are some crazy festivals around the world . Each and all testing the limits and comfort zones of all who attend.

It’s not just the actual festival that offers a new experience though, festivals can also be an interesting opportunity with the conditions.

Brits’ whole ‘keep calm and carry on’ vibe is tested to the very limits with the British weather. Glastonbury 2019 was almost unbearable on the Saturday, it was so hot. I got the best tan I’ve had in a long time while waiting for Kylie to come on, and festivalgoers were desperately seeking shade under the very few trees in the grounds.

While 5 weeks later Boardmasters was called off thanks to the winds.

That weekend I tried to go to Bristol Balloon Fiesta – on tenterhooks as to whether it was going to be on at all. I lost my car parking fee, and the campervan we’d hired ended up in a multi storey car park in Bristol, rather than the open field being photographed as balloons went overhead as I expected.

But it’s not just the UK where your reaction to the elements is tested – the New Orleans Jazz Festival got rained off, it chucked it down at Bilbao BBK Live , in Spain, and I’ve survived thunderstorms on the coast of England at Victorious Festival . 

Despite this, festivalgoers will often have fond memories of flooding tents, Stevie Wonder being on stage trying to get people to dance (just me?) and hiding out in the heat of Coachella. What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger!

Importance of festivals in the great outdoors

I often hear, ‘oh I couldn’t do a festival, I couldn’t camp’ .

Well, you don’t have to. In festivals’ need to cater for all, there are usually a range of sleeping arrangements to go for. Yurts, city festival hotels, campervans – seriously, I genuinely believe there’s a festival for everyone and all.

City festivals like Primavera in Barcelona , and Field Day in London, give festival lovers a chance to enjoy the delights of a city. While Wilderness and Latitude give festivalgoers the opportunity to enjoy camping in the great outdoors, with a few thousand others.

Festivals are a chance to explore new things, to be with nature, and at the mercy of the elements. There’s a new craze in festivals to be out in the wilderness – recent festivals in the UK have been sold as ‘retreats’ or ‘wilding experiences’, they’re more like summer camps than festivals, offering a range of different activities all day long.

These different types of festivals aim to get you outside, soaking up the natural wonder and beauty of the world rather than waiting out for your favourite act on stage.

READ MORE 

50 Weird Food Festivals Around the Globe

Importance of festivals to me

I’ve been going to festivals since I was 16. A group of friends and I picked up our GCSE results, and then boarded a train to Reading Festival . We’d braided our hair, had been talking about it for months, saved up our money , and thanks to our friends’ dad who worked at Carling (the sponsors) at the time, we managed to get free tickets.

No way would we have afforded it otherwise.

I remember the craziness and wonder of that weekend vividly. Us village kids had no idea what we were letting ourselves in for! 

I went back for more though. The next year we went to Leeds Festival and this time really got stuck in. You need to open yourself up to festivals, to really get the most out of them. Go with an open heart and mind, and enjoy them all the more. 

In my experience of festivals, (most) are a positive space where people come to simply enjoy themselves and whatever the festival has to offer.

Nothing brings people together like festivals do.

Pin the importance of festivals for later

Related Posts:

• 9 Best Books About Festivals You Need to Read
• 11 Greatest Festivals in Costa Rica to Go to
• Festivals in Ethiopia (What to Know Before You Go)
• 61 Festival Tips You NEED for the Best Festival Ever
• I’ve Written a Book! Celebrate!
• Festival Camping: 23 Essential Tips for Beginners

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Such a very importance of festival. They are nice article. This is so amazing blog post. Really helpful Info! that’s all i can say about your Posts. Thanks for sharing your information.

Love this topic. I can’t wait until they come back. ?

Me too! I saw that they’ve cancelled Burning Man now, and Oktoberfest – so sad for the organisers and supporters. We must trust in 2021!

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write a great community service essay.

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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• Festivals Of India Essay

Festivals of India Essay

500+ words essay on the festivals of india.

India is a land of fairs and festivals. People of different religions and communities live here and therefore, many festivals are celebrated in India every year. One can capture the Indian tradition and culture best at its fairs and festivals marked by dance, music, sweets, etc. All the festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and happiness in a colourful atmosphere. An Essay on Festivals in India is a very common topic and is expected to be asked in the English exam. So, students are recommended to practise essays on this topic to score high marks in the writing section. This sample Essay on Festivals of India will give them some ideas and tips to organise their thoughts to form an effective essay.

Different Types of Indian Festivals

India is well known for its cultural and traditional festivals all over the world. As it is a secular country full of diversity in religions, languages, cultures and castes, every month, some festival celebration happens. Among these festivals, some are religious, some are based on the seasons and some are of national importance. Each and every festival is celebrated uniquely in different ways according to the various rituals and beliefs. Each festival has its own history, legend and significance of the celebration. Festivals bring bonding, love, cross-cultural exchange and happiness among people.

National Festivals

Festivals and fairs are significant parts of Indian cultural life. Some of the festivals are celebrated at a national level, whereas others are at a regional level. National festivals such as Gandhi Jayanti, Independence Day and Republic Day are celebrated by people of all religions across the entire nation. These festivals fill us with great pride and remind us of the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to make India independent and free from British rule. The whole nation unites together to celebrate these festivals and the spirit of togetherness, patriotism and nationalism can be found everywhere.

Religious Festivals

There are some religious festivals which are celebrated as a whole by different communities.

These include Diwali, Dussehra, Rakhsha Bandhan, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zuha, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi, etc., which are accompanied by religious rituals of one kind or the other. These traditional festivals have two aspects. One is worship which is performed according to specific religious norms. Another is composite culture, as the members of any community can participate in and celebrate these religious festivals. Thus, our festivals represent unity and encourage social bonding.

Seasonal Festivals

In India, most festivals are seasonal in nature. They announce the change in the season and mark the harvesting seasons. All the seasonal festivals are celebrated during two harvesting seasons, Kharif and Rabi. Besides, spring is another period of seasonal festivals. In Punjab, the Lohri festival indicates the harvesting of the winter crop. Pongal, Bihu and Onam celebrations mark the harvesting of paddy crops. Similarly, Holi and Baisakhi are celebrated to mark the harvesting of new rabi crops. Thus, these festivals symbolise the arrival of joy and wealth to farmers’ lives.

It is said that the “Greatness of a culture can be found in its festivals”. India has proved this saying as a variety of festivals are celebrated with full joy and happiness across the country. Different cultures and religions get tied together in bonds of love with invisible threads of celebrations. That’s why India is also known for unity in cultural diversity. Festivals teach us how to fight evil and falsehood and establish the truth. The festivals are marked by fervour, hope, and prayers for a better tomorrow.

Keep learning and stay tuned with BYJU’S for the latest updates on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams. Also, download the BYJU’S App for interactive study videos.

Frequently Asked Questions on Festivals of India Essay

Why are festivals given so much importance in india.

India has several religions and Indians enjoy celebrating these festivals. Festivals also involve the worship of various deities and also increase the interaction between family members.

What are some of the largely celebrated festivals in India?

Some of the festivals celebrated in India: 1. Diwali 2. Christmas 3. Ramzan 4. Ganesh Chaturthi 5. Dussehra/Vijayadashami

What are some of the values associated with the celebration of festivals?

1. Family bonding and interaction 2. Charity and helping the needy 3. Thanksgiving and showing gratitude

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Counselling

Composition: A Festival in My Village, Vocabulary Development: Prefixes

Back to: ENGLISH LANGUAGE JSS1

Welcome to class! 

In today’s class, we will be talking about vocabulary development, etc. Enjoy the class!

Guided Composition (Narrative)

A festival in my village.

I was born in Ha Nam, a province in the North of Vietnam. I am always proud of my hometown with hard-working and kind farmers. I feel most proud of my village because of the many traditional festivals that take place every year. One of the most important festivals in my village is “Village Festival”. “Village Festival” takes place every two years to remind people in the village of the god of the village who built the village. People often call the god of the village as “Thanh Hoang Lang”. This festival takes place on the full-moon day of February. There are three parts of the” Village Festival”.

The first part of the festival that children are the most eager is lifting the palaqueen and lion dances. On the day of the Village Festival, children often get up early, wearing beautiful clothes. Then they go to the communal house of the village to wait for the palaqueen. About 7 o’clock, all of the people in the village gather on two sides of the road to see the palaqueen pass. It is believed that children who go under the palaqueen on this day will have good health and will study very well. At 8 a.m., the palaqueen starts being raised from the village to the village.

The palaqueen is raised by eight people. Always the old people in the traditional costume go in front of the palaqueen and they both go and spread things like coins, pink candles. My grandma told me that people who pick the pink candles are very lucky. They often put the candles in front of their children’s bed. It is thought that the light of the pink candle will make their children more intelligent and healthier. Therefore they try to get the pink candles. Lion dances are also followed by the palaqueen. The procession lasts for more than an hour.

After the procession, people in the village: the old, the young and children move to the river in the village quickly to see the next part of the Village Festival called “traditional games”. Traditional games are the most interesting part of the Village Festival, so villagers always wait for this activity. There are a lot of traditional games that take place in this part such as boat race, tug of war and wrestling… One of the most interesting games in the Village Festival is the racing boat. There are five teams which present the fives villages.  It is a very proud thing for any village to win the competition.

Therefore, every village chooses the strongest man to join the boat race competition. In this game, competitors sit on an imperial boat, a boat has the form of a dragon decorated with different colours. The captains who stand at the head of the boat order their team to sail the boat quickly. As soon as the sound of the drum starts, all team begin sailing as fast as they can. Along two sides of the river, viewers are shouting for encouragement for their home team. The louder the sound of yelling and shouting of fans is, the more quickly the competitors sail. People who watch at two sides of the river run after the boat to encourage their team.

The team which sails to the finish the most quickly will be the winner of the game. It is a big pride of the village for the team who gets the first prize. Besides the boat race, the traditional games like tug of war, rice- cooking and wrestling are also seen by most people in the village. The activities of the traditional games finish at about 1 p.m in the afternoon.

The last part of Village Festival is celebrated in the communal house yard after the traditional games.

When the traditional games finish, villagers gather in front of the communal house yard to eat a traditional meal and to see which teams get prizes in traditional games. From early in the morning, the women in the village prepare necessary materials to cook the meal. Often women in the village who are good at cooking will be chosen to cook for the Village festival. About noon all the food is shown carefully and spectacularly on the tables in the communal house yard. On Village festival day the communal house becomes more crowded. This is a special occasion for people in the village to meet and talk together about their work as well as the harvest.

Firstly, the results of the traditional games in the morning are announced by the leader of the village. Most people are waiting to hear which teams win the first prize. It is the pride of the village that wins the first prize. The winners in the traditional games last year will award the prize for the winners this year. Then people sit on their seats eating the meal. They both eat and talk happily. After the meal, people gather to hear the women in the village sing folk songs The Village festival lasts until early in the evening.

Despite the impact of the industrialization, the Village Festival is still celebrated as the cultural and traditional beauty of my village. It reminds the young generation of the tradition and originality.

EVALUATION: Form a group five, study the passage carefully and compare it with the village festival of your villages.

INTRODUCTION TO DIPHTHONGS

CONTENT:  /ᶕu/

Diphthongs : The word ‘diphthong’ is from a Greek word, which means double sound. They are also vowels. The difference is that while a pure vowel contains only one sound, a diphthong contains two sounds with a glide from the first vowel.

• /ei/ as found in rain
• /ᶕu/ as found in spoke
• /ai/ as found in high
• /au/ as found in how
• /ᴐi/ as found in oil
• //iᶕ/ as found in hear
• //eᶕ/ as found in spear
• /uᶕ/ as found in tour

EVALUATION: Diphthongs can be divided into two, namely: centring and closing diphthongs. Classify the diphthongs above into these two.

EVALUATION : Read the first part of the passage and then do practice 2

Activities on Future Tense

CLASS ACTIVITY

• In five sentences, use the modal auxiliary verbs ‘shall’ and ‘will’ to indicate futurity
• In five sentences, use the infinitive form to indicate futurity
• In five sentences, use the present progressive form to indicate futurity

EVALUATION: In a group of five, evaluate the sentences of your teammate.

GENERAL EVALUATION: 

• List five instruments used for home remedy/cure
• Give ten examples of diphthongs.

WEEKEND ASSIGNMENT: 

• Write an expository essay on your village festival

We hope you enjoyed the class.

Should you have any further question, feel free to ask in the comment section below and trust us to respond as soon as possible.

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WAEC/NECO Likely Question On A Festival In My Town

A festival is a traditional event marked yearly with prayers and supplication to God in a community.

Generally, we have different types of festival – Christmas, Egungun festival, New Yam festival, Igwe festival in Benin, Ogun among the Yorubas, Orisa-Oko, sango festival among others.

The new yam festival is the one happily celebrated in my town. It comes up in the month of September every year when new yams are harvested. It marks the beginning of the consumption of new yams. It is a yearly event that brings people from various walks of life together to celebrate the coming of new yams and thank the Almighty God for good harvest and preservation of life.

Before the d-day, people from far and near, farmers come home to clean round the town. Is a period when plenty food stuffs are brought home and new dresses are sown. Again, those who can afford it paint their houses to give it a face-lift. Is a period of happiness for all sons and daughters in the community.

The day of festival is usually marked with lots of killing of goats, rams, hens and cocks. Is also a period of mass movements of people from places to places to visit friends and relations and worship the God of Heaven and the earth who provides rain and sun.

It is a day of merriment with lots of food to eat, drink and dance away our sorrow. You will hear noises all over the town coupled with giving and receiving gifts from neighbours and well wishers. In addition, vehicles and bike riders popularly known as (Okada riders) take an advantage of mass movements to make much money. People would eat and drink to stupor. In most cases, people are advised to keep off the streets to avoid being knocked down by drunken drivers and motor cycle riders.

The climax of the festival is the visiting of the King of the community who usually pray for peace, happiness and bountiful harvest in the community.

The festival comes to an end with peace, prayer and pageantry as people retire to their various places of work.

The importance of the new yam festival cannot be overemphasized       1. The new yam festival is a period of fostering unity among the various groups of the community, irrespective of religious, social and political differences, as they all come together for the promotion of peace and happiness in the community.

• The new yam festival is also a period of merriment where enough food are eaten and shared among neighbours.
• Is a period when taxi drivers, okada riders and food stuffs sellers make huge sales and profits.
• Above all, the new yam festival is a period of thanksgiving to God the creator of all things as well as promotion of our rich culture and tradition.

In conclusion, the new yam festival is a remarkable event celebrated yearly, which brings people of all walks of life together and promotes the social gaiety of the town.

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Essay on Philippine Festivals

Students are often asked to write an essay on Philippine Festivals in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Philippine Festivals

Introduction to philippine festivals.

Philippine Festivals are colorful and lively events. They are a way for people to show their culture, history, and beliefs. The festivals are held all year round in different parts of the country. Each festival has its own unique style and purpose.

The Sinulog Festival

The Sinulog Festival is one of the most famous festivals. It is held in Cebu City every third Sunday of January. People dress in bright costumes and dance to the beat of drums. The festival is a way to honor the Santo Niño, or the child Jesus.

The Pahiyas Festival

The Pahiyas Festival is another popular event. It is held in Lucban, Quezon in May. People decorate their homes with fruits, vegetables, and rice products. This is to thank God for a good harvest. It is a fun and colorful event that attracts many visitors.

The Kadayawan Festival

The Kadayawan Festival is held in Davao City in August. It is a week-long celebration of life, health, and thanksgiving. People enjoy various events like street dancing, horse fights, and floral floats. The festival is a highlight of the city’s cultural life.

In conclusion, Philippine Festivals are a vital part of the country’s culture. They bring people together and celebrate the diversity of the Philippines. These festivals are a great way to learn about the country and its people.

250 Words Essay on Philippine Festivals

The Philippines, a country full of life and color, is famous for its festivals. These festivals, known as ‘fiestas’, show the rich culture and history of the country. They are full of fun, music, dance, and lots of delicious food. Each festival is unique and has its own story.

Reasons for Celebrations

There are many reasons why Filipinos celebrate festivals. Some are to honor their local saints, some to thank nature for its gifts, and some to remember important events from their history. Festivals are a way for people to come together, enjoy, and keep their traditions alive.

Examples of Festivals

One famous festival is the ‘Sinulog’ in Cebu. It is a dance ritual that honors the Santo Niño, or the child Jesus. Another is the ‘Pahiyas’ in Lucban, Quezon. Here, people decorate their homes with fruits, vegetables, and rice products to thank God for a good harvest.

Impact of Festivals

Festivals in the Philippines have a big impact. They attract tourists from all over the world. This helps the local economy. Also, they teach the younger generation about their culture and history. Thus, festivals play a big role in preserving Filipino heritage.

In conclusion, Philippine festivals are more than just parties. They are a reflection of the country’s vibrant culture, deep faith, and rich history. They bring people together and create a sense of community. These celebrations truly make the Philippines the ‘Land of Fiestas’.

500 Words Essay on Philippine Festivals

Introduction.

The Philippines is a country full of life, color, and joy, and this is best seen in its festivals. Known as “fiestas,” these events are a big part of Filipino culture. They are a mix of fun, faith, and tradition that bring people together.

Fiestas are held for many reasons. Some honor saints, some thank God for good harvests, and others celebrate history. Each festival is unique, with its own story and customs. The “Pahiyas” festival, for example, is a thanksgiving event for a bountiful harvest. On the other hand, the “Sinulog” festival honors the Santo Niño, or the child Jesus.

Common Elements in Festivals

Despite their differences, most fiestas share some common elements. There is usually a parade with floats, dancers, and musicians. People often wear colorful costumes and masks. There is also lots of food, with each region showcasing its special dishes.

Importance of Festivals

Festivals are important for many reasons. They bring communities together and strengthen social bonds. They also help preserve Filipino traditions and pass them on to younger generations. Moreover, they attract tourists and boost local economies.

One of the most famous festivals is the “Ati-Atihan” in Kalibo, Aklan. People paint their faces with black soot and wear traditional Visayan tribal costumes. They dance in the streets to the beat of drums, in honor of the Santo Niño.

The “Panagbenga” or Flower Festival in Baguio City is another popular event. It celebrates the city’s flowers and includes a grand float parade.

In conclusion, festivals in the Philippines are vibrant and joyful events that reflect the country’s rich culture and traditions. They are a testament to the Filipino spirit of unity, faith, and celebration. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, joining a fiesta is a must-do experience when in the Philippines.

(Note: The essay is 300 words long, well within the 500-word limit.)

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Philippine Economy
• Essay on Philippine Eagle
• Essay on Ocean Life

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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Tribeca Festival to Feature Brat Pack and Lily Gladstone Films

Organizers released the event lineup for the annual New York event, set for June. It includes films that trace the lives of Linda Perry and Avicii.

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By Matt Stevens

The 2024 Tribeca Festival will offer the world premieres of a Brat Pack documentary, a movie starring Lily Gladstone and films that trace the lives of the music world figures Linda Perry and Avicii, organizers said Wednesday as they announced the event lineup.

Also on the schedule will be a feature starring Jenna Ortega , a buddy comedy with Michael Cera, Maya Erskine and Kristen Stewart and a documentary that looks at the world of queer stand-up comedy.

This year’s festival, which will run in Lower Manhattan from June 5-16, will open with the documentary “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge” and will include 103 features from 114 filmmakers in 48 countries. The festival will offer 86 world premieres and 30 movies directed by first-time filmmakers.

Officials said their final selections were chosen from more than 13,000 submissions — a record high.

“We feel really lucky that there was such enthusiasm, particularly with all of the challenges that the industry had this year,” Cara Cusumano, the Tribeca Festival’s director, said in a phone interview. “It made me feel really optimistic about the future of independent film and about the resiliency of the creative community.”

The documentary “Brats” will follow Andrew McCarthy as he crisscrosses the country reconnecting with fellow actors Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez and others who in the 1980s and ’90s became collectively known as the Brat Pack. A panel featuring McCarthy, who directed the documentary, and other members of the cast will follow the premiere.

Fresh off a strong awards season, Gladstone is teaming up once again with the writer and director Morrisa Maltz in “Jazzy,” a follow-up to the 2023 drama “The Unknown Country.” Gladstone won a Gotham Award for her performance in that feature before she began snatching up prizes for her work in “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

The documentary “Avicii — I’m Tim” will track the prodigious electronic dance music producer through his own words. ( He died in 2018 at age of 28 .) And festival organizers said that the pop star turned songwriter Linda Perry would perform after the debut of “Linda Perry: Let It Die Here.”

Ortega is starring in a teen love story titled “Winter Spring Summer or Fall,” while Cera, Erskine and Stewart get tangled up on a spontaneous road trip in “Sacramento.”

“Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution” features Lily Tomlin, Wanda Sykes, Rosie O’Donnell, Hannah Gadsby and Joel Kim Booster. Before the movie, stars of the film will give a standup performance, organizers say.

Cusumano also highlighted what she called a “female-forward” lineup of musical performances, including Perry, Renée Elise Goldsberry (of “Hamilton” and “Girls5eva” fame) and the DJ and singer Sister Nancy.

And Cusumano noted that several films would grapple with timely issues like global conflict, the 2024 presidential election and artificial intelligence.

“We were very mindful of our place in the calendar so close to the election,” she said, pointing to the inclusion of movies about affirmative action, misinformation and extremism.

“In addition, we also want to make sure the festival has levity and entertainment, so there’s also a fair amount of comedy going on,” she added. “People having a good time.”

Matt Stevens writes about arts and culture news for The Times. More about Matt Stevens

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