World's greatest celebrations

A crowd of people gather around a blazing bonfire. They sing and dance to welcome the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The next day, people gather in public spaces and spray each other with water guns and balloons. The water is mixed with colored powder, splashing everyone and creating a sea of colors. This is Holi. It has many names, including the Festival of Colors and the Festival of Love. It is a party that brings everyone together, whether they are friends or strangers, rich or poor. Read more to learn Holi's history and culture.

An introduction to Chinese New Year that discusses the Chinese calendar, parades, special foods, traditions, and more.

Imagine a gathering of thousands of people bedecked in masks and sparkling clothes. Some people are dressed up like kings and queens, and some look like funny clowns. Parades pass along the street every hour, and gifts are tossed to the crowds. Doesn t this sound like a scene straight from a fairy tale? However, this party is no fable. This is Mardi Gras, and it s all about having fun. With its tradition of costumes and gift-giving, it is like Halloween and Christmas rolled into one. Readers will learn the party s rich history of parades, gigantic floats, masquerade balls, and the reason why it is also called Fat Tuesday. Additional Facts, Full-Color Photographs, Glossary, Table of Contents.