Introduction
Asia is a continent of extremes. From the soaring peaks of Tibet to the tropical beaches of Thailand, it’s home to some of the world’s most fascinating and diverse landscapes. And while there are places where you can learn about these wonders—like China’s Dragon Spring Temple or Angkor Wat in Cambodia—there are also plenty of spots where you can escape from workaday life and enjoy some high-octane fun.
Asia’s Festivals
Asia is a big continent, and it’s home to many cultures. As you might imagine, Asia has a lot of festivals.
There are countless events taking place throughout the year in this part of the world–and not just on holidays like Christmas or Easter. You can find festivals celebrating everything from local foods and traditions to historic events and even some pretty random stuff (like giant robots). These celebrations usually involve food stalls selling traditional treats like sweet potato fries or chicken wing skewers; performances by musicians, dancers or acrobats; parades featuring floats with elaborate costumes; fireworks displays at nightfall (or earlier if there’s enough light).
Songkran Water Festival, Thailand
Songkran is Thailand’s most important festival, and it takes place during the Thai New Year. The celebration of the new year and the water element is a time to wash away bad luck, cleanse the body and soul, and bring good luck in the coming year. It’s also an excuse for people to get out of their homes and enjoy themselves with friends or family members they might not see often enough otherwise.
There are several ways you can celebrate Songkran:
- Watch people throw water at each other from plastic buckets on March 13th (or 14th).
- Take part in one of many parades throughout Bangkok featuring floats made from flowers, fruit baskets or other things you find around your house that could be considered “floatsable”–like cardboard boxes! If you don’t have anything handy at home but still want to participate in this tradition-filled holiday then try making yourself some giant paper airplanes instead! These planes can be used as projectiles when thrown at unsuspecting passersby during this joyous occasion so make sure they’re sturdy enough before using them outside again after making them 🙂
Mooncake Festival, China
The Mooncake Festival is a Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar. It’s a celebration of full moons, similar to Thanksgiving in America and Christmas in Europe.
The mooncake is an oblong pastry made from white flour with red bean paste inside it, or sometimes other fillings like lotus seed paste or egg yolk jam. They’re often given as gifts during this time because they’re both delicious and symbolic: they represent harmony between family members (because they can be cut into small pieces) and good health (because they contain ingredients like nuts).
Luang Prabang Water Festival, Laos
The Luang Prabang Water Festival is held in the first week of April, and it’s one of those rare festivals that can be enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike. The water festival is a traditional celebration of the end of the rainy season, which lasts from May to October in Laos.
The festivities kick off with a procession through town led by musicians playing drums and cymbals, dancers wearing traditional costumes, monks carrying flags and incense sticks, and people carrying flowers for offerings at temples along the way. Afterward comes an evening boat parade on Mekong River where participants float downriver while performing traditional Laotian dance moves (or just splashing around) as part of their tribute to Buddha.”
Chavon Fair, Philippines
The Chavon Fair is held in Marikina City, Philippines. It’s a celebration of the city’s patron saint, San Roque. The fair is held every May 15 and includes a parade and street dancing competition.
The highlight of the fair is its street dancing competition where participants perform choreographed routines in front of judges who decide who wins cash prizes or other prizes such as food items or clothing items.
Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, China
The Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is a winter event held annually in Harbin, China. The festival features ice and snow sculptures that reflect the culture of the city’s residents. It takes place from January 5 to February 5 each year, with opening ceremonies at the beginning of each month.
The festival began in 1985 as part of an effort to help boost tourism in Harbin after its economy declined due to political changes within China and other countries around them (including Russia). These days it draws over one million visitors each year!
The region offers plenty of festive fun.
Asia is home to many festivals, which are a great way to learn about the culture and history of the region. They’re also an opportunity to experience local food, drink and customs–and meet new people!
If you’re looking for something lighthearted in your escape from workaday life, consider these five festivals:
Conclusion
Asia is a continent rich in culture and tradition, and its festivals are no exception. From the colorful costumes of Songkran Water Festival to the snow sculptures of Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, there are many ways to get swept up in the excitement of these events. If you’re looking for an escape from workaday life, then look no further than Asia’s festivals!
