The date of Lent and Easter are not fixed, which means that Holy Week dates also change each year. Holy Week typically falls sometime around the third and fourth week of March up to the first and second week of April.

In 2014, Holy Week will begin on Palm Sunday, April 13 and end on Holy Saturday, April 19.

Catholic Holy Week

The Roman Catholic Church begins Holy Week on Palm Sunday. Catholics attend mass on this day carrying palm leaves to be blessed. This practice echoes the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem, where he was met with people waving palm leaves in welcome.

Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday and Holy Wednesday do not seem to have any particular events associated with them. On Holy Thursday, private celebrations of the Mass are forbidden, and the only mass celebrated on this day is the one that marks the Easter Triduum, or the three days before Easter. This mass is known as the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and represents the Last Supper in the Bible.

Good Friday is traditionally celebrated by Catholics as a day of fast. One full meal is allowed, and only dishes made with fish or vegetables are allowed. On this day, merrymaking and doing leisurely things are also discouraged, as this day marks Jesus’ crucifixion and death. Holy Saturday commemorates the day when Jesus’ body was laid to rest in the tomb. This day is separate from Easter Saturday, which is the Saturday after Easter Sunday.

Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday marks the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and is the main day of joyous celebration for Christians. It also marks the start of Eastertide, or the Great Fifty Days, which is from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday.

Holy Week in Southeast Asia

Despite being predominantly of the Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim faith, Southeast Asia has its share of Catholic and Christian holidays, particularly in the countries that experienced a lengthy occupation of European colonizers. Many countries observe the celebration of the Holy Week but in small concentrations, and not all places recognize it as a public holiday.

In Malaysia, the observance of Holy Week is strong in Malaka, while Good Friday is a state holiday in the Sabah and Sarawak states.

Singapore’s Christian population is somewhat bigger, and the government recognizes Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday as national holidays (link to Singapore holiday calendar article, if it’s up). It is business as usual for most establishments, but services and some traditional celebrations occur in Christian communities across Singapore.

Thailand and Vietnam both have a small population of Christians, so the holidays pass by relatively unnoticed by the general population. However, Catholics in the capital city Ho Chi Minh celebrate Lent with traditional processions and church services.

Holy Week in the Philippines

Holy week in the Philippines is a major event and begins on Palm Sunday. People flock to the churches in droves to have palm fronds blessed, a symbol to ward off evil and protect homes from lightning strikes. While Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday and Holy Wednesday pass quietly, the country marks Holy Thursday and Good Friday as national holidays. Government offices and most private businesses are closed on these days. Many people travel back to their hometowns during this long weekend. To many Filipino families, Holy Week is a time for vacation and reunions.

Various activities are held throughout the Holy Week, among of which are street processions that stop at pre-arranged homes representing a Station of the Cross. Some hold a live performance of the Passion of Christ, known locally as Sinakulo. Many people perform sacrifices, such as giving up eating meat or certain favorite foods, for the Holy Week. Many devotees, mostly male, perform self-flagellation or crucifixion as their pilgrimage.

Sacrifices

The Holy Week culminates the events around the adult life of Jesus Christ, particularly from his arrival in Jerusalem up to his death and resurrection. To the faithful, it is about his sacrifices and his troubles, and his death that atones for the sins of man. Devotees emulate this life during this time, abstaining from eating meat, merrymaking or giving up one thing that they enjoy doing.

Photo by kamerakamote

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Fasting as a Pillar of Islam

The importance of fasting among Muslims cannot be overemphasized. Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and should be performed by healthy adults – except pregnant women, menstruating women, the elderly and the infirm – during the month of Ramadan. Fasting during this period constitutes abstinence from eating solid food and even liquids during daylight hours, smoking, getting into intimate relations and getting into an argument. Muslims perform this sacred obligation to purify themselves and renew their faith.

Hari Raya Puasa the Best Time to Enjoy KL and Jakarta

Hari Raya Puasa is a national holiday in Malaysia. As with any Islamic holiday, exact dates are determined by the local sighting of the new moon. In 2016, it is expected to fall on Wednesday-Thursday, July 6-7. The same dates are going to be observed in Indonesia. In Singapore, it is celebrated as a one-day national holiday on July 6.

Although Hari Raya Puasa is a two-day holiday in Malaysia, locals normally take an entire week off to celebrate. The same can be said of celebrations in Indonesia, although the emphasis is more on the week preceding Lebaran.

Kampong Glam or Arab Street, where Arab traders settled during the founding of Singapore, is bedecked with lighting and holiday decors and bustling with brisk sales of textiles, crafts and traditional food like popular Malay cakes “kueh-kueh” or “ondeh-ondeh.”

In the Philippines, the end of Ramadan is business as usual in the capital city, Manila, and provincial cities, save for pockets of Muslim communities who observe the day. The largest Eid “salat” prayers are performed in the open space of the Luneta Grandstand. In Mindanao, home to Muslim-majority population, similar rites are performed. Muslim families typically invite non-Muslim neighbors to share their food much like Catholics invite one another to enjoy the banquet during “fiestas.”

Mass Exodus to the Provinces on the Occasion of Hari Raya Puasa

During the holidays, families go back home to their provinces for reunions in a tradition known as “balik kampung.” Domestic travel can get very busy on the days leading to Hari Raya Puasa, so keep in mind to minimize unnecessary travel during this period to avoid inconveniences (unless you want to get a good feel of this celebration to understand how it shapes the Malay culture, then you can endure hours and hours of heavy traffic).

On the other hand, this may also be the best time to enjoy Kuala Lumpur – which could be gridlocked on any other day – as KLites make an exodus to spend the holidays with their families and friends. Muslim hawker stalls and businesses are closed during Hari Raya Puasa. Malls and other businesses usually remain open.

As with any major Indonesian holiday, the tradition of going back to their families of birth is still practiced in Jakarta and even in major capital cities in the Philippines. In Jakarta, in particular, this “mudik” or mass exodus means impossible traffic in major thoroughfares as literally millions of city dwellers beat each other for transport home. This opens up the Indonesian capital and ease things a bit for tourists who would otherwise find Jakarta a stifling city on regular days.

Hari Raya Puasa Family Traditions

The post-Ramadan holiday starts with “Solat Sunat Aidilfitri.” Families put on their new clothes and troop early in the morning to the nearest mosques for these Hari Raya prayer congregations, and then visit the graves of departed family members for an offering of “doa” (prayer verses).

Hari Raya Puasa is a time for reconciliation, so family members (especially younger ones) seek forgiveness of sins from each other (particularly from the elderly), invoking the atonement “Maaf Zahir Batin” during house visits to relatives and friends.

For children, Hari Raya Puasa is a day of receiving gifts. Elders prepare “duit raya” or crisp bills inserted in colorful packets, similar to the Chinese New Year tradition of receiving “ang pao.”

Communal Celebration of Hari Raya Puasa

Hari Raya Puasa is a festive, colorful and communal celebration, in keeping with the spirit of reunion, renewal and reconciliation.

Business picks up on the days leading to Hari Raya Puasa as families shop for new clothes and items in preparation for the festivity. Houses are thoroughly cleaned and households burn oil lamps, supposedly to welcome the angels that pay families a visit before the start of the festival.

Streets, establishments and edifices are ablaze with multi-colored lights and adornments that make the occasion a real celebration after a long period of abstinence. The lit-up scenario is similar to the Western world’s celebration of Christmas holidays.

Non-Muslim Malays visit their Muslim brothers and sisters during “open houses,” as a sign of respect and as an act of renewing relationships to keep them strong. Even the Prime Minister puts out an open house, an open invitation to all – including tourists – to break bread with everyone. Thus, it is during the holidays that one gets to enjoy all the native Malay delicacies – ketupat, rendang, nasi impit, lemang, biskut raya – while striking friendships with the locals and getting immersed in Malaysia’s religious customs.

In Indonesia, the communal atonement involving not only close family and friends but also business associates, is known as “halal-bihalal,” a mutual begging of pardon and forgiving of slights. In the villages, families pay house visits to relatives and friends to personally beseech the other by saying “Mohon Maaf Lahir dan Batin” (forgive my physical and emotional wrongdoings). The traditional dish “ketupat” is also shared during the feast and children likewise receive gifts from their elders during the occasion.

Photo by Choo Yut Shing

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Makha Bucha 2016 will fall on Monday, February 22nd.

Origins of Makha Bucha

Makha Bucha started when 1,250 disciples came to visit Buddha without being summoned on a full moon day on the third lunar month. This congregation of disciples prompted Buddha to share his enlightenment, which he himself achieved nine months before, in an event called the “Ovādapātimokha.” Thus, on this day, the “Heart of Buddhism,” which consisted of three main principles, was laid out.

Makha refers to the name of the third month in the lunar calendar while “bucha” means “to venerate.”

The Four Observances of Makha Bucha

On this day, Buddhists are expected to perform these four devotional rituals “to cease from all evil,” “to do what is good,” and “to cleanse one’s mind.”

Wien Thien

Perhaps the more recognized aspect of the celebrations is the “wien thien” or the religious ritual of going around a temple three times in a clockwise direction bearing lighted candles, incense and flowers which are placed before Buddhist statues at the end of the evening procession. Local temples are often thronged with devotees joining the monks for a candlelit procession. The same ritual is performed in Laos, which they call “vian tian.”

Tum Boon

Every Buddhist occasion is an opportunity for the lay to make merits which could take on several forms. “Tham bun” could be performed by going to temples to listen to Dhamma teachings, donating to a local temple, or chanting the scripts in an ancient language.

Tuk Bard

“Tuk bard” is a form of making merit but one that specifically addressed to monks and novices. In a special ceremony during the Makha Bucha Day, the lay can make food offerings to individual monks who receive them in a special alms bowl.

Rub Sil

Also known as “rap sin”, this ritual involves meditative observance of keeping the Five Precepts, exercising abstinence and renunciation of material desires and refraining from immoral thoughts and acts that pollute the mind.

Makha Bucha Day Celebrations by the Government

As befits a national holiday, Makha Bucha is celebrated not only in local temples across Buddhist countries but also in the capital cities. In Thailand, for example, the Grand Palace marks the day with several events that both involve Buddhist monks and the lay. His Majesty King Bhumibol traditionally invites several monks to have breakfast in the palace, after which they chant the scripts, an event broadcast on national television.

The government also holds contests to promote the spirit of the occasion and to prompt healthy discussion of religious issues that affect day-to-day life.

Perhaps the most dramatic component of the celebration is the evening closing ceremony where thousands of monks light candles, chant scripts in temple grounds and perform the “wien thien” in major shrines.

Full Moon of Tabaung in Myanmar

In Myanmar, the Shwedagon Pagoda in former capital Yangon is the center of festivities of the Full Moon of Tabaung which usually starts a week before the day of the full moon. While in Thailand there is competition for the best performance of religious songs, in Myanmar there is competition for the best woven holy robes using only traditional looms. As is the tradition during this day, Burmese monks chant the scriptures for a full 24 hours for the entire duration of the festival.

Meak Bochea in Cambodia

Cambodian Buddhists congregate at the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong, 28 miles north of the current capital, Phnom Penh. Prayers are not only performed by saffron-robed monks, but also by white-robed and shaven Buddhist nuns. The devout flock to this ancient capital to make merits, like offer food to monks, light candles and burn incense, and offer lotus flowers at the Temple of Eight Points and other sacred stupas found in the ancient capital.

Alcohol Ban on Makha Bucha Day

There are several holidays in Thailand where alcohol is not served in observance of religious holidays. One of those days is Makha Bucha when consumption of alcohol is not only considered a religious violation but also a civil offense. Bars, restaurants, supermarkets, department stores, retail and convenience stores and even some hotels are prohibited from selling or serving alcohol to customers and their guests. Violation of this alcohol ban may result to imprisonment of up to six months and a steep fine (10,000 Baht as of last decree).

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In 2014, Thaipusam happens on February 15, but celebrations start and end before the date itself.

The Story of Thaipusam

The story of Thaipusam is deeply entrenched in Hindu mythology. The Devas (deities of natural forces and moral values) were in constant battle with the Asuras (deities of chaos). Their constant loss had the devas approach Lord Shiva for help, asking him for a strong leader to carry them to victory. Different accounts state that Murngan was born to Shiva and Parvati, and successfully led the devas in defeating the asuras. This led to the creation of the festival Thaipusam.

Symbols of Thaipusam

Thaipusam is rich in symbols that are strongly connected to Lord Murungan. His choice of weapon is a vel, a metal lance or spear that was given by his mother Parvati representing her strength and power. Murungan is closely associated with the peacock and the rooster. The latter is depicted in his armor or flag, while the former is his mount in battle.

Offerings and Prayers

On Thaipusam, devotees pray to Murungan for his help and his blessings. Devotees carry on their shoulders a kavadi, elaborately designed altars or shrines that represent the physical burden they lift up to Lord Murungan for help. Often, a kavadi is for preventing or averting trouble from a devotee’s life.

Physical Burdens

Bearers of kavadi take days to preparation and start long before Thaipusam itself. Ceremonies that prepare their physical body as well as rituals to cleanse their soul are undertaken in order to make themselves ready for their sacrifice. Among of these include observing celibacy and eating vegetarian food while being in a constant state of prayer.

Simple kavadi are wooden structures that are lifted on the bearer’s shoulders. More elaborate ones are attached to the bearer’s body with hooks. These hooks represent the vel.

Offerings of pots of milk and doing other acts of devotion are also considered as kavadi.

Thaipusam outside India

Two countries in Southeast Asia are home to the biggest Thaipusam celebrations outside India: Malaysia and Singapore.

Malaysia Thaipusam

The Batu Caves 13 kilometers outside of Kuala Lumpur are the site for the biggest Thaipusam celebration in the country. The caves have several Hindu shrines, and there is a 42 meter high statue of Lord Murungan at the entrance.

A procession the early hours of Thaipusam begins at the Sri Mahamarianman Temple in Kuala Lumpur. Devotees and tourists make the trek from the city to the caves. After the long hike, they will climb 272 steps to reach the hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Murungan. The number of people attending this festival can reach up to a million.

Another site of Thaipusam celebrations in Malaysia is at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Ipoh, and the Nattukottai Chettiar Temple in Penang.

In some instances, non-Tamil devotees carry kavadi. On rare occasions, people of non-Hindu faith also bear kavadi. Ethnic Chinese Malaysians are also starting to observe Thaipusam.

Singapore Thaipusam

In Singapore, Thaipusam celebrations chiefly happen in Little India along Serangoon Road. Celebrations are similar: Devotees begin their procession at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and ends at the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple 4.5 kilometers later. Devotees with simple offerings of milk pots and wooden kavadi make up the first part of the procession. Those who carry the more elaborate kavadi with body piercings make the trek at a later time of the day. Families and friends walk along with the kavadi bearers, chanting prayers and songs as a show of support.

Like in Malaysia, Thaipusam is also celebrated by non-Tamil and non-Hindu people. It is also a strong tourist draw.

Act of Faith

Thaipusam shows the intensity of devotion that the Hindu have for their faith. The day is dedicated for prayers and offerings, as well as thanksgiving for the blessings received. It is truly a fascinating look into the rich cultural tradition of the Hindus.

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As the name suggests, bulls are let loose out of their corals and herded into their proper destinations in the bull ring, except that their journey will be accompanied by daredevil (or suicidal, if you look at it another way) runners clad in white shirt and red scarves. The runners will outrun the bulls and attempt to get out the way should the bulls choose to run amok and gore any red-wearing animal in its path.

For many young males, this very idea is a turn-on, a reality TV opportunity where one gets to play Man vs. Animal and experience the fight-or-flight rush of a very real threat of not winning the battle.

The Running of the Bulls 2013 will take place starting July 6 and end on July 14, in the city of Pamplona in the region of Navarra, Spain.

Encierro: The Running of the Bulls

The “encierro” is the highlight of a bigger festival known locally as the Sanfermines or a festival in honor of Navarra’s patron saint, San Fermin. Though there are other activities in this week-long event, the Running of the Bulls is easily the most popular.

To open the Sanfermines, people gather at the Plaza de Ayuntamiento on July 6. At noon, rockets are fired in an opening ceremony called the “chupinazo” to start the weeklong event. Red scarves are put on after the firecrackers have gone off to indicate that people should stop working and start partying.

Thereafter, from July 7 to July 14, runners assemble before 7:30 AM between the City Hall Square and the Education Building in the Cuesta of Santo Domingo. Then, before the clock of San Cernin strikes 8AM, the runners scream a chant to the patron saint three times: at five minutes to go before 8AM; at three minutes; and finally, at one minute before the gate of the corral is opened at exactly 8AM. To signify the start of the bull run, a rocket (or firecracker) is fired.

Then the bulls – six fighting bulls accompanied by six oxen – run the 825 meters from the corral outside of the city, in Calle Santo Domingo, and into the bullring inside the city where they will take part in the bullfighting event later in the evening.

The Running of the Bulls usually takes four minutes to cover the distance, but sometimes takes longer than 10 when a bull strays from the herd (or stampedes over a moron who incited the bull with his red scarf).

All Quiet and Safe on the Corral Front

The bull run has ended when all of the six bulls have been safely led into the corral inside the bullring. Rockets are fired from the bullring to signify that the transfer of the bulls has been completed. The final rocket (fourth of the sequence) is fired when all the bulls are safely tucked into the corral and readied for the evening bullfight.

Origins of the “Encierro”

The “encierro” started out of the need to transfer the bulls from their pens outside of the city (where they were brought in by cattle farmers) into the bullring inside the city for a bullfighting event. As to when people started running before the bulls as the transfer occurs is still unclear to this day.

WARNING for the Non-Participants

Not everyone can have the bragging rights of having participated in the bull run. Unless you are (young) male, fit as a fiddle, quick as a squirrel, and cold-blooded as a reptile, you should not risk your life or limb. If the sight of flaring nostrils and sharp-horned four-hoofed juggernaut easily excites you (or worse, terrifies you), you are better off in the sidelines.

Given the real dangers of the bull run, only the fittest and bravest of men, known as “mozos,” are allowed to take part. The rest can view the spectacle from a safe distance, preferably:

• Behind the second fence that marks the route. Get there early as reservation of standing space is second to impossible.
• In Calle Santo Domingo, the spot where the race starts.
• From an elevated place. Another reason why you should book your accommodation early when heading to Pamplona for the bull run is so you can choose an elevated spot from where to safely view the drama and adrenaline rush that unfolds. Be sure to book an apartment or hotel room with a balcony view that overlooks the route.

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In 2013, the Tết public holidays will be from February 9, Saturday until February 14, Thursday. Because of the country’s practice of substituting weekend holidays for weekdays, the year’s celebrations will be particularly long.

Who celebrates Tết?

The whole of Vietnam celebrates Tết. Because it is a family-oriented holiday, many celebrations are private and held at home. Some major cities will have decorations and activities that are open to the public, but expect most shops and establishments to be closed for business during these days.

How Tết is Celebrated?

Tết celebrations start weeks ahead of the actual date. People are out shopping for things that they need for the new year, as well as stocking up on items and supplies knowing that businesses will be closed during Tết. These items include ingredients for the feasts, new clothes, gifts and decorations.

People also go about finishing their personal businesses and paying the debts before the year ends. This is so that when the new year comes, they will be debt-free. Items that are borrowed are returned, and gifts of good luck are prepared. Homes are cleaned beforehand, as it is considered bad luck to sweep a home during Tết itself.

Sending off the Kitchen Gods

One of the pre-Tết rites is a send-off for the Kitchen Gods, Ong Tao. On the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month, families offer sacrifices as they depart to report the household’s activities for the past year to the Jade Emperor.

Family Affair

Tết celebrations stretch for days. The first day is often spent with the immediate family. The younger generation would respectfully greet their elders, after which they would be given gifts of lucky money in red envelopes. Often the first visitor to a home is invited, as it is believed that he or she will determine the family’s fortune for the upcoming year. Many families ensure their good fortune by having the head of the family leave and come back in just as midnight strikes.

In the succeeding days, the Vietnamese would visit their relatives and friends. Since Vietnam is predominantly Buddhist, the faithful also flock to the temples to pray and have their fortunes told.

Many Vietnamese make the pilgrimage back to their ancestral homes and towns. Most of these travel happens on the days before and after Tết, so transportation is crowded during this time.

Food

Food is an integral part of the Tết celebrations. Preparations for these start days before the holidays start, and is a tradition that is as important as the holiday itself.

One of the key food items during Tết is bánh chưng and bánh dầy, sticky rice with meat or bean fillings wrapped up in Dong leaves. Bánh chưng is rectangular in shape and represents Earth, while bánh dầy is circular and represents Sky. The preparation and cooking of these items are done overnight, and the stories of their origin and connection to Tết are told during the process.

A traditional dish that you can expect to see during Tết is Thịt Kho Nước Dừa, or meat stewed in coconut juice. The fatty lining of pork stomach is stewed in a broth of young coconut juice and nuoc mam. Add in some boiled eggs, and eat with pickled bean sprouts and chives on top of white rice.

It is also interesting to note that because of the belief that eating vegetarian food brings good luck, expect many vegetarian dishes to be prepared and served for Tết. Candied fruit and roasted watermelon seeds are also commonly served.

Gift Giving

It is considered good fortune to give gifts during Tết. More so if you give specific gifts that are deemed lucky, such as new clothes, rice wine in a gourd, the aforementioned bánh chưng and bánh dầy, peach branches and chickens. These gifts have special meanings to the Vietnamese, and is said to bring not just blessings to the receiver but improve the relationship between him and the giver.

Fireworks

Much as the Chinese use fireworks during the celebration of the new year, so do the Vietnamese. Impressive displays of extravagant fireworks are key parts of the Tết celebration. Such displays hosted in the major cities are often shown on nationwide television.

Traveling during Tết

If you are planning to visit during Tết, note the many establishments may be closed during the holidays, but those that cater to the foreign traveler crowd may still operate during those times. Most activities happen during the preparations, and you might find it interesting to explore the many markets and bazaars that are open before Tết. If you know a local, you may expect to be invited to join in the festivities. Businesses resume to normal when Tet is over. To maximize your trip, plan your travel days in advance.

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“Kadayawan” highlights are celebrated on the third weekend of August (17-18 August 2013), although pre-festival shows and festival-related events spill over before and after the week-long celebration.

“Pahinungod”: A Lumad Thanksgiving

The 10 ethnic tribes of Davao have been practicing since pre-colonial times a “pahinungod” or offering to the gods after a bountiful harvest. They would gather together at the foot of Mt. Apo and sing and dance and offer food in gratitude. This converging together is called “panagtagbo”, an event that is still observed during the opening ceremonies and in various events spread across the city over the festival period.

Celebrating the Gifts of Nature and a Celebration of Serene Life

“Kadayawan” comes from the Mandaya (one of the tribes) root word “madayaw”, a greeting to signify something superlative or beautiful.

Mt. Apo is definitely superlative, and waling-waling is certainly beautiful. More than these however, the people of Davao have something much more to celebrate other than the bounty of nature: The city has one of the country’s lowest crime rates; their culture has peacefully coexisted with elements of Spanish influence; and their ancestral roots are still living among them and taking part in local governance.

Lumad Pageantry, Street Dancing and Floral Parades

Unlike the pageants around the country that seem to focus only on external beauty, the “Hiyas sa Kadayawan” (Jewel of Kadayawan) is a search of “lumad” lass who best represents her tribe through her knowledge of indigenous culture, cultural performance and indigenous costume.

“Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan” is a street dancing competition that showcases each tribe’s thanksgiving rituals. The costumes and headdresses are blindingly colorful, and the choreography is reminiscent of “lumad” rites.

Known as the home of waling-waling, Davao is proud of it and declares it with a statement through “Pamulak Kadayawan”, a visual treat of floral floats that cruise through the city’s major thoroughfares.

Lumad Markets, Photo Contests and Trade Fairs

True to its earlier goals, Kadayawan is not only a celebration of culture, but also an opportunity to market Davao as a lucrative destination for business. Arts and crafts and “lumad” artifacts are displayed alongside commercial and industrial achievements of Davao and surrounding regions. Davao’s past and present are also celebrated in photo contests that visually strengthen reminders of Davao’s history to younger audiences.

Indigenous Soul Through Music, Choreography and Skin Art

Concerts feature Mindanao sounds and “lumad”-inspired music, and dance showdowns are representative of the rituals performed by the Ubo and Ata Manobo, Tagabawa, K’lata, Maguindanao, Tausug, Matigsalog, Maranao, Sama and Kalagan (Davao “lumad”).

Concerts are not only opportunities to get into the vibe and let loose, but also an occasion to get a (semi)permanent mark of temporary Davao insanity.

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Each country celebrates Chinese New Year in their own way. While many customs and traditions stay true to its roots, adaptations and adjustments to the country’s own culture can be seen.

Singapore Celebrations

Singapore welcomes the Lunar New Year with a week-long celebration called River Hongbao. The name is derived from the small red packets called “hong bao” that the Chinese fill with money and give away as gifts. These “hong bao” also represent good luck and are expected to bring in prosperity.

The first River Hongbao celebration happened in 1986, and since then the event has become one of Singapore’s most highly anticipated annual events related to the biggest Chinese holiday.

No date has been specified for 2013, but as the Lunar New Year falls on February 10 and 11, River Hongbao is expected to happen within the near dates.

Cultural Showcase

River Hong Bao is the perfect place for visitors to have firsthand look at the Chinese culture and heritage. The Chinese is one of Singapore’s biggest ethnic groups, and many of the activities during River Hongbao showcase their long traditions as well as its integration into the Singaporean culture.

The Wonders of Guangxi

In 2012, River Hongbao had the privilege of working with the Culture Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. They showcased many of the region’s specialties, including food, art and handicrafts, dance and music. This was under the banner of “The Wonders of Guangxi”.

Lighting up the Bay

This is another yearly tradition during the River Hongbao, and is among the biggest tourist draws. Fantastic lanterns, a traditional Chinese staple, are put on display. In last year’s celebrations, these lanterns were handcrafted by the Chengdu artisans.

River Hongbao Food Street

Of course, what celebration wouldn’t be complete without delicious food. Nearly 50 food stalls participated last year, offering traditional Chinese delicacies and favorite hawker eats. Tourists who get to see River Hongbao are in for a treat as they not only get to see the unique way Singapore welcomes the Chinese New Year, but they also get to taste so many delicious food in one place. It is expected that 2013 will see an increase in participating stalls to accommodate the guests who will come in for the festivities.

Community participation is also important in River Hongbao. Many volunteers pitch in the help make the event incident free, while many young people join in as tour guides and marshalls, not to mention being involved in many of the cultural presentations.

The excitement for the upcoming River Hongbao in 2013 is high in the air. No doubt preparations are underway for this lavish yet meaningful celebration.

Photos by chooyutshing

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Coronation Day 2013 will be celebrated on Sunday, May 5. Because this public holiday falls on a weekend, a compensatory non-workday will be observed on Monday, May 6.

Celebrating the Royal Regalia

The present-day commemoration of this important event in Thai history takes place for three days. The rituals are performed in the Grand Palace in Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, and are attended by the royal household, government officials, Brahmin priests and monks.

On May 3 of every year, His Majesty leads a Buddhist merit-making ceremony called “tham boon” at the Amarindra Throne Hall in the Grand Palace. This day, more than anything, is dedicated to honor the king’s ancestors. Monks chant verses, deliver sermons and conduct a requiem ritual to commemorate the relics of the Chakri monarchs.

Later in the day, the King issues flags of honor to military units who displayed exemplary behavior.

On May 4, there are two ceremonies performed with Brahmins and Buddhist monks presiding over the rites. The day starts with a declaration to open the Coronation Day, a ritual presided over by Brahmins. The second part of the ceremonies is conducted by Buddhist monks who sanctify the occasion.

On the day of the coronation anniversary itself, the King is dressed in full regalia. As customary in Buddhism, a feast is prepared for monks during auspicious occasions, and the King presents these offerings to them.

His Majesty also leads a “wien thien” ceremony wherein he walks three times around the Wat Phra Kaew’s sacred grounds bearing Buddhist relics.

At noon, the kingdom’s Armed Forces and Navy pay their respects by each firing a 21 gun salute. This is also the day when His Majesty awards citations and presents royal decorations to outstanding Thais who made valuable contributions to the country.

The Coronation Day ends with a sacred ritual in the evening: The reigning monarch changes the cloth of the Emerald Buddha, the sacred guardian of the Thais since Rama I brought it to this side of the Chao Phraya.

Off-Limits Grounds are Opened to the Public

On May 5 every year, some rooms in the Grand Palace are opened for public viewing. This year, the King also decided to open to the public the Royal Pantheon which is only reserved for use of the royalty.

The Thais’ Loyalty to Royalty

Thais consider their monarchs as avatars of the divine; hence, Siamese kings have always earned the reverence, love and devotion of the people. Modern day Thais turn out in hundreds of thousands to wave the red, white and blue Thai flag in their unfaltering support of the monarchy.

Larger-than-life papier mache and classic ornate artworks representative of Thailand culture and attractions are lit inside and erected on mobile platforms. The Royal Air Force band plays some tunes for public entertainment, and the celebrations in Bangkok are concluded with lavish fireworks.

Photo by permanently scatterbrained

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Military Commander Turned Ruler

Thong Duang, an Ayutthaya military commander who helped resist Burmese aggression, came to the throne when the people called for King Taaksin’s overthrow because of his weak leadership. Thong Duang, then known as Chakri by the people, was chosen to replace King Taaksin because he helped steer Siam (Thailand’s old name) out of the clutches of Burma and put down rebellions. His ascent to the throne was the start of the Chakri dynasty and established Bangkok as the new capital across the Chao Phraya River.

Commemorating the Contributions of the Chakri Kings

Chakri Memorial Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 6 in 2013. Because this falls on a weekend, the next workday – Monday, April 8 – will be an Observance Day as a compensatory non-workday. Government offices, banks and other institutions will be closed on this day, except for commercial establishments and tourist facilities that remain open during regular hours.

As the ninth king of the ruling dynasty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej leads the royal family in conducting religious ceremonies in the royal chapel, and presides over the wreath-laying ceremonies at the Royal Pantheon and at the statue of King Rama I at the Memorial Bridge. The country’s prime minister and all government officials join the King in paying homage to his predecessors, while the people join the celebrations in these locations or hold ceremonies in Chakri monuments and memorials across Thailand.

All government offices display the national flag on this day.

The Commoners’ Tribute to Chakri Monarchs

In Thailand, lese majeste, an offense against the royal family, is strictly implemented. Any negative remark about the monarchs and their families is meted out with imprisonment of up to 15 years.

As can be inferred from their laws, Thais regard their monarchs with the highest esteem, and this day is an opportunity for the people to express their gratitude for the contributions of the Chakri monarchs to consolidate Thailand and make it into a regional power player that it is today. The statues of King Rama I and memorials to the house of Chakri are all abloom with flowers and garlands on this day. There are forums held across the country to keep alive the contributions of the Chakri kings, from the release of Thailand from Burmese control, to the abolition of slavery, the fortification of the country, and the establishment of a constitutional government.

Thais, being predominantly Buddhists, also make meritorious offerings to the Chakri rulers in the Royal Pantheon as the reigning monarch leads the rituals in that location.

Photo by Caspar

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Thailand is the land of Theravada Buddhism (the oldest branch of the religion). About 95% of Thais observe the “Teachings of the Elders” (literal meaning of Theravada); hence, the thousands of Buddhist temples and shrines in Thailand.

Asalha Puja is one such important occasion for Theravada Buddhists. This day commemorates Buddha’s first teaching of the dhamma, or truth.

When Buddha achieved his enlightenment, he shared this with his former disciples. On this first sermon, he shared with them the four noble truths that came out of his enlightenment, which is the essence of all his subsequent discourses.

As such, this day is also called the Dhamma Day, or the Dharmachakra (The First Turning of the Wheel of the Dharma).

From a broader perspective, this day celebrates the birth of Buddhism.

Making Merits

Asalha Puja will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 30 in 2013. Traditionally, this coincides with the start of the monsoon season, and sometimes referred to as the first day of the ‘vassa’ or Buddhist rains retreat.

Devout Buddhists make merits in shrines, temples and Buddhist centers around the country. They offer lotus flowers and light candles in the temples, burn incense in the shrines, and give food and other necessities to the monks, listen to the monks chant the first discourse, and reflect on the precepts of Buddhism.

Doing the “Wien Thien”

At night, a candle procession is held around temples and shrines. Monks and devout go around the temples three times, in a ritual referred to as the “wien thien.”

The same ritual is performed by school children as the occasion of the Asalha Puja nears. They are brought to Buddhist temples to do the ‘wien thien’ and make merits by offering food, robes and candles to the monk.

In Bangkok, Khao San Road, otherwise a backpacker mecca on any given day, lights up with candles as processions progress. Candles are also left to burn in the main temple of Wat Bowon, along with floral offerings.

Asalha Puja is Time for Meditation and Reunion with Family

In the evening, monks devote their time to prayer and meditation. Since Asalha Puja coincides with the arrival of the rains, monks traditionally suspended their nomadic lifestyle and stayed in monasteries for a three-month long retreat, a practice that marks the start of the Buddhist Lent.

Around the country, houses put up big candles outside and light this up in celebration of Dhamma Day. Because this occasion is a national holiday in Thailand, families take this opportunity to come together, perform the tradition with their elders, and reflect on the teachings of Buddha.

Photo by Jeff McNeill

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In 2013, the first day of Hari Raya Haji will fall on Thursday, October 15.

The Hari Raya Haji is a public holiday in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. In the predominantly Catholic Philippines, the holiday is not celebrated nationwide, but mostly in Mindanao and within the smaller Muslim communities scattered throughout the country. However, the government recognizes its importance to its Muslim citizens, and often consider it as a public holiday.

Origins

The story of the prophet Ibrahim, or Abraham as he is more known to the Western world, is a familiar tale to the people of various faiths. Ibrahim was an old man when God blessed him with the birth of his son Ishmael. When the boy was 13 years old, Ibrahim had a recurring dream where God asked him to sacrifice his son. Despite his deep sorrow, Ibrahim knew that he had to follow and told his son. Ishmael didn’t think twice, and agreed that Ibrahim should do as God asked. When Ibrahim was ready to slaughter his own son, the boy remained unharmed. Instead, they found a dead ram which they offered up to God in the boy’s stead. Ibrahim had passed the test which showed his devotion to God.

Journey to Mecca

For the Muslims, the biggest act of devotion to their faith that one must do is to make the holy pilgrimage to Mecca, particularly if you have the financial means and the physical strength to do such a task. The end of the month long journey is a cause for celebration, thus the observance of Hari Raya Haji.

Traditions

Prayers are performed by the men in the various mosques in their area. Sermons are read out and the devout reflect in the messages in these passages. Afterwards, male volunteers participate in “korban”, or sacrificial rites of rams, sheep and cow hosted by several mosques across the country. In Singapore, most of the livestock for the sacrifice had to be imported and distributed months ahead in order to cover the demand. Well-off Muslim families would often donate any one of these animals to a mosque.

The meat will then be distributed through the Muslim community, particularly to the less fortunate. The holiday is also a reminder for people to be thankful and share the blessings and wealth they have received.

Activities

In the recent years, Hari Raya Haji has garnered attention from people of other faiths. While the traditional prayers and rites are reserved for the devout, many non-Muslims participate in the merrymaking afterwards. This is particularly true for countries that have a population with mixed faith, like in Singapore or Malaysia.

In Singapore, the center of such activities can be found in Kampong Glam and Geyland Serai. Shops filled with colorful wares and various types of food are set up and is open to all visitors. Houses and establishments around the area are decorated for the festivities, featuring flags and banners of the religious bent.

As with most Muslim communities, residents in Malaysia are expected to honor the day with new clothes and the presentation of delicacies and sweets. It is also important for them to spend the day with families and loved ones. As it is a public holiday, banks are closed but all other establishments remain open. It is also interesting to note that Malaysian embassies all over the world observe this holiday, albeit in less grandiose scale.

Photo Credit : Erwin Soo

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