Iran and Central Asia: Nowruz

When: March 20, 2024

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Nowruz translates as "new day". And it's also the name of the Persian New Year, also being celebrated in other countries in Central Asia and the Middle East. Nowruz also marks the beginning of spring and the first day of the Iranian solar calendar. People have been honoring this festival for more than 3,000 years. They celebrate for 13 days, starting with a thorough cleaning of the house and home. New clothes are also bought. The celebration continues with eating traditional food and singing songs.

India: Holi

When: March 25, 2024

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Often imitated, always unmatched: Holi, the Festival of Colors. It's nowhere else celebrated as exuberantly as in its country of origin, India. People of all ages gather on the streets, throwing gulal, or colored powder, at each other. Dance, music, exuberance - all this symbolizes the new beginning associated with spring. Holi is also usually used to resolve disputes. Hugs, new friendships and traditional foods are also part of the Holi Festival, which always takes place in March.

Japan: Hanami

When: end of March to beginning of April

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When dthe cherry blossom (sakura) is in full bloom, people in Japan set out to admire this particular splendor together. The result is called Hanami. Then, the country's parks, gardens and other public spaces become meeting places. Everyone brings something to eat (and drink), ideally also a picnic blanket - and the festival is in full swing. Of course, the exact date depends on when the trees are in bloom. Cherry blossom festivals usually begin towards the end of March. Incidentally, the bright pink splendor is not only celebrated in Japan. Washington DC also has its own Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 to April 14, 2024). Hanami is one of the festivals in spring 2024 that tourists also love.

Thailand: Songkran

When: April 13 to 15, 2024

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The Thailand New Year is one of the biggest events in the whole country. It celebrates the beginning of the Thai solar calendar. The event, known as the Water Festival, also takes place on the streets. Here, people gather to splash each other with water,meant to symbolize new beginnings and purification. There are numerous traditional rituals during the celebrations, which last several days. For example, Buddha statues are doused with water and meals are shared with the family.

Mexico: Cinco de Mayo

When: May 5, 2024

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Originally a Mexican holiday, the fifth of May is now also celebrated extensively in the United States, especially in areas with a high proportion of Mexican-Americans. Parades, music, fireworks, street parties and Mexican food are the order of the day. The festival has been celebrated since 1862, when the Mexican armed forces defeated the French army in the Battle of Puebla. To this day, this victory serves as a symbol of pride in Mexican culture and resistance to foreign rule.