Traditions
Every fall in New England I’d take Ben to search for the perfect pumpkin three pumpkins. We’d bring them back home and have a carving contest. Of course when we’re judging the competition ourselves there was NEVER a unanimous winner. Raking and jumping in leaves, going apple picking and coming home to bake an apple crisp, and of course the BIGGEST tradition in October….Halloween were all part of the traditions of the season.
Now that we live in Florida, the traditions tend to be more beach oriented, as the hot days are passing, and being outdoors is more comfortable. There’s that glass of wine as the sun sets over the ocean, taking Clem for longer walks on the beach, and there is STILL the decorating and getting dressed up for Halloween.
I’ve learned in my travels that fall traditions are extremely different depending on where you live. This is a great time of year to travel, and enjoy the customs and traditions of cultures around the world.
MEXICO
Day of the Dead – Dia de los Muertos
Truly a family celebration, the Day of the Dead brings all together to remember those who have passed on, and to pray for their spiritual journey. The colorful sugar skulls (originally made of sugar…hence the name), are seen everywhere…from delightful sugar treats to artwork and trinkets.
CHINA
Mid-Autumn Festival – Moon Festival
Most cultures have some sort of festival to celebrate the harvest, and the Mid-Autumn Festival is the way that China celebrates this season. Moon cakes (shown above) are the traditional food, and sharing mooncakes between members of a family during the the Mid-Autumn Festival signifies the completeness and unity of families.
GERMANY
Oktoberfest
Truly the world’s LARGEST beer festival, Oktoberfest has become a worldwide celebration. Oktoberfest in Munich attracts over SIX MILLION visitors. Now that’s a LOT of beer being served.
THAILAND
Loi Krathong
Baskets of light are floated on the river. The baskets, or krathong is set into the water while a wish is made.
INDIA
Diwali Festival of Lights
Celebrated for five days, Diwali is the celebration of beginning anew, as well as the triumph of good (light) over evil (darkness).
For more fall traditions, visit a few of my favorite bloggers:
- Fall bird feeding tips by Confessions of an Overworked Mom
- Fun family fall tradition by Tools 2 Tiaras
- Pumpkin picking traditions with friends by Controlled Confusion
- Fall Farmer’s Market by Life with Lisa
- Fall Traditions Around the Globe by Champagne Living
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Ellen Christian (@ellenblogs) says
So many interesting things for fall! I’d love to see the Loi Krathong some day. That sounds beautiful.
Crissy Beam says
Its amazing how traditional vary from country to country! I would definitely love to partake in Oktoberfest and go to Thailand to see the Loi Krathong.. just gorgeous!
Lisa from Life with Lisa says
I’m with the others, visiting Thailand to see Loi Krathong is definitely something I want to do some day.
Rachel Ferrucci says
I would love to get to some of these festivals and see them. Ok so maybe I want to see them all. They all look so interesting
Zipporah Sandler says
We should.