Holidays and traditions

Holidays and traditions

Every nation has its own customs and long-lived traditions.  There is a great number of exciting events which take place in every country throughout the year.  Traditions play a more important role in the life of the people. 

I think if we keep up our traditions, we preserve national history and culture.  Holidays are especially rich in old traditions.  There are three types of holidays in different countries: state or public holidays, religious holidays and family holidays.  State holidays usually relate to state history and impotent events of the country.  Such holidays unite people, make them feel proud of their nation.  For example, in my country there are state or public holidays such as Constitution Day, New Year's Day, the International Women's Day, May Day, Victory Day, Independence Day and others.  State organisations, banks and companies do not work on these days.  People spend holiday time with their families and friends; they go to theatres or exhibitions, or go to city center where there are usually folk festivals and concerts in the open air and celebrate with other people.  I think that some like holidays are in many other countries.  New Year's Day is the major family holiday for many Russians. It is a national holiday in Russia, on which most businesses and public offices are closed. Schools and universities are closed too.  Religious holidays include Christmas, Easter and some others. There is also a pagan holiday - Shrovetide or Pancake Day.  Preparation  for Christmas are always pleasant: buying gifts, sending Christmas cards and decorating Christmas tree with small, bright-colored lights. Churches hold a special Christmas services. Christmas starts in the morning with the smell of cookies, cakes, chocolate and cinnamon.  I like also to prepare for Easter with my family: we colour and decorate Easter eggs, cook Easter cakes and  paskha, attend a church service Shrovetide is very fine holiday in Russia. It is the time to say goodbye to long cold Russian winter People cook and eat very many pancakes, go to city center  where there is a fair with folk concerts, outdoor traditional games and funs. In the end of this holiday people burn in  effigy of winter. Family holidays include birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and other family celebrations. Different families have different traditions of celebrations. 

My favourite family holiday is New Year's Day. A week before the celebration we decorate a New Year tree with colourful glass balls and toys. My family usually has the New Year dinner. When the clock strikes midnight, we give each other presents. Later, we watch TV and relax and go outside to watch fireworks Another celebration which I like is my birthday. 

Usually my friends and I get together, have a party either at my flat or in a cafe and then go' for a walk. I like getting presents and having funI think that holidays and traditions are important because they connect people and give them an opportunity to have fun and enjoy themselves.