INTERNATIONAL WEEK
International Week is a vibrant and educational event designed to celebrate and explore the diverse cultures and traditions from around the world. This year’s International Week showcased a fantastic array of global festivals, each represented by different classes. The event provided an immersive experience for students and attendees, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry that connects us all.
Class 9 took us to Japan with their presentation on Gion Matsuri, a traditional Japanese festival held in Kyoto every July. As one of Japan’s most famous and oldest festivals, Gion Matsuri features elaborate floats and traditional performances. Class 9 delved into its history, donned traditional Japanese attire, Kimono, and showcased Japanese music and dance.
Class 8 represented Cameroon’s Ngondo Festival, a vibrant celebration by the Sawa people in Douala marking the end of the rainy season. Their presentation highlighted the festival’s rituals honoring ancestors and community. Students wore colorful Cameroonian attire and performed traditional dances and songs, bringing the festival’s energy to life.
Class 7 brought us to Mexico with Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, dedicated to honoring deceased loved ones. This Mexican holiday combines indigenous traditions with Spanish influences and features vibrant altars and offerings. Class 7’s presentation included the creation of altars and the significance of marigolds and sugar skulls. Dressed in traditional Mexican clothing, they performed folk dances and songs.
Class 6 introduced the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. It is celebrated with various customs, including dragon dances and fireworks. Class 6 explained these traditions, dressed in traditional Chinese costumes, and performed traditional music and dance.
Class 5 celebrated Songkran, the Thai New Year festival famous for its water fights, symbolizing cleansing and renewal. Their presentation explained the significance of Songkran and its customs, including pouring water over loved ones for good fortune. Students dressed in traditional Thai attire and performed lively dances.
Class 4 presented the Kandy Esala Perahara from Sri Lanka, a grand procession held in Kandy in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. The festival features elaborate floats, traditional dancers, and ceremonial elephants. Class 4’s presentation included insights into the festival’s history and significance, with students dressed in traditional Sri Lankan costumes and performing drumming and dancing.
Class 3 took us to Peru with Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, an ancient Incan celebration held in Cusco to honor the sun god Inti and mark the winter solstice. Class 3 explored the historical and cultural aspects of Inti Raymi, dressed in traditional Incan attire, and performed related dances and songs.
Class 2 showcased Holi, the Festival of Colors from India, celebrated with vibrant colors, music, and dance, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Their presentation included the throwing of colored powders and water, with students in colorful traditional Indian outfits performing lively dance routines. They also showcased the famous ‘Lathmar’, a ceremony representing Lord Krishna’s thrashings with sticks (lath) by Radha and Gopis, which is being held for a week annually.
Lastly, class 1 represented St. Patrick’s Day of Ireland, celebrating St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The festival is marked by parades, wearing green, and celebrating Irish culture. Class 1 provided an overview of St. Patrick’s Day traditions, customs and myths, with students dressed in green and performing traditional Irish dances and songs.
International Week was a resounding success, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and learning opportunities. Each class not only represented their assigned festival with dedication and enthusiasm but also contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of global traditions. The event fostered a spirit of curiosity and respect for diverse cultures, leaving a lasting impact on all participants.