This reflects the historical adoption of the Gregorian calendar by the Catholic and Protestant churches and the widespread influence of Christian tradition.

In countries such as the Philippines, Christmas isn’t just a day but also a season that begins as early as September and continues well into January. Festivities blend deeply rooted religious practices with lively public celebrations and rich culinary traditions.

Other nations follow alternative dates tied to the Orthodox Christian calendar. In Russia, Ethiopia, Eritrea and parts of Eastern Europe , Christmas is observed on January 7, according to the Julian calendar still used by many Orthodox churches. This variation underlines the diversity of Christian liturgical traditions around the globe.

Despite global spread, Christmas is not a public holiday in several countries, especially where Christian populations are small or the state observes different religious calendars. For example, nations including China, Saudi Arabia and several Middle Eastern states do not officially recognise December 25 as a public holiday, though secular or private celebrations still occur in many urban centres.

Even where Christmas isn’t a national holiday, elements of the season can be widely visible. In Japan, where Christians make up only around 1% of the population, secular celebrations are popular as millions of families order KFC meals as a holiday tradition, a custom that began in the 1970s and persists today.

Beyond spiritual and cultural meaning, Christmas has become a global travel phenomenon, too. Airlines are reporting record-breaking holiday travel volumes this year, with hundreds of millions expected to fly between mid-December and early January, underscoring the economic and social connectivity tied to the season.

According to pre-Christmas estimates highlighted by EuroNews, gift spending in Europe’s largest economies was projected to exceed €360 billion ($423 billion), with the United Kingdom, Germany and France forecast to account for the largest shares.

The projections reflected both population size and consumer resilience, even as inflation, high interest rates and geopolitical uncertainty continued to weigh on household budgets in the run-up to Christmas.

The United Kingdom was forecast to lead spending, with Christmas gift purchases estimated at €103.9 billion, followed by Germany at €85.24 billion and France at €71.65 billion. Southern Europe was expected to record lower, but still substantial spending, with Italy projected at €43.04 billion and Spain at €30.6 billion, while the Netherlands (€15.13 billion) and Belgium (€11.18 billion) completed the ranking.

EuroNews reported that while consumers approached the season cautiously, many still prioritised Christmas gifting, often cutting back in other areas or actively seeking discounts rather than abandoning festive traditions altogether.

Although headline inflation had eased in several eurozone countries compared with its 2022 peak, prices for food, energy and housing remained elevated ahead of Christmas. Retailers across Europe reported a noticeable shift toward discount-driven shopping, earlier purchasing and greater reliance on online sales during the festive period.

The report also indicated that many shoppers opted for fewer but more meaningful gifts, while budget retailers and second-hand platforms saw increased demand in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

For retailers, the festive season remained a critical trading period. In countries such as Germany and France, Christmas sales were estimated to account for up to a quarter of annual retail revenue, making the period vital for overall business performance.

Taken together, the spending projections offered cautious optimism to retailers after several challenging years marked by pandemic disruption, supply-chain shocks and rising operating costs, even as consumers continued to navigate economic uncertainty.

Across much of Europe, Christmas is deeply embedded in national calendars. Countries such as Germany, Sweden, and parts of Eastern Europe often observe two to three public holidays around December 25 and 26, reflecting Christian traditions and strong labour protections.

In North America, the picture is more mixed. Canada recognises Christmas Day as a public holiday nationwide. In the United States, Christmas Day is a federal holiday, and days off depended largely on employers rather than the law until recently.

President Donal trump oin December 18, signed and declared December 24 and 26 as federal holidays .

Across Latin America, Christmas Day is widely observed, though most countries grant only one official day off. In nations such as Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico, the holiday is culturally significant, but extended breaks are uncommon unless Christmas falls near a weekend.

In Africa, countries with large Christian populations, such as Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Africa, recognise Christmas as a public holiday, typically for one day, though some also observe Boxing Day. In contrast, in several North African and Middle Eastern countries, Christmas is not a public holiday at all, reflecting different religious majorities.

Much of Asia reflects a similar divide. Christmas is a public holiday in countries like the Philippines and South Korea, but not in others such as China, where it is treated as a commercial or cultural event rather than a state holiday.

This year, conversations about Christmas holidays are intersecting with wider global debates on work-life balance, burnout , and labour rights. With remote work blurring the lines between personal time and professional obligations, workers in many countries are questioning why major cultural holidays still come with limited rest.

The International Labour Organisation has repeatedly warned that insufficient rest periods contribute to declining productivity and poorer mental health outcomes, renewing calls for stronger protections around public holidays and paid leave.

From Papá Noel in much of South America to Viejo Pascuero in Chile and Colacho in parts of Colombia, colonial history and culture have shaped how Latin America refers to the man in red.

In most Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America , Papá Noel is the dominant name. The term comes from the French Père Noël, introduced through European influence in the 19th and early 20th centuries as Christmas customs spread globally.

According to the Museum of Arts and Sciences , the modern Santa Claus figure evolved from Saint Nicholas traditions blended with European folklore and later popularised worldwide through literature and advertising.

Brazil, the region’s largest country and Portuguese-speaking nation, uses Papai Noel, a direct linguistic adaptation that mirrors its colonial heritage. In contrast, Mexico often uses Santa Claus or Santa Clós, reflecting the country’s proximity to the United States and strong cultural exchange across the border.

Chile stands out with Viejo Pascuero, meaning “Old Man of Christmas.” The term emphasises age and familiarity rather than formality, aligning with Chile’s tradition of blending Catholic celebrations with local expression.

In parts of Colombia, particularly in Antioquia, Santa is sometimes called Colacho or Nicolacho, names derived from Saint Nicholas (San Nicolás). This reflects older religious traditions that predate the commercialised Santa image now common worldwide.

Despite the different names, the role Santa Claus plays across Latin America is remarkably similar: a symbol of generosity, family, and childhood joy. Whether he arrives as Papá Noel, Papai Noel, Viejo Pascuero, or Santa Clós, the figure adapts seamlessly to local customs, climates, and cultural rhythms, sometimes swapping snow for summer heat and reindeer for imagination.

Red marks countries that commemorate independence (the largest category). Orange shows nations that mark the formation of government . Yellow indicates unification moments, green reflects revolution, blue for saint days, purple for discovery, and pink for other reasons or when the reasoning doesn’t fit neatly into those categories. The striped pattern indicates where no data is available.

Unsurprisingly, most countries celebrate independence. That reflects widespread decolonisation and the rise of modern nation-states across Africa, Asia, Latin America , and elsewhere. The map shows large regions in red, indicating how many national days commemorate breaking free from colonial rule.

But some national days commemorate unification, for example, when formerly divided states merged (yellow). Others mark revolution (green), where a nation’s founding moment lies in an internal upheaval or regime change, rather than a foreign withdrawal. For example, Egypt celebrates Revolution Day on July 23, commemorating the 1952 revolution that ended the monarchy and established a republic.

Saints’ days or patron feast days also serve as national days in some countries, linking religion , tradition, and identity. Other nations mark discovery or “discovery of land” days, highlighting colonisation or exploratory heritage (purple). And in a few cases, national days are tied to other events or dates whose meaning is local or particular.

Significantly, not every country marks independence. Some states choose another moment, a constitution, a monarch’s accession, or a national hero’s birthday — because that event feels more defining to their identity.

This map’s breakdown is timely given recent political shifts and identity debates around the world. For example, Bangladesh officially recognised “July Mass Uprising Day” (August 5) in 2025, commemorating a recent revolution and regime change in 2024.

That shows how new national days can emerge from contemporary events, a country redefining how it wants to remember its own story.

Elsewhere, in regions facing secessionist pressures or debates over historical memory, national days are flashpoints. Which events get honoured (or omitted) reflects ongoing struggles over identity, history, and power.

From Venezuela to Guatemala, Chile, and Ecuador, the date revealed the region’s shared struggle for identity, sovereignty, and cultural survival.

In Caracas, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro joined the “Great March for Peace and Sovereignty,” led by Indigenous communities in support of what he called the country’s fight against “imperialism.” Wearing a traditional headdress and addressing thousands in Plaza Venezuela, Maduro declared that Venezuela would never submit to foreign powers.

In Guatemala, the celebration took a different form — one of art and tradition. The capital hosted the ‘Encuentro de Conviteros’, a massive cultural parade that drew more than 3,000 dancers and musicians from 14 departments. Participants wore colourful Mayan dresses, feathered headdresses, and handcrafted armour inspired by pre-Hispanic iconography. Ana Stephany López López, one of the participants, said wearing traditional dress was an act of “resistance and empowerment.”

Meanwhile, in Santiago, Chile, the day was marked by tension. Demonstrations in support of Mapuche rights turned violent as police clashed with protesters near the University of Chile. The Mapuche, Chile’s largest Indigenous group, demanded the restitution of ancestral lands, an end to mining and forestry activities in their territories, and greater political autonomy.

Meanwhile, in Ecuador, the day coincided with massive protests against the government’s decision to eliminate the diesel subsidy. Thousands took to the streets of Quito, where police and military forces clashed with demonstrators led by Indigenous groups.

While the commemorations differed from country to country — the message was shared: Latin America ’s Indigenous peoples continue to stand against dispossession, cultural erasure, and external domination, asserting that their resistance is far from over.

Decades after the end of Angola’s brutal civil war, the country is still fighting a silent battle against landmines scattered across its southern provinces. These hidden explosives not only claim lives but also block access to farmland, delay infrastructure development, and hinder the resettlement of displaced communities. NGOs and international partners continue to press for increased funding and faster demining efforts to make rural areas safe and spur economic recovery.

Journalists push for fair wages

Media tensions are growing as Angolan journalists continue to demand improved pay and safer working conditions. The Minister of Telecommunications, Information, and Social Communication has stated that negotiations will not stop until both parties reach an understanding. This dispute highlights ongoing concerns about press freedom, the professionalisation of the media sector, and the economic challenges facing journalists in Angola.

Angola celebrates 50 years of independence with carnival

President João Lourenço joined thousands at an off-season carnival along Luanda’s Nova Marginal to mark the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence. The event was a major cultural showcase, featuring parades, music, and traditional performances that drew crowds from across the country. The celebration served as both a moment of national pride and a reminder of the challenges Angola has faced since independence, including war, political transition, and economic reform.

High-profile tax fraud trial begins

An investigation into one of Angola’s most significant financial scandals kicked off this week, involving 38 defendants accused of tax fraud. This case is expected to be closely watched as a litmus test for President Lourenço’s anti-corruption campaign, which has targeted prominent figures and sought to recover billions of dollars lost to graft. Analysts say the proceedings will be a measure of Angola’s ability to strengthen its legal system and restore investor confidence.

$7 billion spent annually on public sector salaries

Angola’s government disclosed that it spends around $7 billion annually on public sector salaries, a massive allocation in a country still facing post-war reconstruction needs and economic diversification challenges. This revelation has sparked debate about public spending priorities, efficiency in state institutions, and the need for reform to create more space for infrastructure, health, and education funding.

In Saudi Arabia, Eid al-Adha is synonymous with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, where millions gather in Mecca to 'stone the devil'.

Meanwhile, families across countries like Israel , Palestine, and Indonesia began the day with early prayers, followed by the ritual sacrifice of sheep, goats, or cows.

Damascus acknowledged the spirits of the departed loved ones as the gathered at graveyards to offer prayers.

In Iran, families queued at ram houses to follow through with the ritual sacrifice of sheep, goats, or cows.

Despite the destruction caused by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, worshippers gathered amid the rubble, their faith unshaken. In Pakistan, large crowds attended prayers and shared meals with neighbours.

In Mogadishu, Somalia, people came together for prayers and festive family meals, offering children moments of joy even amid security challenges .

While traditions vary from region to region, the day is marked by prayers, the sharing of food, and moments of community reflection.

Here is the rest of the world in pictures:

In downtown Homs, dozens of Syrians previously barred from celebrating the holiday are preparing to rejoice freely for the first time in 14 years.

On the evening of Wednesday, June 4, many Syrians crowded the bustling streets of Homs to shop for clothes, fireworks, and snacks in preparation for the upcoming holy celebrations.

Yasmine Al-Nimr, a mother of two who was previously displaced from the Al-Waer neighbourhood of Homs, told AFP, "This is the first Eid in 14 years that we've come to downtown Homs and strolled around Deblan Street and Hamra Street and the markets. It's the first time we feel like it's Eid in 14 years. We're hearing the Eid call to prayer in the streets; it finally feels like Eid in Homs. We haven't had an Eid since we fled Homs (during the war )." Adding "This is the first time I'm buying (Eid gifts) for my girls, who I brought with me from the liberated north, and I brought them here to Homs to buy them clothes. You wouldn't believe my happiness. You wouldn't believe how happy I am to be shopping for clothes in Homs.”

"Eid is different from last year and the years before. We've lived happy days since the liberation. The markets are different between Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, but even Eid al-Adha is different this year. Eid al-Fitr was nice. So we're hoping that there are good things to come. Happy Eid to everyone," Tamer Al-Sufi, a 59-year-old shop owner in Homs, also added.

Eid al-Adha, one of the two major Islamic festivals alongside Eid al-Fitr, is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijja , the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. The festivities typically continue for the next three days, known as the Days of Tashreeq.

The festival commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.

It will be marked from the evening of Thursday, June 5, to Friday, June 6, this year.

The event in the Tokoza township outside of Johannesburg featured prayers, speeches and a performance against domestic violence, a national scourge. But the main attraction was on the red carpet stretching down the community hall where grandmothers paraded with pride in a competition that is rare among the host of others for younger women.

"This takes me way back, brings my youth back," Malinda, a great-grandmother of five, told AFP, breaking into a joyful jig to "Happy Mama" by legendary jazz musician Hugh Masekela.

In this version of a beauty contest, there were no swimsuit or evening wear categories. Instead, women paraded in their Sunday best, from sleeveless summer frocks to bold orange headwraps, strings of pearls to traditional wear.

Floral fabrics and well-loved kitten heels hinted at celebrations past. Supporters, mostly women from the Sukuma Mbokodo Support Group that organised the show, clapped, ululated, and fiddled with their phones to record the spectacle.

"At our old age, we thought that maybe because our husbands are gone, everything is gone, it's the end of the world ," she said. But the event "picked our spirits up...taught us we are still alive and life still goes on, we better make ourselves the right grannies," she said, her brown eyes sparkling.

President Vladimir Putin presided over the Victory Day celebrations, which included a procession of tanks, missiles, and troops. The ceremony was attended by more than two dozen world leaders, among them Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Burkina Faso’s junta leader Ibrahim Traore.

Victory Day is Russia’s most prominent secular holiday, commemorating the Soviet Union’s role in the Allied victory in 1945. This year’s celebration was the largest since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and marked the highest level of international representation in Moscow in the past decade.

However, due to diversity and rights to worship, Easter is not the same for everyone.

From Brazil’s beaches to the snowy slopes of Sweden, Easter is a public holiday. Schools close, offices go quiet, and streets come alive with parades, feasts, and old-world rituals.

In the Philippines, candlelit processions wind through towns, while in Italy, massive chocolate eggs hide secret surprises. In Ethiopia, where Orthodox traditions thrive, fasting ends with a grand feast, known as Fasika.

Hop across the globe, however, and Easter's presence shifts. In places such as China, Turkey, and much of North Africa (large Muslim populations), Easter is just another day on the calendar.

Life goes on, business as usual, though you might still find hidden enclaves celebrating with quiet reverence, like a small congregation in Morocco or expats cracking red eggs in Beijing.

Then there’s the United States . Here, Easter dances a delicate line between celebration and routine. It’s not a federal public holiday, yet church bells ring across cities, and parks bloom with egg hunts as children search through the grass.

In the Bible Belt, entire towns might close up shop for Good Friday, while in others, business continues.

"You can't talk about Brazilian carnival without acknowledging the Black population, Afro culture, and the drums," said Daiane Pettine, an administrator.

For over two decades, Ilu Oba De Min has stood as a symbol of resistance, particularly for Black women. "This bloco represents more than just music—it’s about the ongoing fight and resilience of Black women in Brazil," Sergio Eduardo, a carnival enthusiast told the AFP.

The event is more than just a party; it’s a powerful statement of identity and unity. "For us Black people in Brazil, carnival is a time to celebrate, to sing, to dance, and to reaffirm our fight for survival," said Lêda Leal, a pedagogue.

The endangered pachyderm enjoys watermelon, bananas, sweet potatoes, and popcorn - her favorite treat, says Animal Welfare Officer Misa Leiva.

“Our family is not very big, so people getting married on the same day as us is something very special,” newlywed Gerardo Galvan told the AFP.

For many couples, like Carlos Tapia and Leticia Martinez, the idea of a mass wedding had long been on their minds. “For several years now, we had always seen the mass weddings and kind of had that idea,” said Carlos, 32, as he and his bride celebrated their union.

Municipal official Adalberto Perez explained that preparations began weeks in advance. “This was done two weeks in advance. We appointed them (the couples) in the office to receive their documentation and to take their signatures and fingerprints,” he said.

Mass weddings are a popular tradition in Mexico, often organized by local governments to help couples legally formalize their unions in a festive and cost-effective way. 

The event, held in the heart of Algiers, was organized by the municipality of Alger Centre and aimed to bring together Algerians from all walks of life, with a special focus on younger generations.

Karima Hamzaoui, the deputy mayor of Alger Centre, explained the significance of the event: "The goal is to bring Algerians, especially young people , together to rediscover our rich heritage and traditions," she told the AFP.

The second edition of "La table du couscous Yennayer" (The Yennayer Couscous Table) saw volunteers and city officials working together to prepare a diverse array of couscous dishes, showcasing the variety of regional flavours that are part of the Amazigh culinary tradition.

Dalila Hemiss, a 51-year-old volunteer from France, extended her warm wishes to attendees, saying, "Assegas ameggaz! Happy New Year! Best wishes for the Amazigh year 2975. We are all here today to celebrate together, and it's an honour to be part of this tradition."

The "mega-couscous" event is part of a movement to celebrate and preserve the cultural legacy of the Amazigh people, whose history spans across North Africa.

A standout float this year was the "peace carriage," created by victims of Colombia's armed conflict and signatories of the nation’s peace agreement. The float served as a symbol of hope and reconciliation for the country.

Diana Huila, a victim of the armed conflict, expressed her sentiments: “This is a wonderful opportunity that allowed us to create this peace float. Through collaboration between the victims, peace signatories, and the public force, a meaningful effort took place, offering the world an example that peace can indeed be built.”

Carmen Santacruz, a peace agreement signatory, highlighted the importance of moving forward: “I feel very happy because we cannot live our entire lives hating each other; we have to continue building a social fabric, and this is a small step in that direction. Today, it bears fruit, and that fruit is this float.”

Tourists were equally captivated by the event. Rafael Puente, visiting from another part of Colombia, shared his enthusiasm: “Spectacular, it’s my first time here. I’ve attended all the carnivals in Colombia, and this is the last one, but it seems like the best.”

Rooted in a blend of Andean, Amazonian, and Pacific cultural traditions, the Blacks and Whites Carnival celebrates the region's ethnic diversity. In recognition of its cultural significance, UNESCO proclaimed it an intangible cultural heritage in 2009.

The minstrel carnival, often referred to as the "Kaapse Klopse" or "Cape Town Minstrel Festival," has its roots in the city's history of slavery. The parade honours the heritage of Cape Town's mixed-race community, many of whom are descendants of slaves brought to the city from Africa, Southwest Asia , and Indian Ocean territories during Dutch colonial rule in the 1650s.

Participants don flamboyant costumes, face paint, and carry umbrellas as they march through the streets, performing lively songs and dances. The New Year parade, a highlight of the festival, serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and cultural pride for the community.

"It's a celebration of freedom and our unique identity," one participant, adorned in a sparkling purple suit and golden hat, told the AFP.

For Cape Town's residents, the carnival is more than just a spectacle; it's a deeply personal tradition passed down through generations, blending music , art, and storytelling to keep the spirit of the past alive.

The first formal parade was held in 1907, Muneeb Gambeno, director of the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association that organises the event, told broadcaster SABC, with slavery abolished in Cape Town in 1834. 

In the Netherlands, where fireworks were set on January 1, an estimated €118 million worth of fireworks were sold to consumers, setting a new record.

In Athens, Greece, a drone light show illuminated the sky over the Parthenon on Acropolis Hill and created the Greek words that translate to "Happy New Year" during New Year celebrations on January 1, 2025.

Georgian anti-government demonstrators gathered in front of the Georgian parliament in Tbilisi to celebrate the New Year, continuing the month-long protests against the government's decision to suspend the EU accession process.

Thousands in Mexico danced on Reforma Avenue, in the heart of the capital Mexico City, to welcome the New Year, 2025.

Here’s a peek into how New Year's Day is celebrated around the world:

Japan

In Japan, New Year's Day, or Shogatsu, is one of the most important holidays. Preparations begin in December with house cleaning and decorating. On New Year's Eve, families gather to eat toshikoshi soba (year-crossing noodles) and listen to the ringing of temple bells 108 times which symbolises the cleansing of 108 earthly desires. New Year's Day is spent visiting shrines, enjoying special foods like osechi ryori, and giving children money in envelopes called otoshidama.

Brazil

In Brazil, New Year's Eve, known as Réveillon, is celebrated with beach parties , fireworks, and music. In Rio de Janeiro, millions gather on Copacabana Beach dressed in white for good luck. Many people also jump seven waves and make wishes for the new year, a tradition rooted in Afro-Brazilian culture.

United States

The United States welcomes the New Year with parties, fireworks, and the iconic ball drop in Times Square, New York City. As the clock strikes midnight, people cheer, kiss, and sing "Auld Lang Syne." New Year's Day often involves parades, such as the famous Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, and watching college football bowl games.

Spain

The New Year is welcomed with the tradition of eating twelve grapes at midnight, one for each chime of the clock, to bring good luck for each month of the coming year in Spain. This is often followed by parties that last until the early hours of the morning. The celebration continues on January 6th with El Día de los Reyes (Three Kings' Day), which includes parades and gift-giving.

South Africa

In South Africa, New Year's Eve is celebrated with street parties, fireworks, and music festivals. In Cape Town, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront hosts a grand celebration with live performances and a spectacular fireworks display. New Year's Day is often spent with family and friends, enjoying barbecues known as braais.

China

Although the Gregorian New Year is observed, the most significant celebration in China is the Lunar New Year, which falls between January 21 and February 20. The festivities last for 15 days and include family reunions, feasts, dragon and lion dances, and the exchange of red envelopes containing money for good luck.

Scotland

In Scotland, New Year's Eve, known as Hogmanay, is celebrated with street parties, fireworks, and the singing of "Auld Lang Syne." A unique tradition is first-footing, where the first person to enter a home after midnight brings gifts like coal, shortbread, or whisky to ensure good luck for the household.

To commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, the son of God, over 2 billion Christians around the world have various traditions for this special day.

In the Czech Republic, single women toss their shoes over their shoulders on Christmas Day. If the shoe lands with the toe pointing to a door, marriage is said to be in the future.

Mexicans reenact Mary and Joseph's search for shelter in Bethlehem for nine nights leading to Christmas.

In Japan, KFC outlets are always filled on Christmas Day. Due to a 1970 marketing campaign, the Japanese have their holiday meals at KFC .

In Venezuela's capital, Caracas, however, it is a tradition to roller-skate to morning mass on Christmas Eve. For safety, roads are even blocked.

Norwegians on the other hand hide their brooms to prevent evil spirits from 'borrowing' them on Christmas Eve.

Ethiopia surprisingly celebrates Christmas on January 7 with a mass and a hockey-like game called ganna.

"The Christmas atmosphere this year is very beautiful," said Aya, a Damascus resident, speaking to AFP. "Every year we eagerly await the opening of the Christmas market to go shopping and have a good time. This year, the ambience is even more joyful because Syria was liberated and our problems have finally been resolved."  

The city’s vibrant markets have drawn crowds from diverse backgrounds, with Muslims joining Christians in the festivities. "Muslims are coming to the Christmas market more than Christians," shared Batoul Al-Law, another Damascus resident. "We have always celebrated both Christian and Muslim holidays together, and this has not changed at all since the revolution. On the contrary, you feel that people are now happier and more comfortable."  

The festive celebrations come just weeks after al-Assad fled the country on December 8, marking the end of more than 50 years of rule by the al-Assad family. 

In its weekly magazine Desde la Fe , the Church proposed a cessation of attacks beginning December 12, the day dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe. "May the message of the Virgin of Guadalupe motivate so that next December 12th is the date when the weapons are silenced," the publication urged, adding that this could mark "the beginning of a period in which respect and dialogue prevail."

Auxiliary Archbishop Francisco Acero reinforced this call on December 9, advocating for an "absolute" truce on both December 12 and December 25. "Such measures could open the possibility of putting a stop to crime," he stated.

The appeal comes amidst growing concerns about violence in Mexico, where over 30,000 murders occur annually—equivalent to a rate of 24 per 100,000 inhabitants. However, President Claudia Sheinbaum has ruled out engaging in dialogue with criminal groups, which the government blames for the majority of these crimes.

Devotees expressed their hopes for peace during the celebration. "More than anything, I hope for health and that there will be less war. More peace, because we see in the world that there are very difficult situations," Porfilio Limon, a pilgrim from Puebla state, east-central Mexico, told AFP.

Maria Reina Rojas, another participant, shared her gratitude. "We did not come to ask for many things. We just came to thank her for the job we have, that we are well, and that she continues to bless us with what she has given us so far," she said. "We continue to work hard and move forward so that we can return home safely."

The event celebrated on November 1 and 2, is a time-honoured tradition in Mexico where families gather at the graves of loved ones, who are believed to return each year.

On the evening of October 31st, relatives light candles that cast a gentle glow over marigolds, offerings, and traditional foods arranged on graves and home altars.

Miss Universe 2024, the 73rd edition of the prestigious pageant, will be held on November 16, 2024, at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico.

This marks the first time since 2007 that Mexico is hosting the event. The reigning Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua, will crown her successor at the end of the evening.

This year's competition features contestants from over 130 countries, including first-timers from Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, Iran, Macau, Maldives, Moldova, North Macedonia, Somalia, the United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan.

In a speech to commemorate the anniversary, President Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s enduring legacy and future aspirations. “We are determined to make the independent, strong, dignified and prosperous Türkiye, which is the legacy of our states extending from the Seljuks to the Ottomans and finally to the Republic on the Anatolian lands, live forever,” he said. Erdogan also emphasised Turkey’s resilience and determination to “eliminate the scourge of terror.”

“We have few obstacles to overcome, few problems to resolve ahead of us to reach the bright futures that we call the ‘Century of Türkiye’,” he added.

Later in the day, President Erdogan spoke at the delivery ceremony of T625 Gökbey helicopters, where he highlighted the significant contributions of the nation’s defence industry to the Turkish economy. “We are by far the world’s largest manufacturer in the unmanned aerial vehicle market,” he stated.

Since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Hindu population has faced a series of targeted attacks in the Muslim-majority country.

However, Hindu devotees, amid the spate of attacks stepped out in large numbers on the culmination of the festival.

"We no longer feel any fear. Whatever concerns we had are now gone. There is nothing left to fear," said Kumar Mondal, a 50-year-old devotee, reflecting a sentiment of cautious relief among the celebrants.

For some, like 29-year-old music teacher Mitu Ghosh, initial fears remained. "We were celebrating the Puja with some apprehension, wondering what might happen at any moment. However, things are going well now. While there have been some incidents of vandalism that make us a bit sad, we are still celebrating the Puja," she said.

Jibon Chandra Pal, a 55-year-old Bangladeshi expatriate, shared a similar sentiment. "There was an incident in the Tanti Bazar neighbourhood in Dhaka on Friday, but it was a mugging, nothing too serious. The way we are celebrating now is what matters most," he said, noting that the anticipated violence did not occur.

Hindus make up approximately 8% of Bangladesh's 170 million population, translating to around 13 million people, making Hinduism the second-largest religion in the country after Islam.

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate, has been criticised for not doing enough to protect the Hindu minority. Reports suggest that hardline Islamist groups have gained increasing political influence and visibility since the fall of Hasina, raising concerns about the safety of the Hindu community.

Taiwo Oguntoye, the 39-year-old organiser of the festival, explained the cultural significance of twins in Yoruba tradition. "Twins bring favour, fame, and wealth to their parents in unique ways. In Yorubaland, we celebrate their birth, which might be why we have the highest number of twins in the world ," he said.

Oguntoye also emphasised the strong bond shared by twins, describing it as a destiny beyond their control.

A visiting traditional king from Ogun State, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle expressed his belief that the festival has global potential. "By the grace of God, I believe this festival will soon attract twins from all over the world to Nigeria, to Igbo-Ora, to celebrate themselves," he said.

The festival’s organisers are planning to host the world's largest gathering of twins next year, hoping to build a dedicated "twins village."

Since taking office in May, Lai has faced criticism from Beijing for his strong support of Taiwan's sovereignty and his rejection of the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) claims over the island.

The CCP insists on "reunification" with Taiwan, even suggesting the use of force. However, many Taiwanese identify as distinctly Taiwanese and oppose any association with the People’s Republic of China.

Lai contrasted the political histories of the two governments in his speech, stating , “Recently, our neighbour, the People’s Republic of China, celebrated its 75th birthday on October 1. In a few days, the Republic of China will celebrate its 113th birthday."

"President Obrador has done so much for our country. Tonight, we celebrate not just our independence, but also his contributions," said Maria Gonzalez, a resident.

Her sentiment was echoed by many others who see Obrador as a champion of the people.

"First, it's [we are here] to celebrate the beginning of the independence movement, but also because we support the president, who is our president because we elected him, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador." Alfonso Sanvicente, a teacher told AFP.

Mexico's Independence Day is celebrated on September 16th each year. This day marks the anniversary of the "Grito de Dolores," a historic event in 1810 when Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, called for Mexico's independence from Spanish rule.

The celebrations typically include vibrant parades, fireworks, music, and traditional dances. The "Grito de Independencia" is reenacted, with the President of Mexico ringing the same bell that Father Hidalgo used, followed by the crowd shouting "¡Viva México!"

The announcement follows a highly disputed election in July, in which Maduro was re-elected for a third term. This outcome was met with widespread criticism both domestically and internationally.

The early Christmas declaration has also suffered the same fate.

José Ernesto Ruiz, a 57-year-old office worker from Caracas, expressed "Christmas is supposed to be a time of joy, family reunions, parties, presents. But without money and with this political crisis, who can believe that there will be an early Christmas?"

Inés Quevedo, a 39-year-old secretary and mother of two, echoed the concerns of many citizens: "We are all worried about how we are going to put food on the table, how we are going to pay for the bus, send the children to school, and buy medicine when we need it?"

As reported by CNN , the country's religious body, the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference on Tuesday, September 3 warned Christmas "is not to be used for political or propaganda goals".

Despite the criticism, Maduro insists that the early Christmas celebration will bring "peace, happiness, and security" to the country.

This is not the first time Maduro has declared an early Christmas. It has become a norm, described as a political manoeuvre aimed at diverting attention from the country's ongoing crises: similar announcements were made during the COVID-19 pandemic, though never this early in the year.

Beyond the fogged political atmosphere, Venezuela's economic situation has been dire for several years, with hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods severely impacting the population. The minimum wage has remained stagnant at 130 bolivars per month (approximately $3.55) since 2022.

In the first eight months of 2023, Vietnam's exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products reached $40.08 billion, with imports standing at $28.28 billion. This resulted in a notable trade surplus of $11.8 billion, reflecting a significant 68.4% increase compared to the previous year. The US has overtaken China as the primary market for Vietnam's exports, accounting for $8.58 billion (21.4% of total exports) and marking a 23.5% increase. Meanwhile, exports to China reached $8.17 billion (20.4%), up 10.2%, Saigon News reports.

Commemoration of 79 th National Day

Vietnam celebrated its 79th National Day on September 2, 2024, with various countries participating in celebrations. Lao Ambassador to France Kham-Inh Khitchadeth on his visit to the Vietnamese Embassy in France praised Vietnam's socio-economic development, while Vietnamese Ambassador Đinh Toàn Thắng pledged to enhance collaboration between the two embassies. The Japanese celebration was held by the Vietnamese Consulate General in Osaka, with the Japanese Deputy Governor expressing gratitude for Vietnam's contributions to bilateral relations. The Vietnamese Embassy in Pakistan hosted a gathering with nearly 200 attendees, where Ambassador Phạm Anh Tuấn articulated Vietnam's commitment to independent foreign relations and the long-standing partnership with Pakistan since their diplomatic ties were established in 1972, Asian News Network reports. 

Enterprises urged to quickly adapt to EU Deforestation Regulation

Vietnamese enterprises have been called upon to swiftly adapt to the EU's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which came into force in June 2023. This regulation prohibits the importation of products associated with deforestation or forest degradation, retroactively applied since December 31, 2020. According to VietnamNet Global , major commodities affected include timber, rubber, and coffee, which collectively account for over $2.5 billion in exports to the EU.

Over 6 million tonnes of rice exported in eight months

Vietnam achieved a notable export of 6.16 million tonnes of rice during the first eight months of 2024, marking a 5.9% increase compared to the previous year and generating nearly $3.85 billion in revenue, up 21.7%. The average export price rose to $625 per tonne. The Southeast Asian country aims to surpass eight million tonnes in rice exports, targeting a revenue of $5 billion, The Star reports. 

Intensified storm poised to impact northern Vietnam

The intensified Storm Yagi is expected to impact northern Vietnam, with maximum wind speeds projected to rise from 88 kph to 166 kph within a few days. By Thursday, September 5, the storm will be near Hainan Island, with winds expected to peak at 149 kph, according to VN Express . The northeastern East Sea will confront significant winds and waves measuring 3-5 metres starting Tuesday, September 3. It is anticipated that the storm will sustain its intensity while traversing into the Gulf of Tonkin. In response, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has urged coastal provinces to contemplate beach closures and consider evacuating residents from high-risk zones.

Here are some surprising facts about Father's Day:

The First Father's Day stemmed from tragedy

The first modern Father's Day was rooted in tragedy , held in remembrance of the 362 men who were killed in a mining explosion at the Fairmont Coal Company in West Virginia on June 19, 1910. Sonora Smart Dodd from Spokane, Washington, was inspired to honour her father and other community fathers affected by the tragedy. Dodd, whose father was the Civil War veteran and widower William Jackson Smart, single-handedly raised six children following the death of his wife at childbirth.

Father's Day was not recognised until USA presidents did in 1924

The concept of Father's Day was first endorsed by US President Calvin Coolidge in 1924 . It was US President Lyndon Johnson who, in 1966, issued a proclamation designating the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. Subsequently, President Richard Nixon enacted legislation in 1972 that granted Father's Day permanent national recognition.

Not everyone supported separate Mother's and Father's Days

During the 1920s and 1930s, there was an initiative to abolish the separate observances of Mother's Day and the emerging Father's Day in favour of combining them into a single celebration known as Parents' Day. Robert Spere who was spearheading this told the New York Times in 1931 that “We should all have love for dad and mother every day, but Parents’ Day on the second Sunday in May is a reminder that both parents should be loved and respected together.”

It is the fourth most popular holiday for greeting cards

Father's Day is a significant occasion for the greeting card industry, ranking as the fourth most popular card-giving day. Annually, around 72 million cards are sold for this holiday. Hallmark, a company that has been crafting Father's Day cards since the 1920s, offers over 800 unique designs for fathers, with humorous cards making up about a quarter of their sales.

The tradition of rose sharing

The maiden Father's Day celebration featured a church service during which daughters presented red roses to their fathers. Additionally, children adorned their garments with roses to pay tribute to their fathers, with red roses symbolising a living father and white roses commemorating those who had passed away. Dodd also extended this gesture by delivering roses and presents to fathers in the community who could not attend the service.

The song "Astronomia" by Vicetone and Tony Igy was added by users to various footage of humans or animals falling or failing, signifying their impending death. These footage were followed by the meme of the pallbearers and they went viral on social media sites like TikTok.

The Ghanaian pallbearers were the subject of a documentary series called "My Perfect Funeral: The Final Destination" that was produced by the African streaming site Showmax as a result of the meme's immense popularity. The show explores both the cultural and spiritual facets of funerals in Ghana as well as the struggles and lives of the pallbearers.

But why did this meme resonate with so many people around the world? What is the appeal of watching a bunch of individuals dance around with a coffin on their shoulders?

Despite being one of the oldest and most common human customs, funerals differ significantly between nations and eras. Funerals serve as an expression of the significance and worth of life and death in addition to being a means of burying the deceased.

Funerals serve as a means of guaranteeing the deceased's passage to the hereafter, whether it is oblivion, hell, heaven, or reincarnation. Funerals serve as a means of both honouring and remembering the deceased as well as helping those who are left behind deal with their grief and loss.

In parts of the Global South like Africa and Latin America, funerals are especially important and elaborate, as they reflect the diverse and rich cultures, beliefs, and values of the people who live there. Funerals are not only a way of honouring the dead, but also a way of expressing the connection between the living and the departed, as well as the community.

Elaborate funerals are a common way of honouring the dead and expressing the connection between the living and the departed in many communities.

Some families in China follow a custom known as Tian Ji, which translates to "sky burial." In this rite, the dead are left out in the open to carrion birds, letting nature take its course. It is viewed as a means of releasing the spirit from the body and reintroducing it to nature.

Buddhists from Tibet and Mongolia, who consider the body to be simply a temporary home for the soul, frequently engage in this practice. Additionally, some families want to cremate their loved ones and turn their ashes into vibrant beads that are kept as a memento or a house ornament.

Similar to this, people in Mexico and other areas of Latin America observe Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), a celebration that blends remembering loved ones who have passed away with strengthening family and community ties.

This custom has its roots in pre-Hispanic times when the native people had the belief that once a year the souls of the dead visited their surviving kin. Families erect altars at the graves of the deceased, decorating them with food, flowers, candles, and images of the departed. Additionally, they enjoy music, dancing, and cuisine while donning masks and costumes.

It is impossible to overstate the burden on the families of the departed to make sure the funerals are lavish and live up to the standards of their communities. Funerals may be extraordinarily expensive and intricate occasions in some cultures, such as those in Ghana, Nigeria, China, and Mexico. They also involve a lot of planning and preparation.

The families of the deceased have to provide food, drinks, music, decorations, gifts, and other services for the guests who attend the funeral. The families also have to pay for the coffin, the burial site, the priest or clergyman, and other expenses related to the funeral. The families may also have to follow certain customs and rituals that are expected by their culture or religion.

For instance, some families in Ghana are known to hire professional mourners, who cry theatrically and loudly throughout the funeral. Some households in Nigeria are required to sacrifice cows or goats as a form of remembrance. Some Chinese households are required to burn cash or other objects as sacrifices to their ancestors. Some families in Mexico are required to erect altars filled with food, flowers, candles, and photos of the departed.

Africans produce textiles specifically for funerals as one of the ways they promote their funerals. Several African nations, including Ghana, Togo, Benin, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and Mali, have patterns and fabrics specifically made for funerals. These fabrics typically come in the traditional colours of mourning, which are black or red, and have symbolic designs or motifs that stand for hope, grief, sorrow, or death. For the deceased or the mourners, these materials are used to create gowns, skirts, shirts, head wraps, scarves, or shrouds. When people wear them or utilize them at funerals, they can show their cultural identity and values.

Funerals are such a big deal in parts of the Global South because they reflect the diverse and rich cultures, beliefs, and values of the people who live there. Most importantly for these people, they serve as a coping mechanism to deal with grief and loss, as well as supporting and comforting each other. On such days, they gather, show support and solidarity, celebrate and mourn, share stories and memories, reaffirm their identity and values, and renew their bonds with each other and with their ancestors.

Bangladesh's economy is facing three major risks, including persistent inflation, a growing debt burden, and slow economic growth, according to the Centre for Policy Dialogue. The high inflation is impacting low-income and marginalised individuals' ability to afford basic needs, while the increasing reliance on borrowing for debt servicing is raising the debt-to-GDP ratio. "The government's loan from domestic sources is almost double compared to the foreign debt, which is a sign of big problems. We know that around $5 billion in debt is unpaid in the energy sector," said Debapriya Bhattacharya a fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue. Additionally, slow economic growth is shrinking the government's fiscal space for spending, the Daily Star reports.

Educational institutions reopen amid heatwave challenges

Bangladesh’s educational institutions have reopened amid heatwave challenges, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff, according to local media Somoyo . The Bangladesh Ministry of Education has implemented stringent measures to mitigate risks associated with the heatwave, including limiting assembly on school premises and preventing students from engaging in educational activities outside the classroom. The decision to reopen educational institutions was initially scheduled for April 21, but due to the severity of the heatwave, they were declared closed on April 20.

India lifts onion export ban

India has lifted its ban on onion export to Bangladesh but imposed a 40% export duty on the product. The removal of the ban is unlikely to help tame the price of onion in Bangladesh due to existing higher duties, experts suggest. The Indian government has allowed shipments to India's friendly nations, including the UAE and Bangladesh, according to the Financial Express . The Bangladesh government requested the Indian government to permit 50,000 tonnes of onion export in March. However, the price of onion increased by 30-40% in a month during its peak harvest season in the country. Imports from India through private channels have remained halted for the last four months due to the export ban, the Financial Express reported.

Record foreign ships dock at Bangladesh's Mongla Port

Mongla Port, the second largest port in Bangladesh has seen eight commercial foreign ships dock , setting a record since its establishment. Notable vessels anchored at the port included Liberian-flagged Maersk Hai Phong, Singaporean-flagged Kota Tenaga, and MV Kota Rancak. The port's progress is advancing due to government efforts and port authority initiatives with over 55 development projects completed by the government. Mongla Port's role in driving economic progress is highlighted by a robust annual growth rate of around 20% in port utilisation.

Embassy in Washington welcomes Bangla New Year

Bangladesh Embassy in Washington celebrated the Bangla New Year on May 4. The event led by Bangladesh Ambassador to the US Muhammad Imran featured a cultural show showcasing Bangladesh's rich culture and heritage. According to the Daily Sun , the Ambassador encouraged Bangladeshis living abroad to spread awareness of their country's rich history, culture, and legacy while also instilling a sense of patriotism and the spirit of the historic Liberation War. The full-day event, which featured traditional Bangladeshi dishes, stalls selling traditional handicrafts, banners and brochures commemorating the South Asian nation's independence, language movement, and development, drew well over 5,000 foreign visitors and locals, the Daily Sun reports.

One of the most popular and distinctive features of African Christmas celebrations is the singing of carols, which are often performed in local languages and styles.

Some of the carols are adaptations of European or American tunes, while others are original compositions that reflect the culture and history of the region.

In Nigeria, one of the most widely sung carols is "Betelehemu" , which means "Bethlehem" in Yoruba. The song praises Jesus as the king of kings and the lord of lords and expresses gratitude for his birth.

One of the most beloved carols in South Africa is "Indodana" , which means "The Son" in Xhosa. The song tells the story of Jesus' life, death and resurrection, and emphasizes his role as the savior of humanity.

The tradition of singing carols in Africa dates back to the colonial era when missionaries introduced Christianity to various parts of the continent. However, over time, Africans have adapted and transformed the carols to suit their own musical tastes and religious expressions.

Some of the carols incorporate elements of African folk music, such as drums, rattles, flutes and xylophones. Others use modern instruments, such as guitars, keyboards and saxophones. Some of the carols are sung in acapella or choral arrangements, while others are accompanied by dancing and clapping.

The church services and carols that mark Christmas in Africa are not only a way of celebrating the birth of Jesus, but also a way of affirming the identity and diversity of African Christianity.