Seasonal Celebrations
Throughout the year,people around the world celebrate the changing seasons to express their appreciation of nature.
As spring approaches,the whole of Japan turns a shade of pink.It is time for "hanami", which in English means "flower viewing".People picnic under the cherry trees and admire the blossoms for the few short days before they fall to the ground.
In Bulgaria,people welcome summer by celebrating the Rose Festival.Traditionally,the festival begins with rose picking.During the parade that follows,rose growers sing and dance to express their joy at the harvest.A "Rose Queen" is selected every year to represent the unique beauty of these fragrant flowers.
Mid-Autumn Day in China is also known as the Moon Festival.At that time of year,the moon is at its roundest and brightest,making it a symbol of unity in Chinese culture.That's why people in China regard the day as an occasion for family reunions.They gather with their families and eat mooncakes while enjoying the sight of the full moon at night.
Winter is just right for the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival.The world's biggest winter festival of its kind,it presents various colourfully lit sculptures and buildings made from ice and snow.Each year up to 15 million visitors come to join the "cool"celebrations in this magical world of ice.
After Midwinter,the days start getting longer,and people celebrate the New Year.When the clocks in different countries reach midnight,the celebrations may vary,but they all mean one thing-good luck for the four seasons ahead.
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