Festivals Together

A resource guide for celebration, and for observing special days, according to traditions based on many cultures, this book brings together the experience, sharing and activities of individuals from a multi-faith community - Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh. It draws on backgrounds as diverse as North and West Africa, the Caribbean, China, India, Ireland, Japan, New England, the Philippines and more. Its unifying thread is our need for meaning, for continuity and for joy. Here are stories, songs, crafts, activities and recipes for sharing throughout the seasons - from Eid, Holi, Easter and Wesak to Advent, Divali and Chinese New Year, children and adults alike should enjoy the tales of Anancy the spider trickster, of Ganesh and how he got his elephant head, and why the sun and moon live in the sky. "Festivals Together" is a book for the classroom, family or community gathering. The reader can learn how to make simple percussion instruments, kites that really fly, a Filipino Christmas star, Chinese lanterns, spring flower festival decorations, diva lamps or Christingle oranges!
Original seasonal songs by Jeanne Mehta complement traditional folk favourites, such as "Sakura" and "Christmas a Come". The book seeks to enrich and widen people's celebration experience, and to reflect the "global village" nature of modern society". As a learning tool or "just for fun", it offers a creative influence for children today.