Celebrations in the UK and some annual events

Here in the UK there alot of celebrations and events that caters for all, the list below are simply some suggestions that we think you may be interested in.

New Year’s Day	Like some countries, the UK celebrate the new year with fireworks. Several cities and towns will hold their own events and fireworks displays. One of the most popular firework displays is held in London, however, you will require to purchase a ticket to enter. Tickets goes on sale around September time and usually sells out quite quickly. Information about London New Year’s Eve firework can be found here. Although if you are in Scotland, it is called Hogmanay, the new year celebration last for few days. The celebration contains fireworks, cannons, concerts, jumping into the river and much more. Explore further information on Hogmanay.
Valentine Day	A dedicated day where people give gifts to another person to show their affection and love for them. The history of St Valentine can be found here. However in Wales, their Valentine day is also known as St Dwynwen's day which is held on the 25^th January. The history of St Dwynwen's day day can be found here.
Pancake Day/ Shrove Tuesday	Pancake Day is also known as Shrove Tuesday, traditionally the purpose of the pancake day is to celebrate before Ash Wednesday (before Lent) but also to use up all the richer ingredient one has in the house before they start Lent. The history of pancake day/ Shrove Tuesday can be found here. During this day some people may hold Pancake race or other fun activities whilst also enjoying the deliciousness of pancakes.
St Patrick's Day	Traditionally it was celebrated as remembrance of St Patrick for introducing Christianity to Ireland, however, as the years gone by it became more of a celebration of everything Irish. During this day, certain towns/ cities will hold parades and people often dress up in green as part of the celebration. Information on St Patrick’s Day can be found here.
St David's Day	St David is more commonly celebrated in Wales. St David was a Christian missionary and archbishop who travelled to open monasteries. On this day there will be parades and big celebrations, follow by some heritage site providing free entrance for the day. More information about St David Day can be found here.
Easter	Easter in the UK is a mixture of Pagan and Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus and beginning of new life. During this period people either go to church, consume Easter eggs, hot cross buns and participate in a variety of activities. For Easter break, students usually have at least 1 week off school. For more information about Easter click here.
Halloween	Halloween is the time of year where people dress up as the dead and children knocks on doors for treats. The tradition started off with Celts believing on Halloween our world and the world of the spirits doors would be connected. The purpose of Halloween decoration is to scare away the spirits. As time moves on and other religions adding aspects of their own, it made what Halloween is today. More information on Halloween can be found here.
Bonfire Night/ Guy Fawkes Night	Bonfire night is also known as Guy Fawkes Night, it is a remembrance of how Guy Fawkes tried to blow up parliament. On this day, a lot of cities and towns holds a controlled bonfire to mark the day, follow by some fireworks and celebration. For the history of Guy Fawkes click here.
Remembrance Day/ Armistice Day	Remembrance Day is also known as Armistice Day, it marks the end day of World War One. On this day memorial services will be held and a 2 minute of silent will be done to remember the people who have died in the war. For more information on Remembrance Day, it can be found here. The main service will be held in London, where it is attended by the royal family and 10,000 veterans will participate in the march.
Christmas Day	A time of year where families gather together to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Some families may go to Midnight Mass, however, not all who celebrates Christmas are religious. The celebration normally consists of a luxurious roast dinner, Christmas pudding, presents and singing Christmas Carols. For more information about Christmas it can be found here. During this time of year there will be various Christmas market and other activities, follow by students will have 2 weeks off school (Unless you are a PhD student).

Easter in the UK is a mixture of Pagan and Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus and beginning of new life. During this period people either go to church, consume Easter eggs, hot cross buns and participate in a variety of activities. For Easter break, students usually have at least 1 week off school. For more information about Easter click here.

Hallow