As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, understanding and appreciating different cultures and traditions is more important than ever. One way to do this is by learning about and celebrating various holidays from around the globe. In this article, we'll take a look at 20 world holidays in 2025 that you should know about.
The importance of learning about and celebrating holidays from different cultures cannot be overstated. Not only does it promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, but it also allows us to broaden our perspectives and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a travel buff, or simply someone who loves to learn, this article is for you.
From ancient festivals to modern-day celebrations, we'll explore some of the most significant and fascinating holidays from around the world. So, let's dive in and discover some of the most exciting world holidays in 2025!
1. Chinese New Year (February 10, 2025)
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world. It marks the beginning of the new year on the traditional Chinese calendar and is typically celebrated with parades, fireworks, and family gatherings.
2. Diwali (November 14, 2025)
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a significant holiday in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It's a five-day celebration that honors the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Other significant holidays in November 2025:
All Saints' Day (November 1, 2025) All Souls' Day (November 2, 2025) Veterans Day (November 11, 2025)
3. Christmas (December 25, 2025)
Christmas is a holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed by Christians around the world. It's a time for gift-giving, spending time with loved ones, and enjoying festive traditions.
4. Eid al-Fitr (April 21, 2025)
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a significant holiday in Islam. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
Other significant holidays in April 2025:
Easter Sunday (April 13, 2025) Passover (April 13-21, 2025)
5. Holi (March 20, 2025)
Holi is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. It's known for its vibrant colors and festive atmosphere.
Other significant holidays in March 2025:
International Women's Day (March 8, 2025) St. Patrick's Day (March 17, 2025)
6. Nowruz (March 20, 2025)
Nowruz is a traditional Persian New Year celebration that marks the beginning of spring. It's observed in many countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey.
Other significant holidays in March 2025:
Purim (March 10, 2025) St. Joseph's Day (March 19, 2025)
7. Kwanzaa (December 26, 2025 - January 1, 2026)
Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African American culture and heritage. It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga and is observed from December 26 to January 1.
Other significant holidays in December 2025:
Hanukkah (December 10-18, 2025) Omisoka (December 31, 2025)
8. Yule (December 21, 2025)
Yule, also known as Winter Solstice, is a significant holiday in many pagan cultures. It marks the longest night of the year and the beginning of the sun's journey back towards the equator.
Other significant holidays in December 2025:
Bodhi Day (December 8, 2025) St. Lucia Day (December 13, 2025)
9. Easter Monday (April 14, 2025)
Easter Monday is a holiday observed by Christians around the world, marking the day after Easter Sunday.
Other significant holidays in April 2025:
Good Friday (April 12, 2025) Easter Sunday (April 13, 2025)
10. Rosh Hashanah (September 14-16, 2025)
Rosh Hashanah is a significant holiday in Judaism, marking the beginning of the Jewish New Year.
Other significant holidays in September 2025:
International Literacy Day (September 8, 2025) Mid-Autumn Festival (September 22, 2025)
11. Halloween (October 31, 2025)
Halloween is a popular holiday observed on October 31, marked by costume parties, trick-or-treating, and other spooky festivities.
Other significant holidays in October 2025:
Navratri (October 12-20, 2025) United Nations Day (October 24, 2025)
12. Eid al-Adha (July 9, 2025)
Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is a significant holiday in Islam, marking the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son.
Other significant holidays in July 2025:
International Day of Friendship (July 30, 2025) Bastille Day (July 14, 2025)
13. Vesak (May 5, 2025)
Vesak is a significant holiday in Buddhism, marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha.
Other significant holidays in May 2025:
Cinco de Mayo (May 5, 2025) Mother's Day (May 11, 2025)
14. Navidad (December 24, 2025)
Navidad is the Spanish term for Christmas, observed on December 24.
Other significant holidays in December 2025:
St. Nicholas Day (December 6, 2025) International Human Rights Day (December 10, 2025)
15. Yom Kippur (September 22-23, 2025)
Yom Kippur is a significant holiday in Judaism, marking the Day of Atonement.
Other significant holidays in September 2025:
International Talk Like a Pirate Day (September 19, 2025) Autumnal Equinox (September 22, 2025)
16. Día de los Muertos (November 1-2, 2025)
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday honoring the deceased.
Other significant holidays in November 2025:
All Saints' Day (November 1, 2025) World Vegan Day (November 1, 2025)
17. Shavuot (June 11-12, 2025)
Shavuot is a significant holiday in Judaism, marking the giving of the Torah to the Israelites.
Other significant holidays in June 2025:
World Environment Day (June 5, 2025) Father's Day (June 15, 2025)
18. Loi Krathong (November 22, 2025)
Loi Krathong is a traditional Thai holiday where people release floating lanterns onto rivers and streams to symbolize letting go of negative emotions.
Other significant holidays in November 2025:
Thanksgiving Day (November 27, 2025) International Men's Day (November 19, 2025)
19. Mardi Gras (February 25, 2025)
