Ancient holidays have are generally far older than the modern Church or State and their connections with these entities are complicated at best. While still observed as religious holidays by some pagan communities, they are most widely celebrated as non-religious, yet joyous events that promote feelings of unity, goodwill, and wellbeing. The pagan symbolism of the holidays generally remains openly and widely acknowledged, however. The Church may have co-opted some symbols and the state may support events to mark these days, but rarely will modern religious, military, or state symbolism be a major part of the celebration. Thus, these holidays are difficult to class as either religious or secular but remain often powerful expressions of cultural pride and identity.
Studying in Bishkek for the academic year, I took advantage of winter break to visit my host family in Armenia from a previous study abroad experience. This gave me my first opportunity to see how New Year’s is celebrated in this part of the world: the setting up of the New Year’s tree and other […]
