Modern Customs
Linda Campbell
Articles
The 14th of July is the anniversary of the storming of Bastille Prison in 1789. This was the start of the French Revolution.
Independence Day or the 4th of July is the biggest secular celebration in the United States of America. Its history dates back over 200 years.,Independence Day or the 4th of July is the biggest secular celebration in the United States of America. Its history dates back over 200 years.
Midsummer, Litha or St John's Eve
Midsummer wasa time of magic in pagan lore. With Christianity.many of the customs associated with it were transferred to the Feast of St John.
Pentecost or Whitsunday is an important festival for Christians.,Pentecost or Whitsunday is an important festival for Christians.
Queen Elizabeth of Britain and the Commonwealth was born on April 21st. Why then is her birthday celebrated in June?
Why do we make wishes as we blow out the candles? And why do we wear paper hats? Nobody really knows but this article looks at some of the possible explanations.
Father's Day was not, as is commonly thought, started by greeting card companies. Read about the true history of this custom.
Victoria Day is a holiday in Canada which begun in 1845.
Mother's Day is held on the second Sunday in May while Mothering Sunday is the fourth Sunday of Lent. Two similar customs but two different origins.
May Day - International Workers' Day
How did a pagan festival become an international day of protest?
The customs of May Day go back to pre-Christian times. This article gives a brief look at its history.
A brief look at the history of Anzac Day and its symbolism to the peoples of Australia and New Zealand.
Easter - Where do the Easter Bunny and Easter Eggs come from?
Where do the Easter Bunny and Easter eggs come from? Read this article to find out!
Most of us know that Lent precedes Easter but may not know the significance of the individual days or why Ash Wednesday and Shrove Tuesday are named like that. Read this article to find out about this old custom.
Children, especially love April Fool's Day. But how did it originate? Why can people get away with behaviour on this day that would not be tolerated at other times?
St Patrick's Day is well-known as a celebration of everything Irish. But who was St Patrick? When did he live and what did he do?
A look at the history of various Christmas traditions including Christmas trees, Santa Claus, mistletoe, holly and Christmas cards.