Project- Traditions in different countries

Baby’s First Birthday 

The Chinese child’s first birthday is also celebrated with a large feast and offerings to the gods and goddesses. Parents give the baby a basket with assorted items such toys, pens, books, food, and tools. The tradition says that the item for which the baby reaches will have some bearing on his/her future.

Baby’s 100 Day Celebration 
Chinese families have a very lovely tradition called the 100 days ceremony where they celebrate the first 100 days of a child’s life. I suspect this roots in the issue of infant mortality rates and is meant even today to give thanks for the safe keeping of a child.

First Day of School

On the first day of school, German kids receive large paper cones called Schultute filled with school supplies and treats. It is like getting a Christmas stocking on the first day of school! 

In Russia children ring bells called “First bells” on the first day of school! I got brand new Sears corduroys.

Naming Celebrations

Greek families also have a wonderful tradition surrounding birthdays in which they also have name day rituals. Name days celebrate the day of the saint that bears the same name as you. It is a traditional feast day, but in contemporary times more like a small party and ritual. The person is treated special, but the saint is also treated with festivals or lighting of candles in churches. 

Day of the Geese

The Day of the Geese, or Antzar Eguna, is a Spanish tradition in which a greased goose is suspended over water and young men jump from boats and attempt to rip off the head of the goose. This competition serves as a way for young men to prove their strength and eligibility to females. In addition to winning the adoration of young women, the winners also gets to keep the goose. Although this tradition was once practiced all over Spain with live geese, this competition is now only held during the San Antolin festival in Lekeitio, with a dead goose to placate animal rights activists.