Benedict Smythe

A very prominent part of the European Society, the United Kingdom has always had an image of civility and propriety. A well-mannered people that to the eyes of many might seem to lead a life that is dreary and unexciting. Nevertheless, a closer look into the United Kingdom will quickly place these thoughts away, for we must not forget that the UK is the land of saint Bond, Harry Potter and of course The BEATLES. In addition, a simple exploration into some well- loved holidays of this “Old World” culture will show you a United Kingdom that you may never have imagined. There are several known holidays in the United Kingdom; nevertheless there are three that are calling out to be recognized.

Was there ever a day that you wanted to burn a favourite figure in society, and have people celebrate as you do it? Well, take a trip to the UK this November because this holiday was prefabricated just for you. First up in the list is, Bonfire Night, celebrated every fifth of November which commemorates the unfortunate of the Gunpowder plot by some Catholics against the House of Parliament.

Guy Fawkes Night

One of the conspirators was Guy Fawkes and that is why others call this night Guy Fawkes Night. On this occasion, towns and villages all crossways the country celebrate by lighting fireworks and building bonfires where they burn “Guys” while feasting on toffee apples and baked potatoes. As every holiday progresses with the modern times, the “guy” that is burnt no longer just represents the Guy Fawkes of old but the more infamous obloquy of modern society such as Osama Bin Laden and Saddam Hussein. So if you ever feel the need to take out some of your frustrations, hop on to the next plane to the UK and join in on the fun.

Notting Hill Carnival

Next stop is to streets of Notting Hill, London, where the Notting Hill Carnival is held annually on August. The carnival initially started of as an answer to help better interracial relations and was first held indoors. However, due to its success, it was later moved to the streets and what began as a simple intent to stop interracial riots has now become a full blown two-day carnival that has a whopping one million attendees apiece year.

The carnival is a great celebration of the multi-cultural diversity in London although it has a very strong Caribbean flavor. Some of the more favourite events held here are the steel band competitions and the children’s day parades. So if its street parties that tickle your fancy, then Notting Hill on August, is the place to be.

St. Patrick’s Day

Last but not least, is the already famous St. Patrick’s Day which is celebrated every 17th of March. Despite the fact that it is now celebrated worldwide, nobody knows how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day better than the Irish themselves. In Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day is now a five- day festival which is full of parades, feasting and of course lots of drinking.

Originally a religious holiday, it is now celebrated by non-Christians as well as an appreciation for the Irish culture. It truly is a holiday where people can eat, drink and be merry. So if you think you can drink like an Irishman, or even just want to try and drink like one, pack all your green outfits and head off to Ireland.

So the next time you think the people in the UK are dull or uninteresting, think again and start planning your next holiday season in the UK.

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