The arrival of spring is one of the most anticipated times of the year, not only in Spain, where the pleasant weather and lively terraces bring cities to life, but also in many other parts of the world. Each country has its own customs and celebrations to welcome this season of renewal and color. At AMA Islantilla Resort, we want to share some of the most beautiful and fascinating spring traditions from different corners of the planet.
India: Holi Festival
The Holi festival is a Hindu celebration that marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Known as the “Festival of Colors,” people throw colored powders at each other, dance, and sing in an atmosphere of joy and unity. The festivities begin with the night of “Holika Dahan,” during which an impressive dance takes place around the fire.
Egypt: Sham el – Nessim
It is an Egyptian festival of Pharaonic origin that celebrates the arrival of spring. Held on the Monday after Coptic Easter, it is a tradition where families gather in parks and along rivers for picnics. Typical foods include feseekh (salted fish), onions, and eggs, which symbolize renewal and life. This celebration blends Pharaonic, Christian, and Islamic influences and has endured through the centuries.
Bosnia: Cimburijada
A traditional festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina that marks the arrival of spring. It is celebrated at dawn on March 21st, when people gather along the banks of the Bosna River to share a communal breakfast featuring scrambled eggs (cimbur). The festivity symbolizes renewal, unity, and the beginning of a new cycle.
Mexico: Spring Equinox at Teotihuacán
This celebration marks the alignment of the sun with the pyramids of this ancient city, taking place on March 21st. Thousands of people, especially those who believe in cosmic energies, climb the Pyramid of the Sun to receive the sun’s energy and perform rituals of renewal and fertility. This celebration is a blend of pre-Hispanic and modern traditions and is one of the most significant in Mexico.
Australia: Floriade
Floriade is an annual flower festival held in Canberra, Australia, during the spring, typically in September and October. It is one of the largest events in the country, showcasing millions of flowers in spectacular gardens. In addition to the stunning floral displays, the festival includes concerts, gardening workshops, and cultural events, making it one of the most well-known spring traditions, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Japan: Hanami
It is a Japanese spring tradition that celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms, known as sakura. It takes place during this season, especially in March and April, when the cherry trees are in full bloom. People gather in parks to enjoy the beauty of the flowers, have picnics under the trees, and celebrate with friends and family. It is also a moment of reflection on the transience of life, as the cherry blossoms fall quickly.
Netherlands: Bloemencorso van de Ballenstreek
It is a flower parade held every spring in the Bollenstreek region of the Netherlands. This event is known for its stunning floats decorated with thousands of flowers, especially tulips. The parade travels through various cities in the region, such as Hillegom and Lisse, and is one of the largest and most colorful floral celebrations in the country, attracting thousands of visitors to enjoy the creativity and beauty of the displays.
Spring is undoubtedly a season full of color, joy, and renewal, and it is celebrated in unique and special ways all around the world. At AMA Islantilla Resort, we love sharing the most fascinating traditions of the season, and we’d love to know: Which of these spring traditions would you like to experience firsthand?