Festivals: How They Bring Us Together in a Divided World
- Rahmani Khoshnaw
- May 3
- 2 min read
Khoshnaw Rahmani, JadeTimes Staff
K. Rahmani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Culture.
In a time when the world often feels fractured, festivals remind us of something simple yet powerful—they bring people together. Whether it’s a local street fair, a massive music festival, or a centuries-old cultural celebration, these events create spaces where differences fade, and shared joy takes center stage.
A Universal Language of Celebration
You don’t need to speak the same language to enjoy a festival. Walk into one, and you’ll instantly feel the energy of a shared experience—music pulsates, people move freely, and laughter cuts through the noise. Whether it’s the dazzling colors of Diwali, the rhythmic beats of Carnival, or the peaceful glow of a Lantern Festival, each celebration tells a story. And no matter where you’re from, that story is about unity.
How Festivals Bridge Cultures
Food as Connection
° Ever tasted a dish from a culture you knew nothing about? One bite, and suddenly, you're discovering history through flavor. From street vendors offering sizzling kebabs to grand feasts showcasing centuries-old recipes, food at festivals removes barriers and invites curiosity.
Music and Dance as a Common Beat
° Music doesn’t need translation, and neither does dance. Whether it’s a Samba parade in Brazil or traditional folk dances in Eastern Europe, these performances unite people, even if they don’t understand the lyrics or the steps.
Stories That Reshape Perspectives
° Festivals aren’t just about performances and feasting—they’re about telling stories. Indigenous celebrations, historical reenactments, and art displays help us understand one another, proving that culture is something to be shared, not feared.
The Challenges Festivals Face
Not all festivals are perfect. Some struggle with commercialization, where big sponsors dilute their meaning for profit. Others face accessibility issues, making it hard for everyone—especially underprivileged communities—to participate. And then there’s the challenge of representation. Not all cultures get equal visibility, and sometimes, traditions get reduced to clichés instead of authentic experiences.
The Future of Festivals
Despite challenges, festivals are evolving.
✔ Digital connections: Many events now stream performances online, allowing global audiences to participate.
✔ Inclusivity: More festivals are working toward better representation, ensuring all voices are heard.
✔ Sustainability: Eco-friendly festivals are on the rise, reducing waste while celebrating culture.
Why Festivals Matter More Than Ever
In a world where disagreements often take center stage, festivals remind us of what unites us—joy, tradition, music, and the human need for connection. They create moments where cultural barriers don’t matter, and for a brief time, people exist together in celebration.
Next time you stumble upon a festival, don’t just watch—jump in. Dance. Taste. Listen. Celebrate. You might just find that what separates us is far less important than what brings us together.
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