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Fantastic Festivals of the World Season 2 Episodes

Season 2 Episode Guide

14 Episodes 2004 - 2004

Episode 1

Dia de Los Muertos - Michoacan, Mexico

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

By the shores of Patzcuaro Lake, descendants of the Purepecha Tribe celebrate a colorful and uplifting way of honoring their adored dead.

Where to Watch

Episode 2

La Fiesta de la Tradicion (Tradition Festival) -Argentina

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The Tradition Festival honors the Gaucho tradition and Argentina's history. Gauchos wearing rustic ponchos perform wild equestrian demonstrations during the day, leading into evening when people Tango on into the night.

Where to Watch

Episode 3

Fasnacht Festival - Black Forest and Cologne, Germany

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

Fastnacht Carnival is among the oldest and most traditional pre-lenten events in Germany. Historic handmade costumes and uniquely painted hand-carved wooden masks are the most distinctive aspect of the festivities.

Where to Watch

Episode 4

La Bouna Pasqua - Sicily, Italy

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

Easter is celebrated with great vigor each year in Siciliy. A 20-hour procession takes place in the streets of Trapani with men carrying heavy "Misteri" statues that are 500 years old and tell the dramatic story of Christ's suffering.

Where to Watch

Episode 5

Pahiyas Harvest Festival - Philippines

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The energy of the Philippines increases dramatically during the lively Harvest Festivals. Along with hopes of a bountiful harvest, the patron saint of farmers San Isdiro de Labrador is also honored.

Where to Watch

Episode 6

Garma Festival - Australia

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The Aboriginal people, who have 40,000 years of cultural history, gather every year for Garma. Their festival features the "bunggul performance", traditional Nuku Dhulang paintings on bark, dances, song, and art.

Where to Watch

Episode 7

Highland Games - Scotland

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The annual Highland Games held in Scotland predate recorded history. Dramatic feats include strength competitions, dancing, bagpipes and drumming, along with plenty of Scottish food.

Where to Watch

Episode 8

Boi Bumba - Parintins, Brazil

Mon, Apr 5, 200447 mins

Influenced by both Portuguese and Arab cultures, the Boi Bumba Festival is a competition between two groups of Boi performers who contend in dancing, singing, and band music. Each group tries to outdo each other with stunning displays.

Where to Watch

Episode 9

Andong Mask Festival - South Korea

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The Andong Mask Festival has evolved to be more charming and performance oriented, with spectators now more a part of the show. There are myriad events, including Korean mask dances, puppet theaters, and comedians.

Where to Watch

Episode 10

The Lantern Festivals - Taiwan

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The Lantern Festivals of Taitung province celebrates the Lunar New Year and displays large handmade animal lanterns that are released far into the sky. Firecrackers are also thrown at the God Handan for good luck and prosperity.

Where to Watch

Episode 11

Lag Baomer and Shavuot Celebrations - Purim, Israel

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

Thousands of Jewish people arrive from across Israel for Lag BaOmer and Shavuot. Celebrations include a ritual first haircut for 3-year-old boys, raging bonfires, a liturgical poem, and readings from the Book of Ruth.

Where to Watch

Episode 12

The Five-Petalled Rose of Celebration - Czech Republic

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The Five-Petalled Rose of Celebration is one of the oldest and most popular festivals in Europe. It features traditional dancing, jugglers, musicians, actors, merchants, theater performers, concerts, and medieval street feasts.

Where to Watch

Episode 13

Summer Festivals - Japan

Mon, Apr 5, 200450 mins

The Nachi Fire Festival honors the sacred Nachi Falls waterfall. The Onbara Festival is held within Miwa's grand shrine that is believed to be the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan, while the Gyoja Festival honors the ascetic En no Gyoja.

Where to Watch
Fantastic Festivals of the World, Season 2 Episode 13 image

Episode 14

Dragon Boat Festival - Hong Kong

Wed, May 5, 200450 mins

Witness the amazing teamwork and tradition of "Dragon Boat Racing." Culinary delights feature some of the best dim sum in Hong Kong, the making of rice dumplings, and a minimalist yet luxurious menu prepared by the "Demon Chef."

Where to Watch