Fantastic Festivals of the World
Insight into some of the world's most traditional and spectacular festivals.
- 2004-2011
- 2 seasons
- John McLean Media
- Documentary
Insight into some of the world's most traditional and spectacular festivals.
Season 2 Episode Guide
14 Episodes 2004
Episode 1
Dia de Los Muertos - Michoacan, Mexico
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 mins
By the shores of Patzcuaro Lake, descendants of the Purepecha Tribe celebrate a colorful and uplifting way of honoring their adored dead.
Episode 2
La Fiesta de la Tradicion (Tradition Festival) -Argentina
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 3
Fasnacht Festival - Black Forest and Cologne, Germany
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 4
La Bouna Pasqua - Sicily, Italy
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 5
Pahiyas Harvest Festival - Philippines
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 6
Garma Festival - Australia
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 7
Highland Games - Scotland
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 8
Boi Bumba - Parintins, Brazil
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 47 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.
Episode 9
Andong Mask Festival - South Korea
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 10
The Lantern Festivals - Taiwan
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 11
Lag Baomer and Shavuot Celebrations - Purim, Israel
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 12
The Five-Petalled Rose of Celebration - Czech Republic
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 13
Summer Festivals - Japan
Mon, Apr 5, 2004 50 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.
Episode 14
Dragon Boat Festival - Hong Kong
Wed, May 5, 2004 50 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."