Ancient cultures celebrated several festivals all across the planet. Some festivals were linked with different gods and goddesses, while others were associated with the seasons. Offerings to the gods were made at various festivals, and some offerings included human sacrifice.
This list includes a variety of festivals from throughout the world.
Symbol of civic pride, power, strength. In Athens, the Panathenaea Festival was held in honor of Athena, the city’s protective goddess. The celebration took place in mid-August, around Athena’s birthday. Every year, a lesser Panathenaea was held, and every four years, a great Panathenaea was held. Except for slaves, everyone was welcome to attend the … Read more
Symbol of gluttony, celebration, fertility, and dramatic arts. Originally, the Dionysia festival was celebrated in Attica, a rural region of Ancient Greece. These Dionysus festivities were held in the winter in all of Attica’s towns. They were known as the Vine Festival, although they were not yet linked to the Greek god Dionysus. People carrying … Read more