The reflection and expression of gratitude is a common celebration to people around the world. However, since not all BYU-Hawaii students come from the same background many students celebrate other holidays.“On the first day of November we celebrate the Day of the Dead,” said Adolfo Arellano, a sophomore from Mexico studying political science. “We remember our loved ones that have passed away.”He continued to explain that for one-night families put offerings out for those loved ones who have passed away. “These offerings can include pastries, cakes or whatever your loved ones enjoyed while here.” Arellano stated that for the one night the spirits come to enjoy their offerings of food and return back to the spirit world the next day.“In Canada we celebrate something similar to Americans called Canadian Thanksgiving,” said Sean Crapo, a junior from Canada studying music. “It’s about a month earlier than the Americans and falls on the second Monday of October.”The Canadian Holiday gives a chance for family and friends to reflect on their year and remind themselves of what they have. In the more rural areas of the country people celebrate the harvest that the year has had to offer as well.On the opposite side of the world the Chinese and Hong Kong natives celebrate what is known as the Mid-Autumn festival or Moon Festival.“The festival falls during the middle of Autumn, just like the name says,” said Aaron Fong, a senior from Hong Kong studying psychology. “Legend has it that it’s the biggest and brightest moon of the year.”Fong described the festival as a time for family and friends to come together and experience the full moon in all its glory. “The full moon represents our family and friends, a full circle with nothing missing.” Fong also added that families usually light lanterns and eat mooncakes, which are decadent pastries either filled with a sweet or savory stuffing.The Moon Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th month, according to the Chinese Lunar Calendar. However, since most students here at BYUH follow the Gregorian calendar there is no set date on when the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival happens, meaning it changes every year. This year the festival fell on September 8.
Writer: Jared Roberts ~ Multimedia Journalist
