GET COLORED!

Hey there! 

Today I want to tell you something about the popular HOLI FESTIVAL. As it took place last Saturday on the 14^th of June here in Graz. It was the first time I’ve been there and it was great fun! I have actually heard about this festival when I was in Australia last year. Some people were talking that there will be a holi festival somewhere in down under - but unfortunately it didn't happen. As soon as I had seen the pictures of this spectacular event, I knew that I have to go there :D it just looked like so much fun! And it was! 

For those of you who do not know what this whole festival is about (I myself didn’t have a clue when I heard of it the first time), let me tell you the story behind it :) 

Because it actually is a very important Hindu religious festival in INDIA. The spring festival is also known as the festival of colors or the festival of love. Instead of Holi it may also have different names in different parts of India, for example Phagwah.
Usually it is celebrated at full moon, but the date varies every year. Most of the time, it takes place in March or sometimes even in February and lasts for two to ten days. The festival has different meanings, it may for example signify the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter and for many it is just a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive.  

The second day has a very specific meaning. On this day, the caste-system is no longer valid. For this reason, all people are wearing white clothes (showing that all people are equal) and color each other with dry colored powder and colored water. They may even start water-fights using water guns and colored water-filled balloons. Anyone and everyone is fair game, friend or stranger, rich or poor, man or woman, children and elders.

Outside of India, the Holi festival is just another reason to party. There are musicians and DJs to entertain the audience ..and, of course, alcohol. So far, the festival is celebrated in Austria, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom and even in Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Argentina. Moreover, it takes place in Tunisia, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, New Zealand and in the United Arab Emirates.

I really enjoyed this festival because it was something different that I haven’t known before. Throwing around with various colors and don’t have to think about how you look (as everyone is colored and it doesn’t matter how your hair looks or your make up) was just awesome! I have been there with many friends of mine and we had a great day. I would definitely go there again :) (although it was a little bit expensive)

Check out the video!