Princeton University Calendar 2020 21

As a student at Princeton University, I was excited to experience the various events and festivals that the institution has to offer. The 2020-21 calendar was packed with numerous celebrations that allowed me to learn and appreciate different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. In this article, I will share my personal experience and highlight some of the events and festivals that made the academic year memorable.

Events and Festivals

The Princeton University Calendar 2020-21 had a comprehensive list of events and festivals that catered to students from diverse backgrounds. Some of the notable celebrations included:

• Diwali
• Thanksgiving
• Hanukkah
• Christmas
• Kwanzaa
• Chinese New Year
• Black History Month
• International Women’s Day
• Holi
• Graduation

Event and Festival Celebrations

Each event and festival was celebrated uniquely, with different activities and programs that highlighted the significance of the occasion. For instance, during Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, students lit diyas, enjoyed Indian food, and participated in cultural performances. On Thanksgiving, students gathered for a feast, shared what they were thankful for, and engaged in friendly conversation. Hanukkah was celebrated with menorah lighting, games, and traditional Jewish food.

Christmas was marked by a tree lighting ceremony, carol singing, and a visit from Santa Claus. Kwanzaa, an African American holiday, was celebrated with storytelling, music, and dance. Chinese New Year was marked with lion dances, dragon parades, and Chinese food. Black History Month was commemorated with lectures, movie screenings, and art exhibits that celebrated African American culture and history. International Women’s Day was celebrated with speeches, workshops, and activities that promoted gender equality and women empowerment. Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, was marked by throwing powdered colors and water on each other.

Graduation was the climax of the academic year and was celebrated with pomp and color. Students dressed in their academic regalia, marched through campus, and received their degrees. It was a momentous occasion that marked the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new one.

FAQs

What is the significance of Diwali?

Diwali is a Hindu festival of lights that commemorates the victory of good over evil. It signifies the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. It is celebrated by lighting diyas (lamps), exchanging gifts, and enjoying traditional Indian food and music.

What is the history behind Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a national holiday in the United States that celebrates the harvest and blessings of the year. It has its roots in a 1621 harvest feast shared by the English colonists (Pilgrims) and Native Americans (Wampanoag) in Plymouth, Massachusetts. It is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November and is marked by a feast, family gatherings, and expressions of gratitude.

What is Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is an African American holiday that celebrates African heritage and culture. It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a professor of African Studies, and is celebrated from December 26 to January 1. It is marked by lighting seven candles (mishumaa saba) that represent the seven principles of African heritage: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. It is celebrated with storytelling, music, dance, and traditional African American food.

Conclusion

The Princeton University Calendar 2020-21 was a testament to the diverse and inclusive community of the institution. The events and festivals celebrated throughout the academic year allowed students to learn, appreciate, and celebrate different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. It was a memorable experience that fostered a sense of community and belonging among students. I look forward to the upcoming academic year and the new celebrations that it has to offer.