The 360 Digital Starters team consists of an eclectic bunch of creatives, innovators, and leaders, coming from 16 different countries across the world, to help actively shape the future of the company. We draw strength from our diversity and thrive from the fresh and new ideas that our different backgrounds, cultures, experiences, and personalities bring to the group. One of the best parts of working alongside people from all over the world is getting to learn and be part of their favorite traditions and holidays from home – and while the lockdown may keep us from physically celebrating these together, we’ll be virtually celebrating them here, in spirit.
Russia: Maslenitsa
Maslenitsa is an Eastern Slavic tradition, dating back to pagan times when Russian folk would bid farewell to winter and welcome spring. The week-long celebrations today often involve sleigh rides, a vibrant fair, and the symbolic burning of a huge straw doll on the final day. During the week, people meet with family and friends to share meals together – including traditional pancakes that are filled with jam, chocolate, cheese, cabbage, mushrooms and cream, or even caviar.
“I really have warm memories about Maslenitsa. A pancake actually symbolizes the sun and the celebration of Maslenitsa is the celebration of spring, which finally comes after a cold and snowy winter.” - Irina
China: The Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival is the second most important festival in China after Chinese New Year. This holiday is very traditional and very family-oriented. The common customs of the Mid-Autumn Festival include family members gathering together for dinner, sharing mooncakes, worshiping the moon with gifts, and lighting lanterns. The holiday is sometimes referred to as Moon Festival, as the moon is at its roundest and brightest that time of year.
“This holiday is one of the most important holidays, because it represents the spirit of family coming together. Just like Christmas here, no matter where you are, for this holiday you always go back to your family to stay with them.”- Yang
Ukraine: Kupala Night
On the 6th and 7th July, Kupala Night in the Ukraine celebrates the summer solstice and the blossoming of nature. In the past, young people would gather together to burn fires, dance, and make wreaths.
“Things have changed since then, but I do remember going to the village with my friend when I was still at school and these old traditions were still preserved and celebrated there. We didn't jump over the fire, but we gathered around the fire, listened to music, sang songs, shared summer plans, and reminisced about funny summer stories. I will always remember it as one of the warmest, longest and most interesting summer nights of my life!” – Kseniia
Germany: Fasching/Karneval
Fasching is Germany's carnival season. It starts on the 11th day of November, at exactly 11 minutes after 11am. Fasching (also known as Karneval) is a time of festivity - a time to break the rules.
“I have to admit that I miss Fasching/Karneval now, living in Berlin. I grew up with it and I love that you have at least one day a year when you can go crazy: dress up in a ridiculous outfit, sing, and dance to embarrassing music. And people throw sweets - if that's not a reason to be happy, then I don't know what is!” - Mandy
Australia: Australia Day
Australia Day falls on the 26th January. It marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British ships. Today, Australians celebrate their now diverse society with local events, historical reflections, and ceremonies that welcome new members of the community.
“It was my favorite holiday in Australia. January is summer over there, so this day was always filled with fun barbecues and trips to the beach with friends. In Australia, if a public holiday falls on a weekend, we would also get Monday off to continue celebrating”. – Barbara
Costa Rica: Independence Day
Costa Rica’s Independence Day commemorates the independence of the entire Central America from Spain, which took place in 1821. Festivities begin on the 14th with the reenactment of Costa Rica’s liberation and the carrying of the ‘freedom torch’, and continue through to the 15th where the colorful parties begin.
“It is celebrated by parading though the streets of the town. Children build lanterns shaped like houses and walk in the parades wearing traditional folkloric clothing. In school one would either sign up to dance, or to play an instrument in preparation for this special day.” - Nathalie
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