5 books for a year of celebrations

These books help to keep the festive spirit going throughout the year.

The Big Book of Festivals

by Joan-Maree Hargreaves and Marita Bullock. Illustrated by Liz Rowland (Faber Children’s)

This colourful book explores festivals around the world. You’ll learn about Diwali, the Indian festival of light; La Tomatina, a Spanish tomato-throwing festival; the Belgian Festival of Giants and many more celebrations.

The Wheel of the Year

by Fiona Cook.

Illustrated by Jessica Roux (Andrews McMeel Publishing)

This is a guide to ancient holidays and customs all based on the natural world. You’ll find lots of ideas to celebrate each season. Try out themed meditations, crafts, rituals, games and recipes; learn about different traditions and bring some art, poetry, myth and magic into your life – all year round.

Celebrate!

by Laura Mucha.

Illustrated by Hannah Tolson (Nosy Crow)

Produced with the British Museum, this book looks at festivals from different countries, cultures and religions. Featuring familiar festivals and those that might be new to you, it also explores how and why these kinds of events can bring people together.

Around the World in 80 Festivals

by Nancy Dickmann. Illustrated by Lucy Banaji (Welbeck Kids)

Where do people eat “bread of the dead”, dress up as hairy demons or walk barefoot across red-hot coals? What are you celebrating if you climb an 18-metre tower made of buns? This fascinating book includes a fold-out calendar of all the festivals.

Sunday Funday: A Nature Activity for Every Weekend of the Year

by Katherine Halligan. Illustrated by Jesús Verona (Nosy Crow)

Mark the changing seasons with this book, which gathers together 52 ideas and activities to try – one for every weekend of the year. There are crafts, recipes and outdoor activities to inspire you to celebrate and enjoy the natural world whatever the weather.