What people celebrate, how they spend the day and what they eat. 22 festivals from 3 countries so far, with more added every week.
MexicoA Catholic feast that closes the Christmas season. In Mexico it is tied to the Three Kings cake (rosca de reyes) eaten on 6 January, which hides a tiny figure of the baby Jesus.
On the day: Whoever found the figure in the cake on 6 January must invite the family to a tamale party on 2 February. Families also dress a doll of the Christ child in fine new clothes and take it to church to be blessed.
ItalyThe most famous carnival in Italy, known for its elaborate masks and costumes. It goes back to the Middle Ages and today draws about 3 million visitors a year.
On the day: People in masks and historic costumes stroll through St Mark's Square and the narrow streets, pose for photographs and go to masked balls. A jury chooses 'la maschera più bella', the most beautiful mask.
JapanSetsubun means "seasonal division" and marks the eve of spring in the traditional calendar. It is a day to drive out the bad luck of the old year.
On the day: Families throw roasted soybeans out of the door, or at someone wearing a demon mask, shouting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" ("Devils out! Fortune in!"). Then each person eats one bean for every year of their age, plus one more for luck.