What people celebrate, how they spend the day and what they eat. 22 festivals from 3 countries so far, with more added every week.
JapanAlso called Girls' Day, a day to wish young girls health and happiness. It is not a public holiday, but it is celebrated in homes and schools all over Japan.
On the day: Families with daughters set out tiered stands covered in red cloth with dolls of the emperor, the empress and their court in Heian-period dress. In some places paper dolls are floated down a river to carry bad luck away.
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.
ItalyFlorence's Easter tradition, the 'Explosion of the Cart'. A cart about 9 metres tall, packed with fireworks, is pulled by white oxen decorated with flowers to the square in front of the cathedral.
On the day: During Easter Mass a rocket shaped like a dove, the 'colombina', is lit at the altar and shoots along a wire out of the cathedral to set off the cart. A good display is said to promise a good harvest and good business.
JapanHanami, "flower viewing", is the old custom of enjoying the short life of the cherry blossom (sakura). The Japan Meteorological Agency follows the "cherry blossom front" as it moves up the country each year.
On the day: Friends, families and work colleagues spread blue sheets under the trees in parks and have long picnics with food and drink. At night, lanterns light the trees for yozakura, "night cherry blossom" viewing.