Dogs are man's best friend, and many communities around the world throw festivals and celebrations every year just to celebrate all things dog! Interested in finding out the ways we commemorate our canine companions? Take a look at these pawsome dog celebrations around the globe...
Source: The Kathmandu Post
Kukur Tihar, Nepal
This annual Hindu festival originated in Nepal falls on the second day of the festival of Tihar. During the festival of Tihar, many animals including cows and crows are also worshipped, but Kukur Tihar is all about our canine companions. On this day, people worship dogs to please Yama, the god of death. Dogs are decorated with tilaka (a traditional marking on their foreheads) and wear flower garlands around their necks. People also offer them various foods including meat, milk, eggs, and dog food. You can read more about Kukur Tihar here.
Source: Chicago Tribune
St. Francis of Assisi Day, Spain, US + Canada
The St. Francis of Assisi Day is celebrated on October 4th every year throughout Spain as well as in parts of the US and Canada. This day honours the remarkable life and deeds of St. Francis, who was designated the patron saint of Italy but was more popularly known as the patron saint of animals. Francis believed in showing his devotion to God through his love for animals. A large part of this festival is 'the Blessing of Animals'. In this tradition, any animal who comes to the church’s doors will be welcomed and blessed. Dogs are regularly in attendance alongside their humans companions to receive their blessing.
St Roch's Day Parade, Bolivia
St. Roch is a Catholic saint born in Montpellier. When caring for plague victims, Roch got infected himself and decided to spend the rest of his life in the woods, away from people. It was here that a miraculous hunting dog found him and licked away all his wounds and illness. Because of this, St. Roch is often referred to as the patron saint of dogs. In memory of this saint, August 16th is celebrated as St Roch's Day. During this celebration, people and their dogs gather at the local church and have a feast. A parade also takes place for eight days, where dogs are the stars of the show and arrive all dressed up and march together.
Source: Tokyo Weekender
Inu no Hi, Japan
Inu no Hi, literally meaning the ‘Day of the Dog,’ is an important pregnancy ritual and rite of passage for pregnant women in Japan. As dogs are widely believed to have easy and uncomplicated births, dogs are considered to be a symbol of smooth delivery and an animal deity of sorts for safe childbirth and fertility throughout Japan. Inu no Hi is celebrated during the 5th month of pregnancy and has given rise to its own special customs. Many shrines will offer special Day of the Dog ceremonies, blessings and omamori (amulets). There are also dog statues at many of the shrines that expectant mother's will queue to get a photo with.
Source: CW Columbus
Día de los Muertos, Mexico
Day of the Dead has roots in Aztec and Maya traditions. Today, it’s an important part of Mexican culture. Día de los Muertos takes place on November 1–2. It is a time to remember and pay respects to family members who have passed away. The Aztecs (as well as the Maya and the Toltecs) considered dogs sacred. They believed the dogs guided the souls of the dead through the underworld. Archaeologists have dug up ceramic dog statues, as well as skeletons, suggesting that ancient people were often buried with their dogs so they could stay together in the afterlife. Making an altar (or ofrenda) for beloved dogs who have passed away has become a popular part of some modern Day of the Dead celebrations. The altar often includes the dog’s photo, favorite toy, or favorite treats.
Source: DogTrekker
Woofstock, Canada + US
Taking its inspiration from the Woodstock Music Festival, Woofstock is a two-day long dog-friendly family fair held at the beaches of Toronto in Canada and California in the US. Founded 17 years ago, tens of thousands of people gather with their canine companions to enjoy various activities and performances meant for dogs’ entertainment. The festival consists of dog shows and contests, food trucks, fun games, and fairs. The largest festival for dogs in North America and winner of the Best Public Event in Canada, it is definitely one not to be missed.
