Summer holidays begin around the world

World Today

A South Korean Buddhist carries a dragon-shaped giant lantern in a parade during the Lotus Lantern Festival to celebrate the upcoming birthday of Buddha on May 25, on a street in Seoul, South Korea, Saturday, May 16, 2015. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday remembering those members of the American armed forces who have died serving their country. It also happens to mark the official start of summer in the States. But the U.S. isn’t the only one that kicks off the summer with holiday celebrations. From Memorial Day to the Bun Festival, CCTV America gives you a look at the holidays across the globe kicking off  the summer season.

Buddha’s Birthday

South Korea celebrated Buddha’s birthday this Monday along with Hong Kong and Macau. These countries recognize the birthday as an official holiday, and is traditionally associated with Mahayana Buddhism.

The Bun Festival

The “Bun Festival” is held every year on the Hong Kong island of Cheung Chau. It is a tradition meant to satisfy the hungry ghosts of old pirates. According to urban legend, the buns bring good luck to the fisherman of Chaung Chau and protect them from the lurking spirits of the pirates of the land.

Whit Monday

Whit Monday is both a Christian and civic holiday celebrated primarily throughout Europe, but also many regions around the world. It is celebrated the day after Pentecost Sunday (Whit Sunday), which marks the end of the liturgical season of Lent.

In France, most government buildings, public shops, banks, and schools are closed for Whit Monday. Many of the museums, such as the Louvre, and “boulangeries” remain open.

U.K. Bank Holiday

The bank holiday is a civic holiday celebrated not only in the United Kingdom, but also in many other European countries, such as Ireland and Switzerland. The banks close and most of the population are giving time off from work.

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