celebrate

Celebrate is a verb meaning to observe or honor an event with joy, festivity, or ceremonial acts. Celebrations can be communal or private and may last a moment or span several days.

Etymology: The term derives from Latin celebrare, meaning to honor, to perform rites, or to crowd; related forms include celebration, celebrant, and celebratory.

Common elements include ceremonies, music, food, decorations, speeches, and the exchange of greetings or gifts. Activities may be religious, secular, or a mix, and can occur in places of worship, streets, homes, or venues.

Occasions commonly celebrated include birthdays, weddings, graduations, anniversaries, national or religious holidays, seasonal festivals, and notable achievements or victories.

Socially, celebrating reinforces social bonds, memory, and identity by sharing meaning and experience. Some celebrations are marked by rituals and symbols such as candles, fireworks, toasts, or processions.