Slavnosti a rituály – Evropa – Pecold Lumír (2009)

“Something is always happening” could be the motto of this original book. From January to December, Europe is alive with holidays, celebrations, festivals and rituals that have accompanied people since ancient times. Pagan rituals have gradually become religious, while many have later entered popular tradition to the point that their origins can no longer be traced. Elsewhere, people commemorate a famous historical event or hold a festival celebrating an old craft, the preparation of food or good drink. In 52 chapters, the author presents around sixty remarkable European events held throughout the year in streets, squares and courtyards. The selection is not intended to be a complete survey of everything that takes place in Europe. Each celebration is different and original, yet they share the fact that they are repeated regularly, and anyone wishing to attend need only turn up. The book is more than a compilation of collected information: it is also the account of someone who personally attended every event described, meeting both the visitors who came to enjoy themselves and the people who organized them. As a cameraman, he often had the opportunity to look behind the scenes of the festivals and rituals. Many have been held for centuries, with successive generations of local people taking part in their preparation. Ultimately, each event is above all about people: those who enthusiastically devote their time and money to organizing them, and their guests who come to celebrate alongside them. Festivals and rituals also offer an opportunity to meet people when they are relaxing and enjoying themselves, at moments when they are more friendly and open than usual. The book is in Czech.