Monday's Lesson Plan
Diwali, the Hindu New Year, is celebrated for five days at the end of October and beginning of November. The date changes because a different calendar is used in India. Like the American New Year, it is a festival of lights. Firecrackers are an integral part of the Diwali celebration.

Tuesday's Lesson Plan
The Chinese New Year is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. The Chinese New Year signifies the beginning of the new year according to the Chinese calendar. This is a time to reunite with family and celebrate the blessings or good luck people have received. Many of the customs that are performed each year focus on the removing of bad luck or fortune and bringing on good luck and fortune.

Wednesday's Lesson Plan
Japan and America both use the Gregorian calendar which means that both countries celebrate New Year's on January 1st. While it is a holiday in both countries, in Japan it is one of the most important festivals of the year. In Japan, New Year seems to focus on all the "firsts" that will come with the New Year while in America it is a time to reflect back on the previous year. In both countries it is a time to spend with family and friends, enjoying the countries' New Year's customs.

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