For five days every fall, India shines especially bright. The occasion is Diwali, the country's Festival of Lights. Clay lamps, fireworks and sparklers, and colorful rangoli sand art all add visual brilliance. The Diwali celebration will come alive in this early elementary read.

You could say the best is saved for last when it comes to Chinese New Year. The Lantern Festival stands as the holiday's grand finale. Dragon and lion puppets dance by day. At night, glowing lanterns float on water and across sky. This introduction to China's most famous celebration will mesmerize beginning readers.

Black, red, and green. These are the colors of Kwanzaa, the celebration of African-American culture. Black represents African heritage. And red and green stand for the hard times of the past and hope for the future. Beginning readers will learn some Swahili as they read about the seven days of Kwanzaa.

Spinning the dreidel. This is what many Jewish children most look forward to during Haunukkah. A twirl of the four-sided dice-like top can earn a candy jackpot! Young readers will learn how to play this game and how it connects to the eight-day celebration of light.

In the United States, Presidents Day is a special day to honor those leaders who have held the country's highest office. Every third Monday of February, citizens learn about the lives of the nation's presidents, visit national monuments, and hold historical reenactments. This title will inform young readers of this holidays history and how its celebrations have transformed through the years. Simple information text introduces key details of holidays....

A groundhog named Phil is possibly the most sought-after meteorologist on February 2nd. Many people wait for his forecast to know how long winter might last. If he sees his shadow, the season will likely drag on for six more weeks. This title introduces beginning readers to an unusual weather-prediction tradition.

On June 19, 1865 – two years after the Emancipation Proclamation – Galveston, Texas became the last place in the country to learn the slaves were free. Today, Juneteenth is a joyful occasion with parades, speeches, music, and more! This engaging book teaches the fascinating origins and traditions of Juneteenth, honoring the freedom of African Americans.

This holiday is a salute to the men and women who have served in the United States military, both in times of war and times of peace. It is a day to express thanks for their willingness to wear the uniform. Through this book, kids will deepen their respect for and understanding of the armed forces.

With its 3,000-year-old beginnings, Passover is one of the world's most ancient holidays. From the Exodus story to modern matzah bread hunts, this title showcases Passover's long history and present-day traditions. Young readers will get an in-depth look at this celebration of freedom!

Day of the Dead sounds like it should have a morbid, depressing tone. But the Latin American holiday is really focused on love and remembrance. Yes, people gather in cemeteries, but for dancing and decorating graves! This book shows kids a holiday that honors the lives of lost loved ones.