Every year, millions across the globe engage in celebrations that, on the surface, seem filled with joy, camaraderie, and gratitude. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that many of these festivities come with a less joyful side—a troubling reality marked by destruction, injury, and the suffering of countless beings. As we embrace our traditions, it may be time to reflect on the inherent costs associated with human celebrations and consider more compassionate alternatives.
One prominent example is the use of fireworks during celebrations like New Year’s Eve and Guy Fawkes Night. Though stunning in their visual appeal, fireworks pose significant dangers. Each year, countless deaths and injuries are sustained due to mishandling and accidents involving fireworks. Emergency rooms are filled with individuals suffering from burns, amputations, and trauma. Beyond the human cost, the effects on wildlife and pets are equally concerning; loud explosions can induce panic in animals, causing them to flee, hide, or behave erratically. It’s not uncommon for pets terrified of the booming sounds to run away or harm themselves in a frantic attempt to escape. For example, on the outskirts of Bournemouth, where I used to live, a few years ago, a horse ran through a barbed wire fence, into a river, where it died, due to being panicked by fireworks. In the wild, birds and other creatures are known to abandon their nests and habitats, leading to disarray in their ecosystems.
Then we turn to festive meals that have become synonymous with holidays, particularly during Eid, Passover, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. These celebrations often see the slaughter of millions of animals—turkeys, cows, goats, and sheep—many of which live in harsh conditions before succumbing to the ritual of mass killing. The practice raises ethical questions about the treatment of these animals and the sustainability of such choices. In a world where factory farming frequently leads to severe animal suffering, it becomes difficult to justify these traditions that prioritise festivity over compassion.
The cognitive dissonance inherent in our celebrations lies in our simultaneous desire for connection and our willingness to inflict harm—be it through explosive displays or through the mass death of sentient beings. As we gather around tables laden with food or watch fireworks illuminate the night sky, we often overlook the impact of our actions on both the environment and the beings with whom we share this planet.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom; the awareness surrounding these issues is growing. People are beginning to recognise that celebrations can take many forms, and alternatives are not only available but also celebrated by many. For example, communities are increasingly moving towards fireworks-free events or exploring silent firework options that minimise noise and stress for animals. Celebration organisers are opting for eco-friendly options that focus on community and togetherness while respecting the environment.
Moreover, plant-based dining has gained traction, with options that provide an ethical and sustainable way to celebrate while still being inclusive and festive. Meat-free feasts don’t compromise on flavours or social experiences. From innovative vegetable dishes to traditional recipes modified to exclude meat, these celebrations can foster the same warmth and joy without the ethical baggage.
As humanity navigates the complexities of modern life, we must also wrestle with our traditions. It is time to embrace celebrations that reflect our evolving values—values centred on compassion, sustainability, and inclusivity. By seeking out and promoting celebrations that honour these principles, we can create a culture that prioritises joy without inadvertently causing harm.
While celebrations are an essential part of human experience, it’s crucial to reflect on how they might affect others—be they human or animal. By finding alternative methods to celebrate that do not compromise the well-being of others, we can transform our traditions from sources of destruction to sources of true joy and connection, paving the way for more meaningful and compassionate celebrations in the future.
Worldwide Temple of Aurora 