There are a lot of annual tradition type deals where I live.. from 'River Fire' to Anzac Day perades. I'll only babble about these two
I have never been big on the whole Anzac Day thing as it was terrible growing up in a military household, the Vietnam thing really screwed with my Dad's head.. however I went for the first time April just gone. My daughter was marching for my grandfather, who for the first time was unable (
age catching up with him). I was overwhelmed with the people who were there cheering in thanks and support for the men and women who have served and also for the people who serve now. Even though I technically had not served, I felt in some way at least the suffering I went through as a child was appreciated by others. Although they were not cheering 'me', I could see the appreciation they had for those that did serve and that in itself eased my feelings of difficulty with the whole event. My suffering was for them and they appreciated it. I was not ready for that..
The 'River Fire' thing is an event that includes music, fireworks and a fly-over dump and burn by the RAAF F111's. It is an even that is held for the sake of holding it.. it's planning and all the parties involved do a spectacular job for the enjoyment of the community and it's great to see the turn-out, so many people squashed like sardines and feelings of goodwill (a coming together) all round. Probably the only time so many people lose all personal space but by the time the show starts, no one minds and they go out of their way to help and encourage others to see through the crowds. It truely is an amazing experience!