In the year 250 of the Second Era, tensions between the Empire and the Dragon Courts were at a boiling point. The world collectively held their breath, bracing for the inevitable bloody, brutal conflict between the last 2 superpowers of Sarella. The Emperor of Feredas announced a diplomatic visit to the Courts, a visit that many thought would be the opening shots of the inevitable centuries of upcoming death and destruction.
To everyone's collective relief, the Emperor returned from months of negotiations with a treaty: The Empire and the Emperor would not attempt to impose their will or laws on the continent of Ragoth, and the Dragon Courts would leave the Empire out of their scheming and wars. Trade would be taxed but no longer restricted, and the sovereignty of each recognized nation's ships would be respected. Pirates and other international criminals would be ruthlessly exterminated by all involved nations, and technology would be shared at the respective rulers' discretions. Additionally, the Emperor declared that a new Era was to be recorded: the Third Era, an era of prosperity and peace!
The day after the announcement, on the 13th day of the month of Honor, an Imperial holiday was announced: Unification Day! This would be an Empire-recognized day of rest and celebration, and respect and thanks were to be paid to the Emperor and the Dragon Courts for their wisdom in avoiding conflict. Many private, low-key celebrations were held initially, but a year later, with a full year to prepare, festivals are being announced. All over the Empire and Ragoth, organizers are preparing games, food, music, parties, and festivities of all kinds.
It remains to be seen what sort of traditions will grow from this new holiday, but currently everyone has decided to celebrate and capitalize on this opportunity in their own way, creating a multitude of varying colors, scents, sights, and sounds all across the world!