Celebrations

The 'Naha' celebrate the two solstices and equinoxes with a week or so of holidays. In addition different regions celebrate certain days to commemorate particular events.

Births are always a cause for a celebration and a party. It's not uncommon for a 'nahum' to invite everyone in the 'nahumar' or their neighbors to the celebration.

Birthdays for children below the age of puberty are usually celebrated by games and a special meal provided by the 'petl'. Once the 'coming of age' is reached (this age can vary considerably; since the adoption of the 'katim' it is based on the medical 'physical and mental age-of-suitability' for sex rather than a fixed age) a 'young adult' will have to assist in the preparation of a meal for the 'nahum' (which can be easy for the more modern fully automated 'nahum', although sometimes a 'nahum' will switch off the automated kitchen and they'll have a picnic/barbecue). Finally they have to give a speech summarizing what they have achieved (or not) and their hopes for the new year, and their thanks to everyone else in the 'nahum'. Sometimes the objective of the residents can be to embarrass the person for the amusement of the rest. Their first speech at coming-of -age is considered a special event. Older people may be asked to recite an amusing or interesting story from their past.

Generally presents are not given during birthday celebrations (although in some regions they do). Presents are usually given to children during the winter solstice. These presents are provided by (on behalf of) 'Peyrit'.

Depending on the region (and wealth of the 'nahum') a child of between three and four years will have its first 'katim' implant. This is a short medical procedure is taken out by a paramedic (someone of suitable medical qualification). After the operation the child may feel some minor discomfort or dis-orientation so these celebrations are normally small quiet affairs among the family elders.

Depending on the region adults may also have different celebrations to denote the length of relationships (anniversaries) and other ceremonies of commitment between partners. Although they do not have weddings there can be equivalent ceremonies which denote long-term commitments between couples.

Throughout the year, depending on weather, financial fortunes or just at the whim of the senior members a 'nahum' may decide to have a spontaneous holiday ('rudo' or 'tatrudo'). These are always popular but also denote the success / wealth of 'nahum' - the more 'tatrudo', the wealthier the 'nahum'.