Newly harvested grain is made into porridge, which is then offered to the Spirits of the East and West. Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 through January 1, is patterned after African harvest festivals. Some Kwanzaa traditions include lighting candles, singing songs, and gathering for a festive meal on the last night. Jewish Sukkot, the Feast of Booths or Feast of the Ingathering, commemorates the bounty of the earth. Temporary outdoor shelters, or booths, are built as reminders of the dwellings the Israelites carried with them during their 40 years in the desert following their exodus from slavery in Egypt.
People eat, entertain guests, and even sleep in their sukkah.
Traditionally, fruits and vegetables are hung from the sukkah's roof, but many people add colorful streamers, holiday cards, and even colored lights as decorations. In some communities, Sukkot is a time for collecting food to distribute to those in need. The Chinese Harvest Moon festival takes place on the 15th day of the 8th moon of the lunar calendar, a day when the ancient Chinese believed the moon was its brightest and fullest. The jubilant holiday occurs when that year's work in the fields is completed. Special worship services and family reunions mark the holiday.