According to some, the large sums of money spent on public festivities should be used for other important matters. I disagree with this statement almost entirely, as festivals and national celebrations are as significant as essential services, beyond their cost.
Many governments worldwide spend millions of dollars on celebrating festivals that carry cultural or national significance, as these events help develop a sense of unity and national pride. This can be especially important in diverse societies, where public celebrations become a moment of collective identity. In one of the most diverse countries, India, for instance, Republic Day is celebrated with a parade that showcases India’s military strength and pride, generating valor and pride among the people.
Moreover, not only can these celebrations honor historical and religious beliefs, but they can also generate income through tourism. In other words, region-specific festivals, such as the La Tomatina Festival, hold unique importance due to their interesting rituals, costumes, food, and much more. Tourists and researchers are attracted to these festivals in large numbers, bringing in revenue in the millions.
Of course, it is important for governments to balance their spending. Essential public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure should not be neglected in favor of lavish celebrations. However, when properly managed, public celebrations can be a meaningful investment in both national cohesion and economic growth. Therefore, I believe the benefits of such events can justify the costs in many cases.
To sum up, although governments should exercise caution in their spending, the significance of public celebrations should not be underestimated. These events promote national pride, unity, and cultural heritage, while also stimulating the economy through tourism.