Archaic Festivals

Watch Archaic Festivals

  • 2016
  • 1 Season

Archaic Festivals is a historical documentary series that explores the origins and traditions of various festivals celebrated around the world. The show combines informative commentary with stunning visuals to transport viewers to the heart of these ancient festivals, revealing the stories, myths, and cultural significance behind each one.

Each episode of Archaic Festivals focuses on a particular festival and its associated customs, examining their evolution through time and the different cultures and civilizations that have influenced them. The series begins by tracing the roots of early festivals, such as the Winter Solstice and the Vernal Equinox, which celebrated the changing of the seasons and the cycles of nature. These festivals often involved rituals, dances, and sacrifices aimed at appeasing the gods and ensuring a bountiful harvest.

As the series progresses, viewers are introduced to festivals from around the world, including the Lunar New Year, Diwali, Carnival, and Holi, among others. Through interviews with experts, historians, and local residents, the show delves into the intricate meanings behind each festival, revealing how they have evolved over the years and adapted to changing social, political, and environmental contexts.

Archaic Festivals also explores the many similarities and universal themes that underlie all festivals, regardless of their cultural or historical background. From the importance of community and togetherness to the power of ritual and symbolism, the show showcases how festivals have played a crucial role in shaping human culture and identity for thousands of years.

In addition to its informative content, Archaic Festivals is also a visual feast for the senses, with stunning footage of colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and breathtaking natural landscapes. The show's soundtrack is equally mesmerizing, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary music from each region, adding to the overall immersive experience.

Overall, Archaic Festivals is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, anthropology, or culture. With its in-depth explorations of each festival and its intricate meanings, the series offers a unique glimpse into some of the world's most fascinating cultural traditions.

Archaic Festivals is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on April 1, 2016.

Filter by Source

Seasons
Tapati Rapa Nui
6. Tapati Rapa Nui
April 1, 2016
Each year descendants of the ancient Easter Island native tribes continue the proud tradition of the Tapati Rapa Nui, a competition of strength, endurance, and bravery. Winning garners only pride, but the dangers in the challenges are very real.
Gotad Ad Kiangan
5. Gotad Ad Kiangan
April 1, 2016
Being between the ancient and the modern, the Ifugao people of the Philippines continue their Gotad Ad Kiangan festival to preserve their fading heritage. It's a celebration of singing, dancing, and racing that culminates in a wrestling tournament.
Fiesta de la Tradicion
4. Fiesta de la Tradicion
April 1, 2016
Once a year, gauchos from all over the country gather in Argentina to show off their equestrian skills in a week-long festival dating back to 1939. The Gaucho Games are the main attraction at the Jineteada, the Argentine version of a rodeo.
Onbashira
3. Onbashira
April 1, 2016
This religious festival has been celebrated for 1,200 years, making it the oldest in Japan. Trees weighing as much as 9,000kg are brought from the mountains of Suwa to Shinto temples in a two-month celebration of unity, but it's not without danger.
Cascamorras
2. Cascamorras
April 1, 2016
For over 500 years, an epic battle has raged between the Spanish towns of Guadix and Baza over a statue of the Virgin Mary. Each year one man from Guadix attempts the impossible mission of reclaiming the statue from the grasp of 10,000 Bastetanos.
Royal Shrovetide Football
1. Royal Shrovetide Football
April 1, 2016
Ashbourne, England, is home to one of the oldest and most dangerous games on the planet. Divided into two teams by the river that runs through the middle of town, over 7,000 hardy players join in this two-day medieval football game every year.
Description
Where to Watch Archaic Festivals
Archaic Festivals is available for streaming on the website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Archaic Festivals on demand at and Redbull.tv.
  • Premiere Date
    April 1, 2016