As an atheist, I’m often asked why I celebrate festivals of all kinds. Many people assume that atheism, defined as the absence of belief in gods or deities, would naturally exclude participation in religious or traditional festivals. However, I believe it’s precisely because of my atheism that I can embrace and celebrate all festivals, appreciating their cultural, historical, and communal significance without being bound to the religious beliefs behind them.

Atheism and the Freedom of Tradition

Atheism is often misunderstood as an outright rejection of anything religious, including the festivals and traditions that come with various faiths. However, as philosopher Alain de Botton states in Religion for Atheists, “One need not believe in God to find the practices and insights of religion useful, interesting, and consoling.” Atheists can find value in rituals, festivals, and cultural traditions without subscribing to the theological narratives tied to them.

In this way, atheism allows me to approach festivals from a place of open curiosity and appreciation for their essence. For instance, I can enjoy Diwali for its celebration of light and community, Christmas for its warmth and spirit of giving, and Eid for its focus on family and compassion—without feeling the need to partake in the religious doctrines associated with them. This perspective is echoed by many atheists who view festivals as an opportunity to connect with loved ones, participate in shared joy, and honour heritage without any theological obligations.

Celebrating the True Nature of Festivals

I wasn’t always an atheist. In fact, I grew up with a deep love for Krishna, Ganapati, and even Jesus. These epic figures were a source of comfort, and I cherished the stories and lessons they embodied. I still hold affection for them, as powerful symbols of human ideals and values. Over time, as I delved deeper into science and developed a broader understanding of the human condition, I gradually grew into atheism. My journey wasn’t a rejection of spirituality, but rather an evolution of thought. I began to see life as part of a larger collective consciousness, akin to Carl Jung’s ideas, where the divine exists not in the supernatural, but within the shared experiences and psyche of humanity. This understanding has enriched my appreciation for the world around me, allowing me to engage with it more fully, free from the constraints of dogma.

For me, festivals are more than religious events—they are moments of collective joy, opportunities to reflect on shared values, and a way to stay connected to cultural heritage. By removing the religious connotations, I am free to appreciate their true nature: the symbolic representations of harvest, renewal, and community. This view aligns with Richard Dawkins’ argument in The God Delusion, where he suggests that “there is no reason why secular humanists cannot engage in cultural practices as long as they’re detached from the supernatural beliefs that often accompany them.”

Take Holi, for example. While rooted in Hindu mythology, it is ultimately a celebration of colour, joy, and the victory of good over evil. The festival’s deeper message is universal, and as an atheist, I can celebrate the spirit of renewal and community without any reference to divine forces. Similarly, Christmas has long transcended its Christian origins for many, becoming a time of family gatherings, gift-giving, and goodwill. These themes are not tied to religious belief, but are part of the human experience.

Festivals as Human, Not Divine, Creations

From an atheist perspective, festivals can be seen as human creations rather than divine mandates. Historian Yuval Noah Harari notes in Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, “All large-scale human cooperation is based on shared myths,” and festivals are one way we manifest these shared narratives. Whether religious or secular, these traditions have been passed down through generations, evolving over time and adapting to new cultural contexts.

By recognising festivals as human constructs, I can participate in them as celebrations of our shared humanity, creativity, and resilience. Festivals serve as reminders of the values we cherish—whether it’s love, kindness, or the changing of seasons—and participating in them allows us to reconnect with those around us, irrespective of our beliefs.

Atheism and Inclusivity

One of the misconceptions about atheism is that it is inherently exclusionary. However, my atheism has opened the door to inclusivity, allowing me to celebrate not just one or two festivals but all festivals, from different cultures and religions. As atheist author Hemant Mehta notes, “Atheism isn’t about rejecting the world; it’s about accepting that this is the only world we’ve got, and we should make the most of it.” By participating in a wide array of festivals, I’m able to embrace the diversity of human culture and experience without feeling constrained by any particular belief system.

Celebrating different festivals is, for me, an expression of unity in diversity. I can partake in Eid, Hanukkah, or Christmas not as a follower of those religions but as a fellow human being who shares in the joy, togetherness, and values these festivals embody. This inclusivity enriches my life and allows me to connect with others across cultural and religious boundaries.

Atheism as a Path to Universal Celebration

Far from alienating me from the world’s traditions, my atheism has allowed me to celebrate festivals in their purest form—as moments of joy, reflection, and community. Free from religious dogma, I can engage with the rich tapestry of human culture and participate in celebrations that honour our shared values and experiences.

In the end, festivals are not just religious events—they are expressions of human creativity, resilience, and unity. And as an atheist, I feel privileged to be able to embrace them all.