Book excerpt: Spring signifies change and a new beginning. A time of longer days and warmer weather, the holidays celebrated during this season reflect this sense of renewal and rebirth. The specific customs and traditions may differ among cultures, but the underlying themes - of honoring life and the triumph of good over evil - remain the same. Although hundreds of festivals occur in the spring, four in particular are widely observed: the Christian Easter celebration, the Hindu celebration of Holi, the Jewish observance of Passover, and the Persian festival of Navruz. ""Easter, Passover, and Other Spring Festivals"" discusses how these holidays encourage individuals to gather with family and friends, honor the sacrifices others have made, enjoy special foods, and exchange gifts or tokens of affection.