The urge to celebrate certain occasions is universal, more often than not taking the form of a culturally-determined festive event. Convivality, or the social dimension, is generally the common factor. Celebration marks the significant moments or periods of time in the various religions and secular calendars and in the human life cycle. Celebration also marks contemporary events, sometimes drawing on older models, but may also be shaped by current trends. Food and drink often have important roles in celebratory occasions. Accordingly, some basic questions which must be posed are: what constitutes festive foods in different regions and cultures, how do they differ from everyday and fasting foods, and what do they mean in particular contexts