festivity

[fe-stiv-i-tee]

noun

plural

festivities 

1. a festive celebration or occasion.

2. festivities, festive events or activities.

   the festivities of Christmas.

3. festive character or quality; gaiety; merriment.

festivity

/ fɛsˈtɪvɪtɪ /

noun

1. merriment characteristic of a festival, party, etc

2. any festival or other celebration

3. (plural) festive proceedings; celebrations

Word History and Origins

Origin of festivity¹

1350–1400; Middle English festivite (< Old French ) < Latin fēstīvitās. See festive, -ity

Example Sentences

Some Mexican Independence Day parties and festivities took place in recent days in Chicago, Los Angeles and other major U.S. cities, while many organizers also canceled events across the country, according to local media reports.

From Los Angeles Times

The time of year also marks an end to the rainy season, the start of spring and festivities marking a season of renewal and optimism.

From BBC

The festivities begin even before the characters of “One Man, Two Guvnors” enter the stage.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s a week of festivities that both schools participate in leading up to the game.

From Los Angeles Times

“I went to them and said, ‘Hey, can we have one of those stilt walkers?’” says Slash, referring to the larger-than-life lurkers who haunt guests during the festivities.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bash 
• festival 
• hoopla