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''This page is a section of [[Olvana]].''
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<div style="font-size:0.9em; color:#333;">
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[[Pacific|DATE Pacific]] &gt; [[Olvana]] &gt; '''{{PAGENAME}}''' &larr;You are here
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</div><div style="float:right;margin-left:15px;">__TOC__</div>
  
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The Caucasus countries, for the most part, do not believe in the sensitivity of time, and do not view punctuality or the importance of time as the US and most other Western countries do. Most of the people in the region do not view time as a resource and do not feel any compulsion to effectively manage their time. The people in the Caucasus region do not make the connection between effective use of their time and production. This lack of time consciousness will likely frustrate US soldiers as they work with their allies, but it will also give the US a battlefield advantage against its enemies.
+
== Time Overview ==
 +
Olvanans see time as a precious resource, which is extremely important, as such they frequently apologize for taking up someone's time. They do not accept tardiness and will often arrive 30 minutes prior to an agreed time. Olvanan time management stems from the other-centric view that one should use as little of another’s time as possible. The concept of karma as applied to consideration of others leads to short, concise events that begin early and end even earlier. This extremely fast-paced and time-focused culture is viewed positively by the government and has been reinforced accordingly. This has resulted in a proactive, offensive view of conflict that focuses on pre-emptive action. US personnel interacting with Olvanan military leaders will need to prepare extensively beforehand and have potential decisions pre-approved by the chain of command in order to be successful. Olvana sits within the Olvanan Time Zone (OTZ), which is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)/Coordinated Universal Time (UTC); it does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST).
  
−
== Key Dates, Time Periods, or Events ==
+
=== Daily ===
−
The entire region’s recorded history extends back at least 3,000 years, but people populated the area long before that time as indicated by the archaeological objects discovered in caves and at other long- inhabited sites.
+
Olvana generally operates on a five-day workweek, Monday to Friday, and a two-day weekend on Saturday and Sunday. In larger cities, the standard core business hours are between 0800 to 1800 hours with a two-hour lunch break around noon. There are variations for other work sectors and for local variations. 
 +
 
 +
Government offices and schools open around 0800 or 0830 and close at 1700 or 1730 with a two-hour break at noon. The government and schools are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Many private companies open at 0830 and close at 1800 with a two-hour noon break. Most companies are only open Monday to Friday, but some may have a skeleton staff on duty during weekends. 
 +
 
 +
Financial institutions and post offices do not open until 0900 and remain open until 1800. While these entities do not close for lunch, there is reduce staff from noon to about 1430 to allow its employees to have their midday break. The banks and post offices are normally open on Saturday morning, but are closed on Saturday afternoons, all day on Sundays, and any public holidays. Self-service banks and ATMs are operational 24 hours a day. ATMs are rarely re-filled during weekends or public holidays and as a result the ATMs may not have any money if there is a major event in the vicinity. 
  
−
Arianian history dates back over 2,500 years to the ancient Persian Empire. Events over the past 25 centuries created an Arianian mindset of cultural superiority, and Arianians believe one day they will regain a position of global authority and dominance. During the 7th century, Arabs introduced Islam to the Persians, often forcibly converting Arianians. Shia Islam became the dominant religion in Ariana beginning in 1505. Shia Islam profoundly impacted the Persian culture and continues to affect Ariana today. Religion significantly influences almost every one of Ariana’s vital cultural institutions, to include its government and military.
+
Other institutions have different hours. Hotels and hospitals operate 24 hours a day. Of course, there are fewer staff overnight from 1800 to 0800 hours than during the daylight hours. Most tourist attractions are open from 0900 to 1730 each day. Some museums will add one or two hours to their schedule for public holidays or for the peak tourist season. Most museums close only one day a week and that is often on Monday. Shops that sell goods (convenience stores, department stores, or supermarkets) are normally open from 0900 to 2200 hours including weekends and most public holidays. On the largest public holidays, these stores may close early.
  
−
=== Routine, Cyclical Key Dates ===
+
=== Weekly ===
 +
There are no major weekly events in Olvana. The open-air markets operate six days of the week (Monday to Saturday) and some are even open on Sundays. For the Muslim population, Friday is the most important day of the week and the evening prayers are the most attended of the week and day.
  
−
==== Traditional Wedding Seasons ====
+
=== Monthly ===
−
Due to the heavy Muslim influence, most people will not marry in the month of Ramadan. Some areas extend the time for prohibition against marriage to even longer periods, but it usually depends on the devoutness of the region’s inhabitants.
+
There are no major monthly events that occur on a regular basis throughout Olvana.
  
−
Since Muslims base Ramadan on a lunar cycle, Ramadan, as well as the entire Islamic calendar, moves 10-11 days earlier each year. While some Muslims base Ramadan on the sighting of the moon from Mecca, others base it on the sighting at their own location. Due to a difference in the view of the moon from one’s location on earth, Ramadan can actually begin and end on different dates in various parts of the world.
+
== Key Dates, Time Periods, or Events ==
 +
* 1700-1900: European colonization period
 +
* 1912: Republic of Olvana declared
 +
* 1938-1945: World War II
 +
* 1945-1951: Olvanan Civil War
 +
* 1 November 1951: People’s Republic of Olvana (PRO) declared by the Olvanan Communist Party (OCP) Chairman, Cheng Ze
 +
* 1961: Denouncement of Donovian communism and the creation of an Olvanan version
 +
* 1960s: Reform period
 +
* 1968: Cheng Revolution
 +
* 1978: Began shift to participate in the global economy to become the powerhouse it is today
 +
* 1979: Cheng’s Death
 +
* October 1979: Gang of Eight ousted
 +
* 1980: Consolidation of power by Qin Jinqing
 +
* 1990-1991: Demonstrations suppressed
 +
* Late 1990s: Anti-corruption movement
 +
* 5 Years Ago: Kang Wuhan became the OCP Chairman
  
−
==== National and Religious Holidays ====
+
== Routine, Cyclical Key Dates ==
−
Ariana uses three different calendars—solar, lunar, and Gregorian—to determine holidays. Since the lunar calendar moves 10-11 days earlier each year, the months of the year will move from season to season. Individuals must know when the New Year starts in Ariana to determine when holidays will take place.
 
  
−
The Arianian solar calendar begins on the vernal or spring equinox each year, when day and night each last the same amount of time. This occurs on 21 March, give or take one day.
+
=== Holidays and Culturally Specific Observations ===
 +
Holidays & Culturally Specific Observations: National holidays follow the Gregorian calendar. The Olvanan Government does not officially recognize religious holidays, however it no longer actively restricts an individual’s ability to observe the holiday.  Holidays listed in the chart below as being National holidays are officially recognized and sanctioned by the government, while holidays listed as cultural holidays are related to either a specific religion or people and are not officially recognized by the government.
  
−
Arianians also use the lunar calendar, based upon the moon’s phases. Because 12 of the moon’s 28- day orbits around the earth do not equal a solar year, the Islamic calendar moves through the seasons. One cannot associate any Islamic month with a particular season like those that use the solar or Gregorian calendar, even if the month’s name harkens back to a particular time of the year. Islamic scholars base the start of each New Year on the actual sighting of the moon. Thus it is not possible to provide an exact Gregorian calendar date for future Islamic New Year’s Days.
+
=== Holiday Chart ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
−
|'''Lunar Month'''
+
| colspan="5" |'''Olvana Holidays & Culturally Specific  Observations'''
−
|'''Name'''
+
 
−
|'''Remarks'''
+
''All dates shown using Gregorian Calendar, Italicized dates are  determined by Lunar Calendar* or Islamic Lunar Calendar**''
 +
|-
 +
|'''Holiday'''
 +
|'''Begin Date'''
 +
|'''Type'''
 +
|'''Observance Length'''
 +
|'''Remark'''
 +
|-
 +
|New Year’s Day
 +
|1 January
 +
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 +
|-
 +
|People’s Day
 +
|2 January
 +
|National
 +
| 
 +
| 
 +
|-
 +
|International Women’s Day
 +
|8 March
 +
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''1'''
+
|Labor Day
−
|Muharram
+
|1 May
−
|Second most sacred month of the year as the word ''haram'' means “forbidden.” Some Muslims fast all month like in Ramadan while others fast only the first 10 days of the month, the 9th and 10th, or the 10th. The 10th of Muharram (Ashurah) commemorates Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Muhammad. Though fighting is forbidden during Muharram, this does not preclude fighting for the sake of Islam.
+
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''2'''
+
|Mother’s Day
−
|Safar
+
|13 May
−
|The root word ''safr'' means whistle, yellow, or empty depending on the context. The month received its name from the whistling of the wind in one of the windiest months of the year.
+
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''3'''
+
|Father’s Day
−
|Rabi’ al-awwal
+
|17 June
−
|Original meaning of the month was the “first month of spring.”  Depending on a Muslim’s sect, the birth date of the Prophet Muhammad is  celebrated on either the 12th or 17th of the month.
+
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''4'''
+
|Liberation of the People Day
−
|Rabi’ al-thani
+
|29 August
−
|Original meaning of the month was “second month of spring.”
+
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''5'''
+
|National Day
−
|Jumada al-awwal
+
|1 October
−
|The month’s name comes from the Arianian term for “parched  earth,” but it has lost its association with the dry season by the shifting  of the months through the years.
+
|National
 +
|3 Days
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''6'''
+
|Teacher’s Day
−
|Jumada  al-thani
+
|15 December
−
|The month’s name also comes from  an Arianian word for “dry, parched land” but has since lost its actual  meaning as it may actually occur in the rainy season.
+
|National
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''7'''
+
|Olvan New Year
−
|Rajab
+
|''Late  January - Early February*''
−
|''Rajaba'' means “respect” as Muslims begin to pray for Ramadan to  arrive. Technically Muslims should not conduct war during this month, but  exception is made if the warfare is for the cause of Islam.
+
|National and Cultural (Olvan)
 +
|3 Days
 +
|Also referred to as the Spring Festival
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''8'''
+
|Feast of the First Morning (Lunar New Year)
−
|Sha-aban
+
|''Late  January - Early February*''
−
|The month derives its name from the Arab word for “separation” as the clans would disperse to find water.
+
|Cultural (Kinh)
 +
|9 Days
 +
|Known alternatively as “Tết Nguyên Đán” (or simply Tet). Celebrated only in the region around Hanoi.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''9'''
+
|Lantern Festival
−
|Ramadan
+
|''Mid-February  -Early March*''
−
|Most sacred of all months in Islam. Devout Muslims fast from sunup to sundown, avoiding all food and drink  during daylight hours.
+
|Cultural (Olvan)
 +
|1 Day
 +
|Occurs on the 15<sup>th</sup> day of the first Lunar Month. Marks the final day of the Olvan New Year Celebration.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''10'''
+
|Maha Shivaratri
−
|Shawwal
+
|''February-March*''
−
|The month came from the word that meant “uplift” or  “breakage.” After the Eid ul-Fitr (the breaking of the Ramadan fast), some  devout Muslims fast for the next 6 days while other Muslims fast for 6  non-consecutive days in the month.
+
|Cultural (Hindu)
 +
|2 Days
 +
|Festival of Shiva
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''11'''
+
|Holi
−
|Dhu al-Qi’dah
+
|''March-April*''
−
|The month’s name comes from the Arabic meaning “master of the  truce” when Arabs did not conduct war. Technically Muslims should not conduct  war during this month, but exception is made if the warfare is for the cause  of Islam.
+
|Cultural (Hindu)
 +
|1 Day
 +
|Festival of Colors
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''12'''
+
|Rama Navami
−
|Dhu al-Hijjah
+
|''March-April*''
−
|The month’s name means “possessor of the pilgrimage” and the  Hadj takes place on the 8th, 9th, and 10th of the month. This is the fourth  and final month of the Islamic calendar during which devout Muslims are not  to conduct warfare.
+
|Cultural (Hindu)
−
|}
+
|1 Day
−
Arianians use the solar, lunar, or Gregorian calendar for significant dates, based upon the event. Holidays associated with religious or Council of Guardians Revolution events provide opportunities for Arianians to rally in support of or opposition to their government. Actual holidays based on the lunar calendar may fluctuate a day in either direction from what is listed below. In the month of Ramadan, very little activity takes place in daylight activities due to the requirement to fast.
+
|Birthday of Lord Rama
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
|'''Holiday'''
 
−
|'''Date'''
 
−
|'''Description'''
 
−
|'''Western  Dates'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Nowrooz (Nowruz)'''
+
|Qingming Festival
−
|Farvardin 1-4
 
  
−
(21-24 March, +/- 1 day)
+
(Tomb-Sweeping Day)
−
|Arianian New Year.
+
|Early April
−
|21-24  March 2011
+
|Cultural (Olvan)
−
 
+
|1 Day
−
21-24  March 2012
+
| 
−
 
+
|-
−
21-24 March 2013
+
|Dragon Boat Festival
 +
|''Between Late May-Late June*''
 +
|National and Cultural (Olvan)
 +
|1 Day
 +
| 
 +
|-
 +
|Raksha Bandhan
 +
|''July-August*''
 +
|Cultural (Hindu)
 +
|1 Day
 +
|Renewing of sibling bonds
 +
|-
 +
|Krishna Janmaashtami
 +
|''August-September*''
 +
|Cultural (Hindu)
 +
|2 Days
 +
|Birthday of Lord Krishna (2 days)
 +
|-
 +
|Ganesh Chaturthi
 +
|''August-September*''
 +
|Cultural (Hindu)
 +
|10 Days
 +
|Birthday of Ganesh, son of Shiva
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Islamic Republic Day'''
+
|Mid-Autumn Festival / Moon Festival
−
|Farvardin  12
+
|''Mid-September  –Early October*''
−
|After a national referendum, Ayatollah Khodadad declared a new Arianian Islamic Republic.
+
|National and Cultural
−
|01 April 2011
+
|1 Day
−
 
+
| 
−
01  April 2012
 
−
 
 
−
01 April 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Nature Day (Sizde-Bedar)'''
+
|Navaratri
−
|Farvardin  13
+
|''Mid-Late  October*''
−
|Marks the end of the Persian New Year holiday season.
+
|Cultural (Hindu)
−
|02  April 2011
+
|10 Days
−
 
+
|Victory of Rama over demon king, Ravana
−
02  April 2012
 
−
 
 
−
02 April 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Khodadad’s Death'''
+
|Dussehra
−
|Khordad  14
+
|''Late October*''
−
|Commemorates the death of Ayatollah Khodadad.
+
|Cultural (Hindu)
−
|04  June 2011
+
|1 Day
−
 
+
|Final day of Navarti
−
04  June 2012
 
−
 
 
−
04 June 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Revolt of Khordad 15'''
+
|Diwali
−
|Khordad  15
+
|''Early  Autumn*''
−
|Commemorates the 3 June 1963 incarceration of the Ayatollah Khodadad by the Arianian  government.
+
|Cultural (Hindu)
−
|05 June 2011
+
|5 Days
−
 
+
|Festival of Lights
−
05  June 2012
 
−
 
 
−
05 June 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Victory of the Revolution'''
+
|Ramadan
−
|22  Bahman
+
|''Shifting  (11 Days earlier each year)**''
−
|Celebration of the Council of Guardians victory over the Pasha.
+
|Cultural (Islam)
−
|11  February 2011
+
|29-30 Days
−
 
+
|Also known as Ramazan, or Ramzan, it is the 9<sup>th</sup>  month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar.
−
11  February 2012
 
−
 
 
−
11 February 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Nationalization of Oil Industry'''
+
|Laylat al-Qadr
−
|29  Esfand
+
|''Last  5 odd numbered nights of Ramadan (11 Days earlier each year)**''
−
|Commemorates the nationalization of Ariana’s oil industry.
+
|Cultural (Islam)
−
|20  March 2011
+
|5 nights (spread over 10 days)
−
 
+
| 
−
20 March 2012
 
−
 
 
−
20 March 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''''Tasu’a'' of Imam Hussain'''
+
|Eid al-Fitr
−
|Muharram  9
+
|''Final  Day of Ramadan (11 Days earlier each year)**''
−
|Commemorates the attack on the camp of Muhammad’s grandson.
+
|Cultural (Islam)
−
|04  December 2011
+
| 
−
 
+
| 
−
23  November 2012
 
−
 
 
−
12 October 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''''Ashura'' of Imam Hussain'''
+
|Hajj
−
|Muharram 10
+
|''8-13 Dhu al-Hijjah''
−
|Shia day of mourning; celebrates the martyrdom of Muhammad’s grandson Hussein ibn Ali & his followers at the battle of Karbala; Shia communities reenact the day’s  events.
+
|Cultural (Islam)
−
|06 December 2011
+
|5-6 Days
−
 
+
|The Hajj is the “greater” Pilgrimage within Islam and occurs on specified dates. Muslims can also observe ''Umrah'' as a “lesser” pilgrimage at any point during the year.
−
24  November 2012
 
−
 
 
−
13 November 2013
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''''Arba’een'' of Imam Hussain (Chelom)'''
+
|Eid al-Adha
−
|Safar 20 (30 days after Ashura)
+
|''10<sup>th</sup>  day of Dhu al-Hijjah''
−
|Commemorates the death of Muhammad’s grandson.
+
|Cultural (Islam)
−
|06 January 2012
+
|4 Days
 +
|Roughly two months after Eid al-Fitr.
 +
|}
  
−
24 December 2012
+
==== New Year's Day ====
 +
Olvanans observe the Gregorian Calendar’s New Year’s Day on 1 January of each year. If the date falls on the weekend, then the government and companies normally give their workers off either the Friday before or the Monday after, whichever date is closest to the actual holiday. Communities celebrate with fireworks, but families usually use it to come together. The family thinks about the coming year and what it may hold for them.
  
−
13 December 2013
+
==== People's Day ====
−
|-
+
This holiday now falls on 2 January of every year. Traditionally, it was the first day on the traditional Olvanan calendar. While Olvana now uses the Gregorian calendar, this day ties the present with the past. Besides fireworks displays, families prepare food considered lucky in their culture.
−
|'''Demise of Prophet Muhammad (Mujtaba)'''
 
−
|Safar  28
 
−
|Commemorates the martyrdom of  Muhammad & his grandson, Hassan.
 
−
|1 February 2011
 
  
−
20 January 2012
+
==== International Women's Day ====
 +
This holiday falls on 8 March each year and is celebrated in many countries around the world. It began in 1909 when the Socialist Party of American organized a Women’s Day in New York City. After the communists took control of Donovia, they adopted 8 March as a holiday to celebrate the importance of women. Other communist countries adopted the holiday including Olvana. Olvanan families celebrate it by taking their Mother out for dinner if they can afford or preparing her a special meal if they cannot.
  
−
09 January 2013
+
==== Labor Day ====
−
|-
+
This holiday always falls on 1 May each other and celebrates the importance of workers in the country. The holiday began as the International Worker’s Day in Europe by the socialists and communists and then adopted by Donovia after they the communists took control. Olvana, as a communist country, adopted the holiday in the early 1950s. The day is usually filled with political speeches, but often families come together to celebrate having a day off from work.
−
|'''Martyrdom of Imam Reza'''
 
−
|Safar 29
 
−
|Commemorates the assassination  & martyrdom of Imam Reza in 818.
 
−
|02  February 2011
 
  
−
21 January 2012
+
==== Mother's Day ====
 +
On 13 May of each year, Olvana families celebrate their Mothers. Children will often make breakfast for their Mother so she does not have to do so. In the evening, families may visit a matriarch to either take them out to dine or provide their favorite meal to them. In between, families visit the park or play board games together.
  
−
10 January 2013
+
==== Father's Day ====
−
|-
+
About a month after celebrating Mothers, the Olvana people do the same with the country’s Fathers on 17 June each year. The spouse and children fawn over the Father trying to outdo each other so the Father does not have to do anything. The wife usually fixes her husband’s favorite meal. If available, the family may take in a sporting event in the afternoon if the Father enjoys that type of entertainment.
−
|'''Birth of Muhammad & Imam Jafar'''
 
−
|Rabi’-ul-Awwal 17
 
−
|Commemorates  the birth of both Muhammad in 570/571 AD & Imam Jafar 83 years after the founding of Islam.
 
−
|16  February 2011
 
  
−
05 February 2012
+
==== Liberation of the People Day ====
 +
This celebration occurs on 29 August each year, the day that Olvana was liberated in World War II. In the larger cities, there are often military parades for the people to observe. Families will often picnic or do some other outside activity as long as the weather cooperates.
  
−
24 January 2013
+
==== National Day ====
−
|-
+
National Day occurs on 1 October each year and celebrates the founding of modern Olvana as a communist country. This is another day dedicated to political speeches by local leaders and possibly military parades in the largest cities. With the weather starting to turn colder, it is a chance for the family to get in one last family outing before the weather turns bad.
−
|'''Martyrdom  of Fatima'''
 
−
|Jamaad-ath- Thaanee 3
 
−
|Commemorates the death of Fatima, the daughter of  Muhammad, in 632.
 
−
|17  May 2013
 
  
−
17 May 2012
+
==== Teacher's Day ====
 +
Occurs every year on 15 December. Started by the communists in the early 1950s, it celebrates the role of teacher in converting the children into accepting the communists as the legitimate rulers in Olvana. The day before, children will give their teachers a small gift thanking them for their education. On the actual day, some restaurants may give free meals or at least a discount on the original cost. For families, it often becomes a day inside due to the weather in many parts of the country so they end up playing board games together.
  
−
17 May 2013
+
==== Olvan New Year ====
−
|-
+
Also known as “the Spring Festival,” this holiday is a traditional Olvan festival that celebrates the beginning of the New Year according to the traditional Olvan Calendar. It is arguably one of the most important holidays celebrated within Olvana, and has strongly influenced traditional New Year celebrations in neighboring countries. While the holiday is observed by nearly all Olvanans, it is particular linked to the Olvan Folk Religion.
−
|'''Birth of Imam Ali'''
 
−
|Rajab 13
 
−
|Birthday of Imam Hazrat Ali.
 
−
|15 June 2011
 
  
−
04 June 2012
+
==== Tết Nguyên Đán (often known as simply Tết): ====
 +
Tết is a festival that marks the arrival of spring celebrated by ethnic Kinh living within the Red River Delta (near Hanoi). While Tết primarily occurs on the same day as the Olvan New Year, it on occasion will fall on the next day due to time differences. For an outsider, the Tết holiday may closely resemble the Olvan New Year, however for the Kinh people and other groups within the Red River Delta, the distinction holds special meaning. The day of Tết is usually reserved for visiting relatives and close friends, the 2<sup>nd</sup> day is typically reserved for visiting friends and community, and the third day is typically a day for recognition of educators. While it is not a regular occurrence, Tết is sometimes used as a demonstration of Vinh nationalism and as a repudiation of Olvan culture.
  
−
24 May 2013
+
==== Lantern Festival ====
−
|-
+
The Lantern Festival has its origins in the dynastic periods of Olvan history. It is closely linked to Olvan Folk traditions, and is associated with the declining of winter darkness. Today it is celebrated by families and communities, who light lanterns outside of their homes and in public spaces.  The celebration is associated with luck, hope, prosperity, and love.
−
|'''Mission of Muhammad'''
 
−
|Rajab 27
 
−
|Prophet Muhammad received his  calling on this date.
 
−
|29 June 2011
 
  
−
17 June 2012
+
==== Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) ====
 +
Qingming occurs around the spring solstice each year. It is observed as a day to pay reverence to ones ancestors and offer remembrances to living blood relatives. The holiday is observed by nearly all Olvanans, though it is perhaps more symbolic for those who adhere to Olvan Folk traditions.  The holiday, and its associated rituals, are heavily influenced by traditions found within the Confucian philosophy.
  
−
06 June 2013
+
==== Dragon Boat Fetival ====
−
|-
+
This is a summer festival that occurs on the 5<sup>th</sup> day of the 5<sup>th</sup> month in the Olvan Lunar Calendar, a day which traditionally was associated with bad luck. The Dragon Boat Festival therefore, is intended to get rid of bad luck. There are a variety of origin stories associated with this festival, with some of the more well-known versions involving the death (typically by suicide) of a revered figure.  The most popular version is associated with the suicide of a poet, who drowned himself in a river. Upon hearing of his death, the common people rushed to retrieve his body using boats. Observances today often involve eating traditional foods, drinking realgar wine, and racing traditional boats.
−
|'''Birth of Imam Mahdi'''
 
−
|Sha’aban 15
 
−
|Commemorates  the birth of Muhammad ibn al- Hasan al-Mahdi, who did not die but was hidden  by God.
 
−
|16  July 2011
 
  
−
05 July 2012
+
==== Maha Shivaretri ====
 +
Every month, the Hindu celebrate the 13<sup>th</sup> night/14<sup>th</sup> day as a ''Shivaratri,'' but the most important one of the year is the one in late winter during the 10<sup>th</sup> month of the Hindu year that occurs in either February or March of each year. This festival is where the people of the Hindu faith remember overcoming the darkness and ignorance in their lives and the world. The celebration involves chanting, fasting, and meditating on ethnics and virtues. The most ardent devotees will stay awake all night while others will just visit a Shiva temple.
  
−
24 June 2013
+
==== ''Holi:'' ====
−
|-
+
The “festival of colors” welcomes the spring to the Hindu, but it also signifies the victory of the good over the wicked. The festival lasts two days beginning with the day of the full moon (''Purnima'') and continuing into the next day. This occurs during the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna that normally falls around March on the Gregorian calendar, but could go into early April. Most Hindi participate in the evening that is known as ''Holika Dahan'' (burning of the demon Holika) and then continue the celebration into the second day known as ''Holi''. During the evening, there are bonfires and prayers that internal evil will be destroy. The next day the people smear each other with colors or drench each other with water guns or water balloons. Anyone is fair game in the areas around the Hindu temples. Groups carry drums and other instruments marching around playing music. There is food and drink for everyone.
−
|'''Martyrdom  of Imam Ali'''
 
−
|Ramadan 21
 
−
|Commemorates the death of Muhammad’s cousin & son-in-law  who the Shias believe was the original Imam.
 
−
|21 August 2011
 
  
−
10 August 2012
+
==== Rama Navami ====
 +
This holiday celebrates the birthday of the Hindu God, Lord Rama. It occurs in the 9<sup>th</sup> day of the bright half of the Hindu calendar in the 12<sup>th</sup> month of the year. The day is somewhat solem with recitals of the ''Rama Katha'' or the reading of Rama stories. Some adherents visit a temple, others pray at home, sing with others, while still others wash a statue of the infant Rama before placing it in a cradle. Still others mark this day with a fast.
  
−
31 July 2013
+
==== Raksha Bandhan ====
−
|-
+
This Hindu holiday is observed on the last day of the 4<sup>th</sup> month of the Hindu lunar calendar that normally occurs in August on the Gregorian calendar. Sisters of all ages wrap a ''rakhi'' (amulet) around the wrist of their brothers to symbolize protecting them. The brothers accept the gift in return for always watching out for their sisters. Sisters will often travel great distances to visit their brother on this holiday.
−
|'''Eid ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan)'''
 
−
|Shawwal 1
 
−
|“Feast of Breaking the Fast” celebrates the end of Ramadan,  the month of fasting.
 
−
|31 August 2011
 
  
−
19 August 2012
+
==== Krishna Janmashtami ====
 +
This holiday occurs normally in August, but could go into September as some Hindu calculate it differently. The holiday celebrates the birth of Krishna, the 8<sup>th</sup> avatar of Vishnu. Beginning in the evening, there are dance/drama enactments of Krishna’s life, singing past the midnight hour, and then a night vigil. When daylight comes, there is a festival that everyone in the faith partakes in.
  
−
08 August 2013
+
==== Ganesh Chaturthi ====
−
|-
+
This 10-day holiday falls between 22 August and 20 September every year on the Gregorian calendar. It celebrates the arrival of Ganesh to earth and people symbolize this by installing small clay idols of Ganesh in their homes or more elaborate ones for public displays. There are prayers, fasting, and on the 10<sup>th</sup> day the idol is carried in a parade before it is dissolve indicate of Ganesh’s return to Mount Kailash. The festival ends with readings of texts, athletic events, and martial arts competitions.
−
|'''Martyrdom of Imam Jafar'''
 
−
|Shawwal 25
 
−
|Commemorates the death of Ja’far ibn Muhammad al-Sadiq, an Imam who was killed in December 765  AD.
 
−
|24 September 2011
 
  
−
12 September 2012
+
==== Navaratri ====
 +
Different Hindus celebrate the holiday differently, but in Olvana it occurs in the month of ''Ahsvin'' that normally falls in September or October on the Gregorian calendar. It almost always occurs after the autumn harvest so it is almost like a fall festival. The holiday celebrates the victory of the God, ''Rama,'' over the demon king, ''Ravana''. Activities include reenactments of the story on a stage and chanting of Hinduism scriptures. Many places have a design competition to build the best ''pandal'', a temporary place of worship that contains statues of the protagonists (clay or wood).
  
−
01 September 2013
+
==== Dussehra ====
−
|-
+
This is the final day of the 10-day festival of Navaratri. On the final day of the festival, the Ravana statue is either dissolved or burnt to signifying the triumph of Rama.
−
|'''Eid-ul-Adha (Ghurban)'''
 
−
|Dh-ul-Hajja 10
 
−
|“Feast of the Sacrifice” celebrates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son to God;  Muslims sacrifice a lamb & give 1/3 of the meat to the poor.
 
−
|07  November 2011
 
  
−
26 October 2012
+
==== Diwali ====
 +
This holiday is a 5-day festival of life that normally takes place between mid-October and mid-November on the Gregorian calendar. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over bad, and knowledge over ignorance. On the first day, ''Dhanteras'', Hindus clean their homes and business. They install small earthern oil-filled lamps that they will light for the rest of the festival. The women decorate their homes with colorful designs while men do the same to the roofs and walls of their home, their markets, and temples. Day 2 or ''Naraka Chaturdashi'' is the day that remembers the death of the demon ''Narakasura'' by Krishna. People purchase festive foods, especially sweet treats to eat, but others will visit their favorite Hindu temple. The third day, ''Lakshmi Pujan'', is the most important day of the festival and it marks the shortest day of the month. Children visit their grandparents; small business owners give their employees a gift or bonus; and they will partake in a parade in the evening wearing new clothes or their best outfits. Day four or ''Annakut'' is the day after actual Diwali holiday. The Hindi remember the story of the defeat of ''Bali'' by ''Vishnu'' and husbands usually give their wife a gift as this day celebrates the bond between a wife and her husband. Day five, ''Bhai Duj'', can be translated as “brother’s day.” It celebrates the bond between sisters and brothers. Similar to Raksha Bandhan, but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family and not the other way around.
  
−
15 October 2013
+
==== Ramadan ====
−
|-
+
Regarded as one of the 5 pillars of Islam, the observance of Ramadan includes a month of fasting during the day, prayer, reflection and community. The predawn meal is known as ''suhur'', and the breaking of the daily fast at night is known as ''iftar'', which is often celebrated as a communal feast.  
−
|'''Eid al-Ghadeer'''
 
−
|Dh-ul-Hajja 18
 
−
|Primary  Shia Muslim holiday; celebrates the day the Prophet Muhammad gave his last  instructions to his followers & named his successor.
 
−
|14  November 2011
 
  
−
03 November 2012
+
==== Laylat al-Qadr ====
 +
Known as the “Night of Power” in English, Laylat al-Qadr believed to be the night when the ''Quran'' was sent down from heaven to the world, during which the first verses were revealed by the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel) to the Prophet Mohammad.
  
−
23 October 2013
+
==== Eid al-Fitr ====
−
|}
+
Eid al-Fitr, known as the lesser of the two Eids, is the celebration that marks the end of fasting during the month of Ramadan. In Muslim majority provinces, all individuals regardless of religion, are given a holiday. Eid al-Fitr is often celebrated as a community with a large feast, and is marked by the distribution of food to the poor and needy.
  
−
==== Harvest Cycles ====
+
==== Hajj ====
−
Ariana’s harvest cycle normally begins in May and lasts through August. The harvest cycle begins with lowland crops in southern provinces where they reach maturity first and continues north as the other areas reach harvest time. The harvest cycle tends to largely impact Ariana’s rural population. Besides the actual harvest events in this period, other activities include the logistical support necessary to transport the crops from the rural areas to the urban cities. Planning, timing, and the weather determine whether Ariana realizes a successful harvest. The quality of the harvest impacts the entire country’s population and not just the agricultural sector. (''See the Physical Environment variable for additional information on Ariana’s agriculture and the country’s seasons''.)
+
The Hajj pilgrimage is a religious duty that all Muslims must carry out at least once in their life. The pilgrimage is made to the ''Kaaba'' (House of God) located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Over the last decade, the government of Olvana has begun to place regulations and restrictions on how many Olvanan Muslims can travel for the Hajj. Performing the Hajj is an expensive act for Olvanans, who ultimately must travel thousands of miles to Mecca. In the past, communities have organized charities and given donations in order to enable the poorest among them to make the trip. Olvana has sought to put an end to this practice, creating laws that stipulate that all Hajj related donations must be made to specific organizations, who are then required to account for all donations and distributions of funds.
  
−
==== Elections ====
+
==== Eid al-Adha ====
−
Ariana conducts elections every four years for most offices. Parliamentary elections occur every four years, with Presidential elections occurring every six years. There are no term limits in any elected office. Arianians also elect their city and village councils every four years. The people elect the  Forum of Proficiency, the 86 Islamic scholars who select the Supreme Leader and Arianian head of state. Members of the Forum of Proficiency are elected for eight-year terms. While in theory the Forum of Proficiency is supposed to monitor the Supreme Leader, in practice they are only legally required to meet for two days, twice per year, and they usually do not discuss anything related to the Supreme Leader. All candidates must receive the approval of the Guardian Leadership Council to run for any office. In January 2007, Ariana raised the minimum voting age from 15 years old to 18 years old.
+
Considered the holiest day in Islam, Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismael as an act of obedience to the will of God. Today, Muslims recognize this event through prayer, charity, and sacrifice. Affluent members of a community often sacrifice ''halal'' domestic animals (such as lamb, sheep, goat, or cow), the meat of which is divided into three parts, one third for the family, one third for relatives and neighbors, and the remaining third to be given to the poor and needy.
  
−
== Cultural Perception of Time ==
+
==== Wedding Season ====
−
Most of the Caucasus area does not perceive the importance of time as the Western world does, especially as it relates to business. The more a country interacts with Western nations, however, the more the country accepts the Western idea of the importance of time.
+
The timing of the typical Olvanan wedding is primarily determined by four things: weather, agricultural cycles, proximity to major holidays, and astrological considerations. Spring and fall are usually the most pleasant times of the year, and are the most popular seasons for marriage ceremonies. A plurality of the populace is engaged in agricultural pursuits, so wedding dates often avoid planting and harvest periods. In addition, the couple’s families will carefully plan around both secular and religious holidays. Dates are often set with the assistance of astrologers, who help determine the ideal timing based on the birthdates of the bride and groom.
  
−
While Westerners take time commitments such as deadlines and schedules very seriously, in the Caucasus time commitments are seen more as an objective to be achieved, if possible, rather than a requirement. Promptness is based on relationships. In the West, time is money. In the Caucasus, there is no problem with making people wait all day, and then telling them to come back the next day. A person from the Caucasus will be much more likely to be on time if the person who set the time commitment is close to him, such as a friend or family member. Business is conducted more on the basis of personal relationships than on respect for time.
+
=== Harvest Cycles ===
 +
Agricultural cycles in Olvana are primarily determined by regional climate and the crop in question. In the southern, more tropical part of the country, crops such as tea and rice can be harvested multiple times annually. Most agricultural products, however, are planted in the spring and harvested in the fall. One notable exception—wheat—has two crops per year: winter wheat, which is harvested in spring, and spring wheat, which is harvested in late summer. (For additional information on Olvana’s agriculture and seasons, see the Physical Environment variable)
  
−
Arianian society is not as sensitive to time when compared to the Western perception of time and accountability. The Arianians’ perception of time is more relaxed, both in the business setting as well as in their leisure hours. Many Arianians deem that personal requirements, needs, or desires take precedence over schedules, other people’s time, business, or appointments.
+
=== Natural Disaster Cycles ===
 +
Major storms, typhoons, and floods typically occur during the summer monsoon season between May and October. Earthquakes can occur at any time. (See the Physical Environment variable for additional information on natural disasters in Olvana). Sandstorms and dust-storms most frequently occur during the spring, however they can occur at any time during the year, particularly during a drought.
  
−
Arianians view time as less important than other factors, which is evident even when dealing with planning military operations. Arianian leaders value the process of planning over meeting a deadline imposed by an outside schedule. The concept of time, however, stretches across all aspects of their society. Three different calendars characterize the Arianians’ unique cultural concept of time.
+
=== Election Cycles ===
 +
Olvana consistently holds elections every 5 years, primarily to fill the positions within the Olvanan National Congress. Subsequent elections from the ONC appoint the president and other key government members. No Olvanan election has ever caused a significant shift in power; major political events are tied to the internal politics of the OCP.
  
 +
== Cultural Perception of Time ==
 +
While the primarily Hindu population in Olvana has historically viewed time as an unending cycle of days, months, seasons, and lives, this view has shifted to a monochromic perception of time (performing tasks in sequence) since the country officially became secular. The government instilled in people the view that time is a precious resource—so important, in fact, that an Olvanan will frequently apologize for taking up someone else's time. Slogans like “run before time so it cannot leave you behind” and “the sun never rises late” have been instilled in the Olvanan psyche to such an extent that extreme punctuality is the norm.
 
== Tactical Exploitation of Time ==
 
== Tactical Exploitation of Time ==
  
−
=== Caucasus Perception of Time ===
+
=== Olvana Perception of Time ===
−
For the most part, people in the Caucasus perceive time as an unimportant resource in their lives. They believe that things will occur whether they take proactive action or not. Each country in the region possesses a long history, and people believe that their country will continue well into the future. Most of the people in the region look back to times when their ethnic group held the upper hand in interactions with their neighbors and hope that one day their country can become the dominant power again. The people do not look at time in the short-term, but look forward to the long-term when conditions will again allow them to take their rightful place among the world’s leaders. For Ariana and Atropia, their hydrocarbon resources may provide them the impetus to become a regional—if not world—power. For Gorgas and Limaria, their lack of natural resources will continue to plague their countries’ ability to improve their situation in the short-term. Donovia wishes to regain the dominant regional influence it once commanded.
+
This emphasis on punctuality and a lack of time leads to a seeming contradiction: in order to focus on another person, one must use as little of his time as possible. Starting times for appointments are set in stone, and they are scheduled for the smallest possible amount of time required to hear out all attendees and make a decision. Participants will usually show up 30 minutes early “just in case” the others are already available (making them wait would be seen as inconsiderate), and actually being late is unheard of. By the same token, despite their short scheduled duration, meetings rarely use the full amount of time allotted. 
 +
 
 +
Olvana’s armed forces have the same perception of time, as shown in the military expression, “stay three steps ahead of the enemy and get there before him.” This mindset is reflected in the offensive nature of the Olvanan military: why act defensively when one can beat the enemy to the punch. This requires two different but complementary abilities: (1) to have a long-term strategic view of conflict in order to determine a potential adversary’s intentions, and (2) to translate this into a set of short-term concise tactical and operational actions that can be instigated immediately in order to dissuade—or defeat—the adversary before he acts.
  
 
=== US Perception of Time ===
 
=== US Perception of Time ===
−
The time perception of allies in the region will frustrate the US, but the US can also take advantage of the lack of urgency of any enemies in the area. The US will need to help its regional allies understand that time is a precious resource that once wasted can never be recovered. Punctuality  and a sense of urgency remain essential for a military to defeat the enemy on the battlefield. Due to the enemy’s lack of a timetable and its apathetic disregard for punctuality, US forces and their allies will most likely find opportunities to get inside the enemy leaders’ decision cycles. Rapid US and allied action will cause the enemy to react to their actions instead of the enemy taking the initiative.
+
US military members, while trained for punctuality and quick action, will quickly feel themselves slow when compared to their Olvanan counterparts. US personnel should expect meetings to begin early, end even earlier, and be conducted at an extremely fast pace. Extensive preparation beforehand will be essential to effective interaction with Olvanan military members, as will the authority to make decisions without needing to consult the US chain of command afterward. The highest-ranking officer available will receive the best reception, as he will both have the most ability to commit and will be seen as the highest person on the socio-cultural ladder. Ideally, US attendees should match or exceed their Olvanan military counterparts in rank.
 +
 
 +
== Decision-making ==
 +
Olvana will make rapid decisions on the battlefield and respond quickly to any situation. Forces facing the Olvanan Military will need to be prepared to make even more rapid decisions to get inside the Olvanan decision cycle.
  
−
== Summary ==
+
[[Category:DATE]]
−
For the most part, the Caucasus countries view time differently than the US. Time is relatively unimportant to the people of Ariana, Atropia, Gorgas, and Limaria in almost every aspect of their lives. They lack a sense of urgency to accomplish tasks, in complete contrast to the Western world where almost everyone wants to accomplish as much as possible in as little time as possible. While the Donovian view of time is closer to that of the US than the other nations of the Caucasus, it is still notably different. All five cultures contain an extensive history dating back centuries and the people feel that whatever they do, their country will continue into the future. The area’s perception of time will cause the US to become frustrated with its allies, but will provide opportunities for exploitation of US enemies. To do so, however, the US will need to understand the nuances as each country perceives the relative importance of time somewhat differently.
+
[[Category:Pacific]]
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[[Category:DATE|080]]
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[[Category:Olvana]]
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[[Category:Caucasus]]
 
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[[Category:Ariana]]
 
 
[[Category:Time]]
 
[[Category:Time]]

Latest revision as of 15:16, 19 February 2021

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Time Overview

Olvanans see time as a precious resource, which is extremely important, as such they frequently apologize for taking up someone's time. They do not accept tardiness and will often arrive 30 minutes prior to an agreed time. Olvanan time management stems from the other-centric view that one should use as little of another’s time as possible. The concept of karma as applied to consideration of others leads to short, concise events that begin early and end even earlier. This extremely fast-paced and time-focused culture is viewed positively by the government and has been reinforced accordingly. This has resulted in a proactive, offensive view of conflict that focuses on pre-emptive action. US personnel interacting with Olvanan military leaders will need to prepare extensively beforehand and have potential decisions pre-approved by the chain of command in order to be successful. Olvana sits within the Olvanan Time Zone (OTZ), which is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)/Coordinated Universal Time (UTC); it does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST).

Daily

Olvana generally operates on a five-day workweek, Monday to Friday, and a two-day weekend on Saturday and Sunday. In larger cities, the standard core business hours are between 0800 to 1800 hours with a two-hour lunch break around noon. There are variations for other work sectors and for local variations. 

Government offices and schools open around 0800 or 0830 and close at 1700 or 1730 with a two-hour break at noon. The government and schools are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Many private companies open at 0830 and close at 1800 with a two-hour noon break. Most companies are only open Monday to Friday, but some may have a skeleton staff on duty during weekends. 

Financial institutions and post offices do not open until 0900 and remain open until 1800. While these entities do not close for lunch, there is reduce staff from noon to about 1430 to allow its employees to have their midday break. The banks and post offices are normally open on Saturday morning, but are closed on Saturday afternoons, all day on Sundays, and any public holidays. Self-service banks and ATMs are operational 24 hours a day. ATMs are rarely re-filled during weekends or public holidays and as a result the ATMs may not have any money if there is a major event in the vicinity. 

Other institutions have different hours. Hotels and hospitals operate 24 hours a day. Of course, there are fewer staff overnight from 1800 to 0800 hours than during the daylight hours. Most tourist attractions are open from 0900 to 1730 each day. Some museums will add one or two hours to their schedule for public holidays or for the peak tourist season. Most museums close only one day a week and that is often on Monday. Shops that sell goods (convenience stores, department stores, or supermarkets) are normally open from 0900 to 2200 hours including weekends and most public holidays. On the largest public holidays, these stores may close early.

Weekly

There are no major weekly events in Olvana. The open-air markets operate six days of the week (Monday to Saturday) and some are even open on Sundays. For the Muslim population, Friday is the most important day of the week and the evening prayers are the most attended of the week and day.

Monthly

There are no major monthly events that occur on a regular basis throughout Olvana.

Key Dates, Time Periods, or Events

  • 1700-1900: European colonization period
  • 1912: Republic of Olvana declared
  • 1938-1945: World War II
  • 1945-1951: Olvanan Civil War
  • 1 November 1951: People’s Republic of Olvana (PRO) declared by the Olvanan Communist Party (OCP) Chairman, Cheng Ze
  • 1961: Denouncement of Donovian communism and the creation of an Olvanan version
  • 1960s: Reform period
  • 1968: Cheng Revolution
  • 1978: Began shift to participate in the global economy to become the powerhouse it is today
  • 1979: Cheng’s Death
  • October 1979: Gang of Eight ousted
  • 1980: Consolidation of power by Qin Jinqing
  • 1990-1991: Demonstrations suppressed
  • Late 1990s: Anti-corruption movement
  • 5 Years Ago: Kang Wuhan became the OCP Chairman

Routine, Cyclical Key Dates

Holidays and Culturally Specific Observations

Holidays & Culturally Specific Observations: National holidays follow the Gregorian calendar. The Olvanan Government does not officially recognize religious holidays, however it no longer actively restricts an individual’s ability to observe the holiday.  Holidays listed in the chart below as being National holidays are officially recognized and sanctioned by the government, while holidays listed as cultural holidays are related to either a specific religion or people and are not officially recognized by the government.

Holiday Chart

Olvana Holidays & Culturally Specific Observations

All dates shown using Gregorian Calendar, Italicized dates are determined by Lunar Calendar* or Islamic Lunar Calendar**

Holiday Begin Date Type Observance Length Remark
New Year’s Day 1 January National 1 Day  
People’s Day 2 January National    
International Women’s Day 8 March National 1 Day  
Labor Day 1 May National 1 Day  
Mother’s Day 13 May National 1 Day  
Father’s Day 17 June National 1 Day  
Liberation of the People Day 29 August National 1 Day  
National Day 1 October National 3 Days  
Teacher’s Day 15 December National 1 Day  
Olvan New Year Late January - Early February* National and Cultural (Olvan) 3 Days Also referred to as the Spring Festival
Feast of the First Morning (Lunar New Year) Late January - Early February* Cultural (Kinh) 9 Days Known alternatively as “Tết Nguyên Đán” (or simply Tet). Celebrated only in the region around Hanoi.
Lantern Festival Mid-February -Early March* Cultural (Olvan) 1 Day Occurs on the 15th day of the first Lunar Month. Marks the final day of the Olvan New Year Celebration.
Maha Shivaratri February-March* Cultural (Hindu) 2 Days Festival of Shiva
Holi March-April* Cultural (Hindu) 1 Day Festival of Colors
Rama Navami March-April* Cultural (Hindu) 1 Day Birthday of Lord Rama
Qingming Festival

(Tomb-Sweeping Day)

Early April Cultural (Olvan) 1 Day  
Dragon Boat Festival Between Late May-Late June* National and Cultural (Olvan) 1 Day  
Raksha Bandhan July-August* Cultural (Hindu) 1 Day Renewing of sibling bonds
Krishna Janmaashtami August-September* Cultural (Hindu) 2 Days Birthday of Lord Krishna (2 days)
Ganesh Chaturthi August-September* Cultural (Hindu) 10 Days Birthday of Ganesh, son of Shiva
Mid-Autumn Festival / Moon Festival Mid-September –Early October* National and Cultural 1 Day  
Navaratri Mid-Late October* Cultural (Hindu) 10 Days Victory of Rama over demon king, Ravana
Dussehra Late October* Cultural (Hindu) 1 Day Final day of Navarti
Diwali Early Autumn* Cultural (Hindu) 5 Days Festival of Lights
Ramadan Shifting (11 Days earlier each year)** Cultural (Islam) 29-30 Days Also known as Ramazan, or Ramzan, it is the 9th month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar.
Laylat al-Qadr Last 5 odd numbered nights of Ramadan (11 Days earlier each year)** Cultural (Islam) 5 nights (spread over 10 days)  
Eid al-Fitr Final Day of Ramadan (11 Days earlier each year)** Cultural (Islam)    
Hajj 8-13 Dhu al-Hijjah Cultural (Islam) 5-6 Days The Hajj is the “greater” Pilgrimage within Islam and occurs on specified dates. Muslims can also observe Umrah as a “lesser” pilgrimage at any point during the year.
Eid al-Adha 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah Cultural (Islam) 4 Days Roughly two months after Eid al-Fitr.

New Year's Day

Olvanans observe the Gregorian Calendar’s New Year’s Day on 1 January of each year. If the date falls on the weekend, then the government and companies normally give their workers off either the Friday before or the Monday after, whichever date is closest to the actual holiday. Communities celebrate with fireworks, but families usually use it to come together. The family thinks about the coming year and what it may hold for them.

People's Day

This holiday now falls on 2 January of every year. Traditionally, it was the first day on the traditional Olvanan calendar. While Olvana now uses the Gregorian calendar, this day ties the present with the past. Besides fireworks displays, families prepare food considered lucky in their culture.

International Women's Day

This holiday falls on 8 March each year and is celebrated in many countries around the world. It began in 1909 when the Socialist Party of American organized a Women’s Day in New York City. After the communists took control of Donovia, they adopted 8 March as a holiday to celebrate the importance of women. Other communist countries adopted the holiday including Olvana. Olvanan families celebrate it by taking their Mother out for dinner if they can afford or preparing her a special meal if they cannot.

Labor Day

This holiday always falls on 1 May each other and celebrates the importance of workers in the country. The holiday began as the International Worker’s Day in Europe by the socialists and communists and then adopted by Donovia after they the communists took control. Olvana, as a communist country, adopted the holiday in the early 1950s. The day is usually filled with political speeches, but often families come together to celebrate having a day off from work.

Mother's Day

On 13 May of each year, Olvana families celebrate their Mothers. Children will often make breakfast for their Mother so she does not have to do so. In the evening, families may visit a matriarch to either take them out to dine or provide their favorite meal to them. In between, families visit the park or play board games together.

Father's Day

About a month after celebrating Mothers, the Olvana people do the same with the country’s Fathers on 17 June each year. The spouse and children fawn over the Father trying to outdo each other so the Father does not have to do anything. The wife usually fixes her husband’s favorite meal. If available, the family may take in a sporting event in the afternoon if the Father enjoys that type of entertainment.

Liberation of the People Day

This celebration occurs on 29 August each year, the day that Olvana was liberated in World War II. In the larger cities, there are often military parades for the people to observe. Families will often picnic or do some other outside activity as long as the weather cooperates.

National Day

National Day occurs on 1 October each year and celebrates the founding of modern Olvana as a communist country. This is another day dedicated to political speeches by local leaders and possibly military parades in the largest cities. With the weather starting to turn colder, it is a chance for the family to get in one last family outing before the weather turns bad.

Teacher's Day

Occurs every year on 15 December. Started by the communists in the early 1950s, it celebrates the role of teacher in converting the children into accepting the communists as the legitimate rulers in Olvana. The day before, children will give their teachers a small gift thanking them for their education. On the actual day, some restaurants may give free meals or at least a discount on the original cost. For families, it often becomes a day inside due to the weather in many parts of the country so they end up playing board games together.

Olvan New Year

Also known as “the Spring Festival,” this holiday is a traditional Olvan festival that celebrates the beginning of the New Year according to the traditional Olvan Calendar. It is arguably one of the most important holidays celebrated within Olvana, and has strongly influenced traditional New Year celebrations in neighboring countries. While the holiday is observed by nearly all Olvanans, it is particular linked to the Olvan Folk Religion.

Tết Nguyên Đán (often known as simply Tết):

Tết is a festival that marks the arrival of spring celebrated by ethnic Kinh living within the Red River Delta (near Hanoi). While Tết primarily occurs on the same day as the Olvan New Year, it on occasion will fall on the next day due to time differences. For an outsider, the Tết holiday may closely resemble the Olvan New Year, however for the Kinh people and other groups within the Red River Delta, the distinction holds special meaning. The day of Tết is usually reserved for visiting relatives and close friends, the 2nd day is typically reserved for visiting friends and community, and the third day is typically a day for recognition of educators. While it is not a regular occurrence, Tết is sometimes used as a demonstration of Vinh nationalism and as a repudiation of Olvan culture.

Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival has its origins in the dynastic periods of Olvan history. It is closely linked to Olvan Folk traditions, and is associated with the declining of winter darkness. Today it is celebrated by families and communities, who light lanterns outside of their homes and in public spaces.  The celebration is associated with luck, hope, prosperity, and love.

Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day)

Qingming occurs around the spring solstice each year. It is observed as a day to pay reverence to ones ancestors and offer remembrances to living blood relatives. The holiday is observed by nearly all Olvanans, though it is perhaps more symbolic for those who adhere to Olvan Folk traditions.  The holiday, and its associated rituals, are heavily influenced by traditions found within the Confucian philosophy.

Dragon Boat Fetival

This is a summer festival that occurs on the 5th day of the 5th month in the Olvan Lunar Calendar, a day which traditionally was associated with bad luck. The Dragon Boat Festival therefore, is intended to get rid of bad luck. There are a variety of origin stories associated with this festival, with some of the more well-known versions involving the death (typically by suicide) of a revered figure.  The most popular version is associated with the suicide of a poet, who drowned himself in a river. Upon hearing of his death, the common people rushed to retrieve his body using boats. Observances today often involve eating traditional foods, drinking realgar wine, and racing traditional boats.

Maha Shivaretri

Every month, the Hindu celebrate the 13th night/14th day as a Shivaratri, but the most important one of the year is the one in late winter during the 10th month of the Hindu year that occurs in either February or March of each year. This festival is where the people of the Hindu faith remember overcoming the darkness and ignorance in their lives and the world. The celebration involves chanting, fasting, and meditating on ethnics and virtues. The most ardent devotees will stay awake all night while others will just visit a Shiva temple.

Holi:

The “festival of colors” welcomes the spring to the Hindu, but it also signifies the victory of the good over the wicked. The festival lasts two days beginning with the day of the full moon (Purnima) and continuing into the next day. This occurs during the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna that normally falls around March on the Gregorian calendar, but could go into early April. Most Hindi participate in the evening that is known as Holika Dahan (burning of the demon Holika) and then continue the celebration into the second day known as Holi. During the evening, there are bonfires and prayers that internal evil will be destroy. The next day the people smear each other with colors or drench each other with water guns or water balloons. Anyone is fair game in the areas around the Hindu temples. Groups carry drums and other instruments marching around playing music. There is food and drink for everyone.

Rama Navami

This holiday celebrates the birthday of the Hindu God, Lord Rama. It occurs in the 9th day of the bright half of the Hindu calendar in the 12th month of the year. The day is somewhat solem with recitals of the Rama Katha or the reading of Rama stories. Some adherents visit a temple, others pray at home, sing with others, while still others wash a statue of the infant Rama before placing it in a cradle. Still others mark this day with a fast.

Raksha Bandhan

This Hindu holiday is observed on the last day of the 4th month of the Hindu lunar calendar that normally occurs in August on the Gregorian calendar. Sisters of all ages wrap a rakhi (amulet) around the wrist of their brothers to symbolize protecting them. The brothers accept the gift in return for always watching out for their sisters. Sisters will often travel great distances to visit their brother on this holiday.

Krishna Janmashtami

This holiday occurs normally in August, but could go into September as some Hindu calculate it differently. The holiday celebrates the birth of Krishna, the 8th avatar of Vishnu. Beginning in the evening, there are dance/drama enactments of Krishna’s life, singing past the midnight hour, and then a night vigil. When daylight comes, there is a festival that everyone in the faith partakes in.

Ganesh Chaturthi

This 10-day holiday falls between 22 August and 20 September every year on the Gregorian calendar. It celebrates the arrival of Ganesh to earth and people symbolize this by installing small clay idols of Ganesh in their homes or more elaborate ones for public displays. There are prayers, fasting, and on the 10th day the idol is carried in a parade before it is dissolve indicate of Ganesh’s return to Mount Kailash. The festival ends with readings of texts, athletic events, and martial arts competitions.

Navaratri

Different Hindus celebrate the holiday differently, but in Olvana it occurs in the month of Ahsvin that normally falls in September or October on the Gregorian calendar. It almost always occurs after the autumn harvest so it is almost like a fall festival. The holiday celebrates the victory of the God, Rama, over the demon king, Ravana. Activities include reenactments of the story on a stage and chanting of Hinduism scriptures. Many places have a design competition to build the best pandal, a temporary place of worship that contains statues of the protagonists (clay or wood).

Dussehra

This is the final day of the 10-day festival of Navaratri. On the final day of the festival, the Ravana statue is either dissolved or burnt to signifying the triumph of Rama.

Diwali

This holiday is a 5-day festival of life that normally takes place between mid-October and mid-November on the Gregorian calendar. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over bad, and knowledge over ignorance. On the first day, Dhanteras, Hindus clean their homes and business. They install small earthern oil-filled lamps that they will light for the rest of the festival. The women decorate their homes with colorful designs while men do the same to the roofs and walls of their home, their markets, and temples. Day 2 or Naraka Chaturdashi is the day that remembers the death of the demon Narakasura by Krishna. People purchase festive foods, especially sweet treats to eat, but others will visit their favorite Hindu temple. The third day, Lakshmi Pujan, is the most important day of the festival and it marks the shortest day of the month. Children visit their grandparents; small business owners give their employees a gift or bonus; and they will partake in a parade in the evening wearing new clothes or their best outfits. Day four or Annakut is the day after actual Diwali holiday. The Hindi remember the story of the defeat of Bali by Vishnu and husbands usually give their wife a gift as this day celebrates the bond between a wife and her husband. Day five, Bhai Duj, can be translated as “brother’s day.” It celebrates the bond between sisters and brothers. Similar to Raksha Bandhan, but it is the brother that travels to meet the sister and her family and not the other way around.

Ramadan

Regarded as one of the 5 pillars of Islam, the observance of Ramadan includes a month of fasting during the day, prayer, reflection and community. The predawn meal is known as suhur, and the breaking of the daily fast at night is known as iftar, which is often celebrated as a communal feast.

Laylat al-Qadr

Known as the “Night of Power” in English, Laylat al-Qadr believed to be the night when the Quran was sent down from heaven to the world, during which the first verses were revealed by the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel) to the Prophet Mohammad.

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr, known as the lesser of the two Eids, is the celebration that marks the end of fasting during the month of Ramadan. In Muslim majority provinces, all individuals regardless of religion, are given a holiday. Eid al-Fitr is often celebrated as a community with a large feast, and is marked by the distribution of food to the poor and needy.

Hajj

The Hajj pilgrimage is a religious duty that all Muslims must carry out at least once in their life. The pilgrimage is made to the Kaaba (House of God) located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Over the last decade, the government of Olvana has begun to place regulations and restrictions on how many Olvanan Muslims can travel for the Hajj. Performing the Hajj is an expensive act for Olvanans, who ultimately must travel thousands of miles to Mecca. In the past, communities have organized charities and given donations in order to enable the poorest among them to make the trip. Olvana has sought to put an end to this practice, creating laws that stipulate that all Hajj related donations must be made to specific organizations, who are then required to account for all donations and distributions of funds.

Eid al-Adha

Considered the holiest day in Islam, Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismael as an act of obedience to the will of God. Today, Muslims recognize this event through prayer, charity, and sacrifice. Affluent members of a community often sacrifice halal domestic animals (such as lamb, sheep, goat, or cow), the meat of which is divided into three parts, one third for the family, one third for relatives and neighbors, and the remaining third to be given to the poor and needy.

Wedding Season

The timing of the typical Olvanan wedding is primarily determined by four things: weather, agricultural cycles, proximity to major holidays, and astrological considerations. Spring and fall are usually the most pleasant times of the year, and are the most popular seasons for marriage ceremonies. A plurality of the populace is engaged in agricultural pursuits, so wedding dates often avoid planting and harvest periods. In addition, the couple’s families will carefully plan around both secular and religious holidays. Dates are often set with the assistance of astrologers, who help determine the ideal timing based on the birthdates of the bride and groom.

Harvest Cycles

Agricultural cycles in Olvana are primarily determined by regional climate and the crop in question. In the southern, more tropical part of the country, crops such as tea and rice can be harvested multiple times annually. Most agricultural products, however, are planted in the spring and harvested in the fall. One notable exception—wheat—has two crops per year: winter wheat, which is harvested in spring, and spring wheat, which is harvested in late summer. (For additional information on Olvana’s agriculture and seasons, see the Physical Environment variable)

Natural Disaster Cycles

Major storms, typhoons, and floods typically occur during the summer monsoon season between May and October. Earthquakes can occur at any time. (See the Physical Environment variable for additional information on natural disasters in Olvana). Sandstorms and dust-storms most frequently occur during the spring, however they can occur at any time during the year, particularly during a drought.

Election Cycles

Olvana consistently holds elections every 5 years, primarily to fill the positions within the Olvanan National Congress. Subsequent elections from the ONC appoint the president and other key government members. No Olvanan election has ever caused a significant shift in power; major political events are tied to the internal politics of the OCP.

Cultural Perception of Time

While the primarily Hindu population in Olvana has historically viewed time as an unending cycle of days, months, seasons, and lives, this view has shifted to a monochromic perception of time (performing tasks in sequence) since the country officially became secular. The government instilled in people the view that time is a precious resource—so important, in fact, that an Olvanan will frequently apologize for taking up someone else's time. Slogans like “run before time so it cannot leave you behind” and “the sun never rises late” have been instilled in the Olvanan psyche to such an extent that extreme punctuality is the norm.

Tactical Exploitation of Time

Olvana Perception of Time

This emphasis on punctuality and a lack of time leads to a seeming contradiction: in order to focus on another person, one must use as little of his time as possible. Starting times for appointments are set in stone, and they are scheduled for the smallest possible amount of time required to hear out all attendees and make a decision. Participants will usually show up 30 minutes early “just in case” the others are already available (making them wait would be seen as inconsiderate), and actually being late is unheard of. By the same token, despite their short scheduled duration, meetings rarely use the full amount of time allotted. 

Olvana’s armed forces have the same perception of time, as shown in the military expression, “stay three steps ahead of the enemy and get there before him.” This mindset is reflected in the offensive nature of the Olvanan military: why act defensively when one can beat the enemy to the punch. This requires two different but complementary abilities: (1) to have a long-term strategic view of conflict in order to determine a potential adversary’s intentions, and (2) to translate this into a set of short-term concise tactical and operational actions that can be instigated immediately in order to dissuade—or defeat—the adversary before he acts.

US Perception of Time

US military members, while trained for punctuality and quick action, will quickly feel themselves slow when compared to their Olvanan counterparts. US personnel should expect meetings to begin early, end even earlier, and be conducted at an extremely fast pace. Extensive preparation beforehand will be essential to effective interaction with Olvanan military members, as will the authority to make decisions without needing to consult the US chain of command afterward. The highest-ranking officer available will receive the best reception, as he will both have the most ability to commit and will be seen as the highest person on the socio-cultural ladder. Ideally, US attendees should match or exceed their Olvanan military counterparts in rank.

Decision-making

Olvana will make rapid decisions on the battlefield and respond quickly to any situation. Forces facing the Olvanan Military will need to be prepared to make even more rapid decisions to get inside the Olvanan decision cycle.

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