celebration

A party or other enjoyable event held because something good has happened.

• The celebration starts at six.
• We invited friends to our wedding celebration.
• Their birthday celebrations always include dancing.

How to use it: celebration of something (We planned a celebration of her success.)

Similar words: party, festivity

Common phrases: birthday celebration, wedding celebration, hold a celebration

Activities that mark a special day, such as a national or religious holiday.

• The Easter celebration includes a parade.
• Families gather for the annual holiday celebration.
• New Year celebrations continued until morning.

How to use it: in celebration of something (The town held a parade in celebration of Independence Day.)

Similar words: observance, commemoration

Common phrases: easter celebration, holiday celebration, national celebration

The performance of a religious ceremony according to its usual rules.

• The celebration of Mass began early.
• The bishop led the religious celebration.
• Several priests took part in the celebration of the sacrament.

How to use it: celebration of something (The priest led the celebration of the Eucharist.)

Similar words: observance

Common phrases: celebration of mass, eucharistic celebration