celebration

noun

Etymology: From Old French celebration, from Latin celebratio. Equivalent to celebrate + -ion.

1. The formal performance of a solemn rite, such as Christian sacrament.

   “We will attend the Christmas celebration in church.”

2. The observance of a holiday or feast day, as by solemnities.

   “The celebrations around here for Easter are enjoyable.”

   “In a Chinese New Year video message posted on her Facebook page yesterday, President Halimah Yacob said the fact that the celebrations here also commonly embrace those of other races is "true to the Singapore spirit".”

3. The act or process of showing appreciation, joy, gratitude and/or remembrance, notably as a social event.

   “She jumped in the air in celebration of her success.”

   “Waltz into a grand Austrian celebration this fall on the Danube River on an eight-day cruise marking the 300th birthday of Maria Theresa of Austria, whose one-time titles included Holy Roman Empress; Queen of Hungary, Bohemia, Croatia and Slavonia; Archduchess of Austria; and Duchess of Parma.”

4. A social gathering for entertainment and fun; a party.

   “We are having a celebration at McDonald's for my dad's new job.”

   “Next week includes celebrations for both Martin's birthday and for his new job.”