ceremony and ritual

A ceremony is a formal event or set of actions performed on special occasions, such as weddings, graduations, or national holidays, often involving specific procedures to mark significance. A ritual is a repetitive, symbolic act performed according to tradition, which can be religious, cultural, or personal, reinforcing shared beliefs and values. While ceremonies often celebrate milestones and bring people together, rituals serve to transmit meaning, foster community, and connect individuals to their history or spirituality. Both are ways humans create structure and meaning around important moments and beliefs.