Anhamma

Taking place in late autumn, Anhamma is a holiday celebrated in the Singing Wood. It is always held in the same moon cycle as its twin, Amisur, the festival of the full moon. Anhamma was once two distinct celebrations, but over time the two became one due to their close proximity. Now, the celebration of Amhamma consists of a joyous day and a somber night.
During the day a festival of appreciation for the trees of the Singing Wood takes place. People picnic as they observe the changing leaves, as well as leave offerings for the spirits of the forest, rivers, and trees, who are believed to protect the denizens of the Singing Wood from outsiders.
Before nightfall, men and young boys are tasked with collecting kindling from the Singing Wood. The first time they do so is considered a rite of passage, as they leave their family for the first time. When they return, they are celebrated by their families and from then on are allowed to take on other responsibilities given to young men, such as apprenticeships, caretaking, etc.
As darkness falls, the kindling is used to light paper lanterns and bonfires, which are kept burning throughout the night. Eyes of Anzû usually tend these fires.
Amhamma is one of the two darkest nights of the year, as without the moon to guide them, thousands of birds leave the trees of the Singing Wood, their dark forms blotting out the stars. Not all birds leave at this time, but the departure of those that do makes for a sad farewell all the same.
Observers form a procession from their homes to the shrine of Anzû in the center of town and release their lanterns into the air as the migrating birds take off around midnight. The lanterns represent the metaphorical “light” lost as the birds leave their home. In their place, the fires lit through the night are meant to warm hearts and protect the community.
Until sunrise, revelers are meant to stay awake and vigilant at their fires. People gather in groups eating, dancing, and singing around the fires to keep dark spirits at bay, who sense weakness once the birds have left. When the sun rises again, everyone is considered safe, as the dark spirits have seen the resolve of the elves and retreat before the dawn. The next day is typically pardoned from any work so that people can catch up on rest.