The adjective “festal” comes from the Latin “festum,” meaning “feast day.” In medieval times, feasts were a way of exerting power and demonstrating wealth. The nobleman’s riches were shown off through elaborate feasts featuring food and music. “Festal” originated in the 15th century to describe those feasts, but it could now apply to any sort of celebratory gathering. The modern meaning of the word is “festive” — it can describe decorations, clothing, music, or the overall atmosphere.