A Cultural Kaleidoscope
ESL immigrant students from around the world share their customs and traditions with their classmates at City College of San Francisco and enjoy learning about other cultures. Here is a collection of some students' writing on their customs, typical foods, architecturally styles, traditional clothing, musical instruments, holiday's celebrations or ceremonies, idioms, fables and many other unique aspects in their cultures. Enjoy!!!
_Instructor: Cora Chen
Italian Living by Marco Romano
handmade pasta
Foods
The most popular food in Italy is pasta and pizza. I really love pasta, I can't live without it. You can cook pasta in a lot of way, but the most common is with tomato sauce and basil with Parmesan, which is simple and very good. Also you can cook it in a different way, you can add many kinds of things to it such as tomato sauce, meat, vegetables, cheese, or you can cook it with pesto or cooking cream (I don't know if is exactly "cooking cream" in English) with mushrooms or ham or also other vegetables. There are many ways of preparing pasta.
Also, pizza is very very good. There are many kinds of pizza, when you go to restaurant, you can find about 20 or 30 kinds of pizza on the menu, but the most popular is the margherita that you call "cheese pizza". In Italy, pizza is much cheaper than in America. For example, one margherita costs about $6.
The most popular food in Italy is pasta and pizza. I really love pasta, I can't live without it. You can cook pasta in a lot of way, but the most common is with tomato sauce and basil with Parmesan, which is simple and very good. Also you can cook it in a different way, you can add many kinds of things to it such as tomato sauce, meat, vegetables, cheese, or you can cook it with pesto or cooking cream (I don't know if is exactly "cooking cream" in English) with mushrooms or ham or also other vegetables. There are many ways of preparing pasta.
Also, pizza is very very good. There are many kinds of pizza, when you go to restaurant, you can find about 20 or 30 kinds of pizza on the menu, but the most popular is the margherita that you call "cheese pizza". In Italy, pizza is much cheaper than in America. For example, one margherita costs about $6.
Polenta
There are also the typical dishes from different parts of Italy. For example, in Milan and in the rest of north Italy, the Polenta is popular which it's a winter dish, it’s coarsely or finely ground yellow or white cornmeal (ground maize), and usually you eat it with meat: ragù or cheese.
I can talk for hours about food but it's not the only Italian thing.
Drinks:
Wine is very popular, and there are many kinds. Just to name some: Barolo, Sangue di giuda, Fragolino, Nero d'avola etc...
Idioms:
I know that in English, one says "break a leg" to wish someone good luck. In Italian, there is a very common saying "In bocca al lupo", which means "Into a wolf's mouth" and the other person have to reply "Crepi", which means "May it dies."
Young nightlife:
The happy hour in Italy is very popular. I know that there is also here but it's very different. In Italy, the happy hour starts at 19:00 and ends around 22:00. You can go to the pubs and spend 7 euro (almost 10 dollars) and have one drink, and there is a buffet with a lot of food so you can eat whatever and whenever you want: eat all you want!
Other curious differences:
- In Italy you can't drive if you're under 18 years old. If you are 16 years old, you can only drive the scooter.
- We don't have the high school like here. I know that high schools here are the same for all people, and the students can choose what classes to attend. In Italy, there are some different kinds of high schools. You have to choose in advance what kind of high school to attend. The classes are the same for all, but you have to choose the specific classes only for certain kinds of institutes. I don't like this method very much, because if you feel that you want to change what to study when you grow up, you have to change the school. But here in America, you can choose to change the classes but not the school.
I can talk for hours about food but it's not the only Italian thing.
Drinks:
Wine is very popular, and there are many kinds. Just to name some: Barolo, Sangue di giuda, Fragolino, Nero d'avola etc...
Idioms:
I know that in English, one says "break a leg" to wish someone good luck. In Italian, there is a very common saying "In bocca al lupo", which means "Into a wolf's mouth" and the other person have to reply "Crepi", which means "May it dies."
Young nightlife:
The happy hour in Italy is very popular. I know that there is also here but it's very different. In Italy, the happy hour starts at 19:00 and ends around 22:00. You can go to the pubs and spend 7 euro (almost 10 dollars) and have one drink, and there is a buffet with a lot of food so you can eat whatever and whenever you want: eat all you want!
Other curious differences:
- In Italy you can't drive if you're under 18 years old. If you are 16 years old, you can only drive the scooter.
- We don't have the high school like here. I know that high schools here are the same for all people, and the students can choose what classes to attend. In Italy, there are some different kinds of high schools. You have to choose in advance what kind of high school to attend. The classes are the same for all, but you have to choose the specific classes only for certain kinds of institutes. I don't like this method very much, because if you feel that you want to change what to study when you grow up, you have to change the school. But here in America, you can choose to change the classes but not the school.
The Italian Attraction
by Elena Achilli
Alps in North Italy
I start my composition with “CIAO”, it means “Hello” .
Have you never been in Italy? If no, I would like to talk a bit about my country.
It’s called by many people the beautiful country or “Bel Paese”, because it’s small compared with USA, but full of good things, for example: Art, Architecture, History, Food, Wine, Fashion, Cars, Literature and Climate, but also the Environment.
Italy is a Peninsula and a number of islands including the two largest Sicily and Sardinia. The climate of Italy is highly diverse. Northern and central regions the climate is mostly continental, with harsh winters and hot summers. The coastal areas of Liguria, Tuscany and most of the South generally fit the Mediterranean weather.
Have you never been in Italy? If no, I would like to talk a bit about my country.
It’s called by many people the beautiful country or “Bel Paese”, because it’s small compared with USA, but full of good things, for example: Art, Architecture, History, Food, Wine, Fashion, Cars, Literature and Climate, but also the Environment.
Italy is a Peninsula and a number of islands including the two largest Sicily and Sardinia. The climate of Italy is highly diverse. Northern and central regions the climate is mostly continental, with harsh winters and hot summers. The coastal areas of Liguria, Tuscany and most of the South generally fit the Mediterranean weather.
The Palio of Siena -
a horse race of medieval origin
There are numerous folk festivals and traditional historical events that take place every year in all the regions of Italy. The most famous are:
Carnival of Viareggio - February in Viareggio (Tuscany)
Carnival d’Ivrea - February in Ivrea (Turin)
Easter- March or April in all Italy
Infiorata - June in Rome
Palio - July and August in Siena (Tuscany)
Racing in Venice- September in Venice
St Gennaro - September 19 in Naples
Mercatini di Natale - Christmas Markets - December in Trentino (Alps in north Italy)
St Lucia - December 13 - all Italy
Christmas - December 25 - all Italy
The perfect organization and attention to details enrich each of their spectacular showcases and expositions, making them real unique international Italian events!!
Carnival of Viareggio - February in Viareggio (Tuscany)
Carnival d’Ivrea - February in Ivrea (Turin)
Easter- March or April in all Italy
Infiorata - June in Rome
Palio - July and August in Siena (Tuscany)
Racing in Venice- September in Venice
St Gennaro - September 19 in Naples
Mercatini di Natale - Christmas Markets - December in Trentino (Alps in north Italy)
St Lucia - December 13 - all Italy
Christmas - December 25 - all Italy
The perfect organization and attention to details enrich each of their spectacular showcases and expositions, making them real unique international Italian events!!
Pizza in Naples (south Italy)
During these festivals, people can taste Italian cuisine, such as coffee, and more specifically Espresso. Some famous dishes are: pasta, pizza, lasagna, tortellini, focaccia, fiorentina, gelato and I would never forget to talk about good Italian wine!!! Cheese and wine are major parts of the cuisine, playing different roles both regionally and nationally with their many variations. Do you know Parmesan or pecorino? Have you never tried the balsamic vinegar or buffalo mozzarella? And a good red Tuscany Wine ???
Also, the fashion in Italy has a long tradition, and is regarded as one of the most important in the world. Milan, Florence and Rome are Italy’s main fashion capitals, and Valentino, Versace, Armani, Prada, Dolce e Gabbana, Fendi are some of the important brands of the world.
Do you like art and history?
Also, the fashion in Italy has a long tradition, and is regarded as one of the most important in the world. Milan, Florence and Rome are Italy’s main fashion capitals, and Valentino, Versace, Armani, Prada, Dolce e Gabbana, Fendi are some of the important brands of the world.
Do you like art and history?
Sardinian: warm water
You must come to visit Italy soon, so you should see not only the art museums in Florence and Rome, but also beautiful, important churches , their architecture will leave you speechless, I’m sure!!!
And if you come in the summer, you should go to the beach, so you can feel the warm Mediterranean water!!!
As you can see, all the wonderful things in Italy make me miss my country.
And if you come in the summer, you should go to the beach, so you can feel the warm Mediterranean water!!!
As you can see, all the wonderful things in Italy make me miss my country.
GASTRONOMIC FESTIVALS in Spain
Marisco
by Jennifer Herzog
The Gastronomic Festivals are very famous in Spain. We have different food and parties depending on in which part of Spain we live. I'm going to talk about: Galicia, Basque Country, Castilla Leon and Andalucia.
* In Galicia we have a very good food. The purpose is to know much better the different gastronomy in Galicia for the rest of the regions. Here you can taste octopus, shrimps and barnacles. Also, there are a lot of tables for people to sit and taste the food very comfortably. You can see a lot of stands with different kinds of food and you can enjoy watching how the cooks prepare food with fresh ingredients, including preparing seafood with ocean species that are still very alive!
The Gastronomic Festivals are very famous in Spain. We have different food and parties depending on in which part of Spain we live. I'm going to talk about: Galicia, Basque Country, Castilla Leon and Andalucia.
* In Galicia we have a very good food. The purpose is to know much better the different gastronomy in Galicia for the rest of the regions. Here you can taste octopus, shrimps and barnacles. Also, there are a lot of tables for people to sit and taste the food very comfortably. You can see a lot of stands with different kinds of food and you can enjoy watching how the cooks prepare food with fresh ingredients, including preparing seafood with ocean species that are still very alive!
Bacalao a la Vizcaina
The views are awesome. You can see the sea and the Cies Islands too.
In the evenings you can see a band on a stage and you can get a glass of very cheap wine or beer while enjoying the show. It starts from 12:00 p.m. to very late at night. This festival is usually celebrated in the three summer months every week in a different city or town with different dishes and all accompanied by the bagpipe because is the typical instrument in Galicia.
In the evenings you can see a band on a stage and you can get a glass of very cheap wine or beer while enjoying the show. It starts from 12:00 p.m. to very late at night. This festival is usually celebrated in the three summer months every week in a different city or town with different dishes and all accompanied by the bagpipe because is the typical instrument in Galicia.
Pinchos de Salamanca
*In Basque country is the same but with a lot of fish; the most famous dish is Hake in Sauce and the special white wine is Txacoli. Then in the night after tasting the food, you should go to the bar and you can drink Txacoli, Sidra (cider with alcohol) and a many kinds of white wine and red wine. The bartenders or waiters can show you how to pour the Sidra. You can try but it's very complicated, good luck!
*The region of Castilla Leon is the place where you can find the most famous, original and delicious Tapas in Spain. You can taste Spanish omelet, Spanish Ham with tomato and oil, croquettes, scrambled eggs with prawns or meatballs... and many kinds of food, all this with a glass of wine or beer. In the city of Salamanca, you only pay for the drinks and the tapa is free. It's absolutely perfect and cheap! This city is very famous for students because here they have cheap Tapas, and the party lasts all night.
*The region of Castilla Leon is the place where you can find the most famous, original and delicious Tapas in Spain. You can taste Spanish omelet, Spanish Ham with tomato and oil, croquettes, scrambled eggs with prawns or meatballs... and many kinds of food, all this with a glass of wine or beer. In the city of Salamanca, you only pay for the drinks and the tapa is free. It's absolutely perfect and cheap! This city is very famous for students because here they have cheap Tapas, and the party lasts all night.
sevillanas
*The last region is Andalucia where the music plays in the background, many colorful dresses adorn the environment, the riders show their horses walking through the crowd. As background scenario, a set of heady scents that create an atmosphere that entices the senses: fried fish, olives, paella, ham.... haunting all night that will not come to an end until late at night, people begin to withdraw in search of a cup of hot chocolate with typical churros, before resting a few hours and continue until Sunday’s final Fair.
Greeting People in Spain
by Matilde Monje Soler
In my native country Spain, people are more physical with each other than in some parts of Europe or the world. In Spain, people are very comfortable with each other so hugs, kisses, and touches are not reserved only for our most inner circle. Of course, Spanish people respect each other’s personal boundaries and this culture of theirs does not mean someone can touch or hug you if you’re uncomfortable.
However, in Spain, the typical way to meet a stranger is as follows:
If two guys are meeting for the first time, they will shake hands. If two guy friends are meeting, they might hug or give each other a tap or two on the shoulder. This is pretty standard in most western countries. However, in the family, the men can give each other two kisses on the cheek.
If a man is meeting a woman, or two women are meeting, they will give two kisses on the cheek even if they’re a complete stranger. If you are a woman and you come to Spain, the people you meet will most likely try to give you two kisses, and it might be a bit weird if you try and shake their hands.
However, if you’re not comfortable with that, that is also completely normal. The people will shake your hand and get past it. In their culture, this is a completely normal thing, but if it is not for you, don’t try to force it on yourself. It also goes for guys.
If you’re a guy and you’re meeting a woman and feel awkward to kiss two times, it’s’ perfectly fine not to do it. Spaniards know that this tradition is not very popular outside Mediterranean countries, so they’ll understand.
If it doesn’t feel weird, then embrace it! It’s great if you can because it gives you another perspective.
by Matilde Monje Soler
In my native country Spain, people are more physical with each other than in some parts of Europe or the world. In Spain, people are very comfortable with each other so hugs, kisses, and touches are not reserved only for our most inner circle. Of course, Spanish people respect each other’s personal boundaries and this culture of theirs does not mean someone can touch or hug you if you’re uncomfortable.
However, in Spain, the typical way to meet a stranger is as follows:
If two guys are meeting for the first time, they will shake hands. If two guy friends are meeting, they might hug or give each other a tap or two on the shoulder. This is pretty standard in most western countries. However, in the family, the men can give each other two kisses on the cheek.
If a man is meeting a woman, or two women are meeting, they will give two kisses on the cheek even if they’re a complete stranger. If you are a woman and you come to Spain, the people you meet will most likely try to give you two kisses, and it might be a bit weird if you try and shake their hands.
However, if you’re not comfortable with that, that is also completely normal. The people will shake your hand and get past it. In their culture, this is a completely normal thing, but if it is not for you, don’t try to force it on yourself. It also goes for guys.
If you’re a guy and you’re meeting a woman and feel awkward to kiss two times, it’s’ perfectly fine not to do it. Spaniards know that this tradition is not very popular outside Mediterranean countries, so they’ll understand.
If it doesn’t feel weird, then embrace it! It’s great if you can because it gives you another perspective.
Tourounagasi by Hanae Okada
lanterns on the river
There are several traditional events in Japan. One of them is Tourounagasi.
We have summer vacation called O-bon. It’s observed during 13th to 15th in August. We welcome the spirits of our ancestors back to our homes during O-bon and we do Tourounagashi to see them off to heaven at the end of O-bon.
When we welcome them, we come back to our home town and put Japanese lanterns called Cyouchin in our houses or clean up the household Buddhist altar and put flowers or foods in front of it to help them find the homes where they should come back.
And when they go back to heaven, we send off their spirits on lanterns floating on the river. Sometimes, some people send some food by putting it on small boxes made of wood or straw instead of the lanterns. Tourounagasi is held as a memorial service for the dead.
We have summer vacation called O-bon. It’s observed during 13th to 15th in August. We welcome the spirits of our ancestors back to our homes during O-bon and we do Tourounagashi to see them off to heaven at the end of O-bon.
When we welcome them, we come back to our home town and put Japanese lanterns called Cyouchin in our houses or clean up the household Buddhist altar and put flowers or foods in front of it to help them find the homes where they should come back.
And when they go back to heaven, we send off their spirits on lanterns floating on the river. Sometimes, some people send some food by putting it on small boxes made of wood or straw instead of the lanterns. Tourounagasi is held as a memorial service for the dead.
lanterns on the river
But Tourounagashi isn’t held everywhere in Japan at the same time. One of the reasons is that people have different understanding on O-bon’s days. A long time ago, O-bon is observed during 13th to 15th in July. Another reason is that the event is sometimes held as special memorial service. One more reason is that there are areas which don’t hold the event originally and quit it recently because the rivers are polluted by the lanterns and foods.
Anyway I like the traditional event for our ancestors. Because I think that our ancestors always watch us to protect us, I can have a chance to thank them. And we can enjoy spending the time with both our family and relative who live separately during O-bon.
“ Heso-no-o” by Hitomi Matsuzaki
I have two small wooden boxes in my drawer. Each box has a small whitish brown thing. They are umbilical cords that connected me and my children. They are called “ heso-no-o” in Japanese.
In Japan, after the birth of one’s baby, parents preserve a small piece of dried umbilical cords in a paulownia box carefully. My mother showed me mine in my childhood, and I also showed my children theirs. It may seem strange habits in the United States, but in Japanese culture, " heso-no-o” is an important memorable item of the connection between a mother and a child.
I have two small wooden boxes in my drawer. Each box has a small whitish brown thing. They are umbilical cords that connected me and my children. They are called “ heso-no-o” in Japanese.
In Japan, after the birth of one’s baby, parents preserve a small piece of dried umbilical cords in a paulownia box carefully. My mother showed me mine in my childhood, and I also showed my children theirs. It may seem strange habits in the United States, but in Japanese culture, " heso-no-o” is an important memorable item of the connection between a mother and a child.
Japanese Foods Made with Hard Water & Soft Water
by Sora Watanabe
In my native country Japan, there are many different kinds of typical food in various regions. But fish and root vegetables are used in most typical Japanese food. Japanese like udon, soba, sushi, that kind of food.
Japanese food has different flavors between the Kanto region and the Kansai region.
Kansai's water is soft and suited for kombu soup stock. The area uses thin sauce so the soup is lighter in flavor and color. Kanto's water is hard so bonito soup stock is used along with thick soy sauce. This makes the soup thick dark, sweet, and salty.
Japanese people eat a lot of rice regardless of the region. There is always rice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When making meals at home, think about making side dishes that go well with the rice.
My favorite typical food is boiled salmon with soy sauce, sushi, soba, and so on. I love Japanese food with fish.
My favorite typical food is boiled salmon with soy sauce, sushi, soba, and so on. I love Japanese food with fish.
Chinese Traditional Architecture by Weijie Lin
ancient Chinese architecture
The buildings in ancient China were very different from the modern buildings . People used bricks, wood and earthenware to build their houses. They didn't use nails at all. They used bricks to build the wall, used earthenware to build the roof, and used wood to prop the roof up. When it rained, water could follow the roof to flow so that people could collect water easily.
Chinese Chopsticks
Chinese chopsticks
Once you step into a restaurant, you can see the difference between the way Chinese eat and how people from other countries eat. The Chinese use chopsticks to eat, but people in many other countries use their hands, knives and forks. When did the Chinese start to use chopsticks? Why do the Chinese use them? According to some books, the Chinese started to use chopsticks about 3000 years ago. The Chinese find that using two sticks is very easy to clip food, and the two sticks stand for two friends who want to work together but don’t want to fight with each other.
Carnival in Brazil by Débora Tavares M. Malheiro
Carnival is a very popular party in Brazil. It was originally created in order to celebrate nature and the Pagan gods. Many centuries later, it was recognized and included in the Christian calendar. Although it is celebrated in many countries of the world, each place has set a different identity to this party.
In Brazil, Carnival was introduced in the colonial period between the 16th and the 19th century. It was the Portuguese colonizers that introduced the street parties, known at that time as "Entrudo", to Brazil. Over the years, however, this festivity was influenced by Italian masks, indigenous folklore and African culture brought by the slaves. All this cultural mixture contributed to a unique identity that is able to attract thousands of tourists, significantly moving the economy. In addition, those many influences have diversified the way of celebrating the dates in different regions of Brazil. Today, Carnival is celebrated 40 days before Easter Sunday that falls between March 22 and April 25.
At the end of the 19th century, the first carnival blocks appeared. But only in the beginning of the 20th century, with the carnival typical music (known as "marchinhas"), they became really popular. Since that time, people wear costumes and go to streets following decorated parade floats, dancing, singing songs and having fun.
In Brazil, Carnival was introduced in the colonial period between the 16th and the 19th century. It was the Portuguese colonizers that introduced the street parties, known at that time as "Entrudo", to Brazil. Over the years, however, this festivity was influenced by Italian masks, indigenous folklore and African culture brought by the slaves. All this cultural mixture contributed to a unique identity that is able to attract thousands of tourists, significantly moving the economy. In addition, those many influences have diversified the way of celebrating the dates in different regions of Brazil. Today, Carnival is celebrated 40 days before Easter Sunday that falls between March 22 and April 25.
At the end of the 19th century, the first carnival blocks appeared. But only in the beginning of the 20th century, with the carnival typical music (known as "marchinhas"), they became really popular. Since that time, people wear costumes and go to streets following decorated parade floats, dancing, singing songs and having fun.
In Pernambuco state (northeast region), it’s very common for people to go to the streets wearing costumes and using colorful umbrellas while playing frevo (typical dance of the region).
In Bahia state, the electric trios occupy the cities’ streets (a truck with a band on top) playing axé music, typical music of this region. In this region, the carnival can last for more than a month!
In the center-west region, samba is the typical music. People wear costumes and go out dancing in the streets behind small musical blocks.
In Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo cities, samba school parades are the largest and most important events. Each city has 2 days for its parade. The parades are broadcasted throughout the entire country.
In Bahia state, the electric trios occupy the cities’ streets (a truck with a band on top) playing axé music, typical music of this region. In this region, the carnival can last for more than a month!
In the center-west region, samba is the typical music. People wear costumes and go out dancing in the streets behind small musical blocks.
In Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo cities, samba school parades are the largest and most important events. Each city has 2 days for its parade. The parades are broadcasted throughout the entire country.
The Sambódromo is the site of the parades in São Paulo. In Rio de Janeiro, the parade of samba schools is at Marquês de Sapucaí Avenue. There is a great competition by choosing the best samba school for each city.
The day of the result is a day of great expectation for the Brazilians. It is also brocasted by television for the whole country.
Certainly today, carnival is the most popular, best-known and most celebrated party in Brazil. This celebration
lasts 5 days long. The carnival is the longest holiday in the brazilian national calendar. Many people say that Carnival is the biggest street party in the world. Today, Carnival is considered an unique element of Brazilian national culture.
The day of the result is a day of great expectation for the Brazilians. It is also brocasted by television for the whole country.
Certainly today, carnival is the most popular, best-known and most celebrated party in Brazil. This celebration
lasts 5 days long. The carnival is the longest holiday in the brazilian national calendar. Many people say that Carnival is the biggest street party in the world. Today, Carnival is considered an unique element of Brazilian national culture.
IntiRaymi (Festival of the Sun) in Peru by Jalut Guerrero
The IntiRaymi is an ancient religious ceremony in honor of the god Inti (sun), one of the most venerated gods in Inca religion, and the most important ceremony celebrated in the Andean city of Cusco in Peru. The celebration takes place in the Sacsayhuaman fortress 40 minutes walking distance from downtown Cusco.
This ceremony is performed by direct descendants of the Incas who gather to honor the Sun God, sacrifice a llama to ensure good crops and to pay homage to the Inca. The IntiRaymi also indicates the beginning of a new year. Women carry offerings to the sun, these offerings are mainly potatoes, quinoa and corn in gratitude for a good harvest they had. Women carry offerings to the sun, these offerings are mainly potatoes, quinoa and corn in gratitude for a good harvest they had.
The festival takes place for 6 days. The central day of the festival is on June 24 when the Inca’s descendants wear traditional dresses, walk along flower-bedecked streets, dance, and pray. The traditional clothing worn by women and men are based on the colors of the earth (orange, brown, red, yellow and green).
During the IntiRaymi celebration, native people and foreigners can experience the special energy that surrounds Cusco. It is wonderful!
The festival takes place for 6 days. The central day of the festival is on June 24 when the Inca’s descendants wear traditional dresses, walk along flower-bedecked streets, dance, and pray. The traditional clothing worn by women and men are based on the colors of the earth (orange, brown, red, yellow and green).
During the IntiRaymi celebration, native people and foreigners can experience the special energy that surrounds Cusco. It is wonderful!
Mariachi by Jose Navarro
Mariachi band
The only thing that is more Mexican than Tequila is Mariachi.
Mariachi originated in the southern of the state of Jalisco.
Mariachi goes beyond music. It is originated from a cultural revolution expressed through a group of musicians dressed in popular clothing (most recently charro suits) which encompasses the essence of Mexico and its people. It is a combination of cultural, spiritual and traditional elements. That is unique to this country and it is an experience not to be missed.
The word Mariachi refers to the musicians, now commonly seen in silver studded charro outfits with wide brimmed hats playing a variety of musical instruments which include the violins, guitars, basses, vinuelas (a 5 string guitar) and trumpets. Their songs speak about machismo, love, betrayal, death, politics, revolutionary heroes and even animals (one particularly famous song is la cucaracha.)
Mariachi originated in the southern of the state of Jalisco.
Mariachi goes beyond music. It is originated from a cultural revolution expressed through a group of musicians dressed in popular clothing (most recently charro suits) which encompasses the essence of Mexico and its people. It is a combination of cultural, spiritual and traditional elements. That is unique to this country and it is an experience not to be missed.
The word Mariachi refers to the musicians, now commonly seen in silver studded charro outfits with wide brimmed hats playing a variety of musical instruments which include the violins, guitars, basses, vinuelas (a 5 string guitar) and trumpets. Their songs speak about machismo, love, betrayal, death, politics, revolutionary heroes and even animals (one particularly famous song is la cucaracha.)
New Year's Day in Thailand
by Sutipong Saard
New Year Water Festival in Thailand
Song Kran Day is Thailand New Year which is celebrated on 13th - 15th of April every year. Most people who are away from home come back home for the holiday to be with their families. They have a celebration by throwing water on the streets and many towns have a Song Kran Day parade. Some people ride on the trucks in the parade and they throw water on the crowd. People throw water at one another because it is a Thai tradition and symbol of cleansing, washing off the past and starting the Thai new year with a clean slate. Song Kran Day is famous and important in the North of Thailand. People drink, eat and have a lot of fun on this holiday.
Nan-Prik-ong dish
What about food? There is a famous dish is called Nan-Prik-ong, it is Thai Northern slyle chili paste and pork rind with ingredients such as Thai herb dried chili, tomatoes, shallot, garlic, lemongrass, fish sauce, sugar, shrimp paste, cilantro, green onion, and with fresh vegetables. We have sticky rice called Khao-Niaow. It is a staple in the north. Some people make their own drink called Sato. It is made from sticky rice.
The Mid-Autumn Festival by Li Li
paper lanterns
There are some traditional festivals in China, such as the spring festival, the lantern festival, the tomb-sweeping festival, the dragon boat festival, double-ninth day and the mid-autumn festival. Each festival has each special meaning.
The mid-autumn festival is a day for family reunion. The date is August 15th of every year in the Chinese lunar calendar. Accordingly, this year’s is September 30th in solar calendar. It is also the second important festival in China. (The first is the Spring Festival.) On this day, all family members will go to the oldest person’s home, eating and talking happily. The most important activity is in the evening. In the moonlight, people put some food on the table outside, such as moon cakes, fruit and tea. They also burn incense to the moon and pray, because the round moon means family reunion. The evening is also children’s happy hour. Children light lanterns and play together. The moon on this day is pretty round and bright. People stay outside and admire the full moon.
The mid-autumn festival is a day for family reunion. The date is August 15th of every year in the Chinese lunar calendar. Accordingly, this year’s is September 30th in solar calendar. It is also the second important festival in China. (The first is the Spring Festival.) On this day, all family members will go to the oldest person’s home, eating and talking happily. The most important activity is in the evening. In the moonlight, people put some food on the table outside, such as moon cakes, fruit and tea. They also burn incense to the moon and pray, because the round moon means family reunion. The evening is also children’s happy hour. Children light lanterns and play together. The moon on this day is pretty round and bright. People stay outside and admire the full moon.
moon cakes
If someone is away from home and can’t come back on this day, he or she will miss the family very much. He or she has to ask the moon to convey his or her feelings to the family. This is the Chinese mid-autumn festival, a very interesting festival
Burmese New Year Water Festival by Andrea Hon
Burmese New Year Water Festival
Burmese New Year Water Festival usually falls around mid-April. It is a Buddhist Festival Celebrated over a period of four to five days culminating in the New Year. The Water Festival is the New Year's celebrations that take place in Southeast Asian countries. It is called the "Thingyan". Traditionally people gently sprinkle water on one another as a sign of respect, but as the New Year falls during the hottest month in South East Asia, many people end up dousing strangers and passersby in vehicles in boisterous celebration The act of pouring water is also a show of blessings and good wishes. Water Festival is the merriest and one of the few observed all over the country. It welcomes the Burma New Year by washing away the dirt of the body and bad memories of the old year.
Young students wear Burmese dress and perform traditional dance during rehearsal for the opening ceremony of City Hall Water Festival in Burma. In Burma, there are signs in the most unlikely places that people are starting to believe recent political reforms are for real, and aren't just a trick. The troupe performs in the family home - it's not allowed to perform in public. Its biting political satire, aimed at the generals and their cronies, has made the troupe a favorite of Western tourists and diplomats.But these days, there's more music ans less politics to the act, though brother Lu Maw still manages to get in a few shots, much to the delight of his audience.
Young students wear Burmese dress and perform traditional dance during rehearsal for the opening ceremony of City Hall Water Festival in Burma. In Burma, there are signs in the most unlikely places that people are starting to believe recent political reforms are for real, and aren't just a trick. The troupe performs in the family home - it's not allowed to perform in public. Its biting political satire, aimed at the generals and their cronies, has made the troupe a favorite of Western tourists and diplomats.But these days, there's more music ans less politics to the act, though brother Lu Maw still manages to get in a few shots, much to the delight of his audience.
Burmese New Year dish: Mont lone yay paw
On the New Year's Day, people make food donations at various places They typically provide free food to those participating in the New Year's celebrations.
One of the traditional food is call "Mont lone yay paw". It is offering of free food to everybody who passes by, regardless of race or religion. And at these events the most popular snacks to be offered are typical Burma food. Mont lone yay paw is one. These are the most popular. A small round ball of kneaded dough with lumps of jaggery are embedded inside and boiled.
One of the traditional food is call "Mont lone yay paw". It is offering of free food to everybody who passes by, regardless of race or religion. And at these events the most popular snacks to be offered are typical Burma food. Mont lone yay paw is one. These are the most popular. A small round ball of kneaded dough with lumps of jaggery are embedded inside and boiled.
Shwe Yin Aye
Another would be "Shwe Yin Aye", which translates as "something to make your chest cool"! This cooling dessert made from coconut milk, some multicolored jelly strips, a pinch of sticky rice and a slice of bread taken cold with ice cubes.
Many people make New Year resolutions, and show compassion to animals. Releasing birds and fish is a time-honoured tradition on this day. Fish are rescued from lakes and river drying up under the hot sun, then kept in huge glazed earthen posts and jars and then release into larger lakes and rivers.
Many people make New Year resolutions, and show compassion to animals. Releasing birds and fish is a time-honoured tradition on this day. Fish are rescued from lakes and river drying up under the hot sun, then kept in huge glazed earthen posts and jars and then release into larger lakes and rivers.
COSTA RICA by Andrea Arce Garro
bird in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a small country in Central America, with a huge richness of natural resources, a big part of the country is forest and jungle and the 25 % of the country is protected. Costa Rica has the 6% of the Planet's biodiversity.
If you like animals and plants, it is an excellent place to visit. Also Costa Rica has two coasts, so you can enjoy the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans in one single visit. There are many beautiful beaches with nice whether and the water is really warm.
But if you don’t like hot weather, in a few hours you can be in a place with cool weather, beautiful mountains and waterfalls, that is one of the blessings of Costa Rica because there are several microclimates and you can choose where to go.
If you like animals and plants, it is an excellent place to visit. Also Costa Rica has two coasts, so you can enjoy the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans in one single visit. There are many beautiful beaches with nice whether and the water is really warm.
But if you don’t like hot weather, in a few hours you can be in a place with cool weather, beautiful mountains and waterfalls, that is one of the blessings of Costa Rica because there are several microclimates and you can choose where to go.
The Masquerades
masquerades
There are many traditions in Costa Rica, but I will talk about one that is really interesting and it happens in all towns--its name is “masquerades.” It is a parade with traditional masks made by the people of the town with mud or clay and paint. Sometime the masks have a familiar face, like an important person of the country, ex presidents, actors or even an animal; the mask of the devil is always there.
When people in town celebrating a civic or religious festival, the masquerades are part of the celebrations; people wear the masks, dance to the rhythm of the “Cimarron” --a band which plays traditional songs. The villagers enjoy seeing them walking and dancing during the parade.
Besides, the activity is important to emphasize the creativity and skills of the people who make the masks and the local musicians.
When people in town celebrating a civic or religious festival, the masquerades are part of the celebrations; people wear the masks, dance to the rhythm of the “Cimarron” --a band which plays traditional songs. The villagers enjoy seeing them walking and dancing during the parade.
Besides, the activity is important to emphasize the creativity and skills of the people who make the masks and the local musicians.
Mexican Holidays by Ma. del Carmen Valencia
The Day of the Dead in Mexico
The Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico on November 2nd. On this day, the Mexican families await the return of the souls of their dead family members. The Mexican families make special altars at home or on the graves dedicated to their dead relatives. The altars or graves are specially decorated with zempasuchil or marigoldor wonder flowers and lighted candles. Also, they place the objects that their dead relatives liked when they were alive on their altars or graves, including their favorite food and drink. The altars dedicated to the souls of dead children include toys, candy and other goodies.
The Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico on November 2nd. On this day, the Mexican families await the return of the souls of their dead family members. The Mexican families make special altars at home or on the graves dedicated to their dead relatives. The altars or graves are specially decorated with zempasuchil or marigoldor wonder flowers and lighted candles. Also, they place the objects that their dead relatives liked when they were alive on their altars or graves, including their favorite food and drink. The altars dedicated to the souls of dead children include toys, candy and other goodies.
Mexican Independence Day
Mexican Independence Day
Every 16th of September is the Mexican party. On this day Mexicans all over the world celebrate Mexico’s Independence from Spain. The President shouts out the names of the heroes of our Independence, and end with the exciting VIVA MEXICO! When the ceremony ends, the sky lights up with multicolored rockets that shower our hearts with the pride of knowing that we are a free and independent nation. After that, music plays all night, and we have a good time with family and friends who dressed in typical Mexican clothes: men as Charros and women as China Poblana, or indigenous dresses. Those who don’t own a typical outfit, at least wear something that has the colors of the Mexican flag, and everyone enjoys traditional Mexican dishes, such as Mole Poblano, Chiles en Nogada, Guacamole, Pozole and Buñuelos.
Every 16th of September is the Mexican party. On this day Mexicans all over the world celebrate Mexico’s Independence from Spain. The President shouts out the names of the heroes of our Independence, and end with the exciting VIVA MEXICO! When the ceremony ends, the sky lights up with multicolored rockets that shower our hearts with the pride of knowing that we are a free and independent nation. After that, music plays all night, and we have a good time with family and friends who dressed in typical Mexican clothes: men as Charros and women as China Poblana, or indigenous dresses. Those who don’t own a typical outfit, at least wear something that has the colors of the Mexican flag, and everyone enjoys traditional Mexican dishes, such as Mole Poblano, Chiles en Nogada, Guacamole, Pozole and Buñuelos.
Mexican Independence Day “El Grito” by David Perfino
The night of September 16, 1810 was when reverend Miguel Hidalgo made ring the bell of his church in Dolores Guanajuato, to call the faithful to fight for Independence. In this days is one of the most important days in México, every year throughout the country and every embassy around the world celebrated this. Some people get together at home and cook Mexican typical food; others meet in a restaurant-bar to celebrate. The traditional foods such as Chile’s nogada, pozole, tostadas, quesadillas, tacos, tamales and more are so delicious.
The primary streets are adorned with national flags, colored lights (green, white and red). People wear big hats made of palm, rebosos and jorongos, those are traditional clothing used in that time. The biggest celebration is on the Zócalo (center of Mèxico City) at 11:00 p.m., where thousands gather and see the president of México giving the traditional phrases such as “VIVA MEXICO” and people repeat “viva” to finish with fireworks while the anthem is played. This is “El grito” a simulation as it happened in 1810.
The primary streets are adorned with national flags, colored lights (green, white and red). People wear big hats made of palm, rebosos and jorongos, those are traditional clothing used in that time. The biggest celebration is on the Zócalo (center of Mèxico City) at 11:00 p.m., where thousands gather and see the president of México giving the traditional phrases such as “VIVA MEXICO” and people repeat “viva” to finish with fireworks while the anthem is played. This is “El grito” a simulation as it happened in 1810.
A Traditional Celebration of Patron Saints" in Nicaragua
BOACO
by Joahana Urbina
There are many traditional celebrations in Nicaragua that are dedicated to the Patron Saints. One of the most popular celebrations in my city is the Celebration of Saints (Santiago de los Caballeros, patrono de Boaco). During the two-week celebration, many families take part in the festivities, wearing traditional costumes, playing music and eating traditional cuisine.
On the 19th of July each year, the celebration begins with a procession of the saint and a lot of people riding horses. Also, hundreds of people participating in the celebration are dressed in traditional costumes, and they do traditional dances with traditional music. The dancers are called "Los Bailantes" and some of them play drums and other musical instruments. Others people wear "Huipiles" and they dance to the music of the marimba (beautiful wooden instrument).
There are many traditional celebrations in Nicaragua that are dedicated to the Patron Saints. One of the most popular celebrations in my city is the Celebration of Saints (Santiago de los Caballeros, patrono de Boaco). During the two-week celebration, many families take part in the festivities, wearing traditional costumes, playing music and eating traditional cuisine.
On the 19th of July each year, the celebration begins with a procession of the saint and a lot of people riding horses. Also, hundreds of people participating in the celebration are dressed in traditional costumes, and they do traditional dances with traditional music. The dancers are called "Los Bailantes" and some of them play drums and other musical instruments. Others people wear "Huipiles" and they dance to the music of the marimba (beautiful wooden instrument).
Nacatamales
In the afternoons during the days of the celebration, many people go to see bull riding; in the evenings some people go to the park to see the fireworks and others go to dance at the clubs.
People also sell food during the celebration in different places and streets in the city. The many kinds of food that people usually sell are baho, vigorón, indio viejo, nacatamales and many kinds of soup.
These are some of the traditional food that my city has. This is how people in my city celebrate this traditional holiday, and it's a lot of fun when families come to enjoy together.
People also sell food during the celebration in different places and streets in the city. The many kinds of food that people usually sell are baho, vigorón, indio viejo, nacatamales and many kinds of soup.
These are some of the traditional food that my city has. This is how people in my city celebrate this traditional holiday, and it's a lot of fun when families come to enjoy together.
The Spring Festival by Jun Hao Zeng
lanterns
The spring festival is the most famous and important festival every year in China. Every Chinese is very happy to celebrate to the spring festival.
The spring festival is in January or February depending on the lunar calendar. Chinese return home to be with their families. The traditions are including wearing new clothes, giving children small amounts of money in red envelopes, making and eating boiled dumplings together, setting off firecrackers and fireworks. Every Chinese is glad to get together with their relatives during theses days. They say some fortunate expressions to their relatives, so they feel happy, lucky and grateful.
Most importantly, a large number of Chinese visit the New Year’s street fairs during the spring festival. It represents that everyone will be lucky and fortunate in the coming year. We can see some beautiful flowers and plants in the street fairs, such as tulips, lilies, roses, orchids, chrysanthemums, tangerine trees and so on. They look sweet and beautiful. A lot of Chinese will buy some beautiful flowers to decorate their homes during the spring festival.
All in all, I like the spring festival very much because it is full of happy and fortunate feelings. Do you agree?
The spring festival is in January or February depending on the lunar calendar. Chinese return home to be with their families. The traditions are including wearing new clothes, giving children small amounts of money in red envelopes, making and eating boiled dumplings together, setting off firecrackers and fireworks. Every Chinese is glad to get together with their relatives during theses days. They say some fortunate expressions to their relatives, so they feel happy, lucky and grateful.
Most importantly, a large number of Chinese visit the New Year’s street fairs during the spring festival. It represents that everyone will be lucky and fortunate in the coming year. We can see some beautiful flowers and plants in the street fairs, such as tulips, lilies, roses, orchids, chrysanthemums, tangerine trees and so on. They look sweet and beautiful. A lot of Chinese will buy some beautiful flowers to decorate their homes during the spring festival.
All in all, I like the spring festival very much because it is full of happy and fortunate feelings. Do you agree?
Chinese Spring Festival in the Countryside
by Chuting Li
Chinese Luna New Year is known as "Spring Festival". It is in January or in February. Before Spring Festival, people paste couplets on their doors or on the walls around the door. The couplets are red, the shape is long and the words of each piece of couplet must be the same and the last word must rhyme. People always buy tangerines and candies to eat and even buy some flowers to decorate their homes. It is also the day when children wear new clothes.
During the Spring Festival, people in the village usually set off firecrackers to welcome the New Year, though it is noisy, it creates a great atmosphere. There are dragon dances and dragon boat races--all this is very exciting. Many people visit their relatives everywhere and married couple’s people usually give the "red envelops" containing money to the children in their families and extended families. It means good luck, success at work or studies and so on.
On New Year's day, the whole family get together to have a big dinner for more than ten people--it is so amazing. The special dishes are always some fish, nostoc, dumplings and so on. These special dishes represent prosperity in the New Year.
The celebrations of the Spring Festival in China usually last for more than 10 days. If you have a chance to travel to China, you should choose the time during the Spring Festival. I am sure that you will have a good time!
During the Spring Festival, people in the village usually set off firecrackers to welcome the New Year, though it is noisy, it creates a great atmosphere. There are dragon dances and dragon boat races--all this is very exciting. Many people visit their relatives everywhere and married couple’s people usually give the "red envelops" containing money to the children in their families and extended families. It means good luck, success at work or studies and so on.
On New Year's day, the whole family get together to have a big dinner for more than ten people--it is so amazing. The special dishes are always some fish, nostoc, dumplings and so on. These special dishes represent prosperity in the New Year.
The celebrations of the Spring Festival in China usually last for more than 10 days. If you have a chance to travel to China, you should choose the time during the Spring Festival. I am sure that you will have a good time!
Special Ukrainian food by Valentyna Strelchuk
Borshch
Borshch
There are many different countries in the world and every country has different traditions, national or traditional clothes and special food. Ukraine has many tasty meals that every family loves. I want to tell you about my favorite Ukrainian soup that I cook to my husband and children very often. It is called “borshch” -- it is red soup made with beetroot. It is a very tasty meal and I cook it for lunch or dinner. I put pieces of beetroots, carrots and onions and fry them a little. Then I boil potatoes and beans and add the beetroots, onions and carrots to the pot. Next, I also add some meat and spices and boil it for a few minutes. We usually eat borshch with the special bread called pampyshku. It is homemade rolls with garlic. When borshch is cooked, I put it in the plate and add a spoon of sour cream on top. It is a very tasty and popular meal in Ukraine.
There are many different countries in the world and every country has different traditions, national or traditional clothes and special food. Ukraine has many tasty meals that every family loves. I want to tell you about my favorite Ukrainian soup that I cook to my husband and children very often. It is called “borshch” -- it is red soup made with beetroot. It is a very tasty meal and I cook it for lunch or dinner. I put pieces of beetroots, carrots and onions and fry them a little. Then I boil potatoes and beans and add the beetroots, onions and carrots to the pot. Next, I also add some meat and spices and boil it for a few minutes. We usually eat borshch with the special bread called pampyshku. It is homemade rolls with garlic. When borshch is cooked, I put it in the plate and add a spoon of sour cream on top. It is a very tasty and popular meal in Ukraine.
Yemen's Famous Coffee by Abdulghany Algahim
coffee plants
Yemen is one of the countries that have the most famous coffee cultivation. Yemen exports its products to all over the world via its famous port Mocha. That's why American coffee called mocha coffee. There are many kinds of coffee. Al the names of coffee came from the areas that plant them, such as Sana'a coffee, Matari coffee, Odini coffee. Yemen coffee came from the historic land that was the first country that explored coffee.
Sana'a, an Islamic Historical Town
Sana'a -- an Islamic Historical Town
by Suaad Almasyabi
Sana’a is considered one of the Islamic historical towns because it has the Old City of Sana’a that is a real miracle of old architecture. The old city of Sana’a is one of the most beautiful cities in Arabia and the Islamic World. The city is known by several names including the city of “ Sam ”. It is also said that the city was built by Shem, the son of Noah, following the flood.
In Sana'a there are more than 50 mosques . It has also the most beautiful villages.
by Suaad Almasyabi
Sana’a is considered one of the Islamic historical towns because it has the Old City of Sana’a that is a real miracle of old architecture. The old city of Sana’a is one of the most beautiful cities in Arabia and the Islamic World. The city is known by several names including the city of “ Sam ”. It is also said that the city was built by Shem, the son of Noah, following the flood.
In Sana'a there are more than 50 mosques . It has also the most beautiful villages.
ESL students share cross-cultural cuisines:
Presenters: Vicky Zhu, Kelly Mai, Gloria Moran, Kyoko Namura, Elizaveta Traktina, Paton Zhou
More Cultural Tidbits:
|
|
Did you enjoy learning about the unique aspects in different cultures? Now, I invite you to share your customs with your classmates.
Sharing Superstitions in Different Cultures
Irish 4-leaf clovers
for good luck
Students share different beliefs and superstitions in their own cultures by practicing the if clause:
In the United States, many people believe that you will have bad luck for seven years if you break a mirror.
In India, many people believe that you will have good luck if you break a mirror by accident.
In Algeria, many people believe that if the groom can't break a plate when he stamps on it at the wedding, the bride and groom will have bad luck with their relationship.
In Vietnam, many people believe that if someone breaks a glass at the wedding reception, the newly-wed couple will have bad luck. That's why the Vietnamese avoid giving wine glasses as wedding presents.
In China, many people believe that if you break a bowl on Chinese New Year's day, you will have bad luck for the whole year.
In the United States, many people believe that you will have bad luck for seven years if you break a mirror.
In India, many people believe that you will have good luck if you break a mirror by accident.
In Algeria, many people believe that if the groom can't break a plate when he stamps on it at the wedding, the bride and groom will have bad luck with their relationship.
In Vietnam, many people believe that if someone breaks a glass at the wedding reception, the newly-wed couple will have bad luck. That's why the Vietnamese avoid giving wine glasses as wedding presents.
In China, many people believe that if you break a bowl on Chinese New Year's day, you will have bad luck for the whole year.
Click to set custom HTML