Once again it is that time of year when hearts, flowers, poetry, cozy romantic atmospheres, and all things red and pink are sought by individuals and couples alike in an effort to express and impress. Have you ever wondered if there was a better—or at least different—way to go about this whole “celebration of love” idea? I admit the thought crossed my mind a time … Continue reading Five Fresh Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
All over the United States, we celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, food, parades, and flags, all supplemented by local trends and traditions. In New York, fireworks will explode over the East River. In Washington, we’ll get a free concert on a Capitol Fourth. In Santa Fe, where I’m from, we’ll take over the town Plaza to eat pancakes. But what about Americans living overseas? For … Continue reading July 4th Around the World
BUSINESS For the first time, a major American retailer is offering a dedicated line of decorations for the holiest period on the Islamic calendar: Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. (New York Times) Use our activity to learn more about how culture influences rituals surrounding Ramadan. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas Party City, the largest retailer … Continue reading Eid Comes to Party City
By Emily Connor Many people in the U.S. are enjoying a three-day weekend—a work- and school-free Presidents’ Day. The holiday originated as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday (February 22) and was officially declared a federal holiday by an act of Congress in 1879. The holiday was officially assigned the third Monday in February by the “Uniform Monday Holiday Act” in 1971. Interestingly, this means … Continue reading 4 Facts to Puzzle You on Presidents Day
WORLD Why do we kiss under mistletoe and toast with eggnog? Who decided we should eat jelly doughnuts for Hanukkah? And where do poinsettias come from? (NPR) What activities or characteristics help define a culture? Use our fun gallery to find out. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas Jelly doughnuts are a Hanukkah treat. What … Continue reading Why We Kiss Under Mistletoe And Toast With Eggnog
