Holiday in Latin countries. Day of the Dead in Latin America. Medellin Flower Fair: buy a beautiful bouquet at the fair

The tradition of celebrating Christmas and New Year in early January came to Latin America from Spain, but was well received by the local population and quickly mixed with the customs of folk holidays.

Officially, New Year's celebrations begin on December 25 with the birth of the baby Jesus (Navidad) and end on January 6, with the Feast of the Adoration of the Magi (Reyes Magos). But in fact, the cities of Latin America are immersed in the atmosphere of the holiday from the very beginning of December, and the illumination and decoration of the streets are installed even at the end of November. This tradition, to start the holiday earlier, was invented by Christian missionaries, knowing that all significant celebrations for the Indians last for many days. In 1587, the Mexican priest Fray Diego de Soria asked the Pope for permission to celebrate evening masses for 9 consecutive days on Christmas Eve (from December 16 to 24). So the days "Las posadas" were appointed - 9 days of remembrance of the gospel events preceding the Birth of Jesus, when the Virgin Mary and Joseph were looking for a haven (posada) to rest on the way. "Las posadas" quickly turned from a religious event into a folk festival, when, along with religious processions and church processions with candles, it is customary to visit relatives, sing "posadas" in chorus, cook simple traditional dishes and make piñatas (las piñatas). The tradition is especially typical for Mexico and the Caribbean countries - Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama.

Songs - "posadas" are lyrical chants in which, on behalf of St. Joseph, they ask for a haven for the Holy Family and promise blessings and good luck to those who shelter God in the house (and in the heart). Here is an example for you, a record of one of the traditional "posadas":

En nombre del cielo
yo os pido postada,
pues no puede andar
mi esposa amada.

no seas inhumano,
tennos caridad.
Que el Dios de los Cielos
te lo premiara…

Piñata ("piñata")- a traditional Mexican action - comes, in fact, from China. The idea of Chinese cardboard lanterns first migrated to Italy, where the paper form for the candle was replaced with a clay one, which looked like a pine cone or pineapple, “pinya”. In Mexico, the piñata has become a seven-pointed star, and the piñata-breaking festival has taken on a symbolic meaning. It is believed that the 7 corners of the piñata represent the seven deadly sins: pride (vanity) - “ soberbia", greed (self-interest) -" avaricia", envy - " envidia", anger - " ira", lust -" lujuria", gluttony -" gula", despondency (laziness) -" pereza". By breaking a piñata, a person destroys sins and is rewarded with the sweets with which it is stuffed. The classic piñata is made from a lightly fired clay pot, but you can simplify the task. Here is a video tutorial on how to make a piñata from a balloon, paper and glue.

An indispensable attribute of Christmas, both in Spain and in Latin America, is the Nativity scene (“Belén”). This is a picture of the cave where the baby Jesus was born. The first "installation" was made in the 13th century by St. Francis of Assisi in Italy. There are dens of different shapes and sizes, but the obligatory characters of any den are the Mother of God, St. Joseph and baby Jesus, as well as an ox and a mule. It is interesting that in Latin America the characters of the nativity scene look like local residents, look like Indians and are dressed in national costumes. In Paraguay, it is customary to decorate a nativity scene with a coconut palm flower ( flor de cocotero).

As in Russia, children love the Christmas tree ( Arbol de Navidad), waiting for gifts from Santa Claus ( Papa Noel) and write letters to him. In Bolivia, it is customary in such a letter to list their successes in the past year and only then ask for an award - a gift. The note is placed in a shoe, which is put on the window. Well, adults are waiting " el aguinaldo”- a New Year's award from their employers. In some Latin American countries, as in Spain, it is customary to buy tickets for the New Year's lottery in December. This " grande de la nation in Argentina and sorteo navideño millonario in Venezuela.

As for the festive table - traditional treats in Latin America - sweet bread or " paneton"- a tall pie made from rich sweet dough with fruit, and the famous" muñequitos de jengibre"- stylized figures of people from ginger dough, like our gingerbread cookies.

So, the main dates of the New Year celebrations:

December 24/25- Christmas (Navidad, Nochebuena). A night when the whole family gathers together at the festive table. "En Navidad cada oveja en su casa" - "on Christmas every sheep is at home."

December 28th- Day of the Innocently Murdered Infants by King Herod (Día de los Inocentes). Oddly enough, on this day it is customary to play pranks on each other. For example, you can hang a comic ad on a friend's back so that he does not see, or tell a fable under the guise of the true truth. The action is similar to our April 1st.

December 31 / January 1– New Year (Nochevieja). Only in Latin America on this night is it customary to burn a rag doll (muñeco de trapo), symbolizing all the negative events of the outgoing year. There are especially large dolls in the city of La Plata in Argentina, and they are called "momo".
January 5/6 - Adoration of the Magi (Reyes Magos). Carnival processions, magicians with gifts and sweets are held in all cities of Latin America and Spain. But the widest celebrations are in Paraguay, in areas with a predominantly African population, where the so-called "black Easter" (pascua de los negros) is celebrated in honor of Saint Baltasar.

Happy New Year!

¡Feliz Navidad y prospero Año Nuevo!

Text: Anna Levkova

On New Year's Eve, our country has a tradition of making wishes to the sound of chiming clocks. There are many fans who confirm their desire in writing, burn a piece of paper and drink with champagne. Did you do so? I did it once, and, what is most surprising, what was written came true.

Perhaps it was not the New Year's miracle or magic that played a key role here, but visualization. Wrote - had to perform. Of course, in order for our dreams to come true, it is worth making efforts for this, and not just hoping that they will come true on their own.

Surely, you have heard about the Italian tradition on the eve of the holiday to throw away old furniture, in the UK, rooms are decorated with mistletoe sprigs and lovers or those who want to become them need to kiss under the mistletoe.

From Spain, a New Year's tradition came to us under the chiming clock to eat one grape at a time. Twelve grapes - 12 wishes for yourself and others for each month of the year.

All traditions are important, all traditions are needed or What underwear do Latin American women wear for the New Year

I have long been attracted to the countries of Latin America, so distant and mysteriously sunny. Apparently, these are excesses of the profession, but I like them (excesses). So I was interested in the peculiarities of countries for a long time and seriously.

And New Year's traditions and they are also mysterious and interesting. It is about them that I will tell everything that I know and remember.

By the way. Latin America refers to the territory where Spanish is spoken. Brazil and a number of other countries do not belong to these countries, they speak Portuguese or another language.

Argentina. I really like this country because of the original accent. Even knowing Spanish well, understanding an Argentine from habit is an impossible task. But once you get used to it, you really fall in love with their pronunciation.

New Year holidays here begin in early December. The Christmas tree is decorated on December 8-10, the decorations are modest, in two colors. For example, in white and red.

Decorate the Christmas tree Soviet style"is considered bad taste - that is, using colorful toys of different shapes and styles, with a bunch of rain and serpentine.

Like all Catholics, the main holiday is Christmas, which is celebrated in a noisy large company of all relatives. Sweet bread and beans are sure to be on the table, bringing success in business.

Tradition. Single girls wear pink underwear to the feast. Local senoritas believe that this is how they attract gentlemen and love.

On New Year's Eve, it is customary to throw away all unnecessary, old rubbish. And thrown away

it's all from the windows. The same thing happens in offices - old statements, calendars and notepads fly out of the windows. The entire capital is covered with a uniform layer of paper, and with a rich imagination, one can imagine that snow has fallen.

On New Year's Eve, Argentines pick up a suitcase and .... No, they do not go on a trip, but go around the house. This tradition promises pleasant trips. We can also adopt this tradition.

Peru. In Peru, on New Year's Eve, all young and single people find themselves in a dangerous position, because. girls, walking along the streets with willow twigs, offer the guys to take it. Whoever touches the twig becomes her fiancé.

In the tourist districts, you can find yourself an enviable European groom in this way. And the rest of the Peruvians, like the Argentines, walk at night with suitcases, attracting travel. Only, unlike Argentina, they walk all over the city.

They also have a less romantic tradition - they like to fight on the eve of the holidays. Moreover, to fight seriously and no matter with whom - both teenagers and women take part in this matter.

Why are they fighting? They believe that, having punished a friend of a friend for the misdeeds of the outgoing year, in the new year fate will spare them, and will not beat and punish them. Yes, after mass fights, Peruvians burn an effigy of the old year. It's like our carnival.

Colombia. Here the main character is the Old Year. He tells the kids funny stories and fairy tales. Also on holidays, dolls, Santa Claus (Papa Pasquale locally) on stilts, clowns and fairy-tale heroes walk around the city.

As you can see, the Colombians arrange an amazing carnival on the occasion of the holidays. Homemade dolls are attached to cars or sticks and walk around the center with them.

It is customary to thank them for all the good things that happened during the year. But these dolls have a secret - gunpowder is sewn into them. Therefore, on New Year's Eve they are set on fire and arrange grandiose fireworks. It is believed that the Old Year is frightened by explosions and runs away, taking everything unkind with him.

By the way. Colombian girls wear yellow underwear for good luck. So figure out what color attracts suitors. It is probably worth looking into the marriage statistics of Argentina and Colombia to find out the circumstances of happiness.

Puerto Rico. A sweet Puerto Rican tradition is to visit friends and start singing and dancing without warning. Thus, they attract fun and carefree time to the owner's house. The signature dish of these days is stew with rice. Having tasted the stew, the whole company, now together with the owner, goes to the next house for singing and dancing. The festivities can drag on until dawn.

Ecuador. They have strange rituals, shamanistic. On New Year's Eve, at midnight, they burn ritual doll. And everything would be fine. If not for the addition to the ritual - the wailing of widows. If the widow was not around, they are portrayed by men in wigs and capes.

A more attractive tradition is to throw a glass of water out of the house. Breaking, the glass symbolizes the destruction of everything unpleasant, clearing the place for joy and happiness.

Mexico. An amazing country where you can find a lot of unusual traditions. The most pleasant (which our compatriots would gladly adopt) - Mexicans may not go to work for two weeks before the New Year!

How noble of the authorities! All these two weeks, carnivals and festivals are marching around the country. Religious parables are staged on the streets and in churches. Anyone can join the show. At the height of the night in the center of the village, you can not only see national Indian dances, but also taste local dishes, washed down with tequila or punch.

An old tradition is breaking a clay pot (pinatas). They are made in the form of a star or an animal. Pinatas are hung from the ceiling and smashed with closed eyes. Sweets are poured out of them, which the participants of the ritual eat with pleasure. All this symbolizes faith in God.

How the breaking of pots of sweets is related to faith, we do not understand.

By the way. The girls wear red underwear. Maybe, for reliability, it is worth wearing tricolor underwear?

Chile. Chile has a great tradition - you can't swear during the holidays. It is necessary to be kind, smiling and cheerful.

Everyone here congratulates everyone, even ordinary passers-by and strangers. It is also customary to look for a swallow's nest. The cat who finds it will be honored throughout the year. Why not search for our fern?

but . Not everything is so fun in Chile. Since 1955, the inhabitants of the small town of Talque, after mass in the church, go to the cemetery. The mayor gives a speech, and the orchestra plays quiet music.

Venezuela. The traditions of Venezuela are similar to ours. They gather with relatives and friends at the table, wish happiness, and forgive insults and quarrels. Only the holiday is different table. Instead of Russian salad and a fur coat, they eat a corn tortilla filled with raisins, meat and capers.

By the way. The girls wear yellow underwear. Total - the yellow color of underwear wins!

In conclusion

These are the New Year traditions in some Latin American countries - funny, funny, and some even strange, but still incredibly interesting.

Few people can boast that they celebrated the New Year in Latin America. Well, except for the Latinos themselves. Yes, and we will not have time to fly there, even if we want to.

But after all, we have the opportunity to make a wish to meet 2016 in Mexico or Chile by writing it on paper or swallowing grapes. There would be a desire, and there will be fulfillment!

It is also distributed in other countries of the Mediterranean, primarily in the regions of Old Romania and among Latin American diasporas around the world, among the large Latin American community in the United States.

An analogue of the fiesta in Russia and the CIS countries are the so-called festivities.

In the Russian-speaking world, the word fiesta is used as an exoticism, as well as in an ironic context.

Origin

Fiesta is a typical Mediterranean concept that originated in the days of the Roman Empire.

The Latin word "festa" meant a folk festival in which the inhabitants of a community or city quarter took part.

Unlike Russian festivities, fiestas are very often held in the evening or at night, when the heat of the day subsides, and often continue until the morning.

In modern Romance languages, the concept of fiesta and its derivatives, etc. and port. festa and French fête is used in relation to any party or feast.

Holding

In Latin America and Spain, fiestas are the most colorful.

The fiestas are often accompanied by masquerades, all sorts of processions and parades that turn into a carnival, fireworks and lighting, dances, traditional ranchero music and other rhythms, discos, feasts, games with

South America is a continent that is traversed by the equator, most of which is located in the Southern Hemisphere. The Portuguese conquerors brought their religion, customs, architecture and language to America.

Portuguese cultural traditions influenced the formation of Brazilian music, literature, etc. The traditions of South America (Brazil) are, first of all, a fusion of Indian, African and Portuguese elements. Currently, there are 2 trends in its development. The first of these is the conservation of local traditions and customs of South America. The second trend is strictly aimed at replacing them with national cultural traditions.

The Brazilians adopted from the Indians the traditions of weaving household utensils - hammocks, rugs and bedding. One-story houses, most often built of clay, are covered with vines or palm leaves knitted in a special way. Villagers sometimes hang crossed knives over the entrance to the house, thus protecting the house from evil spirits. The interior of the house is extremely simple - wooden or wicker chairs, tables and often hammocks that replace the bed. In everyday life, earthenware is used. In the modeling technique, the locals use the centuries-old traditions of the Indians.

Now, most of the country's population does not even know where they have developed such customs, which they try to pass on from generation to generation.

The traditions of the peoples of South America include rituals. For example, marriage must necessarily be consecrated by the church, but a “sorcerer” is also invited to the holiday, who protects the young from the evil eye.

Legends and the famous "song cycle of the Indians", in particular myths about the king of snakes, and dances were widely spread.

Holidays, carnivals are the favorite pastime of the Brazilians.

Almost the entire population of South America participates in them and the influence of common cultural traditions is especially noticeable in them.

Many borrowed African rites and beliefs have become quite tenacious. Among them, the most popular and enduring among the Negroes of Brazil is Candomblé, an Afro-Brazilian fetish cult.

Brazilians are quite musical. A huge number of circles have been opened in the country that study and tell everyone about folk musical creativity.

An important role in the development of local residents is played by radio and television, which serve as the only source of information for them, because approximately 20% of the population is illiterate. Popular sports in Brazil include basketball and football. Brazil is one of the largest football nations in the world. The leading football teams are Cruzeiro, Santos and others. Young people are fond of surfing.Argentina is another, but more developed state of South America, which has formed its own special culture. There are quite a lot of immigrants from Germany, the British Isles, and also Slavic countries, but there are almost no Indians, only small groups of them live in the extreme south and north of the country.

Despite the recent economic upheavals that have greatly affected the standard of living of the inhabitants of this once prosperous country in South America, the Argentines still remain what they have always been - an independent and proud people who keep their history and traditions.

Argentines are known for their Latin temperament, common to both women and men. At the same time, the attitude towards people is very caring. Politeness is the norm here. And this is not just window dressing, but quite natural behavior of people. And if you meet well-known people, then mutual compliments and smiles are innumerable.

When meeting, Argentines kiss each other on the cheek, and unfamiliar people shake hands. Everyone is literally obsessed with football and politics, as well as what they think of them and what impression they will leave on their interlocutor. Argentines only speak Spanish with various jargons and slangs, like Lunfardo or Buenos Aires.

In Venezuela, the main traditions are festivals with dances and holidays, which fill the entire calendar.

In a state in the northeast of South America, Guyana has developed sports such as rafting and kayaking.

In general, all the traditions of the population of South America are similar in all countries. It is always very interesting to learn something new. If you are affected by the information, go to South America, you will be welcomed there, and you will plunge into the mysterious life of this mainland

Latin America is a region that attracts tourists with its ancient history, culture, and, of course, a unique atmosphere. The bright holidays celebrated by Hispanics deserve special attention.

Brazilian Carnival - a celebration of millions

On the opening day, thousands of its participants dress up as nuns and take to the streets of the city. This custom has a perfectly logical explanation. According to legend, once the nuns ran away from the monastery for the sake of a colorful show and returned to their cloisters only on the last day of the carnival.

The Brazilian carnival is considered one of the largest and most spectacular shows in the world, with about two million people participating in it. The city is decorated with beautiful decorations and illuminations. Water battles, dances of all peoples of the world, bright costumes - immersion in this atmosphere will be remembered for a long time and will give a lot of positive impressions.
Tickets should be purchased in advance, prices start at $500. You can also purchase costumes and take part in this grandiose show.

The date of the: depends on the Catholic calendar. The end of the festival also marks the beginning of Lent. In 2018, they will celebrate from February 9 to 14.

Pisco Sur Day in Peru

Every year on the first Saturday of February, a holiday begins in the country, which includes competitions, fairs, and concerts. The main attribute is "the most elegant cocktail in Latin America", prepared on the basis of pisco grape vodka.

On the day of the holiday, a cocktail is distributed free of charge on the streets. A great way for a tourist to get acquainted with the taste of this drink. After the tasting, a large-scale celebration begins. People sincerely have fun, dance, sing. If you want to be a part of this holiday, go to the south of the country, where the most grandiose spectacle awaits you.

The date of the: annually on the fourth Sunday of July.

Tinku - a holiday of "fight"

The inhabitants of Bolivia did not stand aside either. The holiday, which will be discussed below, is one of the most exotic. The name itself tells us that it is not dancing and fun that captivate people on this day, and not even alcoholic drinks, but a fight.

This holiday has its own traditions. Before the start of the main act, the priest reads a long Mass. Only after the padre says "amen" does the battle begin, in which men and women of all ages take part.

The blood that flows from the wounds soaks into the ground. It is believed that this gift will increase productivity. Tinka is carried out twice a year, during sowing and harvesting. This tradition has come from ancient times, and the inhabitants of the village of Akazio monitor its observance. She is quite brutal, there are no rules in combat.

Event dates: in May and September.

The day of the Dead

It is celebrated annually on November 2nd. On this day, people remember the dead.
Each country has its own characteristics of the celebration. Mexicans decorate the graves of the dead with orange flowers. In houses, an altar is built in their honor, on which photographs and the favorite food of the deceased are placed. Mexicans give each other sugar skulls. In Nicaragua, people spend the night at the cemetery, thereby expressing their respect. The inhabitants of Ecuador arrange a real feast in the cemetery. On this day, some families tell fortunes on the bones, there is a belief that the deceased will help them solve problems and answer difficult questions. Latin Americans consider death to be a natural event, so no one is sad on this day.

Fiesta del Fuego, festival of lights

The hottest holiday on our list is the Fire Festival in Cuba. It lasts from the third to the ninth of July. On the streets of the city, local vocal and instrumental ensembles perform, which, with their music, give the holiday an unusual mood. At every step there are stalls with food and a traditional Cuban drink - rum.

At nightfall, the city is illuminated by many burning torches. The most interesting part of the event begins: a fire show and performances of fakirs. The holiday ends with magnificent fireworks.
This holiday is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the unusual color of Cuba, see the Fire Parade and take part in the ritual burning of the symbolic figure of the devil.
Admission to the festival is free, which makes it especially attractive for tourists.

When it comes to Latin American holidays, then many people only hear the Brazilian carnival. But other events are also held on the territory of the continent, which are sometimes so unusual that guests from other countries hardly understand what such a mass celebration is dedicated to.

One of the most unusual Holidays in Latin America can be considered the "Festival of Fight" or "Tinka", which is held in Bolivia. At the same time, the first surprise here can be considered that the holiday takes place not in one of the large Bolivian cities, but on the territory of a small local village of Akazio. The festivities, if you can call it that, what is happening here, are as follows: the priest, having finished his Mass, gives the signal to the participants to start the battle dedicated to the harvest. After this signal, the Indians begin to beat each other fiercely, demonstrating their strength and joy over how much corn they managed to grow this year. Surprisingly, both men and women hit each other. There are no restrictions on combat. You can hit anywhere and with anything. Sometimes it can even come to the death of one of the participants in the battle. The Bolivian authorities do not ban the holiday, if only because this tradition is several hundred years old. Tens of thousands of tourists and participants in Indian fights without rules arrive for a strange action in Akazio.

Among the unusual Holidays in Latin America the Mexican festival of laughter stands apart. We celebrate it on April 1, but the people of Mexico celebrate it on December 28. At the same time, the origins of the holiday have nothing to do with humor, because its official name is the Day of the Innocent Bethlehem Babies. And this holiday is connected with the killing of babies by King Herod. Indeed - at first glance, it is not at all funny. However, on this day, every Mexican considers it his mission to deceive his friend, passerby, merchant. Why? Yes, the whole point is that when the Virgin Mary was carrying Jesus, Herod's guards stood in her way, who wanted to take the baby away from her. But the Mother of God offered up a prayer to heaven, and instead of the baby, the soldiers saw a bouquet of roses in the bundle. They had to let Mary go. It was this story that served as an occasion for the general Mexican joy. On this day, even store sellers need to keep their eyes open so that a too cheerful city dweller does not take out a bundle of cheese or other products from the store without paying. However, on this day in Mexico, even a thief will be treated with understanding.

To the unusual Holidays in Latin America includes a holiday dedicated to voodoo shamans in Jamaica. On this holiday, several hundred voodoo shamans gather in one of the coastal cities of the island, who compete in their paranormal abilities. They say that on this holiday you can witness levitation, reincarnation and other unknown phenomena. At the same time, the holiday of shamanism is accompanied by frequent sacrifices, which will be unpleasant for an ordinary person to look at. The inhabitants of Jamaica itself are enthusiastic when a shaman pierces himself through with a red-hot metal rod, stopping the blood with one touch of his little finger.

Holidays in Latin America, as we have already understood, do not always represent processions and mass celebrations familiar to us.

Sights of Latin America: World Heritage

World architectural masterpieces, monuments of ancient civilizations, modern cities and archaic settlements - this is what the sights of Latin America are. Any tourist arriving here hopes to see with his own eyes the wonders of the past and the unique objects of the present.

Colorful colors of carnivals in Latin America

Many unfairly believe that the carnivals of Latin America are a series of grandiose and colorful events in Brazil. This is far from true. In addition to Brazil, a number of South and Central American states hold their carnivals at regular intervals.

THE ORIGINS OF THE CELEBRATION The days of the dead are found among the ancient cultures of the Aztecs, Maya, Purépecha, Nahua and Totonacs, who, 3000 years ago, performed special rituals that symbolized Death and Rebirth. The Indians were convinced that death is a transformation, and no one disappears without a trace. were held cults in praise of the god of Death- Mitztecasihuatla, dedicated to both the dead and newborns. Shamans kept the skulls of the dead as trophies and decorated the sacrificial altar with them during important ceremonies.

The ancient Kitu and Kara tribes inhabiting the territories of Ecuador believed that a person comes from the womb and goes into the womb. They practiced burials in large clay pots, in which the body of the deceased was placed in the form of an embryo. An earthen vessel was lowered into a pit, where food, utensils, jewelry that could be useful to the deceased in his afterlife were also placed. A semicircular vault was erected over the grave, resembling nothing more than the belly of a pregnant woman ...

The Spanish conquerors were horrified by pagan savagery. In an attempt to convert the Indians to their faith, restrictions were imposed on the performance of rituals, including the date of this holiday was changed to November 2 - and from now on it began to coincide with the Catholic Happy All Saints and All Souls' Day(prayer for souls in purgatory).

Although the origins of the Day of the Dead originate in Mexico, the holiday has become popular in many countries of Latin America, and everywhere with its own characteristics, and in each case you can find echoes of ancient tribal rituals:

IN MEXICO The Day of the Dead is the most popular holiday. People go to the cemetery at night to decorate the graves with orange flowers. In each house, an altar is erected in honor of the deceased relatives, their photographs, favorite food and drinks are placed on it, so that at night, when the deceased visits the house, he would remember the tastes of his worldly life. Special folk craftsmen make masks in the form of wryly smiling amusing skulls and corpses. Children are the luckiest on this day - ghosts turn into good heroes who give them sweets and candies. And if your Mexican friend on this day gives you a sugar skull, on the forehead of which your name flaunts - do not be offended, because skulls are traditional gifts on this day. Many even rhyme verses to their friends about meeting death. Day of the Dead is widely celebrated in the cities and countryside, and is best observed in Patzcuaro and Oaja.

IN GUATEMALA there is an opinion that blessed souls come out of cemeteries and appear in different places. During these days, the living see ghosts or hear strange sounds that indicate the presence of their deceased relatives.

IN PERU there is a custom - a night of offerings to the dead. Peruvians believe that souls watch the preparation of altars in homes. Friends and relatives gather at the home of the deceased to commemorate him. During this meeting, it is customary to talk about the deceased over a cup of strong coffee.

TO NICARAGUA take this day very seriously, going beyond the conventional celebrations. Nicaraguans go to the cemetery at night to sleep on the grave of the deceased - such a peculiar way of honoring the dead ... Not everyone is capable of such feats, do you agree?

IN ECUADOR this holiday turns into a real feast. Families gather in the cemetery at the grave of the deceased and “share with him” a traditional meal: bread in the shape of a baby “guagua de pan”, washed down with a thick jelly drink “colada morada”. This drink is made with cornmeal, blackberries, cloves, sugar and myrtle. Relatives discuss the problems and news of the family so that the deceased is also aware of the events that occurred after his death. The local Indians have a tradition of "feeding the dead" - they make a hole in the ground at the supposed location of the mouth of the deceased. Food and drinks are placed in the hole. Only after the "dead man has eaten" can the living begin their meal. In some regions, they also bring to the grave weapons and objects that were important for the deceased in worldly life, evoking the spirit of the deceased, fortune telling on the bones to find out his opinion on some issues, and in some cases this even helps to resolve family disagreements ...

Sourced from www.viajeros.com

Cuba
In Cuba, Christmas was recognized as an official holiday only 13 years ago. Since this state declared itself a purely atheistic power under the influence of communism and socialism, since 1969 the celebration of Christmas here has been suspended.

However, in 1997, President Castro again elevated Christmas to the rank of public holidays in order to honor Pope John Paul II during his visit to this Latin American country.

Today, Christmas for Cuba has become one of the most enchanting festivities: millions of Cubans gather on Christmas Eve in numerous temples and churches in order to personally hear the bell ringing announcing the onset of one of the biggest holidays on our planet.

Like the majority of the population of our planet, Christmas for Cubans is primarily a Christmas cake and numerous sweets with ripe Cuban fruits. However, unlike most European countries, the traditional Christmas turkey is the main dish at Christmas, while Cubans cook pork with beans, serving original apple cider with it.

Argentina
In Argentina, everything seems to be traditional. The whole family gathers for the last dinner of the outgoing year - they sit down at the table around 23:00 and wait for midnight when fireworks are lit. After that, young people go to New Year's parties in clubs and dance there until the morning. And on the first day of the new year, most people certainly go to swim in rivers, lakes or public pools. As a Christmas tree in Argentina, as in Uruguay, the majority of the population sets the traditional needles, decorating it with golden stars, glass balls and candles. All gifts take their place of honor at home by the Christmas tree, where another indispensable attribute is the presence of a small container - a feeder, in which, according to history, Jesus was born. The magical Christmas evening of these countries is also certainly decorated with various flower arrangements: since the celebration of Christmas falls here at the very height of summer, there are no particular problems with acquiring fragrant bright inflorescences. Women adorn themselves with flower necklaces, and attach especially large and bright flowers to their hair.

It is worth noting that, despite the Christmas traditions of most countries, Christmas in Argentina and Uruguay is not a cozy, quiet family holiday, but rather fun and larger-scale picnics with trips to nature.

Brazil
On the eve of the New Year, grandiose parties take place in all cities of Brazil, especially in Rio de Janeiro. Pyrotechnic shows are arranged on the beaches. Once upon a time, fire shows were part of religious rituals, but now for the Brazilians they have become just colorful performances that attract, among other things, crowds of tourists. Preparation for the party begins on the morning of December 31, and the action unfolds at midnight. Everyone is accepted to wish each other love, health, money in the new year. The largest such show attracts several million people. One of the most popular Brazilian amusements is a game performance in which several women try to kidnap the newborn Jesus from his cradle, but the task of the rest of those present, respectively, is to prevent them.
Mass festivities and processions are accompanied by an indispensable tasting of Christmas Brazilian dishes. Small canapés, an abundance of sweet pastries and plenty of red wine. To attract good luck in the coming year, Brazilians usually wear white clothes.
After midnight, you must jump over seven waves and, after making a wish, throw flowers into the sea. It will bring good luck and wealth. People believe that the goddess who protects the sea will help wishes come true. Candles are lit on the beach in the sand. Such traditions probably came from a mixture of African and Indian cultures, which were developed in Brazil and spread from coast to coast.

Colombia
In some cities in Colombia, it is customary to burn an effigy of the Old Year. The process requires the indispensable participation of the whole family. All together are engaged in the manufacture of a large doll, symbolizing the outgoing year, and stuff it with all sorts of things. The items stuffed into the doll are often symbolic - usually things that bring sadness or bad memories. Or just all sorts of unnecessary junk. The main requirement is that it burns well. To make the spectacle even more spectacular, several firecrackers are hidden inside.

Mexico
New Year in Mexico is celebrated with family and friends. Sitting in front of the TV, the Mexicans wait until the clock strikes midnight, and with each stroke of the chimes they try to eat a grape, having managed to make 12 wishes. Then everyone hugs and congratulates each other. Very often, in order to find love in the new year, people put on red underwear, this tradition, however, is more popular with women. Some take to walking in front of the house with a suitcase - this is to travel more in the coming year.

Venezuela
And in Venezuela, to attract good luck, it is customary to wear yellow underwear on New Year's Eve. As in Mexico, when the clock strikes midnight, everyone tries to eat 12 grapes. Some write wishes in a letter, and then they burn it so that no one can read the wish, otherwise it will not come true.

Chile
Santa Claus in Chile is called Viejo Pascuero (Christmas Old Man), who, like his European counterpart, visits numerous Chilean houses, announcing the coming of Christmas and presenting the household with pleasant Christmas gifts. However, by giving (unlike the European scenario of Santa Claus), Viejo Pascuero enters the houses of Chileans not through the chimney (since, due to the hot climate, such building techniques in Chile should not have found application), but through the window.
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Holidays in Latin America, as we have already understood, do not always represent processions and mass celebrations familiar to us.

Sights of Latin America: World Heritage

Colorful colors of carnivals in Latin America

Each Latin American country is rich in festivals and holidays that are celebrated at the regional or state levels. It is no exception and, barely visible on the world map, the state, sheltered on the Pacific coast between Guatemala and Honduras. Territorial dimensions do not play a role in matters of history and culture, and can demonstrate the unique archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization, the colonial temples of their picturesque towns and the most interesting festive customs, the origins of which are traced back from the depths of time. Today we will look at the most significant events of the November holiday calendar in El Salvador.

Everyone celebrates November 2 Día de los Difuntos ). This tradition is based on an ancient Indian cult, and even Catholic priests could not eradicate it, turning it into All Saints Day. For Salvadorans, the Day of the Dead means much more - the country has repeatedly plunged into armed conflicts, and in every family there are losses. According to tradition, on this date, the graves of loved ones are put in order, decorated with flowers and boiled pumpkin in sweet syrup. In the evening, family meetings are built with a traditional dinner and conversations about departed loved ones.

In the second week of November, for three days from Friday to Sunday, the Hammock Festival will be held in the municipality of Concepción Quetzaltepeque in the department of Chilatenango. Its history dates back to 1986, but the textile tradition has already existed for more than 130 years, so it can be said that it has been passed down from generation to generation. The organization of the Festival is coordinated by the local House of Culture and the parish, and dozens of hammocks of different sizes and colors are being prepared for the holiday, which will be offered to tourists. Prices for them are different, the average is 15 US dollars. At the textile fair, they also sell and.

November 11 will be the National Festival of La Pupusa. Pupusa is the most famous dish, which is corn or rice dough cakes with various fillings. Since 2005, the date of the Festival has been approved at the legislative level as National Pupus Day, and now it is held every second Sunday in November. Each of the departments has its own traditions for celebrating this day, which boil down to the preparation of these delicious cakes of different sizes and with different fillings.

November 21 in the city of San Miguel will begin the final stage of the annual Carnival, or carnival, which coincides with the patronal feast of the Virgen de la Paz. Initially, the Carnival was a simple fair. It was held on May 8, and traders from different countries of Latin America flocked to it. Over the years, the fair has evolved into a colorful show with music and folk dances, and now its mandatory events include the election of a queen, a parade and a competition of ensembles representing municipalities. The motto of the carnival: "Neither poor nor rich, neither young nor old, nor white, nor black, neither man nor woman - everyone is in San Miguel, everyone is at the carnival, everyone is equal."

En nombre del cielo
yo os pido postada,
pues no puede andar
mi esposa amada.

no seas inhumano,
tennos caridad.
Que el Dios de los Cielos
te lo premiara…

So, the main dates of the New Year celebrations:

December 24/25- Christmas (Navidad, Nochebuena). A night when the whole family gathers together at the festive table. "En Navidad cada oveja en su casa" - "on Christmas every sheep is at home."

Happy New Year!

¡Feliz Navidad y prospero Año Nuevo!

Text: Anna Levkova

An analogue of the fiesta in Russia and the CIS countries are the so-called festivities.

In the Russian-speaking world, the word fiesta is used as an exoticism, as well as in an ironic context.

Origin

Fiesta is a typical Mediterranean concept that originated in the days of the Roman Empire.

The Latin word "festa" meant a folk festival in which the inhabitants of a community or city quarter took part.

Unlike Russian festivities, fiestas are very often held in the evening or at night, when the heat of the day subsides, and often continue until the morning.

In modern Romance languages, the concept of fiesta and its derivatives, etc. and port. festa and French fête is used in relation to any party or feast.

Holding

In Latin America and Spain, fiestas are the most colorful.

When we have snow, in hot sunny summer Latin America, on the eve of Lent, the time for carnivals begins. To see the famous procession of half-naked beauties dancing samba to the beat of drums, you can go not only to Rio de Janeiro. A whirlwind of cheerful madness sweeps these days over all countries of the continent.

Brazil

The most grandiose show on the planet takes place annually in the last week before Lent in Rio de Janeiro. The customs of ritual dances of African slaves and the European traditions of Catholic settlers to organize wild holidays on the eve of a long abstinence have mixed up and turned today into a colorful procession-competition between 14 of the most famous samba schools. The general fun begins on Friday from the moment when the mayor hands over the keys to the city to the carnival king, who becomes a full-fledged ruler who can even make any laws. Each samba school prepares its own performance, lasting 82 minutes. The column, which should parade in front of the audience and the jury, consists of 3-5 thousand people: these are “walking” dancing beauties, and moving platforms, a place on which anyone can buy, who is not sorry to part with several hundred euros, in order to to walk 700 meters along the sambadrome - a special alley surrounded by stands. In each of the samba schools they rehearse dances for a whole year, sew costumes, think over the design of carts, develop a scenario for a theatrical procession, and therefore in Brazil they say that the carnival begins the day after it ends.

Argentina

Incendiary dances and songs, bright outfits, decorated with feathers and sequins, do not leave the streets of Argentine cities for two whole months. This country hosts the longest carnival in the world. Approximately from the first Saturday of January until the first Saturday of March, every weekend the streets are filled with dancers who perform passionate samba to the rhythmic beat of hundreds of drums. Moreover, the most colorful festivities are not held in the capital at all. If you want to be in the epicenter of events, go to the towns of Gualeguaychu, Corrientes, Libresi and Pasodelos. It is there that you will find carnival fields - “corsodromo” and the longest stands for spectators.

Belize

Even this small country has its own carnival. Don't miss the opening of the holiday - the grandiose parade in San Pedro! Among the most popular acts are dance competitions, with men dressed in women's dress usually enjoying the greatest popularity. Only, putting on your best outfit for the carnival, know that at this time it is customary to sprinkle each other with multi-colored powder.

Bolivia

In whatever region of Bolivia you are on holiday, the ten-day carnival will overtake you everywhere. The merry holiday appeared in the 18th century, when the local Indians were forced to disguise their pagan rites as Catholic holidays. The most famous carnival recognized by the UN as the "Spiritual Heritage of Humanity" takes place in the town of Oruro. Tens of thousands of dressed up dancers and musicians participate in the main parade, which lasts 20 hours. The most ancient dance of this festival tells about the struggle between good and evil and is called devillada. And the five-kilometer procession ends with a general kneeling in front of the church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Venezuela

For Venezuelans, carnival is their favorite holiday. For several days, the business life of the country freezes, and colorful events are held in all cities, each with its own. Having traveled through several villages at this time, you will be surprised to find that the traditions are completely different everywhere: music festivals are held in some, processions are held in others, and folk performances are played in still others. However, it is not recommended to travel around the country during the carnival: too many drunk and intoxicated people get behind the wheel, which annually leads to a huge number of accidents.

Dominican Republic

If Lent has begun and you think you've already missed all the carnivals this year, head to the Dominican Republic. The holiday in this country begins only on February 28 and lasts a whole week (although in the provinces they can roam so much to the rhythms of national merengue melodies that they won’t stop until Easter). The main character of the performances is the devil. Moreover, in each region of the country it is customary to dress it up in its own way. The final procession of wagons that arrived from all over the country takes place in Santo Domingo, on the waterfront. Here, in the capital, they hand out awards for the brightest performance.

Colombia

This country hosts one of the largest carnivals in the world, declared by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of mankind. The scene is the city of Barranquilla. Many years ago, the religious holiday was mixed with local traditions: African slaves celebrated their only day off of the year. Theater, songs, dances - everything merged into one and turned into a grandiose exciting spectacle. The first parade takes place in January. It begins with the reading of the decree. Night processions, children's processions, orchestra performances last a couple of weeks.

Trinidad and Tobago

The carnival in this tiny island nation is not inferior to the Brazilian in terms of entertainment. The celebration lasts only 2 days, but this is the noisiest, wildest and most insane holiday in the entire Caribbean. The opening of the carnival takes place in the capital in Queen Savannah Park. Music and dance performances, fairs, exhibitions, all kinds of colorful shows and competitions of calypsos, the unique music of African slaves who were forbidden to communicate, and therefore they were forced to replace the conversation with special songs, take place day and night in the open air.

Chile

The spring carnival in Atacama is perhaps the most "non-touristic" of all such Latin American holidays. Only a few lucky foreigners manage to see everything that happens with their own eyes. Local residents do not want outsiders to participate in it, and therefore they will never tell visiting guests where it will take place. If you accidentally hear music and singing, get ready for the unexpected: these days it is customary to sprinkle everyone with flour indiscriminately, and then pour grape juice over them. Carnival in Chile is not at all like the usual colorful dance processions. In the Atacama, the participants in the action ... carol: they go from house to house, sing peculiar ditties and accept simple treats from the owners.

Dominica

Carnival in Dominica is the best time to visit the island. These days, costumed groups fill the streets of the capital - Roseau, where colorful and noisy contests are held with the choice of the carnival queen, and calypso singers compete in singing songs on the most relevant topics this year. The local holiday did not become an exact copy of other Caribbean carnivals, but preserved the cultural traditions of the island and the settlers. During the processions, carnival participants dress in traditional West African costumes made from rope and banana leaves, complete with a mask. And the festival ends with the burning of the spirit of the carnival, which marks the beginning of Lent.

Sourced from www.viajeros.com

Holidays in Latin America, as we have already understood, do not always represent processions and mass celebrations familiar to us.