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Ethnic and Heritage Festivals
Author: Rajinder Dogra
Article:
"Attendance at an ethnic event while traveling is a great way to
experience the heritage of the area being visited. It can also
be a way to introduce the traditions of a travel destination
that will be featured on an upcoming international itinerary."
For over six centuries people have been arriving on these shores
to find a new home. Most have sought to blend with the
multi-cultural way of life that is now the norm in almost all
communities and regions throughout the continent. However,
carrying on heritage traditions has also been an important part
of establishing a new life in the Americas for most immigrants.
Celebrations of these traditions come in many forms such as a
family gathering for ethnic meals, cultural clubs where groups
participate in dances and ceremonies, religious celebrations
that honor certain ethnic rituals, community heritage festivals
and ethnic events. An important purpose of all these gatherings
is to hand down heritage values and activities from one
generation to the next and to remind all who participate of the
contribution the ethnic influence has had in formulating the
diverse North American society.
Here are some ethnic and heritage events to consider including
in your http://www.grouptravelblog.com travel
plans.
Native Americans
The passage of heritage rites and traditions is important to all
Native American and First Nation peoples. The focal point of
many powwows and native fairs is the telling of stories about
tribal ancestors and beliefs that are handed down from the
elders to the younger generations. Highlighted by the use of
colorful costumes, dances and ceremonies, these gatherings are
considered sacred rituals, but visitors are often welcome to
observe. Tribal cultural centers and guides provide an
opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and beliefs
of a tribe as well as the significance of the performances and
ceremonies being presented. Most events have food booths and
display crafts of the tribe. The Red Earth Festival, in Oklahoma
City, OK is the largest Native American cultural and arts
exposition in the world. More than 2000 artists, dancers and
singers from more than 100 tribes across North American convene
each June at the downtown Cox Business Services Convention
Center. Contact 405-427-5228, www.redearth.org
Latino Experience
The celebrations for those with Latin roots and particularly
with Mexican heritage are found in communities located
throughout the Western states. The most widely celebrated
Mexican events that offer cultural experiences for visitors
include fiestas, Cinco de Mayo (victory over France), Dia de los
Muertos (Day of the Dead), Dia de la Independencia (Independence
Day) and Posadas (parades commemorating Mary and Joseph journey
into Bethlehem). Some communities also celebrate Dia de la
Candelaria, a religious celebration that features candlelight
processions through the streets of the town and dancing. Music
is always present at Mexican events, and you will find that the
religious occasions are filled with drama, pageantry and
ceremony while other events are festive and will have fairs,
parades, competitions, food, dance and colorful costuming and
decorations. Mexican heritage events are listed on most
community event calendars. Two resources useful for learning
more about Mexican holidays
The Latin influence and experience are much farther reaching
than Mexico. Other Latin nations and cultures are represented in
the West with many celebrating Carnival, including San Francisco
which is host to the largest celebration of its kind in
California.
This article is sponsored by:
http://www.grouptravelblog.com
About the author:
We are in travel business and want to provide information about
different destinations of united states of america.
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