Topics

Oct

Halloween Traditions: Spooks, Saints, and Souls

by Meredith Mullins on October 31, 2013

Trick-or-treating shows Halloween traditions that are cultural traditions in America

U.S. Halloween traditions: Is it all about the candy?
© BananaStock

Trick-or-Treating the American Way

My first Halloween life lesson was at age 10. My tiger costume was purrfect. Visions of the candy haul were dancing in my head. My friends and I could get a month’s stash of sugar and chocolate in a few hours.

Without remorse, we judged each house on the quality of the treats. Apples and pennies were disdained. And even the grouchiest neighbors gained popularity points if they offered the coveted large-size chocolate bar instead of a few meager kernels of candy corn. Read more...

Meredith Mullins 2 Comments

Cultural Heritage & Traditions/France/Mexico/USA

Oct

Finding Common Ground: Chalk It Up to Art

by Janine Boylan on October 28, 2013

Day of the Dead: finding common ground through chalk art in San Antonio, Texas (Image © Janine Boylan)

Day of the many dead
© Janine Boylan

Community Building in Chalk Art

Turning a corner in busy San Antonio, Texas, and Oh, I see! The once-drab sidewalks are filled in with colorful patches of art.

At this chalk art festival and others like it worldwide, professional artists, school-aged children, and other community members find common ground by working side by side and filling the sidewalks with glorious colors and designs.

finding common ground through chalk art in San Antonio, Texas (Image courtesy of Artpace, San Antonio, by Francisco Cortes)

Chalk brings them together.
Image courtesy of Artpace, San Antonio, by Francisco Cortes

Most observers step carefully between and around the art to both appreciate it and not ruin it. Read more...

Janine Boylan Comments

The World's Art & Design

Oct

Culture Smart: How Far Can Good Wishes Spread?

by Sheron Long on October 27, 2013

Tibetan prayer flags illustrating the cultural tradition of sending good wishes to others

Sending good wishes into the wind.

Blessings on Tibetan Prayer Flags Travel with the Wind

Around the world, people hope for a long life full of health and happiness, prosperity and peace. And others find a multitude of ways to wish them well. Read more...

Sheron Long Comments

Cultural Heritage & Traditions/Tibet

World Views: