CultureWizard Viewpoint: February Edition

2024 Is The Year of the Dragon

Symbolizing good fortune, wisdom, and success, the Year of the Dragon is sparking a sense of excitement worldwide. From the bustling streets in China to the vibrant communities in New York City's Chinatown, anticipation is building for the colorful celebrations heralding the Year of the Dragon.

Each community adds its own unique charm into the festivities, reflecting the diverse global cultures that welcome the Lunar New Year. Whether through dragon dances, street markets, or sumptuous feasts, the Lunar New Year fosters a spirit of unity and celebration among people of all backgrounds.

Festive Carnivals and Masquerades: Global Pre-Lent Celebrations

Have you ever stopped to wonder why Mardi Gras, Brazil's Carnaval, and numerous festivities worldwide coincide so closely? The answer lies in the observance of Lent.

Read on and see how different cultures celebrate the festivities.

Carnaval do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

One of the most famous carnivals in the world, Rio’s Carnaval is known for its samba parades, elaborate floats, flamboyant costumes, and samba dancers. Street parties, known as blocos, abound with vibrant music and dance.?

This festival has its roots in Portuguese pre-Lent festivities, particularly the tradition of Entrudo, a celebration that entails flour and water battles to symbolize cleansing and renewal in the season of Lent. African and Indigenous influences have shaped Carnaval, so the event is an expression of national identity and unity in Brazil.

Known for its high energy, loud music, and vibrant colors, this euphoric party atmosphere draws millions of participants from all over the globe and from all social backgrounds.

Carnevale, Italy

An indulgence in freedom and celebration before the restrictions of Lent, Carnevale has unique cultural traditions from region to region.?

Venice, home to a 2-week event with both locals and tourists attending an extravagant masquerade ball where people wear masks that have an air of Baroque elegance. Historically, the wearing of masks provides anonymity to break down social divides. Venice’s history as a city of intrigue lends a special quality to the ball.

In the north, you’ll find locals reenacting old legends about civil wars with the Battle of the Oranges (yes, it’s an actual orange fight—all in good fun of course!), while Viareggio in northern Toscana hosts a month-long exhibition of animated floats, and Sicily is famous for its abbatazzi, folk poets who improv in the streets against the backdrop of striking costumes parades.

Mardi Gras, New Orleans

Originally a religious holiday in the days leading up to Lent, this well-known celebration has become a global multi-day event replete with parades, intricate masks and costumes, colorful beads, cultural music, and amazing food.

Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday” is the culmination of the New Orleans carnival season. Though events take place throughout the city for about 10 days leading up to the main celebration, it’s the French Quarter that’s at the heart of the festivities. One of the highlights is an elaborate parade with colorful floats, marching bands, and masked revelers.

While Mardi Gras is widely celebrated in other parts of the world, customs and traditions vary based on regional and cultural influences. New Orleans in the United States is particularly renowned for its vibrant and unique celebration—a joyous time that brings communities together.

Carnival of Binche, Belgium

Lesser known, but recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance and preservation of pre-Lent traditions dating back to the 14th century, the Carnival of Binche is a longstanding celebration featuring performers dressed in vibrant costumes, music, and the tradition of throwing oranges into the crowd for good luck. It’s an all-in celebration that sparks a true sense of community.

Carnaval de Barranquilla, Colombia

One of the largest carnivals in South America, and also recognized by UNESCO, it’s known for its dances reflecting the country’s African, Indigenous, and European cultural influences. Elaborate costumes and parades make this grand pre-Lent event a high point.

We love how these festivals unite people across social and cultural lines, naturally inspiring inclusion through celebration!