The fiesta de la Candelaria (Candlemass) takes place every February 2, exactly 40 days after Christmas. This holiday marks the official end of the holiday season, and it derives its name from the tradition of bringing candelas (candles) to church to be blessed. In Mexico,
The Chupacabras: mythical creature, wild animal or urban legend? The first sightings of El Chupacabras began in the 90s when a beast started attacking farm animals, particularly goats (cabras). This creature sucked the blood out of its victims, hence the name, ‘chupa cabras’ (goat sucker),
The charrería is an equestrian discipline and art form from Mexico. Charrerías date back to Colonial Mexico and they evolved from animal husbandry practices passed down through generations. In this rodeo-like event, the charros, known for their colorful attire, show off their skills in a
In 1969, a song came out in Argentina that would forever change the tango genre. Written by Argentinean composer Astor Piazzolla and Uruguayan poet Horacio Ferrer, the song “Balada para un loco” became an instant hit. However, it also had a polarizing effect among tango enthusiasts. Click
Helpful tips for listening to our Spanish podcasts Yes, you’re absolutely right about Spanish being a very fast language but don’t let this fact discourage you. Actually, Spanish is one the fastest-spoken tongues. The good news is that Spanish and English speakers convey about the
On the night of January 5, kids all over the world go to bed dreaming about the visit of los Reyes Magos and the gifts that they will bring them. In most Spanish-speaking countries, the Día de Reyes (Day of the Wise Men) celebration includes
In Ecuador the New Year begins with the burning of the old one! More specifically by burning monigotes (paper or rag dolls) that represent the year that ends, in particular the negative aspects of it, to start off the New Year with a clean slate
In Spain the Christmas lottery is one of the most popular and eagerly-awaited holiday traditions. Colloquially known as “el gordo de Navidad”, this lottery dates back to 1811 and its popularity only continues to grow. Click play and learn the history of this peculiar tradition!
Las posadas mexicanas are a popular Christmas tradition that take place during the nine days leading to December 25th. As many holidays in Mexico, the roots of this festivity date back to pre-Hispanic times when people celebrated the god Huitzilopochtili during the month of December.
Vilcabamba is a village in a valley in Southern Ecuador that allegedly has the oldest population in the world. This has earned Vilcabamba the name of “valle sagrado de la longevidad” (Valley of longevity), and it became very popular in the 1970s when tourist from