Festivals Are a Window Into History, Tradition and Spirit of Place

Locals Share Cultural Meaning of Festivals Around the World

What is culture? It's a wide-ranging and subtly complex concept that encompasses myriad distinct presentations. Without a doubt, any exhaustive elucidation of culture would be lacking without the inclusion of festivals.

Festivals are a way to become part of a region’s community. Whether religious or seasonal, somber or silly, formal or casual, festivals mark an occasion that has some type of meaning for the people who honor it. Festivals are a window into the shared traditions, history, and values celebrated by a given culture and often feature multi-faceted and colorful costumes, music, dancing, pageantry, and foods.

Estonia’s Land of the Setos

Explore distinctive traditions of Estonia’s Land of Setos, an ethnic community on Russian border known for leelo singing, colorful textiles and King Peko.

Tartu in Estonia Offers Window into Country’s Culture and Spirit

Tartu is Estonia’s Culture Capital, and I had come here to learn more about the Estonia Song Festival.

Choral Music of Estonia is a Force for Freedom and Unity

Choral music plays a significant role in Estonian culture and identity. Hear from choral conductor and manager Kaie Tanner about her passion.

Colorful Traditions Cherished in Slavonia Croatia

Brodsko Kolo Slavonski Brod: A Festival from Croatia’s Slavonia Region.

Exuberant Parachicos Festival in Mexico Inspired By Local Legend

The festival in Mexico called the Fiesta de Los Parachicos is a festival filled with traditional colorful costumes, dance, and more.

Experiencing the Tumba Festival, Curacao

Tumba Festival, Curacao, is a special experience. Curacao’s Tumba music was created by slaves as a way to put rumors to music and express their sorrow.

Pierrot Carnival Festival in Village of Limoux France

For centuries, The Carnival Festival in Occitanie has been the setting of one of the most picturesque carnivals of the world.