Culture & Traditions

Perhaps you've heard it's unlucky to light three cigarettes with one match. It might not seem unlucky - in fact, it seems downright practical. So why is it considered a bad omen?

By Debra Ronca

Unfortunately, other people's ballots are none of your business. And in some situations, asking about them is not only tacky - it's illegal.

By Kate Kershner

Many people believe that a handshake from a chimney sweep brings good luck, even though the history of the chimney sweep is actually quite dark (or sooty, if you will). How did the chimney sweep become a good luck charm?

By Debra Ronca

In an era of strict social rules, dance cards let gentlemen "claim" ladies for their turn on the floor. A full dance card was a sign of popularity.

By Kate Kershner

Have you ever watched a baseball no-hitter in progress and wondered why nobody would talk about it? Blame superstition, and this is a big one - it holds that talking about a no-hitter is bad luck.

By Debra Ronca

Tempted to try to avoid a big talk about your feelings? Breaking up with someone in public is inconsiderate - and could lead to a messier scene than you ever imagined. But is it rude?

By Kate Kershner

If you spill some salt while you're cooking, you might fear a wave of oncoming bad luck. Why is toppling over some salt an omen of misfortune?

By Debra Ronca

Giving flowers is a thoughtful and appreciated gesture in all cultures. But if you're looking to brighten someone's day, you might want to avoid giving an even number of flowers.

By Debra Ronca

Much like wishing upon a star, tugging on a wishbone or other wish-related rituals, a loose eyelash could be a direct route to your deepest desire -- if you believe, that is.

By Laurie L. Dove

Sláinte! Prost! Bottoms up! These are just a few of the toasts given worldwide with a glass of alcohol in hand. What brilliant mind came up with the tradition in the first place? And why?

By Laurie L. Dove

In many cultures, it's considered vital that your feet face away from the bedroom door as you sleep. And it's not because they're sweaty or stinky, or because you need to be prepared for a quick exit.

By Laurie L. Dove

A baby shower means an infant is soon to arrive -- and, usually, that the parents-to-be are ready to welcome gifts from friends and family. In Jewish culture, prepping for baby's arrival is done a little differently.

By Laurie L. Dove

In Beijing, it's not possible to get a vehicle license plate that has the number 4 on it. Some cultures take their numbers phobia very seriously. What's the deal with 4?

By Laurie L. Dove

Legend has it that mermaids bring bad luck to sailors, luring boats off course with their feminine wiles. So why is it considered good luck to have a mermaid figurehead on the prow of a ship?

By Debra Ronca

Women used to be banned from working on boats and ships because they caused bad luck. What's the reason behind this superstition - and why were topless women considered OK?

By Debra Ronca

When you wish for continued good luck, you might find yourself rapping your knuckles on the nearest table or piece of wood. Why does knocking on wood have anything to do with luck?

By Debra Ronca & Desiree Bowie

Most Americans probably couldn't name their state tree off the top of their heads. But if you're from Ohio, we bet you could. Why is it considered good luck to have a buckeye nut in your pocket?

By Debra Ronca

Do you regularly post pictures of your dinner? Update the world on your daily workout? Write cryptic messages guaranteed to elicit sympathy? You, my friend, need a refresher course in Facebook etiquette.

By Melanie Radzicki McManus

Star Wars: Force for Change and Unicef Kid Power teamed up at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim to show kids (and kids at heart) that they have the power to create meaningful change in the world while having fun.

Reading facial expressions can be tough enough, but what happens when you throw cultural differences and traditions into the mix?

By Debbie Swanson

For some reason, a lot is made out of a person's last words. Maybe it's expected that they will say something particularly profound, or perhaps offer an apology or a confession of some sort. When it comes to famous people, maybe their adoring fans just want one last piece of celebrity to hang on to. [...] The post 16 Dead Famous People And Their Shocking Last Words appeared first on Goliath.

By Devon Taylor (@DevonTaylor113)

Steve Sansweet gave our crew a guided tour of the amazing displays he brought to Star Wars Celebration Anaheim. From paintings to plushies, the Rancho Obi-Wan booth was stuffed with original creations.

Booth babes are controversial, but have you ever met the people behind the costumes? Find out what it's really like to work at a trade show as a booth actor.

We met with Steve Sansweet at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim to discuss his history with Star Wars and collecting, and find out how Rancho Obi-Wan came to be.

Attending your first con? We've got you covered with 10 essential con survival tips!