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Culture & Traditions
Cultures and Traditions takes a look at how people interact with each other. This might be through sub-cultures, relationships, fads or religion and spirituality.
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Why Do We Say 'Holy Cow'?
The Hindu religion considers cows holy. But that's certainly not why we utter the expression. So what's the story behind it?
What's So American About Apple Pie?
Baseball, hot dogs, mom and apple pie. Of all these iconically American things, the apple pie holds a special place in the lexicon of American symbolism, but why?
Get to Know the Greek Alphabet, From Alpha to Omega
Even if you hardly know your beta from your zeta, chances are you've used Greek letters at some point in your life. What are they and why are they so common?
There's a Pooping Man in the Catalan Nativity Scene
The typical manger scene features Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and an assortment of animals. But in Catalonia, Spain, there is one more character: a figure with his pants down taking a poop. But why?
A Heavenly Angels Quiz
Halos and robes and wings are how most people think of angels, but these heavenly beings are actually a lot more complex than their popular image. How much do you know about angels' roles, ranks and responsibilities? Take our quiz to find out!
10 Ways to Liven Up Your White Elephant Gift Exchange
White elephant. Mean Santa. Yankee swap. These are the holiday parties we live for. But if it feels like yours is getting a bit tired, we've got 10 rules to liven it up this year.
How Obituaries Went from Dry Death Notices to Tributes to Truth
Obituaries do more than just let the world know someone died. They're a chance to pay tribute to someone, advocate for a cause or even settle a score.
Pope to List Nuclear Weapons as Immoral After Visiting Japan
It's one thing to say it. It's another thing to update the church's official instruction book.
'Franglais' on the Rise, Say French Language Watchdogs
And it's expressions like 'fake news' (instead of information fallacieuse) and 'cool! that are to blame.
What's the Difference? Quiz
Does anyone really know the difference between an alligator and a crocodile? Or a hurricane and a cyclone? You're about to learn with the answers to this quiz!
Use of the Exclamation Point Has Exploded!
Once this skinny mark of excitement was mainly the provenance of excited teenage girls and inexperienced novelists. But now we're all peppering our sentences with exclamation marks. Is this a good thing?
5 Wild and Wacky Takes on the Advent Calendar
These Advent calendars give new meaning to the phrase "countdown to Christmas." Plus, where did the Advent calendar come from? And what are some of the more unusual takes on it?
What Is a Mandala? (No, Not Nelson. That's Mandela)
The intricate, circular design of the mandala is used in many religions and cultures to symbolically represent the cosmos and the organizational structure of life itself.
Ultimate Guide to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Although there will be no crowds of onlookers this year, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade still marches on. Find out more about the beloved holiday tradition.
Military Funerals Give Service Members and Families One Final Salute
Military funeral honors, involving a flag presentation and the playing of taps, can be very meaningful to the families of loved ones who served in the U.S. military. Who is eligible and how do you request these honors?
What on Earth Were They Talking About? A Quote Quiz
You might know the quote but do you know what the speaker was referring to? See how many of these famous quips or disses you recognize.
5 Fun Facts About the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City may be an iconic symbol of the holidays, but how well do you know this tree-dition?
10 Lively Facts About the Day of the Dead
Day of the Dead is not a Mexican version of Halloween. It's a celebration of life — both here and beyond — when the souls of the departed come home for feasting and fun. Here's how it started.
What Does It Mean When Someone Says 'That's Just Semantics'?
In our modern vernacular, the phrase "that's just semantics" has somehow become shorthand to insinuate the speaker has argued something trivial or unimportant. But what does it really mean?
Flying on Halloween? You Can Wear a Costume!
When your broomstick just won't do, and you're forced to fly the "friendly skies," at least you can feel safe knowing you can still show up dressed to kill.
Ghana's Fantasy Coffins Are to Die For
Many Ghanians honor their dead by burying them in vibrant works of art made by skillful master carpenters. These fantasy coffins are shaped like everything from elaborate fish and lions to limos and even sneakers.
Celebrate Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights
This fall festival is about food, faith, lights and gifts. But please don't call it an Indian Hanukkah.
The Legend of the Mysterious Night Marchers of Hawaii
They're ghostly warriors who stride through jungles and towns in brilliant costumes, holding torches. Flee now or risk their wrath.
'Scatter Days' Get Uncle Joe's Ashes Out of the Closet
Several crematoriums around the U.S. are holding days when people may scatter ashes of loved ones on the grounds of the funeral home – or otherwise dispose of them – for free.
Messy Legacy of Columbus Threatens Columbus Day Holiday
As more states are swapping Columbus Day celebrations for Indigenous Peoples' Day observances, does Columbus Day still have any relevancy?
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