Culture & Traditions

Mother's Day is set aside in many countries as a day to honor our mothers and grandmothers. The origin of this day can be traced back much farther than you might think. Learn about the history of this special day.

Becoming a saint in the Roman Catholic Church is designed to be lengthy and difficult process. What are steps involved in canonization?

We have all heard that anytime the thirteenth day of the month falls on a Friday that it is considered an unlucky day. Where did this notion come from? Find out the answer to that question in this article.

Believe it or not, there's more to St. Patrick's Day than beer and gaudy green attire. How do the saint, the shamrocks and the famous Blarney Stone all come together?

By Melissa Russell-Ausley

Did you know that the word "mistletoe" comes from two Anglo-Saxon words meaning "dung" and "twig"? We'll tell you how and why humans decided to kiss under this unfortunately named shrub.

By Barbara Suszynski & Sam Abramson

It's time to unpack the ornaments, string up the popcorn, and yes -- untangle those lights. Plan on piling it all on a fresh Christmas tree? Learn about the different types and how to pick the perfect one.

By Katherine Neer

How did Halloween become the one day of the year when door-to-door begging for candy isn't just allowed - it's encouraged? Get a ghoulish glimpse into the surprising origins of everything from jack-o'-lanterns to trick-or-treating.

By Tom Harris

Americans typically view Labor Day as the official end of summer and a free day off from work. But have you ever stopped to think who was behind it? And why is it celebrated in early September?

By Kathryn Whitbourne

What's the story behind the acronym R.S.V.P.? And what is the proper etiquette when you get an invitation that requests you R.S.V.P.?

By Sarah Gleim

Learn all about the springtime celebration of Easter, from its origins to the (often wacky) worldwide variations in its observance.

By John Airey

It's a Scottish phrase sung all over the world on New Year's Eve, but what does it really mean?

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

When did the Valentine's Day frenzy begin? Was there really a saint named "Valentine"? And why all the flowers and chocolate? Learn all about the origins and symbols of Valentine's Day.

By Kathryn Whitbourne

A fascinating article that explains the techniques and science behind verbal self-defense!

By Suzette Haden Elgin

Have you ever been standing in your living room with a strand of Christmas lights that just won't work? We'll explain why this happens and how one bad bulb can spoil the whole bunch.

By Marshall Brain