#Mexican Calendar Art

[sonadorayluchadora]

Ugh I love these

[the-first-man-is-a-cat]

Details of “Codex Laud”, an undated Mexican calendorial manuscript depicting rituals used in divination.

© Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford

[ometochtli2rabbit]

december 17/ 13.0.12.2.19 ka'a[2] K'AWAK\KAWOQ - ka'a[2] K'ANKIN/ ome[2] - QUIAHUITL

[mirrorbuns]

Septiembre, el mes que hace que retiemble nuestro corazón y también uno muy patrio, por eso mostraremos nuestros vestidos bonitos una vez más con el nuevo calendario fuuu! te gustan nuestros colores?

September, the month that make our hearts shake with love for our country, that's why we're using our wonderfull dresses once more to display our new calendar fuuu! do you like our colours?

[thesnakeoutsider]

I call this ✨improvement. ✨

The Johnny piece was the first fan art I did for @scientificallywrongsoap A YEAR AGO! The other two are the last ones. From yesterday.

The Jack/ Glitch one is my prof that now I can play more freely with textures and non realistic styles.

But, the 7-1 ft WZ in the Aurrerá? Thats my career peak. A master piece. It has my soul. Is at the same level that my Mexican Goku calendar. Chef kiss. I’m gonna print that one in a tabloid and hang it on my wall. 😂

And you may ask yourself. Why are they in the Aurrerá if the soaps are British and Glitch American? Well… Soap speaks Spanish and 7-1 worked with Valeria and The Cartel, so is undeniable that he knows the Aurrerá. Y a mi se me dio la gana. And it was fun to make in live with other Mexican lil beans that get the joke.

Next one? König en el Mercado? Ghost learning about enfrijoladas ? Swagger eating tierrita de San Juan? I don’t know we will get there eventually. 🤣

EDIT: if you like what you see… stalk with confidence. I have more fan art ✨ (and I will upload others that are just posted on TT and a few that are still in my drafts 🤭)

[queerasfact]

Queer Calendar 2023

We put together a calendar of key (mostly queer) dates at the start of the year to help us with scheduling - so I thought I’d share it around! Including pride and visibility days, some queer birthdays and anniversaries, and a few other bits and bobs. Click the links for more info - I dream one day of having a queer story for every day of the year!

This is obviously not an exhaustive list - if I’ve overlooked something important to you, feel free to add it in the reblogs!

January

3 - Bisexual American jazz-age heiress Henrietta Bingham born 1901

8 - Queer Australian bushranger Captain Moonlite born 1845; gay American art collector Ned Warren born 1860

11 - Pennsylvania celebrates Rosetta Tharpe Day in honour of bisexual musician Rosetta Tharpe

12 - Japanese lesbian author Nobuko Yoshiya born 1896

22 - Lunar New Year (Year of the Rabbit)

24 - Roman emperor Hadrian, famous for his relationship with Antinous, born 76CE; gay Prussian King Frederick the Great born 1712

27 - International Holocaust Remembrance Day

February

LGBT+ History Month (UK, Hungary)

Black History Month (USA and Canada)

1 - Feast of St Brigid, a saint especially important to Irish queer women

5 - Operation Soap, a police raid on gay bathhouses in Toronto, Canada, spurs massive protests, 1981

7 - National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (USA)

18 - US Black lesbian writer and activist Audre Lorde born 1934

12 - National Freedom to Marry Day (USA)

19-25 - Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week

March

Women’s History Month

1 - Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day

8 - International Women’s Day

9 - Bi British writer David Garnett born 1892

12 - Bi Polish-Russian ballet dancer Vaslav Nijinsky born 1889 or 1890

13 March-15 April - Deaf History Month

14 - American lesbian bookseller and publisher Sylvia Beach born 1887

16 - French lesbian artist Rosa Bonheur born 1822

20 - Bi US musician Rosetta Tharpe born 1915

21 - World Poetry Day

24 - The Wachowski sisters’ cyberpunk trans allegory The Matrix premiers 1999

April

Jazz Appreciation Month

Black Women’s History Month

National Poetry Month (USA)

3 - British lesbian diarist Anne Lister born 1791

8 - Trans British racing driver and fighter pilot Roberta Cowell born 1918

9 -  Bi Australia poet Lesbia Harford born 1891; Easter Sunday

10 - National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (USA)

14 - Day of Silence

15 - Queer Norwegian photographer and suffragist Marie Høeg born 1866

17 - Costa-Rican-Mexican lesbian singer Chavela Vargas born 1919

21-22 - Eid al-Fitr

25 - Gay English King Edward II born 1284

26 - Lesbian Day of Visibility; bi American blues singer Ma Rainey born 1886

29 - International Dance Day

30 - International Jazz Day

May

1 - Trans British doctor and Buddhist monk Michael Dillon born 1915

7 - International Family Equality Day

7 - Gay Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky born 1840

15 - Australian drag road-trip comedy The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert premiers in 1994

 17 - IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia)

18 - International Museum Day

19 - Agender Pride Day

22 - US lesbian tailor and poet Charity Bryant born 1777

22 - Harvey Milk Day marks the birth of gay US politician Harvey Milk 1930

23 - Premier of Pride, telling the story of the 1980s British activist group Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners

24 - Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day; Queer Chinese-Japanese spy Kawashima Yoshiko born 1907

26 - queer American astronaut Sally Ride born 1951

29 - Taiwanese lesbian writer Qiu Miaojin born 1969

June

Pride Month

Indigenous History Month (Canada)

3 - Bisexual American-French performer, activist and WWII spy Josephine Baker born 1906

5 - Queer Spanish playwright and poet Federico García Lorca born 1898; bi English economic John Maynard Keynes born 1883

8 - Mechanic and founder of Australia’s first all-female garage, Alice Anderson, born 1897

10 - Bisexual Israeli poet Yona Wallach born 1944

12 - Pulse Night of Remembrance, commemorating the 2012 shooting at the Pulse nightclub, Orlando

14 - Australian activists found the Gay and Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Sea Islands in 2004

18 - Sally Ride becomes the first know queer woman in space

24 - The first Sydney Mardi Gras 1978

25 - The rainbow flag first flown as a queer symbol in 1978

28 - Stonewall Riots, 1969

28 June-2 July - Eid al-Adha

30 - Gay German-Israeli activist, WWII resistance member and Holocaust survivor Gad Beck born 1923

July

1 - Gay Dutch WWII resistance fighter Willem Arondeus killed - his last words were “Tell the people homosexuals are no cowards”

2-9 - NAIDOC Week (Australia) celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture

6 - Bi Mexican artist Frida Kahlo born 1907

12 or 13 - Roman emperor Julius Caesar born c.100BCE

14 - International Non-Binary People’s Day

23 - Shelly Bauman, owner of Seattle gay club Shelly’s Leg, born 1947; American lesbian cetenarian Ruth Ellis born 1899; gay American professor, tattooist and sex researcher Sam Steward born 1909

25 - Italian-Australian trans man Harry Crawford born 1875

August

8 - International Cat Day

9 - Queer Finnish artist, author and creator of Moomins Tove Jansson born 1914

9 - International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

11 - Russian lesbian poet Sofya Parnok born 1885

12 - Queer American blues musician Gladys Bentley born 1907

13 - International Left-Handers Day

22 - Gay WWII Dutch resistance fight Willem Arondeus born 1894

24 - Trans American drag queen and activist Marsha P Johnson born 1945

26 - National Dog Day

30 - Bi British author Mary Shelley 1797

31 - Wear it Purple Day (Australia - queer youth awareness)

September

5 - Frontman of Queen Freddie Mercury born 1946

6 - Trans Scottish doctor and farmer Ewan Forbes born 1912

13 - 1990 documentary on New York’s ball culture Paris is Burning premiers

15-17 - Rosh Hashanah

16-23 - Bisexual Awareness Week

17 - Gay Prussian-American Inspector General of the US Army Baron von Steuben born 1730

23 - Celebrate Bisexuality Day

24 - Gay Australian artist William Dobell born 1889

30 - International Podcast Day

October

Black History Month (Europe)

4 - World Animal Day

5 - National Poetry Day (UK)

5 - Queer French diplomat and spy the Chevalière d’Éon born 1728

8 - International Lesbian Day

9 - Indigenous Peoples’ Day (USA)

11 - National Coming Out Day

16 - Irish writer Oscar Wilde born 1854

18 - International Pronouns Day

22-28 - Asexual Awareness Week

26 - Intersex Awareness Day

31 - American lesbian tailor Sylvia Drake born 1784

November

8 - Intersex Day of Remembrance

12 - Diwali; Queer Mexican nun Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz born c.1648

13-19 - Transgender Awareness Week

20 - Trans American writer, lawyer, activist and priest Pauli Murray born 1910; Transgender Day of Remembrance

27 - Antinous, lover of the Roman emperor Hadrian, born c.111; German lesbian drama Mädchen in Uniform premiers, 1931

29 - Queer American writer Louisa May Alcott born 1832

December

AIDS Awareness Month

1 - World AIDS Day

2 - International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

3 - International Day of Persons with Disabilities

8 - Pansexual Pride Day; queer Swedish monarch Christina of Sweden born 1626

10 - Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners host Pits and Perverts concern to raise mining for striking Welsh miners, 1984

14 - World Monkey Day

15 - Roman emperor Nero born 37CE

24 - American drag king and bouncer Stormé DeLarverie born 1920

25 - Christmas

29 - Trans American jazz musician Billy Tipton born 1914

[richincolor]

Most Anticipated Reads of May 2023

I know I say this every time I write about my TBR, but holy crap -- there is so much good stuff coming out in the next month or so. I am not kidding! Have you seen it? Take a peek at our Release Calendar if you don't believe me. It was super hard to pick what is at the very top of my to-read pile, but I did indeed manage to pull it off. So here is what I'm really looking forward to reading in May:

Ander & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa -- Out May 2

Aristotle and Dante meets The Hate U Give meets The Sun Is Also A Star: A stunning YA contemporary love story about a Mexican-American teen who falls in love with an undocumented Mexican boy. Finding home. Falling in love. Fighting to belong.

The Santos Vista neighborhood of San Antonio, Texas, is all Ander Martínez has ever known. The smell of pan dulce. The mixture of Spanish and English filling the streets. And, especially their job at their family's taquería. It's the place that has inspired Ander as a muralist, and, as they get ready to leave for art school, it's all of these things that give them hesitancy. That give them the thought, are they ready to leave it all behind?

To keep Ander from becoming complacent during their gap year, their family "fires" them so they can transition from restaurant life to focusing on their murals and prepare for college. That is, until they meet Santiago López Alvarado, the hot new waiter. Falling for each other becomes as natural as breathing. Through Santi's eyes, Ander starts to understand who they are and want to be as an artist, and Ander becomes Santi's first steps toward making Santos Vista and the United States feel like home. Until ICE agents come for Santi, and Ander realizes how fragile that sense of home is. How love can only hold on so long when the whole world is against them. And when, eventually, the world starts to win.

Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee -- Out May 16

Heartstopper meets Crazy Rich Asians in this heartfelt, joyful paperback original rom-com that follows an aspiring chef who discovers the recipe for love is more complicated than it seems when he starts fake-dating a handsome new customer.

Dylan Tang wants to win a Mid-Autumn Festival mooncake-making competition for teen chefs—in memory of his mom, and to bring much-needed publicity to his aunt’s struggling Chinese takeout in Brooklyn. Enter Theo Somers: charming, wealthy, with a smile that makes Dylan’s stomach do backflips. AKA a distraction. Their worlds are sun-and-moon apart, but Theo keeps showing up. He even convinces Dylan to be his fake date at a family wedding in the Hamptons.

In Theo’s glittering world of pomp, privilege, and crazy rich drama, their romance is supposed to be just pretend . . . but Dylan finds himself falling for Theo. For real. Then Theo’s relatives reveal their true colors—but with the mooncake contest looming, Dylan can’t risk being sidetracked by rich-people problems. Can Dylan save his family’s business and follow his heart—or will he fail to do both?

Transmogrify!: 14 Fantastical Tales of Trans Magic by g. haron davis -- Out May 16

Perfect for fans of All Out and Cemetery Boys, this anthology claims a seat at the table of fantasy literature for trans and gender nonconforming stories.

Transness is as varied and colorful as magic can be. In Transmogrify!, you’ll embark on fourteen different adventures alongside unforgettable characters who embody many different genders and expressions and experiences—because magic is for everyone, and that is cause for celebration.

Featuring stories from: AR Capetta and Cory McCarthy g. haron davis Mason Deaver Jonathan Lenore Kastin Emery Lee Saundra Mitchell Cam Montgomery Ash Nouveau Sonora Reyes Renee Reynolds Dove Salvatierra Ayida Shonibar Francesca Tacchi Nik Traxler

[desolateice]

Rewrite from “Buku Buku Cha”

This is a short part I changed before chapter 20 was published where Chozen comes to the California. The flight from Okinawa to LA is about 13 hours and any time I travel that long I generally want a shower first thing or take a nap and not necessarily go out... so I changed it to what was published. 😅

Johnny had picked out the best bouquet he could, he washed and waxed the Avanti so it sparkled in the LA sun.

He’d circled the day on the calendar and had spent all his time counting down.

His mom kept reminding him to focus on schoolwork, it was part of the deal. He still had to graduate, even if his boyfriend was coming. But she was smiling anyway.

He waited impatiently with his bouquet in arrivals at LAX, straining to see everyone getting off the plane.

He spotted Chozen, wearing sunglasses like his uncle usually wore and it took everything in Johnny not to rush to him, to run down the gate towards him.

He smiled warmly when Chozen’s eyes met him, taking off his sunglasses, pushing them up into his hair and Johnny held out the bouquet thrusting it towards Chozen.

“Haisai,” Chozen said warmly taking them.

“Haisai,” Johnny said, he took Chozen’s arm, gently hooking it through his.

 He wanted to hug him, embrace him but it was crowded and his heart was pounding so fast in his chest that the best he could do was put one foot in front of the other in an effort to not trip over his own feet and walk with Chozen.

He couldn’t believe Chozen was there.

Finally.

Together again.

He had a million questions.

He wanted to know how everyone was doing.

How graduation had gone?

What had they all done?

They picked up Chozen’s luggage and Johnny was adamant about carrying it out to his Avanti. He needed a distraction before he started blabbering the way Daniel did sometimes.

“The Avanti,” Chozen said, breathed, running his fingers along the side.

He smiled, proud of the car, glad he’d gotten his license again. It was a beautiful sunny California day and having Chozen next to him, having the chance to show him around made him so happy and nervous.

Partway through the drive, Chozen reached out, gently taking Johnny’s hand in his, lifting it to his lips. “It’s good to see you.”

“I missed you so much,” Johnny breathed.

He wanted to just be somewhere, to sit with Chozen.

He wanted to kiss him. But holding his hand was nice too.

He took Chozen to an In-N-Out Burger and Chozen laughed, walking with him, studying the menu. “So, now that you’ve eaten all the Okinawan foods you’re going to have me eat all the American foods?’

“That’s the plan,” Johnny said. “I’ve made a list. Burgers here and animal fries and a shake or something and then I’ve got a Mexican restaurant for us to go to, and there’s some pizza and American style Chinese food and—“

“Not all today I hope,” Chozen said.

“I mean if you’re up for the challenge we can try.”

“No way, also please say there’s something green mixed in somewhere. I need some vegetables.”

“You can get lettuce, tomato and onion on your burger,” Johnny said.

Chozen laughed softly. “You know that’s not what I meant.”

“Don’t worry, mom loves vegetables, the house is full of them. You can have a carrot with breakfast if you want.”

“Now I know you’re teasing me.”

Johnny grinned, putting in their order, pleased that this time he could show Chozen around and that he’d learned enough that he could. That thanks to the guys he knew how to make his way around LA, that he knew what was good to try, what was popular.

“I also thought,” Johnny said leaning against the wall while they waited for the food. “We could go to the mall, the movies, the art museums, there’s a popular arcade and game place called Golf N Stuff—“

“Is there just a lot of “N” places?” Chozen asked amused getting their tray of food when it came out, walking with Johnny to a booth.

Johnny tilted his head thoughtfully. “I don’t know. There’s also a lot of botanical gardens that I thought would be nice, zoos and stuff. We could go swimming at the beach too if you want.”

“I’m happy to go on any and all the dates you want to,” Chozen said softly, a warm smile that made Johnny’s stomach fill with butterflies.

[mexicocasestudy]

Letter 9

Hi Guys,

How have you been recently? Please take care of yourselves. It's that time of year where everyone is sick. So, take your vitamins and medicine. Stay healthy out there!!

This week I learned about Mexico’s education system. The education system in Mexico has a unique blend of culture, government policy, and challenges. Education in Mexico is free and mandatory through upper-secondary school, which covers about 12 years in total: six years of primary school, three years of secondary school, and three years of upper-secondary education. The school term starts in September and ends in July. Also, the public schools are tuition-free, but families must pay for uniforms, school supplies, and sometimes transportation. The cost can create a burden for families, especially for low-income families, leading to disparities in attendance and completion rates between urban and rural areas. I wish there were more programs or facilities that could help families close the gap in cost. I remember when I was growing up there was a program where twice a year the school would take a large group of kids shopping. Generally, for clothes and other necessary items (glasses, shoes, etc.) and it would be free for the families involved. It was similar to a field trip. I wonder if Mexico has something similar and if it would help with those disparities?

Private schools exist in Mexico too, but they cater to a smaller portion of the population and are chosen by families that are looking for specialized or higher-quality education. They’re generally more resource intensive and often seen as a privilege for those who can afford them. I feel like most private schools are similar.

What does a typical school day look like? I’ll describe it to you. A typical school day in Mexico is organized into two shifts or periods because of the large number of students. Morning shifts start at 8:00 AM and end at 1:00 PM and afternoon shifts begin around 2:00 PM and end at 7:00 PM. With the broken-up schedule many students end up being homeschooled as well. Classes run five days a week on a 200-day school calendar. The subjects taught in Mexico’s schools highlight the country’s values and traditions. Core subjects include Spanish, Math, Natural Sciences, and Social Studies, and English becoming a required subject in secondary schools. There’s also a strong emphasis on arts and physical education. In areas with indigenous populations, schools often include bilingual programs that teach both Spanish and local languages, preserving cultural heritage. Compared to the U.S., Mexican schools focus more on regional history and civics, aiming to foster national pride and community. This reflects the country’s emphasis on inclusivity and cultural preservation.

Not many high school graduates move onto higher education. Urban students tend to have better access to universities, while rural students often face economic or geographic hurdles. Gender also plays a role in pursuing a higher education. Women in rural areas sometimes face societal pressures that make continuing their education difficult, and young men often must work to support their families. College graduation rates in Mexico are lower than in many developed nations.

Mexican education system face challenges such as like high dropout rates in rural areas, underfunding, and disparities in the quality of education. The government has introduced scholarships to address these issues, but their implementation has faced mixed reviews from citizens.

Learning about Mexico’s education system has given me a deeper appreciation for how the U.S. goes about education, but Mexico’s culture and policy are interesting in how they intersect to shape young minds. Despite its challenges, it’s clear that there’s a strong commitment to equity and preserving Mexico’s rich cultural identity.

I’m excited to hear your thoughts. Please write back soon.

Sincerely, Hailey

Sources

Education System in Mexico: Facts and Problems - Mexico Daily Post: https://mexicodailypost.com/2022/09/22/education-system-in-mexico-facts-and-problems/.

Your Guide to the School System in Mexico (2023) - Pacific Prime Latin America: https://www.pacificprime.lat/blog/education-in-mexico-your-guide-to-the-school-system-in-mexico-2023/.

Mexican Education Overview - Wise: https://wise.com/us/blog/mexican-education-overview.

[bigchileinnsuite]

How to Enjoy a Budget-Friendly Stay in Las Cruces

Las Cruces, with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking both adventure and affordability. If you're looking for a cheap stay in Las Cruces, you can enjoy all the city has to offer without stretching your budget. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget-friendly stay.

1. Choose the Right Accommodations

When searching for a cheap stay in Las Cruces, consider staying at places like Big Chile Inn & Suites. This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, essential amenities, and convenient access to local attractions. By selecting the right accommodations, you can save money while enjoying a comfortable experience.

2. Explore Local Dining Options

Eating out can quickly add up, but Las Cruces is filled with affordable dining options. Seek out local diners, food trucks, and casual eateries for delicious meals without the hefty price tag. Don’t miss trying some authentic New Mexican cuisine for an unforgettable culinary experience.

3. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Las Cruces boasts a variety of free or low-cost attractions. Spend a day exploring the beautiful outdoor spaces like Dripping Springs Natural Area or the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. These scenic spots offer hiking and stunning views without costing a dime, making them perfect for a budget-friendly adventure.

4. Plan Your Activities Wisely

Researching free events and activities in advance can enhance your stay without impacting your wallet. Check local calendars for festivals, art walks, or community events happening during your visit. Many of these activities are family-friendly and provide a great way to experience the local culture.

5. Utilize Discounts and Promotions

Don’t forget to look for discounts and promotions when planning your visit. Websites like Groupon often feature deals for local attractions and dining. Additionally, booking your stay directly with hotels like Big Chile Inn & Suites can lead to better rates and special offers, ensuring a cheap stay in Las Cruces.

6. Consider Off-Peak Travel

Traveling during off-peak seasons can significantly lower your costs. Las Cruces experiences fewer tourists during certain times of the year, which often means lower hotel rates and better availability. By planning your trip for these quieter times, you can find a cheap stay in Las Cruces and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

7. Make Use of Public Transportation

Using public transportation or rideshare services can help you save money on getting around. Las Cruces has a public bus system that’s affordable and can take you to many popular spots in the city. This is a great way to explore while keeping your budget intact.

Conclusion

Enjoying a cheap stay in Las Cruces is entirely possible with a little planning and creativity. By choosing budget-friendly accommodations like Big Chile Inn & Suites, exploring local dining, taking advantage of free attractions, and looking for discounts, you can experience all that this vibrant city has to offer without breaking the bank. Happy travels!

[thrifty-lovely]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Wood Magnets, Senorita calendar girls Set/4 NEW.

[ometochtli2rabbit]

december 10/ 13.0.12.2.12 waxak[8] EB\E'E- jojlajun[15] MAC/ chicuei[8] - MALINALLI [grass]

Patecatl:Tlaloc:Centeotl:Xiuhtecuhtli

[annaking0011]

Discovering the Cultural Heart of Merced, California: Festivals and Events You Shouldn't Miss.

Nestled in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley, Merced is a vibrant city brimming with cultural diversity and a rich history that translates into a year-round calendar of festivals and events. These gatherings reflect the community's varied cultural tapestry and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the soul of the city. From lively street fairs to traditional celebrations, here are some cultural festivals and events in Merced, California, that you shouldn’t miss.

Merced County Fair

One of the most anticipated events in Merced is the Merced County Fair, held annually in June. This week-long celebration is a quintessential American fair that showcases the region’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, including livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, and delicious fair food. The fair also features arts and crafts exhibits, showcasing the creativity and talent within the community. The Merced County Fair is a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone, making it a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.

Merced Shakespearefest

Every summer, theater enthusiasts flock to the Merced Open Air Theatre for the annual Merced Shakespearefest. This event brings the timeless works of William Shakespeare to life in a beautiful outdoor setting. The festival aims to make Shakespeare’s plays accessible to all, offering free performances that encourage audience participation and engagement. The productions are known for their high quality and creative interpretations, making the Merced Shakespearefest a must-visit for lovers of literature and theater.

Merced Dia de los Muertos

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a deeply rooted Mexican tradition that celebrates and honors deceased loved ones. In Merced, this vibrant festival is held annually in early November. The event features beautifully decorated altars, traditional music and dance performances, and a colorful parade. Local artists and community members come together to create stunning displays and offer workshops on traditional crafts like sugar skull decorating and papel picado. The Merced Dia de los Muertos is a poignant and festive celebration that offers insight into Mexican culture and traditions.

Capoeira Festival

The Capoeira Festival is a unique event in Merced that celebrates the Brazilian martial art of capoeira, which combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. Held in the spring, the festival includes workshops, demonstrations, and performances by local and international capoeira masters. Participants have the opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of capoeira, as well as to try their hand at this dynamic art form. The festival also features live Brazilian music and food, creating an immersive cultural experience for attendees.

Hmong New Year Celebration

Merced is home to a significant Hmong community, and the annual Hmong New Year Celebration is one of the city’s most vibrant cultural events. Taking place in late November or early December, this festival marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year in Hmong culture. The celebration includes traditional music and dance performances, sports competitions, and a variety of traditional foods. Visitors can also explore booths selling Hmong clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. The Hmong New Year Celebration is a colorful and joyful event that highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Hmong people.

Merced Multicultural Arts Center (MAC) Events

The Merced Multicultural Arts Center (MAC) is a hub for the arts in Merced, offering a diverse range of cultural events throughout the year. The center hosts art exhibitions, live performances, workshops, and film screenings that celebrate the cultural diversity of the community. One of the standout events is the annual “Playhouse Merced” series, which features theatrical productions ranging from classic plays to contemporary works. The MAC also organizes cultural festivals that showcase music, dance, and culinary traditions from around the world. These events provide a platform for local artists and performers to share their talents and foster cultural exchange.

Merced Greek Festival

For a taste of Mediterranean culture, the Merced Greek Festival is an event not to be missed. Held every summer, this festival celebrates Greek heritage with traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Visitors can enjoy live performances by Greek musicians and dancers, sample authentic dishes like gyros, souvlaki, and baklava, and participate in traditional Greek dances. The festival also features a marketplace where attendees can purchase Greek crafts and products. The Merced Greek Festival is a lively and welcoming event that offers a delightful cultural experience for all ages.

Merced Symphony Orchestra Concerts

The Merced Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is a cornerstone of the city’s cultural scene, offering a season of concerts that span a variety of musical genres. The orchestra’s performances feature classical masterpieces, contemporary works, and collaborations with guest artists from around the world. The MSO’s annual holiday concert is a highlight, bringing festive music to the community and creating a magical atmosphere. The orchestra also engages in outreach programs to introduce young people to classical music, making its concerts an enriching experience for audiences of all ages.

Merced Art Hop

The Merced Art Hop is a bi-monthly event that transforms downtown Merced into a vibrant art scene. Local artists and galleries open their doors to the public, showcasing a wide range of artworks including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media. The Art Hop also features live music, food vendors, and interactive art activities, creating a festive atmosphere that encourages community engagement with the arts. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover the local art scene, meet artists, and support the creative community in Merced.

Conclusion

Merced, California, is a city that thrives on its cultural diversity and vibrant community spirit. The festivals and events held throughout the year offer a unique window into the traditions, arts, and heritage of the city’s diverse population. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these cultural celebrations provide an opportunity to connect with the community, learn about different cultures, and enjoy a rich tapestry of experiences. From the lively Merced County Fair to the poignant Dia de los Muertos, Merced’s cultural festivals and events are a testament to the city’s dynamic and inclusive character.

[billydavis2244]

Exploring the Vibrant Nightlife of Winter Garden, Florida: Bars, Music Venues, and More.

Winter Garden, Florida, may be known for its charming historic downtown and scenic beauty, but when the sun sets, the city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to locals and visitors alike. From cozy bars to lively music venues, there's something for everyone to enjoy after dark in Winter Garden, Florida.

Plant Street Market: Located in the heart of downtown Winter Garden, Plant Street Market is a bustling hub of activity both day and night. In the evenings, the market transforms into a lively gathering spot with its selection of craft beer and wine bars. Visitors can grab a drink and stroll through the market, sampling artisanal foods and enjoying live music performances.

The Attic Door: Tucked away above a historic building on Plant Street, The Attic Door offers a unique nightlife experience in Winter Garden. This intimate wine bar features a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine with friends or a romantic evening out. The Attic Door often hosts live music events, showcasing local talent from the Winter Garden area.

Crooked Can Brewing Company: Craft beer enthusiasts won't want to miss Crooked Can Brewing Company, located in the Plant Street Market. This brewery is known for its delicious selection of handcrafted beers, brewed on-site using only the finest ingredients. Visitors can relax in the spacious taproom or enjoy their brews al fresco on the outdoor patio.

The Whole Enchilada: For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine and a lively atmosphere, head to The Whole Enchilada on Winter Garden's Main Street. This popular restaurant and bar serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and, of course, margaritas. With its vibrant décor and friendly staff, The Whole Enchilada is the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.

Winter Garden Music Festivals: Throughout the year, Winter Garden plays host to a variety of music festivals and events that showcase local and regional talent. From jazz and blues to rock and country, there's always something happening in Winter Garden for music lovers of all tastes. Be sure to check the event calendar to see what's happening during your visit.

The Tasting Room: Located just steps away from Plant Street Market, The Tasting Room offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying fine wines and craft cocktails. This elegant lounge features an extensive selection of wines from around the world, as well as a menu of creative cocktails crafted by expert mixologists.

Live Theater Performances: Winter Garden is home to several theaters and performing arts venues that host live performances throughout the year. From Broadway musicals to local productions, there's always something exciting happening on stage in Winter Garden. Check the schedule and plan a night out at the theater for a memorable experience.

In conclusion, Winter Garden, Florida, offers a diverse and exciting nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and interests. Whether you're looking for a cozy wine bar, a lively brewery, or a night of live music and entertainment, you'll find it all in Winter Garden. So why not venture out after dark and discover the vibrant nightlife this charming city has to offer?

[stephanieinge]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Mayan Chess Set Handmade, Mayan Art Mexican Culture 7" × 7".

[bestgla4u]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: AZTEC CALENDAR ZAREBSKI Original Malachite Wall Sculpture 17"D.