Hiking Thru Cities In History

The Night of the Radishes (Spanish: Noche de Rábanos) is an annual event held on December 23 in Oaxaca, Mexico, dedicated to the carving of oversized radishes (Raphanus sativus) to create scenes that compete for prizes in various categories. Native to China, radishes were introduced to Mexico by the Spanish, particularly by the friars. Over time, the crop became used as a side dish or snack & also carved into decorations for special dishes. In the colonial period, the radishes began to be carved with religious themes in relation to the annual Christmas market held in the city of Oaxaca on December 23, with the encouragement of priests. The carvings were a marketing gimmick, with farmers using them to attract the attention of shoppers in the market in the city plaza. Eventually people began buying the radishes not only to eat, but to create centerpieces for Christmas dinners.

One of the oldest Christmas traditions of the Ukrainian people is the Christmas dinner on December 24. There should be 12 fasting meals on the table on this day, prepared without butter, milk, eggs, sour cream, and meat. Why exactly 12 and not 5, 10 or 13? According to one of the versions, the number 12 is the number of the sun worshiped by our ancestors. Still, according to ancient Christian tradition, this symbolizes the 12 apostles of Christ. So, we purposely figure out why each of the 12 dishes is so important and meaningful.

Christmas in Poland is a major annual celebration. The observance of Christmas developed gradually over the centuries, beginning in ancient times; combining old Polish pagan customs with the religious ones introduced after the Christianization of Poland by the Catholic Church. Later influences include the mutual permeating of local traditions and various folk cultures. It is one of the most important religious holidays for Poles, who follow a somewhat strict traditional custom. Christmas trees are decorated and lit in family rooms on the day of Christmas Eve. Other trees are placed in most public areas and outside churches. Christmas in Poland is called "Boże Narodzenie", which translates to 'God's Birth'. The Wigilia feast begins at the appearance of the first star. There is no red meat served but fish, usually carp. The supper can sometimes last for over 2 hours. It is followed by the exchange of gifts. The next day, Christmas Day, is often spent visiting friends.