The Best Gifts for Columbus Day; Commonwealth Cultural Day
Columbus Day; Commonwealth Cultural Day is a special holiday that can be make more memorable with a well thought out gift. We have come up with some unique ideas for gifts for Columbus Day; Commonwealth Cultural Day along with ways of making the holiday really unique and memorable.
What Is Columbus Day; Commonwealth Cultural Day
Columbus Day and Commonwealth Cultural Day are not the same holiday. Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. Commonwealth Cultural Day is a holiday celebrated on October 10 in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and other countries of the Commonwealth of Nations, honoring their shared heritage.
Columbus Day
Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer, navigator, and colonizer, born in the Republic of Genoa. His expeditions, sponsored by the Spanish King and Queen, were the first European contact with the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. His arrival in the Americas is traditionally celebrated in the United States on Columbus Day, a federal holiday since 1937. Over the years, Columbus Day has become controversial, with many Native American groups and others arguing that it glorifies Columbus’s role in the colonization and oppression of indigenous peoples.
Commonwealth Cultural Day
Commonwealth Cultural Day is a holiday celebrated in Commonwealth countries on October 10 to celebrate their shared history, culture, and values. The Commonwealth is an intergovernmental organization of 56 independent and equal sovereign states that have a common bond with the United Kingdom, either through historical ties or their shared participation in the British Empire.
The holiday was first proposed in 1997 by a group of Commonwealth leaders at a meeting in Edinburgh, Scotland. The idea was to create a day where people could learn about and celebrate the diverse cultures of the Commonwealth. The first Commonwealth Cultural Day was celebrated in 2000, and it has been held annually ever since.
The holiday is celebrated in different ways in different Commonwealth countries. In some countries, there are special cultural events and performances, while in others, people simply take the day off to spend time with family and friends. The day is also an opportunity to reflect on the shared history and values of the Commonwealth and to consider how these can be used to build a better future for all.
Best Gifts For Columbus Day; Commonwealth Cultural Day
Columbus Day Gift Exchange in the United States
In the United States, Columbus Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It is meant to commemorate the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. While many Native American groups and organizations see Columbus Day as a celebration of the colonization and oppression of their ancestors, others across the country still view it as a celebration of Italian-American heritage and culture, and an opportunity to reflect on the history of the Americas.
Popular gifts exchanged on Columbus Day in the United States include:
- Italian-themed gifts such as pasta, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and cookbooks.
- Gifts that celebrate Italian-American culture, such as books about Italian-American history, movies, or music.
- Gifts that represent the Italian flag, such as clothing, home décor, or jewelry in the colors green, white, and red.
- Gifts that celebrate the voyage of Christopher Columbus, such as books, movies, or documentaries about his journey.
Commonwealth Cultural Day Celebrations
Commonwealth Cultural Day is celebrated by the Commonwealth of Nations on the second Monday of March. The holiday celebrates the cultural diversity of the Commonwealth and promotes understanding and friendship among its member countries.
Popular gifts exchanged on Commonwealth Cultural Day include:
- Traditional crafts and souvenirs from different Commonwealth countries.
- Books and music that highlight the culture and history of different Commonwealth countries.
- Clothing and accessories that represent the colors or symbols of different Commonwealth countries.
- Food and drinks that are popular in different Commonwealth countries.
Colombia: Día de la Raza
Colombia celebrates Día de la Raza, or “Day of the Race”, on October 12th. This holiday commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas and the subsequent mixing of cultures between the indigenous peoples and the Spanish colonizers.
Popular gifts exchanged on Día de la Raza in Colombia include:
- Traditional Colombian crafts and souvenirs, such as mochilas (handwoven bags), pottery, and jewelry.
- Food and drinks that are popular in Colombia, such as sancocho (a hearty soup), arepas (corn cakes), and bandeja paisa (a platter of rice, beans, meat, and vegetables).
- Books and music that highlight the culture and history of Colombia.
- Clothing and accessories that represent the colors or symbols of Colombia.
How To Make Columbus Day; Commonwealth Cultural Day More Memorable
Celebrating Columbus Day and Commonwealth Cultural Day:
Columbus Day:
1. Historical Parade:
- Organize a grand parade showcasing the historical significance of Columbus’s voyage and its impact on the Americas. Include floats depicting the ships, explorers, and encounters between European and Indigenous peoples.
2. Educational Workshops:
- Host workshops and seminars where experts discuss the complexities of Columbus’s legacy, the encounters between European and Indigenous peoples, and the lasting impact of colonialism. Encourage open dialogue and critical thinking.
3. Cultural Performances:
- Invite local Indigenous groups and cultural organizations to showcase their traditional dances, music, and storytelling. Create a platform for cultural exchange and understanding.
4. Community Feast:
- Organize a feast inspired by the cuisines of various Indigenous groups encountered by Columbus. Highlight the culinary diversity and richness of the Americas before European contact. Serve traditional dishes and encourage sampling and sharing.
5. Gift Exchange:
- Exchange gifts symbolizing unity, diversity, and mutual respect. Consider items like dreamcatchers, traditional crafts, or artwork representing Indigenous cultures.
Commonwealth Cultural Day:
1. Commonwealth Festival:
- Host a vibrant festival celebrating the diverse cultures within the Commonwealth. Set up stalls representing different countries, showcasing their traditional attire, cuisine, music, and art.
2. Cultural Performances:
- Invite artists, musicians, and dancers from various Commonwealth countries to perform and share their talents. Create a stage for cultural exchange and appreciation.
3. Unity Parade:
- Organize a parade showcasing the unity and diversity of the Commonwealth. Feature flags, traditional costumes, and symbols representing each member country. Encourage community participation and a sense of belonging.
4. Commonwealth Cuisine Night:
- Host a culinary event where chefs from different Commonwealth countries prepare and serve their traditional dishes. Highlight the unique flavors and ingredients that define each cuisine. Encourage attendees to try new foods and appreciate cultural diversity.
5. Commonwealth Gift Exchange:
- Exchange gifts that represent the cultural heritage of each participating country. Consider items like traditional clothing, handicrafts, spices, or books highlighting the country’s history and culture.
