Thursday, September 12th, marks the first day of the first month – known as Meskerem – of the new year for both Ethiopia and Eritrea. The name “Enkutatash” translates to “Gift of Jewels” and alludes to a centuries-old tale of Queen of Sheba’s visit to King Solomon. She brought a range of gifts for the […]
Holidays
Holy Week around the World
Holy Week is a time when Christians around the world celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday and marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem before his crucifixion. Palm Sunday is often celebrated with a parade and procession of palm fronds that symbolize those laid at […]
CAI’s Expat Survival Guide for the Holidays
Usually one for embracing change and experiencing new things, knowing that my family at home in the USA was gearing up to celebrate Christmas while I was abroad made me long for the familiarity of home. Watching the days grow shorter and thermostat drop heightened my sense of anticipation for my favorite time of year. […]
Honoring the Dead: Mexico’s Día de los Muertos
By: Ivonne Juraidini Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday that commemorates the lives of deceased loved ones. It is a tradition that originated from indigenous rituals and eventually blended with Catholic elements as a result of Spanish influence. The holiday takes place over two days: November 1st and […]
Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Served
Memorial Day is a federally recognized holiday in the U.S. that honors the valiant men and women who died in service to the United States of America. It is a day on which as a nation, the US stops to recognize those brave men and women who have lost their lives in service to their […]
What is Ramadan
Every year nearly 1.8 billion Muslims around the world partake in a month-long period of fasting during Ramadan. Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is important to note that not all Muslim countries or communities mark the start of Ramadan […]
