Straw Bear Festival
What country does the Straw Bear Festival take place in?
A. England
B. Germany
C. India
A. England!
What month is groundhog day?
A. March
B. February
C. November?
B. February
What year did the American Colonies break their ties from Britain?
A. 1776
B. 1994
C. 1200
A. 1776!
Independence Day marks the historic date in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress.
Where does the concept of Halloween stem from?
A. Ireland
B. America
C. Japan
A. Ireland!
The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.
What is the Alter called where families in Mexico display their loved ones who passed on?
An Ofrenda!
They decorate it with candy, flowers, photographs, samples of the deceased’s favorite foods and drinks, and freshwater. Often, a wash basin and towel are left out so that the spirit can wash before indulging in the feast.
How far back does the Straw Bear Tradition go?
A.1500's
B. 20 Years ago
C. 1880's
C. 1880'S!
Why a Groundhog?
They go into hibernation and come out of their sleep during the end of the winter season. The fact that he'd bother to leave his hideaway is a natural sign of spring to come!
How does India celebrate their independence from Britain?
They celebrate by by conducting various cultural programs on TV,, starting from a flag hoisting ceremony and singing their National Anthem and numerous patriotic songs. The cultural events include games and dancing, singing, and painting competitions. The Army has a ceremony every year to honor the soldiers who fought for their independence.
What did people believe happened during Samhain?
It was marked by great gatherings and feasts. It was believed to be when the ancient burial mounds were open and portals to the Otherworld were visible. It was celebrated to welcomed the end of summer harvest and ushered in “the dark half of the year”.
What is Halloween called in Poland?
A. Zadupi
B. Zaduski
C. Zalumi
B. Zaduski!
The word Zaduszki can be roughly translated into English as "the day of prayers for the souls"
Why did people start dressing up as the Straw Bear?
As they had not been working or paid during the Christmas holidays the agricultural workers and “ploughboys” toured the locality to perform molly dances, plough-plays or sing and entertain with acts of “mischief” and would beg for money.
Which group of people brought over their Groundhog traditions to America?
A. French
B. Dutch
C. Spanish
B. The Dutch! They were known to be the largest settlers in Pennsylvania back in the early 1800's.
What is Independence Day called in Canada?
Canada day!
Why would people wear masks/costumes during Samhain?
It was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth and would take the lives of the weak. They would wear masks to hide their true identity from the “ghosts”.
What do cemeteries look like in Poland during their Halloween?
They are lit up with candles/lights and guests that gather to pay their respects.
What happened to the people who wouldn't donate money to the poor farmers?
They would get tricks played on them!
For example, they would plough up a doorway or take gates off their hinges so that the livestock escaped.
Is Punxsutawney Phil from Pennsylvania the only famous Groundhog in the country?
No! There is also General Beau Lee of Atlanta, Georgia, Sir Walter Wally from Raleigh, North Carolina, and Birmingham Bill from Birmingham, Alabama.
When does Canada celebrate their Independence day?
Canada celebrates on July 1st rather than July 4th like America does.
Why did the Irish bring Halloween to America?
During the Irish potato famine, the Irish immigrated to America, bringing over their Halloween traditions.
Is trick or treating popular in Japan?
No! People in Japan find trick or treating to be a bother to their neighbors and is considered an inconvenience to walk around and gather candy.
Who gave the town a medal for their dedication to the Straw Bear Festival?
Queen Elizabeth of England!
What animal did the Dutch originally use before they moved to America to predict Spring?
A. Giraffes
B. Cats/Dogs
C. Badgers/Hedgehogs
C. Badgers/Hedgehogs! They moved to the Groundhog since Badgers were not native to America.
What does Canada strongly promote on their Independence day?
They like to celebrate their national unity. Typically representing Canada’s different regions and multiculturalism, showcasing Indigenous Peoples, and ensuring that both of Canada’s official languages get equal time.
Dia De Los Muertos-
The celebration is designed to honor the dead who, it is believed, return to their earthly homes on Halloween.
What are some rules of what "not to do" during the Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong?
1. Don't hang your clothes outside at night
2. Don't stand too close to walls
3. Don't take late busses or trains
4. Don't take pictures at night
5. Don't whistle at night
6. Don't put your hands on someone's shoulders