Faith & Festivals
On Dec 25th, Christians celebrate the birth of this religious figure
Who is Jesus?
For many Latino families, the biggest holiday celebration (including dinner & gifts) happens on Christmas Eve, known as...
What is Nochebuena?
This sweet and spicy red sauce is a DC staple, usually put on wings and fries.
What is Mumbo Sauce?
Eating these beans on New Year's Day is a Southern tradition for good luck.
What are Black-Eyed Peas?
We celebrate the start of the New Year on this date.
What is January 1st?
This 8-night Jewish Festival of Lights involves lighting the Menorah.
What is Hanukkah
Known as 'Genna,' Christians in this East African country celebrate Christmas on January 7th.
What is Ethiopia?
This is the official music genre of Washington DC, famous for its percussion beats.
What is Go-Go?
These leafy greens are eaten on New Year's to represent money and wealth.
What are Collard Greens?
Kwanzaa begins the day after Christmas, on this date.
What is December 26th?
Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr to mark the end of this holy month of fasting
Ramadan
In Puerto Rico, groups of friends go house-to-house singing holiday songs in a tradition called...
What are Parrandas?
This prestigious HBCU in DC is often called 'The Mecca'.
What is Howard University?
Many Black families attend this church service late on New Year's Eve to ring in the new year.
What is Watch Night Service?
We celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in this winter month.
What is January?
This Indian 'Festival of Lights' is a major holiday celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains.
Diwali
This spicy tomato rice dish is a party staple across West Africa (and DC!) during celebrations.
What is Jollof Rice?
Every year, the President lights this large object on the Ellipse near the White House.
What is the National Christmas Tree?
Move over Pumpkin Pie! This orange pie is the true dessert of Black holiday dinners.
What is Sweet Potato Pie?
Halloween is always on the 31st of this month.
What is October?
Also known as Three Kings Day, this holiday on Jan 6th marks when the Wise Men visited baby Jesus
What is Epiphany (or Dia de Reyes)?
In Mexico, this holiday tradition involves a procession re-enacting Mary and Joseph's search for an inn.
What are Las Posadas?
This famous U Street restaurant is known for its Half-Smokes and chili.
What is Ben's Chili Bowl?
This controversial pork dish (intestines) is a traditional soul food, but you either love 'em or hate 'em.
What are Chitlins (Chitterlings)?
In the song 'The 12 Days of Christmas', the gifts are given between Christmas and this date (Epiphany).
What is January 6th?