CUADRO COMPARATIVO

Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo LéonFacultad de Ingeniería Mecánica y Eléctrica

Interactive comparative table between UK and USA. (CA-5)

HOLIDAYS AND TRADITIONS

Members of team:1. Valeria Abigail González Sada 1963075 IMTC.2. Lucia Isabela García Sandoval 2042366 IMT.3. Daniel González Brondo 2053163 IAS.4. Gisselle Silva Garza 2063504 IMT.5. Carlos Uriel Moreno Domínguez 2078010 IAE.6. Frany Monserrat Martínez Peña 2079913 IMT

BRITISH CULTURE . ING. DAFNE YOANNY HABIB MIRELES

SEMESTER: January – June 2024 GROUP: 002 STUDY PLAN:401 DATE OF DELIVERY: February 23th, 2024

78

"How much do you know about the traditions of the United States and the United Kingdom?"

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IS EASY

INTRODUCTION

The following document will address a comparative table on the festivities and traditions of the United Kingdom, which is a nation with a great culture. Their traditions are very rich and diverse and have been around for hundreds of years. The Culture of the United Kingdom is not only important for this nation because throughout history countries such as the United States of America, Australia, Canada, among 32 other countries colonized. There are many public holidays and they fall into two categories, Official Days and Holidays. From age-old celebrations to contemporary events, the UK's festivities reflect the diversity and multicultural heritage of its inhabitants. These festivities are not only occasions to celebrate, but they are also a window into national and regional identity, marked by a unique blend of local folklore, religion, and customs. From colorful carnival parades to solemnities of religious ceremonies, the UK offers a wide range of festive experiences that captivate locals and visitors alike, weaving the cultural tapestry of this fascinating nation. In this exploration, we'll dive into some of the most iconic festivities and deep-rooted traditions that shape the social and cultural fabric of the United Kingdom. The importance of the British customs and traditions could be seen in all over the world. For example, there are holidays in the United Kingdom that are celebrated around the entire world. There are many holidays that are divided in two categories, Official Days and Public Holiday. Some of the British traditions are lived in other places around the world. The traditions that are celebrated in the United Kingdom are also celebrated by visitors from many parts who want to live the experience and decide to travel to the country to have the chance of living themselves what it is said in books and magazines about the British holidays.

Holidays and Traditions between UK and USA

Mother´s Day (fourt sunday of lent and second sunday of may and Christmas Day in 25th December

Description

Similarities

Differences

Historical origins Commercial aspects Date of observance Global influence

Families GatheringsGift Giving Commercialization

Mother's Day

DecorationsChristmas Programs on TV Boxing Day The PUB

Christmas Day

Families GatheringsGift Giving Festive Meals Religious Observance Charitable Giving East

Holidays and Traditions between UK and USA

New Year's Day (January 1st) and Easter Day (monday, thursday and good friday and easter sunday).

Description

Similarities

Differences

Terms usedCultural traditions Food and drink

FireworksParties & Gatherings Countdown

New Year's Day

Religious celebration Easter eggs Easter bunnies

Regionals traditions Typical foods Length of holidays

Easter Day

Holidays and Traditions between UK and USA

Father´s day (June 16th) and April fools (April 1st)

Description

Similarities

Differences

Date of celebrationPurpose

LOREM IPSUM

Recognition and AdoptionOrigin

Duration of PranksIntensity of Pranks

Pranks and JokesSocial Media Pranks

Holidays and Traditions between UK and USA

St. Patricks Day (March 17th) & Bonfire Night (5th november)

St. Patricks Day

Description

Similarities

Differences

Celebration of Irish heritage Parades and public events Color green

Level of celebration Local traditions Religious focus

LOREM IPSUM

Bonfire Night

Celebration of history and tradition Fireworks and bonfires Awareness of history

Cultural focus Popularity and reach Political associations

Holidays and Traditions between UK and USA

HALOWEEN (october 31st) AND LABOR DAY (1st monday of may and september)

Description

Similarities

Differences

FoodDuration Importance

LOREM IPSUM

Date of celebrationSome traditions

Date of celebration Importance

Tradition

Holidays and Traditions between UK and USA

Remembrance Day/Veterans day /Saint George's Day (April 23rd)

Similarities

Description

Differences

Similarities

- Religious celebration: In both the United States and the United Kingdom, Christmas is an important religious holiday for Christians, the born of baby Yisus who is Savior of the world in the religion. - Gift Giving: Exhanging gifts is a common tradition in the born the USA and the UK. Families and friends exchange presents, and there´s often excitement and anticipation as gifts are unwrapped. - Festive Meals: Christmas dinners in both countries are typically feature similar main courses such as roast turkey or ham, accompanied by traditional side dishes like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. Desserts like Christmas pudding (UK) and pumpkin pie (USA) are also enjoyed. - Families Gathering: In both countries, Christmas Day is a pprimarly a time for families to come together. Relatives often travel long distances to spend the day with loved ones, sharing meals and enjoying each other´s company. .

Christmas dinners in both countries typically feature similar main courses such as roast turkey or ham, accompanied by traditional side dishes like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. Desserts like Christmas pudding (UK) and pumpkin pie (USA) are also enjoyed.

Similarities

Common Origin: Both originated from Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Date of Observance: Both countries observe their respective days on November 11th each year. Moment of Silence: Both observances include a moment of silence at 11 a.m. to honor and remember the military personnel who have served and sacrificed.

Similarities

-Celebration of Irish heritage: Both in the UK and the US, St. Patrick's Day is a celebration of Irish heritage and culture. -Parades and public events: Both countries organize parades and public events to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, featuring music, dancing, and themed decorations. -Color green: In both nations, the color green is associated with St. Patrick's Day, and it's common to see people wearing green clothing and themed decorations.

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Differences

- Regional traditions: Although they share a religious basis, specific traditions may vary by region, for example, in the United Kingdom, some regions have specific local Easter parades or celebrations that may not be common in the United States, and vice versa. - Typical foods: Foods associated with Easter may differ slightly between both countries, in the UK, it is common to have a lamb roast, as well as Easter-themed cakes and biscuits; in the United States, Thanksgiving-like foods such as glazed ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and rolls are often eaten.

- Length of holidays: In the United Kingdom, the Easter holiday generally includes Good Friday and Easter Monday as public holidays, resulting in a long weekend; in the United States, Good Friday is not a federal holiday, although some companies may close or give employees the day off.

Description october 31 st

Halloween, a holiday observed on October 31 and noted for its pagan and religious roots and secular traditions. Celebrated with parties, spooky costumes, jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkin carvings, and the giving of candy. As a secular holiday, Halloween has come to be associated with a number of activities. One is the practice of pulling usually harmless pranks. Celebrants wear masks and costumes for parties and for trick-or-treating, Trick-or-treaters go from house to house with the threat that they will pull a trick if they do not receive a treat, usually candy.

Differences

- Food and drink: In the United States, it is common to have a special New Year's Eve dinner that may include dishes such as turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, etc. In the United Kingdom, in addition to Scotch whiskey toasts, some regions have traditional dishes such as "haggis" in Scotland or "black bun" in some parts of Scotland and northern England.

- Terms used: In the United States, the holiday is commonly known as "New Year's Eve" and the following day as "New Year's Day.", in the United Kingdom, New Year's Eve is known as "Hogmanay", while January 1 is "New Year's Day". - Cultural traditions: In Scotland, Hogmanay may include "First-Footing", where the first person to cross the threshold of a house in the new year brings good luck.

Similarities

Date of Celebration: Both the UK and the USA celebrate Father's Day on the same day – the third Sunday of June.Purpose: The primary purpose of Father's Day in both countries is to honor and express gratitude to fathers and father figures for their roles and contributions to the family.

Differences

- Level of celebration: St. Patrick's Day is celebrated more prominently and widely in the United States, especially in cities with a large population of Irish descent, such as New York and Boston, where massive parades and festivals take place. - Local traditions: Although there are similarities in general activities like parades and parties, local traditions may vary between the UK and the US. For example, in some parts of the UK, St. Patrick's Day may be celebrated with more intimate events and traditional Irish meals. - Religious focus: In the UK, especially in Northern Ireland, St. Patrick's Day may have a more religious focus, with church services and related activities, while in the US, the celebration tends to be more secular and focused on culture and fun.

Description (april 23rd)Veteran´s day

It´s a day when we acknowledge those who died while serving in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Differences

Cultural and Historical Significance: In England, Saint George is considered the patron saint of the country, and the day holds cultural and historical significance. Saint George is often associated with the idea of a heroic knight slaying a dragon, and the St. George's Cross is an important national symbol. In the United States, there isn't the same level of historical connection to Saint George, and the day is not a national holiday. Public Holiday Status: In England, Saint George's Day is not a public holiday, meaning that businesses and schools typically remain open. In contrast, the United States does not observe Saint George's Day as a national or public holiday, and it is not widely celebrated on a national scale. Cultural Observance: In England, there may be parades, church services, and the flying of the St. George's Cross flag to mark the day. The celebration in England often includes a sense of national pride. In the United States, while there may be some acknowledgment of the day, it is not as prominent or widely celebrated compared to other holidays. Historical Context: The historical and cultural roots of Saint George's Day are deeply embedded in English history, while in the United States, the day is not directly tied to the nation's history or independence.

Description (the third sunday of june

Father’s Day is a time for people to celebrate the men in their lives. For children, it is a day to show appreciation for their fathers and father-figures. For adults, it is a day to show much they love and appreciate the hard work of the fathers and husbands in their lives. In the USA, Father's Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June each year. In the UK, Father's Day is also celebrated on the third Sunday of June.

New Year's Day January 1st in both countries

New Year's festivities are a vibrant tapestry of traditions and celebrations observed worldwide, uniting people across cultures in a collective embrace of hope and renewal. As the clock strikes midnight, friends and families gather, hearts aflutter with anticipation, to count down the final moments of the old year and herald the arrival of the new. Amidst cascades of colorful fireworks painting the night sky and the jubilant strains of music filling the air, joyous revelers come together to bid farewell to the past and welcome the future with open arms.

Whether steeped in age-old customs or infused with modern flair, the essence of New Year's festivities lies in the collective belief in new beginnings, forging connections, and embracing the journey ahead with boundless optimism and joy.

Easter (monday, thursday and good friday and easter sunday)

It's a celebrity for three holidays (Monday, Thursday and Good Friday) and Easter Sunday, these days are a festival and the time for giving chocolate Easter eggs but also Easter means much more than just that, Easter is the oldest and one of the most important Chirstian Festival, the celebration of the death and coming to life of Jesus Christ. Alongside religious customs, secular traditions like Easter egg hunts and the Easter Bunny are prevalent, symbolizing new life and fertility. Eggs, often decorated, hold profound symbolism, while the Easter lily represents purity and hope.

Cultural variations enrich Easter celebrations, embracing diverse customs and cuisines, yet universally emphasizing renewal, togetherness, and the triumph of hope.

Similarities

- Fireworks: In both the United States and the United Kingdom, fireworks are an important part of New Year's celebrations. Large exhibitions are held in major cities such as London and New York.- Parties & gatherings: In both countries, people tend to gather with friends and family to celebrate the New Year. Parties are often common, whether in private homes, bars or clubs. - Countdown: Both countries count down to mark the arrival of the New Year. In the United States, the famous "New Year's ball" descends in Times Square, New York, while in the United Kingdom, a countdown takes place in the famous Parliament Square in London.

Differences:

Some differences are that in the United States it is a tradition that is celebrated throughout the month of October and in the United Kingdom it is only celebrated on October 31. - Also in the United Kingdom, restaurants usually have a special Halloween menu and in the US, this tradition is not usually so much. - A difference also is that trick or treating in the US tends to be in different neighborhoods and in the UK they usually only go to friends or family houses. In the United States this date is very important but in the United Kingdom they do not give it much importance.

Similarities

Date of Celebration: Saint George's Day is celebrated on April 23rd in both England and the United States. However, it's worth noting that the observance of Saint George's Day in England is more formalized, while in the United States, it tends to be less widely recognized.

Similarities:

The similarities are that both countries fight for better working conditions. Furthermore, both days are usually free days where they do not go to work or rest. In both it is a special day to recognize achievements and contributions of workers.

Differences:

Labor Day in the United States is celebrated on the first Monday in September and in the United Kingdom on the first Monday in May. In the US they also consider that day as the end of summer and celebrate it with parties and picnics, however in the United Kingdom it has a more political and labor movement custom. Also the difference is that there are different laws in these countries when it comes to work, in the US they change depending on the state and in the UK they are all the same.

Similarities

In the United States and the United Kingdom they have a similarity in that in both countries Halloween is celebrated on the same day, they decorate houses and streets and usually dress up as terrifying characters. In addition, both have the tradition of trick-or-treating and going to houses to ask for candy and sweets. They also make games.

Differences

Remembrance Day in the UK primarily focuses on honoring and remembering those who died in military service, especially in World War I and subsequent conflicts. The US, while also acknowledging the fallen, has a broader scope, recognizing living veterans from all wars and conflicts. National Observance: In the UK, Remembrance Day is marked by ceremonies and events across the country, with the national focus often on the Cenotaph in London. In the US, Veterans Day is nationally observed, and events may include a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. National Holiday Status: Remembrance Day is not a public holiday in the UK, and businesses and schools generally remain open. Veterans Day in the US is a federal holiday, meaning that federal government offices are closed, and it is a day off for many Americans.

(5th november) Description

Observed on November 5th, mainly in the United Kingdom. Commemorates the foiled Gunpowder Plot of 1605, aimed at blowing up the British Parliament. Features bonfires, fireworks displays, burning effigies of Guy Fawkes, and traditional foods like toffee apples and parkin.

Similarities

-Celebration of history and tradition: Both in the UK and the US, Bonfire Night is a celebration of history and tradition, though with slightly different focuses.Fireworks and bonfires: Both festivities involve the burning of bonfires and the display of fireworks as part of the celebration. Awareness of history: In both nations, the history behind Bonfire Night, especially in the UK where it commemorates Guy Fawkes' failed attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605, is acknowledged.

Description (april 23 rd)

Saint George's Day is celebrated on April 23rd each year, commemorating the life and deeds of Saint George, who is one of the most revered saints in Christianity. While Saint George is honored by various Christian denominations, the day is particularly significant in the Anglican, Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox traditions. Saint George is often depicted as a brave and chivalrous knight, slaying a dragon, and this image has become iconic in Western culture. The dragon-slaying legend is symbolic of the triumph of good over evil and is a popular motif in many medieval tales.

Christmas Day25th December

Christmas is a truly magical season that brings families and friends together to share the much-loved customs and traditions which have been around for centuries. On this holiday, people stay at home with their family. It´s very similar to the Christmas celebrated in America.Christmas in the UK and the United States is a time for celebrating joy, peace and goodwill. As a religious holiday, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus. Church services are commonly held, with Carol singing filling the air.- Traditional carols fill the streets, churches and homes, creating a festivel.A Christmas Day in the UK and the USA is considered a holiday day. Christmas was originally a religious celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus, over time Christmas has evolved into a more secular celebration that encompasses various traditions and meanings

Overall, Christmas in both the USA and the UK is a time for family gatherings, festive traditions, delicious food, and spreading joy and goodwill. While there are some differences in specific customs and traditions, the spirit of the holiday remains largely the same in both countries.

Description (1st monday-may and september )

Labor Day commemorates workers' fight for the eight-hour work day, which culminated in the Chicago strike of 1886. It is celebrated with parades and events to highlight the achievements of the labor movement and labor rights, and is a day rest in many countries. .

Differences

- Boxing Day: USA: Boxing Day is not widely observed in the USA and is not recognized as a public holiday. While some Americans may be aware of Boxing Day, it does not hold the same significance as it does in the UK. UK: Boxing Day, on December 26th, is a public holiday in the UK and is traditionally a day for relaxation, visiting friends and family, and enjoying leftover Christmas food. Many people also take advantage of Boxing Day sales, similar to Black Friday in the USA. - The PUB: USA: While there are certainly bars and restaurants open on Christmas Day in some parts of the USA, it's less common for people to spend time at pubs specifically on Christmas Day. Many establishments close or have limited hours to allow employees to spend time with their families. in the UK Pubs play a significant role in British Christmas traditions, with many people visiting their local pub on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day for a drink with friends or family. Some pubs even host special events or meals on Christmas Day itself, although this can vary depending on local customs and regulations.

- Decorations: Christmas decorations in the USA often include extravagant light displays, large inflatable figures and elaborate extravagant decorations while in the UK Christmas decorations tend to be more traditional and understated. - Christmas Programs on TV: USA: American television during the Christmas season features a wide range of holiday-themed programming, including classic movies like "It's a Wonderful Life," animated specials like "A Charlie Brown Christmas," and modern holiday films. Additionally, many TV networks air Christmas-themed episodes of popular shows. In the UK, television networks also air a variety of Christmas programming, including classic films like "The Snowman" and "The Wizard of Oz," as well as beloved TV specials such as the annual "Doctor Who" Christmas special and holiday episodes of popular British sitcoms and dramas.

Differences

- Global influence: The majority of countries outside the UK, including the USA, follow the American practice of celebrating Mother's Day on the second Sunday of May. However, a few countries, such as Nigeria, join the UK and Ireland in marking Mothering Sunday on the fourth Sunday of Lent - Date of observance: In the UK, Mother's Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday in Lent, which is three weeks before Easter Sunday. In 2023, Mother's Day in the UK fell on March 19th , while in the USA, Mother's Day is observed on the second Sunday in May. The first official Mother's Day in the USA was celebrated on May 10, 1908, at the St. Andrew's Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia.

- Historical Origins: In the UK, the celebration of Mother's Day is rooted in the religious festival of Mothering Sunday, which began in the Middle Ages. It was a day for people to return to their "mother" churches and visit their mothers. Over time, it evolved into a day to honor mothers . In the USA, the modern Mother's Day holiday was established by Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century as a way to honor mothers and motherhood. It was inspired by her own mother's desire to establish a day to honor mothers after the Civil War. - Commercial aspects: In both the UK and the USA, the celebration of Mother's Day has become increasingly commercialized, with the exchange of gifts, cards, and flowers being common practices

Differences:

Duration of Pranks: In the UK, it's traditional for pranks to be played only until noon, after which the person attempting the prank is considered the "April Fool." In the US, there is no strict time limit, and pranks can be played throughout the day. Intensity of Pranks: The intensity and nature of pranks may vary based on cultural preferences. Some cultures may prefer more subtle and light-hearted pranks, while others may engage in more elaborate and surprising hoaxes.

Similarities

- Religious celebration: In both the United States and the United Kingdom, Easter is an important religious holiday for Christians, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is celebrated after his crucifixion. . Easter eggs: The tradition of Easter eggs is common in both countries, eggs are painted and decorated in different ways, and egg hunts are also held for children. - Easter bunnies: The figure of the Easter rabbit, which brings sweets and chocolate eggs to children, is popular in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Similarities

- Gift Giving: Both in the USA and the UK, it's common to give gifts to mothers on Mother's Day. These gifts can range from flowers, cards, chocolates, and other small tokens of appreciation to more elaborate gifts such as jewelry, spa treatments, or outings..- Family Gatherings: Mother's Day often involves family gatherings and special meals in both countries. Families may come together to celebrate and spend quality time with their mothers, often enjoying a meal together either at home or at a restaurant.- Commercialization:Like many holidays, Mother's Day has become commercialized in both the USA and the UK, with retailers offering special promotions and advertising gifts and products specifically for the occasion. While this aspect of the holiday is not unique to either country, it is a similarity in how the holiday is observe

Description (march 17th)

Celebrated on March 17th, primarily in Ireland and many other countries. Honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the spread of Christianity in Ireland. Traditionally religious, now celebrated with green attire, parades, shamrock decorations, and Irish food and drink.

Differences

Cultural focus: In the UK, Bonfire Night has a more cultural and historical focus, with greater emphasis on commemorating the Gunpowder Plot and the figure of Guy Fawkes, whereas in the US, where the holiday is not widely celebrated, there may be less awareness of the history behind the celebration. Popularity and reach: Bonfire Night is a much more prominent holiday in the UK than in the US, where it's not as widely recognized or celebrated. Political associations: In the UK, Bonfire Night may have deeper political and social associations due to its history of attempted coup, whereas in the US, if celebrated, it tends to be more of an occasion for enjoying fireworks and bonfires without such a deeply rooted political context.

Mother's Day Fourth sunday of lent in the UK and second sunday of may in USA.

Mother´s Day , or Mothering sunday, is now a day to honor mothers and other mother figures such as grandmothers, stepmothers and mothers-in-law. many people make a special effot to visit their mother, an important part of mothering sunday is giving cards and gifts. common Mother´s Day gifts are cakes, flowers, chocolates, jewerly and luxurious clothing. - Traditionally, it was a day with children, mainly daugthers, who had gone to works as domestic servants were given a day off to visit their mother and family.- in the Christian religion, the 40 days before Easter.

A mother´s Day in the UK and the USA is considered a tradition but not an official holiday.The origin of this celebration can be traced back to the first Christians in England, who honored the Virgin Mary on this day, in the past, who worked away from home were allowed to visit their mothers and bring them gifts on mothering sunday. this tradition has endured over the centuries and has become a way to honour and thank mothers in the UK and the United States..

Similarities:

Pranks and Jokes: In both countries, April Fools' Day is a day when people play pranks and jokes on each other. These can range from harmless and light-hearted tricks to more elaborate and creative hoaxes. Social Media Pranks: With the rise of social media, people in both countries often engage in online pranks and jokes, sharing humorous content to entertain their friends and followers.

Differences:

History and Origin: While the concept of Father's Day has ancient roots, the modern celebration in the United States is often credited to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to create a day to honor fathers like Mother's Day honored mothers. The tradition then spread to the UK. The UK, however, had its own history of celebrating fathers on a different date before adopting the U.S. tradition.Recognition and Adoption: Father's Day was officially recognized as a national holiday in the United States in 1972. In the UK, it was not officially recognized as a public holiday until much later, in 1979.

Description (april 1st)

April Fools' Day, celebrated on April 1st, is a day when people play practical jokes and hoaxes on each other. The jokes and their victims are known as "April fools." It is widely recognized and celebrated in many countries around the world.