Irish Dye Rivers Green? St. Patrick’s Day Traditions Explained
On March 17 each year, Chicago’s Chicago River is dyed green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, while New York’s Fifth Avenue hosts grand parades. People worldwide don green clothing, shoes, bags, or hats—all part of the festive tradition.
Innovative or Dangerous? Palestinian Barbers’ Fiery Haircuts
In Palestine, a rather unconventional and attention - grabbing hair - cutting method has emerged: using fire to style hair. This practice, though seemingly extreme, has found its place in some local barbershops, sparking both curiosity and concern.
Italy’s Ivrea Carnival: The Thrilling Orange Battle
Spain’s tomato-throwing "La Tomatina" is wildly popular, but for those who prefer hurling something tangier, head to Italy in February. At the Ivrea Carnival, thousands of ripe oranges are pelted in a juicy battle during the festival’s highlight.
Russian Girls: Baring Thighs in Winter
In Russia, especially during the harsh winter when the temperature often drops well below zero, a unique scene can be witnessed on the streets - many Russian girls expose their thighs despite the cold.
Germany’s Walkable "Lego Bridge" Blends Art and Architecture
In Wuppertal, Germany, there’s a pedestrian bridge that looks like it’s built from giant Lego bricks. Though it’s actually a concrete structure, artists have painted it to mimic the iconic toy blocks, creating a playful optical illusion.
Why Germans Rarely Sing Their National Anthem in Its Entirety
Germany's national anthem, "Das Lied der Deutschen" (The Song of the Germans), has a complex and troubled past. Historically, the first stanza of the anthem has a strong connection with the Nazi regime. During the Nazi era, the anthem was misused to promote extreme nationalism and the heinous crimes committed by the regime. As a result, singing the first stanza is now considered a taboo in modern German society.
Swedish Blood Donors Get Texts When Their Blood Saves Lives
To encourage young people to donate blood, Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, sends donors a text message when their donated blood is actually used. This lets them know their contribution has truly helped someone in need.
French Culinary Tradition: A Unique Way of Savoring Small Birds
In certain regions of France, there exists a unique and rather peculiar culinary practice involving covering the head with a cloth while eating small birds, a tradition deeply rooted in the country's rich gastronomic heritage.
