Mother’s Day, celebrated in many countries on the second Sunday in May, has roots in ancient festivals, religious observances, and a heartfelt campaign by Anna Jarvis in the early 1900s. From ancient goddesses to modern brunches, discover the global origins, cultural customs, and evolution of this meaningful holiday.
Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend—it’s a day of solemn remembrance for the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Rooted in post–Civil War traditions and evolving into a national holiday in 1971, Memorial Day continues to honor sacrifice through ceremonies, reflection, and the National Moment of Remembrance.
Valentine’s Day has evolved from ancient Roman traditions to a global celebration of love. Discover the fascinating history behind this cherished holiday and its enduring romantic legacy.
Astoria, Oregon: A historic gem where the Columbia River meets the Pacific, blending maritime heritage, stunning views, and small-town charm.
Cannon Beach, the reference originates with a naval schooner, the USS Shark, which shipwrecked on the treacherous Columbia River Bar in 1846. A section of the ship containing cannons drifted south and washed ashore near present day Arch Cape. Although iron, copper, and wood were salvaged from the wreckage, the cannons were lost as the tides buried them in sand.
The roots of Canby all come back to farming. Canby wouldn’t be where or what it is today without agriculture. Most likely, it wouldn’t be here at all. Canby can credit its agricultural success to the area’s fertile, sandy soils (deposited here, geologists believe, in the massive floods from Lake Missoula that ripped through the Willamette Valley during the last ice age, some 15,000 years ago) and of course to the hard work of our first farmers and settlers.
Discover the fascinating history of candy hearts, from Civil War-era lozenges to Valentine’s Day’s most iconic sweet.
Discover fascinating New Year’s Eve traditions from around the world! From Spain’s 12 lucky grapes to Denmark’s plate-smashing for prosperity, each custom offers a unique way to welcome the new year. Explore how cultures celebrate hope, renewal, and good fortune with rituals that connect the past to an exciting future.
Skiing, a sport with roots dating back to 6,000 BCE, has evolved from a survival tool to a global recreational phenomenon. From its ancient beginnings in Scandinavia to its role in exploration and modern-day sports, skiing embodies adventure and innovation, captivating millions with its rich history and thrilling slopes.
Discover the dark side of Christmas with Krampus, a horned figure from Central European folklore. Rooted in ancient pagan traditions, Krampus punishes naughty children while St. Nicholas rewards the good. From Alpine celebrations to modern pop culture, Krampus offers a chilling counterpoint to holiday cheer, blending mystery, fear, and tradition.
Discover the origins of Santa Claus, the iconic symbol of Christmas cheer. From Saint Nicholas’s gift-giving legacy to Father Christmas’s festive spirit, and the Coca-Cola campaign that solidified his red-suited image, explore how folklore, poetry, and marketing shaped the beloved figure who embodies holiday joy worldwide.
The winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night, inspiring traditions worldwide. From Yule and Saturnalia to Dongzhi and Inti Raymi, cultures celebrate light and renewal. Iconic sites like Stonehenge showcase ancient connections to celestial cycles. Today, the solstice is a time for reflection, hope, and the promise of brighter days.
Thelma Johnson Streat, a groundbreaking artist and dancer, used her work to promote racial equity and cultural education. Known for Rabbit Man, the first painting by a Black woman in MoMA’s collection, she collaborated with Diego Rivera and performed globally. Streat’s legacy as a West Coast trailblazer is now gaining overdue recognition.
Left Coast Estate in the Van Duzer Corridor AVA pairs award-winning wines with sustainable practices. This family-owned winery features oak savannas, wildlife habitats, and eco-friendly vineyards. Visitors can enjoy exclusive wines, farm-to-table meals, and events like live music and the annual Run for the Oaks. Perfect for wine lovers of all levels, Left Coast offers a welcoming, inclusive experience.
For many Americans, Thanksgiving evokes cherished memories of gathering around the table with loved ones for a grand feast filled with warmth and gratitude. This beloved tradition dates back to the heartfelt celebrations of 1621, when Pilgrims and Wampanoag came together to honor the fruits of their labor. Discover how it blossomed into a cherished national holiday, thanks to the perseverance of Sarah Josepha Hale and President Abraham Lincoln, becoming a timeless symbol of unity amidst our beautiful diversity.