Five Budget-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Cultural Holidays

Black History Month (February)

Have a black history movie night. Watch films with historical significance to the African-American community, preferably something you’ve never seen before, and have a discussion or review the film afterward. Netflix and Hulu usually have a great selection at this time of year.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (May)

Host a Korean BBQ as either a potluck or catered affair. Buy some origami supplies at a craft store and (if you don’t know an origami expert) learn how to fold a few origami models (Youtube is great for this) and host a workshop so others can learn to. Incorporate some of the history behind this ancient custom in your teaching too.

Hispanic Heritage Month (September)

Support minority vendors by purchasing something from that Spanish food market you walk past every day. I’m sure the owners would be happy to share tips on how to cook any foods you’re not familiar with. Host a cooking party to make an authentic Spanish dish or bring what you cooked to work the next day and share the experience with co-workers.

National Native American Heritage Month (November)

Learn some moves from a Native American War dance or Rain Dance. Maybe you can find a local instructor who has this knowledge or a Native American association who would be happy to send you some information or direct you to some good websites.

Kwanzaa (December)

Create a display or poster board showing the seven core principles of Kwanzaa and what each one means and then list how everyone can demonstrate this principle. For example: Ujima – Collective work and responsibility – Make an effort to work with someone you wouldn’t normally work with or to work toward solving a problem that you’ve been putting off.