Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Culture Clash

Imagine a place where different cultures could intermingle while still demonstrating dignity and respect for all their various members. A place where differences are celebrated and others could learn about one's heritage and traditions. Welcome to South Carolina.

Our weekend included a wide sampling of cultural diversity in upstate South Carolina. First, we met and mingled at the Anderson Jockey Lot. Being a native, I had often heard of this national marvel, yet had failed to ever visit it. 65 acres of yards sale finds - trash and treasures included. According to the website, the Jockey Lot was originally based on a flea market in Mexico, except this version has "plenty of parking and clean restrooms". Highlights include: Helicopter rides for an ariel view of the wares, customized tombstones, and (my personal favorite) a booth that advertises "Guns, Knives, and Dolls".


Later, a routine visit to the park turned into a fiesta. A Mexican family was holding a wedding at the park downtown during the busiest time of day. The gold tuxedos immediately caught Max's eye, as did the catchy music from the mariachi band. They seemed comfortable in sharing their celebration as entertainment to the public. No pictures were taken in an effort to not intrude on the couple's "private" moments.

The weekend was rounded out by a visit to ShalomFest '10. Having attended the interfaith celebration last year, Max was a veteran this time and headed straight for the music and food. This year he consented to actually trying the food and discovered a fondness for chocolate covered matzo. We even made a stop at the cooking demonstration.


The live band (complete with an accordion) and dancers gave Max the opportunity to try out his best dance moves!


Who knew South Carolina was so diverse?

1 comment:

Meredith said...

One problem: They misspelled y'all! UGHHHH! :)