Of course, there are films considered Christmas classics, which generally belong to the great Hollywood film industry. “Home Alone”, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”, “Miracle on 34th Street” or “It’s a Wonderful Life” among many others are some of the most enjoyable films the days before and after Christmas Eve.

However, there are also cinematographic works that show another perspective of Christmas. Latin America, for example, has stood out in recent years for highlighting movies made in this region. Among so many categories, Latin American Christmas cinema has also emerged. These are some outstanding titles of Latin American Christmas movies.

Santos Peregrinos

One movie of Mexican cinemas of the modern era is “Santos Peregrinos” a 2004 film. It is a Mexican Christmas story, which reflects the celebrations of the Christmas season and the ambition disguised as goodness.

In this film, the hero of Mexican independence, Emiliano Zapata, gives some Christmas figures to a woman with a baby. 85 years later, an old man who claims to be Zapata’s son celebrates Christmas Eve with these figures and dies days later. The event happened in a classic neighborhood in Mexico City, where neighbors discuss who should keep the figures.

They create a battlefield for the figures, and all kinds of hilarious situations typical of Mexican humor occur. The fight begins when the neighbors discover that the figures of the pilgrims are of gold.

The Magic Night

Latin American comedy is almost always present in all the films made in that region. “The Magic Night” is one of those cinematographic works that do not escape Latin humor. It is the title of a typical Christmas movie, where Santa Claus sleight and reindeer throw the gifts down the chimneys.

This is a co-production film between Argentina and Uruguay that shows a different perspective on the traditional formula of Christmas movies. A dysfunctional couple and their little girl, infidelity, and a thief with a white beard mistaken for Santa put the humor to this movie.

On Christmas Eve, Kira betrayed her husband with another guy named Cachete. They were in the bedroom when John, (Kira’s husband), got home. Then, Cachete went to the balcony to try to hide. But suddenly he found something worst, a thief with a white beard and a red suit like Santa Claus.

The thief proceeded to handcuff everyone present. Meanwhile, the robbery is complicated when he meets Alicia, the couple´s daughter. When she saw the thief, she thought he was Santa Claus and extended a Christmas wish list to him.

A Christmas Summer

Another film that is part of the Latin American Christmas cinema is the Peruvian “A Christmas Summer”. It is a musical comedy that tells the story of a hardworking woman who is home to 4 orphaned children with totally different personalities.

An accident will put them in trouble just days before Christmas, forcing them to raise funds for a medical operation. In this film, released in 2017, the crew created music focused on the arrival of Christmas. The same actors performed all the songs.

Christmas

“Christmas” is a Chilean film from 2009. Three teenagers from Santiago de Chile, with many problems, ended up spending Christmas Eve together.

Alejandro and his girlfriend, Aurora, visit the house of Aurora´s late father on Christmas Day. Then, they found a 15-year-old girl on the run, alone and lost, who became their companion during that long Christmas night. They told each other’s problems and explore their sexuality.

Due to the theme, “Christmas” is considered a film for an adult audience.

2 Dads at Christmas

This Ecuadorian film from 2017 tells the life of Belen, a young woman with Down Syndrome that managed to become an Olympic swimmer. Abandoned by her biological father, Dr. Matías Santander, she grew up with her mother and stepfather.

That change one Christmas eve of one important swimming tournament when her life is turned upside down with the return of her biological father after 20 years of absence.

The return of Belén’s father after so many years fuels the young swimmer’s excitement to meet him. At the same time, discomfort is generated with the girl’s stepfather, who has to live with Belén’s biological father.

These are just some of the movies of the Latin American Christmas cinema. A different touch to the typical Christmas movies. You can enjoy these cinematographic works through the different streaming platforms on the internet.

We also invite you to read our post: “Traditional Christmas food from Latin America and the Caribbean”

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This likable, easy-to-dance rhythm has its origins in the mid-19th century. When became popular in the most populated cities of the Dominican Republic, replacing the European contradanza.

Origins of the Word Merengue

There are many theories about the name and beginnings of this tropical music. According to Flérida de Nolasco, Dominican musicologist, the denomination “Merengue” originates from the fudge known by the same name. The short and precise rhythms of this dance seem like the beating of the egg whites, similar to when the fudge is prepared.

Other writers attributed the name to the French word “Meringue” a European dessert introduced to Haiti. This legendary dessert is made with a mixture of egg whites and sugar. Haitians began to use this word to refer to a danceable musical genre.

The renowned Dominican historian Emilio Rodríguez Demorizi says that merengue emerged as a form of dance between 1844 and 1855 in the nascent Dominican Republic. Years later it became an emblematic symbol of that country and a piece of popular music in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Perico Ripiao and Merengue Orchestras 

Like other danceable musical genres, merengue has its variants. The oldest style is the typical merengue or “Perico Ripiao” played with accordion, güira, and Tambora. The name of “Perico Ripiao” appeared at the beginning of the 20th century, when merengue found its way into the most popular social strata of the city of Santiago known as El Cibao. They say this name is associated with a brothel called “Perico Ripiao.”

At that time in the Dominican Republic, “ripping the parakeet” referred to the sexual act. As merengue was the music that was heard the most in that place, people began to associate the genre with the name of the place. The phrase “we are going to dance a Perico Ripiao” became popular.

Government decree

As it was considered an ordinary rhythm, the merengue was rejected by the highest social class in that country. As the dictator Rafael Leónidas Trujillo wanted to increase his popularity among the masses, he drove the arrival of this irresistible rhythm to all classes making it a Dominican symbol.

Starting in 1950, several merengue orchestras were formed. Instruments such as the trumpet, the saxophone, the double bass were added and thus the so-called orchestral merengue was born. In the 1960s, the migration of Dominicans to New York brought merengue out of the Dominican Republic.

It was at that time that renowned figures such as Francis Santana, Frank Cruz, Alberto Beltrán, Joseíto Mateo (known as the king of merengue), and Tatico Henriquez, emerged. Among the merengue classic songs of that time are: “El negrito del Batey”, “Caña brava” and “Compadre Pedro Juan”.

The 70s and the golden age

The 70s represent the consolidation of “The Merengue” in the broad Hispanic spectrum. This irresistible rhythm was popularized on a large scale, ideal to enliven the parties of Latin American families. In those years, Johnny Ventura, † 2021 known as El Caballo Mayor, stood out. Ventura with his orchestra, the Combo Show, put humor to the lyrics of his songs giving an innovative touch to the genre. Such is the case of one of his greatest hits “Un poquito para atrás por favor”. (A little bit back please).

Another merengue great figure was Wilfrido Vargas. With Los Beduinos Orchestra, Wilfrido revolutionized merengue by showing the public a more accelerated style. His name will remain as one of the most important and recognized artists in the history of Caribbean music. He also promoted too many singers and musicians who are currently widely recognized.

Figures driven by Wilfrido Vargas

From Los Beduinos orchestra, emerged talented singers such as Sandy Reyes, Mickey Taveras, Eddy Herrera, and Jorge Gómez, whom Wilfrido included in his group, because of his incredible high-pitched voice. The voice of this singer becomes confused with that of a woman due to its ability to raise the tone. Some songs that Gómez sang in the orchestra were “El jardinero” and “El loco y la luna” among others.

Rubby Pérez also deserves a particular mention. This unique interpreter took his first professional steps in the group “Los Hijos del Rey”, a creation of Wilfrido. He achieved the final consecration when he became a member of Los Beduinos.

Wilfrido’s Creations

In the Dominican Republic and New York, numerous orchestras emerged. Years later, the new generations fused merengue with other Caribbean rhythms and even with rock and roll.

One of the first groups created was “Los Hijos del Rey”. Referring to Wilfrido Vargas as King of the merengue as he began to identify him. In that group, Bony Cepeda, Raulín Rosendo and Fernandito Villalona participated as the main voice. All of them gained enormous popularity that led them to become professionally independent and build the reputation they have today.

Another group that reached a great impact with the support of Wilfrido, although it was not his creation, was “Las Chicas del Can”. From this orchestra, whose main characteristic is that it was made up of women, many others later emerged. The interpreters Mirian Cruz and Eunice Bentances stood out among others no less important than were part of the “Las Chicas del Can”.

Among Wilfrido’s other creations, the so-called “Altamira Banda Show” and the “New York Band” represent the extent of Vargas’ influence among the populous and renowned community of Dominicans and the Latin Caribbean in the upper Manhattan of New York.

Johnny Ventura vs Wilfrido Vargas

Everything seems to indicate that those rivalries between reggaeton artists and rappers are not new. In the years of The Merengue boom, there was a strong media rivalry between the greats Johnny Ventura “El Caballo Mayor” and Wilfrido Vargas. The impact of this rivalry in the Dominican Republic divided the Caribbean country in two: “the Wilfridists” and “the Johnny Venturists”.

On the one hand, was Johnny Ventura with his Combo Show, with a more traditional but humorous merengue. On the other Wilfrido Vargas with The Beduinos orchestra, who increases the speed creating a faster merengue. Both proposals had their public and their detractors.

The false attack

It is said that the rivalry was so strong that a whole media show was created between the two artists. One of the most remembered rumors of that situation was the supposed placement of a bomb on an airplane where Wilfrido and his orchestra would travel. Ventura’s group was accused of plotting that attack. However, the information was later found to be false.

Advantaged children

It is also commented that the creation of the orchestra Los Hijos del Rey by Wilfrido Vargas was intended to compete with the Combo Show of Johnny Ventura. Everything indicates that the operation did not work, since the group began to stand out in such a way, that at a certain moment, Los Hijos del Rey began to be more in demand than Wilfrido’s orchestra. This generated discontent among the members of Los Beduinos. That was the reason why Bonny Cepeda and Fernandito Villalona decided to consolidate their solo careers.

At present, Wilfrido Vargas and Johnny Ventura assure that there never was such a rivalry between them, but that it was something that was generated between the fans and the media. However, something must have happened. On one occasion they appeared on a television program, denying any dispute between them and even recorded together, to calm those who believed in that rivalry.

What is true, is that both are two of the greatest exponents of merengue. Each one has given it their personal touch while remaining in the collective memory of Latin American and Caribbean families.

Some of Johnny Ventura’s musical hits are “Patacón pisao”, “El tabaco” and “Capullo y Sorullo”. On the part of Wilfrido Vargas, “The African”, “Soy un hombre divertido” (I am a funny man) and “El baile del perrito” (doggy´s dance) stand out among many others.

Other Outstanding Merengue Figures

Other figures also emerged from the populous New York community. Such is the case of the prominent Milly Quezada, who emigrated to the Big Apple at an early age, where she graduated with honors in communication and media. At the same time, she built a musical career with the group formed with her brothers. Milly is one of the most reputable merengueras today.

Other figures and groups from the Dominican Republic also deserve a special mention. Among these, we can highlight Sergio Vargas, whose only affinity with Wilfrido is the Dominican nationality. Sergio is a singer who had a hard time achieving success. He usually says that was because of his physical appearance. However, the humble “Negrito de Villa”, as he is also known, is one of the singers with a respectable number of internationally popularized hits. We can mention: “Los diseñadores”, “Al ritmo de la noche”, “Si algún día la vez”; his version of the super hit “La quiero a morir” and “Marola”, among others.

Other highly successful groups are Cuco Valoy and his son Ramón Orlando Valoy; El conjunto Quisqueya; The Rosario brothers, Josie Esteban and his patrol 15, among many others no less important.

Merengueros from Puerto Rico

This irresistible rhythm also has its representatives in Puerto Rico. From there, stand out the unique Olga Tañón and Elvis Crespo among others.

The 90s and Actual Times

At the end of the 80s and the beginning of the 90s, new merengue figures appeared. Such is the case of the renowned musician and singer Juan Luis Guerra. With his group called “Juan Luis Guerra and 440”, he creates more stylized merengue.

It is known that Juan Luis studied at the prestigious Berklee College in Boston. Initially, he had the idea of ​​making a jazz version of the Dominican merengue, and he did it in his first production entitled “Soplando” (Blowing). After its commercial failure, he began to reformulate his project.

Later his next record productions came out with a more stylized Merengue and with poetic lyrics that adjusted very well to the generation close to the end of the century. His album “Mientras más lo pienso, tú”, includes songs like “Tú” and “Me enamoro de ella”. (I fall in love with her).

He achieves enormous popularity with his albums “Bachata Rosa” and “Ojala, que llueva café” (I hope it rains coffee). The most liked songs on this one are “Woman del Callao”, “Visa para un sueño” and the one with the same name as the album. Since then he has become an ambassador of merengue in the world.

The new merengue trends

In the 1990s, the children of Dominican immigrants in New York began to fuse the urban American rhythm of rap and hip hop, with the irresistible Dominican rhythm. This was how The Merengue house or Merengue hip hop aroused.

The first groups to achieve recognition are Proyecto Uno, Illegales and the unforgettable Sandy and Papo. Later, many others groups became known, being Fulanito one of the most popular.

Since then the business and the taste of the new generations in music changed and from those movements, the urban rhythm and its aspects came out. However, the irresistible merengue does not stop dancing.

Today, merengue continues to be one of the most listened to dance genres in family celebrations, friends’ gatherings, and festive events. Its interpreters have spread all over the world, mainly captivating the Hispanic public with that joy that characterizes this irresistible tropical rhythm.

We also invite you to read our post: “The Unique Venezuelan Zulian Gaita”

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Like all celebration dates, the day to celebrate sport has its history. Its origin lies in the inauguration of the first Olympic Games of the modern era, held on April 6, 1896, in Athens, Greece.

Olympic Games in Antiquity

According to records, the first Olympic Games was celebrated in 776 BC, in Ancient Greece. The dynamics of those games were different from the Olympics we know today. These sports activities were held in honor of Zeus, God of Heaven. Those who came to Olympia, the city where the games were held, had to bring an animal and sacrifice it to honor Zeus.

At that time, there were no prizes for second place. Women were not allowed to participate or witness the competitions. Men competed naked and were punished with a spanking if they cheated.

These ancient Olympics were held every four years. Being Ancient Greece, these sporting events included religious ceremonies, music, theatrical performance, poetic recitals, and other cultural activities.

Another characteristic was that only men who speak Greek very well could compete. The first games consist only of a foot race of 185 or 190 meters. Later, longer runs, wrestling, the pentathlon, and discus and javelin throws were added.

As the years passed, the Olympia games became more popular and other sports such as long jump and wrestling were added. As well as boxing, chariot and horse racing with jockeys.

According to writings, among the most prominent players is Alexander the Great, who participated as a teenager in a chariot race.

In 393 AD, almost 12 centuries after the first Olympics, the last Olympic Games were held. With the adoption of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire, Emperor Theodosius banned all pagan celebrations, including the Olympics.

First Olympic Games of the modern era

These first games were held between April 6 and 15, in Athens, Greece, under the name of Games of the First Olympiad. Although there is a contradiction regarding the number of countries that competed at that time, the International Olympic Committee recognizes the participation of 14 countries.

The inauguration was held at the Panathinaikó Stadium, where some 60,000 spectators gathered with the athletes on the field. King George I of Greece, his wife, and his children attended the event.

150 choristers and nine bands perform an Olympic Anthem, which years later became the official anthem of the Olympics. Sports included were: athletics, cycling, fencing, gymnastics, weightlifting, wrestling, swimming, tennis, and shooting.

Sport, development and peace

To commemorate this opening date of the Olympics, in 2013, the UN proclaimed April 6 as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. The objective is to make the population aware of the importance of sports and physical activity in health, education, inclusion, equality, and sustainable development.

For this reason, in almost all the countries, various activities are carried out that honor sport, such as races, marathons, and collective sports games. There are symposia, workshops, and talks related to sports and health: football, baseball, and gymnastics games, among other activities. In the same way, campaigns to promote sport and physical activity are very frequent.

Therefore, we can celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, doing some physical activity at home and sharing it on social networks.

We also invite you to read our post: “Yulimar Rojas: Venezuela’s Olympic Champion and Best Female Athlete”

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Origin

All the information read agrees in affirming that the exact origin of the gaita was lost in time. In turn, the name, as described by those who have delved into the investigation of the subject such as Agustín Pérez Piñango, and Régulo Díaz, The qualifier of gaita has prevailed in Zulia because of the similarity, with the demonstrations of the same order that are usual in some regions of Spain, especially in Galicia, where the Galician gaita stands out. These manifestations are a boisterous party in which happy tunes are expressed based on instrumentation.

This type of musical manifestation was rooted in the popular Zulian classes. These communities emulated the Hispanic tradition, giving particular characteristics that give life to a Creole and mestizo party. Initially, the gaita is linked to the Catholic liturgy in December, in honor of the Virgin.

Over time, it underwent several transformations, but it maintained that small-town essence and that Zulian, joyful, popular, emotional, sentimental, and deeply religious affinity, thanks to the devotion to the Chiquinquira Virgin.

Another version

Another version is also known, which places the origin of the Zulian gaita in the canton of Gibraltar, a region located in the southern area of Lake Maracaibo. There was a great introduction of African slaves to attend the workshop on the farms in the area. It is mentioned, that the inspiration for these songs was the result of the bad treatment received by the slaves. They began to sing songs that represented their complaints about the attitude of the oppressive master.

Giving origin to the gaita of the southern area of the lake, whose history evokes a painful event for Africans vilely subjected to slavery.

The result

Through time this dispute over the origin of the gaita endured the opinion among its cultists. However, this has not affected the creation and development of the musical manifestation. Deeply rooted among the Zulian people and spread throughout the Venezuelan territory.

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