Colors of Guayaquil - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Locals have a very calm and balanced character, at first glance they may even seem a little sluggish. Hustling in business and noisy behavior are considered a sign of ill manners, therefore, when dealing with local residents, one should demonstrate calmness and patience too. People living here are very proud but not touchy at the same time, having a wonderful sense of humor. Even if any disagreements appear during the conversation, you can solve the problem and make peace in just a couple of minutes - a warm handshake and a sincere smile would be enough.

The only thing that should be taken into account when communicating with locals is the importance of national traditions and customs. Try to avoid discussing or criticizing local rules and way of life, as well as speaking negatively of historical events. Residents of Guayana are proud of literally everything related to their homeland, from historical heritage to modern fashion and diverse traditions.

Along with the family, which is the most important aspect of people's life, special attention is paid to godparenthood - “compadrasco”. There are also special obligations between godparents and children. Family ties maintained between them are just as strong as between blood relatives. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Speaking of local traditions, it's worth highlighting the good custom of visiting churches. Religious holidays are considered the most important, being celebrated in accordance with the rules established many centuries ago. The church is usually visited as a family, so religious customs are well known not only to adults but also to children.

An equally outstanding national trait is hospitality. Visiting each other's homes has always been considered a special ritual and one of the most important duties. Refusal to come may be taken as a serious insult, so one should never decline the invitation. The hosts should definitely be presented some symbolic gifts that are always appreciated. Since men and women have equal rights, the hostess should also be presented with a small souvenir, such a gesture would be appropriate.

Travelers going for a walk to remote areas of the city can notice one more peculiarity of locals - passersby greet literally everyone they meet. In large cities, such a display of courtesy has become rare, while in small settlements, people are still very friendly and treat foreign tourists with a bit of curiosity.

Festivals in the cultural capital of Ecuador (as Guayaquil is often called) are just as colorful as local residents. Thus, on October 9, they celebrate Independence Day - not of the state but of the city. The event is equivalent to a national holiday. This date was chosen because it was here, in the province of Guayaquil, where in 1820 the Ecuadorian War of Independence between Ecuador and the Spanish colonial administration began. Parades commemorating the event are held on the main streets of the city at this time. Also, the audience is offered a rich program including music, dance and theatrical performances, tasting of local dishes, interactive shows.

Besides that, another cultural event is held in Ecuador's cultural capital - namely, Foundation of Guayaquil Day celebrated on July 25. Colorful parades, music, dances, as well as a beauty contest - this is what awaits visitors who've decided to join the celebration. And, of course, a lot of fun - the event wouldn't be complete without it. And all this is in the central streets of Guayaquil. Ecuadorian Independence Day is celebrated on August 10 in the same way. Colorful fireworks in honor of the victory over the Spanish colonial administration in 1822 becomes the culmination of the holiday.

The end of summer is marked by holding an international music festival called Together for Music where you can listen to whatever you want - from classical to Latin and electronic music, and therefore all fans of quality sound are invited to the event. The idea of the festival is to create a festive mood, strengthen human relationships, and unite people through music. At the festival, you can listen to both popular performers and those who have not yet gained great fame - but here they will have every chance to do that.

If you arrive in the cultural capital of Ecuador in early August, you can witness such an event as LAST Music festival. The venue is Concha Acustica Parque Samanes. At this time, more than 10,000 people visit the city as participants of the festival. Spectators are offered high-quality music, which is played by talented performers invited to the event - all to ensure that every visitor is satisfied. And it must be said that organizers approach this matter responsibly thus giving spectators what they really want.

Mid-September is marked by the Festival Internacional de Cine de Guayaquil. At this time, about 120 films of completely different genres - from short to full-length, from documentary and feature films, and from national to international - are shown to viewers. This means that everyone will find a film to their own taste here. Film directors compete for Iguana Dorada Awards in 20 categories. Among countries presenting their films are Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, Ukraine, Germany, Spain, France, Venezuela, Argentina, Russia.

The most popular religious holidays in Ecuador are Ano Nuevo (the New Year), Reyes Magos (Procession of the Three Kings), Semana Santa (Holy Week), as well as Nochebuena (Christmas Eve). The way people celebrate is no different from the celebration of these holidays in other countries. On November 2, on the Day of the Deceased, it is customary to visit cemeteries where relatives are buried to pay tribute to them. One more widely celebrated holiday is the birthday of Simon Bolivar, one of the most deeply respected leaders in the state.