Welcome to Argentina Argentina is a country located in South America It is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world Its celebrations and customs are influenced by the many different cultures and ethnic groups that live there Many people have immigrated to Argentina from European countries including France Italy Germany Ireland and the United Kingdom Over three million people live in Buenos Aires the capital city of Argentina 4
Most Argentines are Roman Catholic which is a branch of the Christian religion Many of the country’s holidays and festivals are based on their beliefs There are a few other religions practiced in Argentina as well Argentina has the largest Muslim community in all of Latin America Muslims practice the religion of Islam which is based on the teachings of the prophet Muhammad About two percent of Argentina’s population practices the religion of Judaism Did You Know In Argentina lunch is the largest meal of the day Some workplaces close for lunch so workers can spend it with their families Lunches are often so big that dinner is not eaten until 9 00 p m 5
The New Year Argentines celebrate the New Year or Ano Nuevo on January 1 On New Year’s Eve families and friends share a late dinner of traditional foods which often includes sandwiches de miga These are sandwiches made on white bread without the crust and are filled with vegetables and thinly sliced meat Just before midnight people leave their homes to join the fun of the many street parties 6 Argentines dance sing light firecrackers and watch firework shows
Turron is a popular New Year’s dessert It is a nougat made with honey sugar egg white and nuts such as toasted almonds Did You Know In Argentina people follow many New Year traditions Some people run around their homes with suitcases on New Year’s Day They believe doing so will ensure more traveling in the coming year Piononos which are pastry rolls filled with fruit or cream are often enjoyed by Argentines on New Year’s Eve On New Year’s Day many people attend church services to pray for a peaceful new year In the afternoon families often celebrate by swimming and picnicking on the many beaches along the Atlantic Coast People also gather with family and friends for a special New Year’s Day meal 7
