INTANGIBLE CULTURE HERITAGE

In our own small town of Hudson, Massachusetts, we have observed how various cultures have melded and interacted over the years as immigrants arrived during the Industrial Revolution. In Hudson, we have a strong Portuguese community, with various local businesses and clubs dedicated to special events. Since then, the heritages brought by these immigrants have been passed down to their children and grandchildren. What is American culture? America is known as the “Great Melting Pot” for this reason, and in a speech, President John F. Kennedy described it as a “nation of nations.” The diversity that makes up these ethnic groups contributes to a unique American culture. To highlight this theme of intangible cultural heritage, we have created a video to highlight the cultures around our town.  The first event is the Imperio Mariense Festival, brought to Hudson by Portuguese immigrants.  The second, Fourth of July, is America’s Independence Day and a symbol of our nation.  The third and fourth events, Pumpkin Fest and Downtown Trick or Treat, highlight Halloween, a holiday brought to the United States from Ireland. Finally, we focused on Thanksgiving, a holiday that brings Americans of all backgrounds together.