One of the most beautiful things about being an expat and immersing yourself in another culture is the ability to blend traditions, experiences, and celebrations into a rich, multifaceted life. For our family, February is a particularly special month because it represents two cultural pillars that we hold dear. While Black History Month is a cornerstone of our Black American identity, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of our ancestors, El Día de Andalucía allows us to connect with the deep-rooted traditions of southern Spain, our home away from home.
Just this past weekend, we hosted a vibrant Black History Month barbecue celebration at our home, filling the air with the smoky aroma of grilled delights while sharing stories and reflecting on the powerful legacy of Black pioneers. Laughter echoed in our backyard as friends and family gathered, creating a sense of community that bridges borders. And now, as February draws to a close, we shift gears to embrace El Día de Andalucía, a holiday that honors the rich history and cultural identity of the Andalusian region.
Our children love this time of year, as their schools put on special festivities showcasing Andalusian traditions. They eagerly participate in activities, from dressing in traditional attire to enjoying the region’s famous Mediterranean dishes. Watching them savor the fresh, local flavors—like salmorejo, pan con aceite, and pescaíto frito—reminds us how much they have truly embraced the Andalusian way of life.
Beyond the classroom, the celebration extends into the streets, where the entire town of Utrera-Sevilla comes alive. Families take to the plazas, music fills the air, and children zip around on their bikes, joining in the communal joy that makes this region so special. Our kids have even mastered all six provinces that make up Andalucía—Seville, Málaga, Granada, Córdoba, Almería, and Huelva—and we have had the privilege of visiting each of them as a family, with Jaén still waiting on our list.
Living in Spain has given us the opportunity to weave these experiences together, celebrating our heritage while fully engaging with the culture that surrounds us. It’s a beautiful reminder that identity is not confined to a single place but enriched by every step of the journey. As we honor both Black History Month and El Día de Andalucía, we are grateful for the chance to teach our children that embracing new traditions does not mean letting go of old ones—it means creating something even more meaningful.
Here’s to a life full of celebration, learning, and the beauty of cultural fusion!