Sister City Celebration
Remember that old idea of sister cities? Seems like it was all the rage when I was a kid, but since I've reached adulthood, I've rarely heard about sister cities.
An article in this month's Chilanguia, the monthly guide to cultural events in Mexico City, affirmed that the tradition has not died out. Mexico City, at least, still celebrates its cultural ties with sister cities around the world, including Nagoya, Japan.
While Japan and Mexico have enjoyed favorable diplomatic ties for more than a century, for the past 31 years, Mexico City and Nagoya have been sister cities. The two metropoli have much in common: both are the largest cities in their respective countries; both generate the most work and revenue for their countries; and both invested heavily in industry in the decades following WWII.
To celebrate their 31 years of sisterhood, Mexico City is hosting a festival now through December 14 that showcases highlights of Nagoyan and Japanese culture. The activities scheduled include fine arts exhibits, butoh dances, martial arts demonstrations, live music, and film festivals. All of the events that are part of the celebration are free and open to the public.
For a full listing of events, please visit the Secretary of Culture's website.