Ep 2. La Fiesta de la Tradicion (Tradition Festival) -Argentina

Fantastic Festivals of the World season 2 episode 2 titled "La Fiesta de la Tradicion (Tradition Festival) -Argentina" explores one of the most significant cultural events in Argentina, as the name suggests, the 'Fiesta de la Tradicion'. This traditional festival is dedicated to the Argentine cowboy, or 'gaucho', who is an essential figure in the country's history and folklore.

The episode begins with a vibrant parade of horses and riders adorned in typical gaucho attire. The procession is led by the 'gauchos', who are armed with long knives known as 'facones' and the 'boleadoras,' the traditional throwing weapon. The festival begins with a rodeo, where skilled riders show off their abilities while taming bulls and horses.

The show then explores the various aspects of the festival, such as the skill contest of cattle herding, which is one of the highlights of the event. The competition involves teams of riders who must herd a designated herd of cattle from one end of the competition field to the other in the shortest time possible. The episode also explores the different types of boleadoras used by the gauchos, which vary depending on the purpose and are often ingeniously crafted.

Throughout the festival, visitors can experience a range of traditional Argentine food and drink, such as 'asado' and Argentine wine. Asado is the traditional type of barbeque in Argentina, where a whole animal is cooked over an open flame. The episode shows the preparation of asado and the traditional way it is cooked.

Further into the episode, we get a chance to explore the music and the dancing of the gauchos of Argentina. The festival features live performances of folk music, including the famous 'Chacarera' dance. The show presents a fascinating insight into the traditional music and dance of the gauchos, performers dressed in traditional attire, and playing instruments such as the guitar, the harp, and the accordion.

The episode also showcases the various handicrafts that are on offer during the festival, such as hand-sewn textiles and leatherwork. The show explores the traditional craftsmanship of the gauchos, including how they make belts, boots, and saddles. Visitors can also participate in workshops where they can learn traditional skills and techniques of the gauchos.

Towards the end of the festival, the episode presents an understanding of the gaucho lifestyle. We learn more about the importance of the gaucho culture in Argentine history and the significance of the fiesta de la tradición in preserving this heritage. The episode concludes with a final rodeo where the best riders compete and give visitors a thrilling performance.

In summary, season 2, episode 2 of Fantastic Festivals of the World takes viewers on a journey into the heart of Argentina's gaucho culture and showcases the fiesta de la tradición as one of the country's oldest and most significant cultural events. With an emphasis on tradition, culture, and authentic experiences, the show offers insights into the customs, food, music, and handicrafts of the gauchos. It's a show that offers a feast of knowledge to those interested in understanding different cultures and traditions.