It is not safe to assume that your way is the right when you are abroad.  The expression, "When in Rome..." sheds light on the general rule about manners when abroad.  Believe it or not in many countries including Tanzania, Brazil and Mexico showing up early for dinner is considered rude.  Ever wondered why some countries do not use a fork or knife?  Believe it or once upon a time many Asian and African countries thought it rude to use weapons(a knife) while dining.  European use of the knife to eat was thought to be barbaric.   In efforts to improve table etiquette Europeans rounded the table knife edge and added a fork and spoon to the dining experience. Part Two of this series will include France, Switzerland, the Philippines, Afghanistan, the United Kingdom and the United States.  MCCN spotlights International  Manners:

Happening in the Gas Lamp district, food fun and music. Thousands of people attend this big party on March 17th.   Read More

The parade begins at 12:00 noon, Saturday March 13th. The parade starts at Balbo and Columbus. The parade units will proceed north on Columbus Drive and the viewing stand will be located in front of Buckingham Fountain.

Sunday March 21, 2010 at 1:00 PM the Brooklyn St. Patrick's Day Parade will commence in historic Park Slope, Brooklyn.

June 24 -28 and July 1-10, 2010: The Festival is held outdoors on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between the Smithsonian museums. There is no admission charge.The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an international exposition of living cultural heritage annually produced outdoors on the National Mall of the United States in Washington, D.C., by the Smithsonian Institution's Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.