Our Puerto Rican Culture

San Juan streets

Puerto Rico has a very unique culture, influenced heavily by the fact that we are an American colony. Our roots are based on Taínos, Africans, the Spanish and the American culture. By walking through the streets of San Juan, one can appreciate our history while walking by craftsmen, eating traditional foods and admiring the old Spanish-influenced arquitecture from the buildings there.

                A big part of our culture is our music. Even in new generations, salsa is still relevant and present at every party.  Another important part of our culture is our food, consisting of mofongos, rice and beans, alcarpurrias, pasteles, and many more. Christmas is coming soon, which means a lot of lechón, arroz con gandules, and coquito. We get double the presents: from Santa Claus and then Los Reyes Magos. Our festive holidays are the best and longest. We find any excuse to party. There are small festivals in our towns in name of every food imaginable. We’re known for being loud and friendly, as well as knowing how to party. We’ll always help out a stranger, and make him feel like we’ve known each other for a long time.

So then, can Puerto Rican culture be defined by our food, festivities and music? In my opinion, it definitely can, but it is also much more than that. Our culture is influenced by our past as well as the present, by our joined attitudes and beliefs, as well as our atmosphere (living in an island). We’re proud of our culture. And we’re proud for every accomplishment a puertorrican makes. We love our country, and we’re loud when expressing our pride.