10 Traditions and Customs from Argentina
These traditions bring families closer and help you explore different cultures from home. As you learn about each one, consider how you can involve your children, creating meaningful memories and enriching your home with cultural diversity.
1. Greet with a Kiss
In Argentina, it is customary to greet everyone with a kiss on the cheek. This includes friends, family, and even new acquaintances. This is not a romantic gesture but rather a polite and friendly way to say hello. It is a warm tradition that shows respect and connection.
Cultural Experience at Home: Practice this friendly greeting as a family to teach children about Argentinian customs. You can also role-play different greetings from around the world to compare cultural differences.
2. Dance the Tango
The tango is one of the most beloved traditions in Argentina. This lively and passionate dance style began in the late 1800s. It continues to be a beloved tradition in Argentina, with people of all ages enjoying tango performances or taking dance lessons.
Cultural Experience at Home: Have a family tango night. Watch tango performances on YouTube and learn a few basic steps together. Play Argentinian tango music on streaming platforms to set the mood.
3. Embrace the Gaucho Culture
The gaucho, Argentina’s version of the cowboy, symbolizes independence and courage. Gauchos were known for their expert horsemanship and distinctive attire, including baggy pants, wide-brimmed hats, and ponchos. Today, gaucho culture is celebrated through ranch tours, cultural festivals, and traditional dances like Malambo.
Cultural Experience at Home: If you’re eager to share in the traditional customs of Argentina, read the classic poem Martin Fierro with your children to learn about the gaucho’s adventures and values. You can also watch videos of Malambo dancing and try to learn the rhythmic footwork together.
4. Celebrate El Día del Niño
El Día del Niño (Children’s Day) is a special holiday in Argentina dedicated to celebrating children. It is typically celebrated on the third Sunday of August with games, gifts, and fun activities. Families gather to spend quality time together and make their children feel special.
Cultural Experience at Home: Host an El Día del Niño celebration at home with fun games like musical chairs, a treasure hunt, or DIY crafts. Encourage your children to create handmade cards for each other or for friends, emphasizing the joy of giving and celebrating childhood.
5. Watch Argentinian Cartoons and Movies
Argentinian animated series and family movies are a great way for children to experience the language and humor of Argentina. Popular shows include Zamba and Plim Plim, which are educational and entertaining for young audiences.
Cultural Experience at Home: Watch Argentinian cartoons on YouTube or streaming platforms with Spanish audio. This helps kids get familiar with the language and learn about Argentinian humor and storytelling. Have a family movie night and discuss the storylines or favorite characters afterward.
6. Play Argentinian Children’s Games
Children in Argentina enjoy many traditional games that encourage social interaction and physical activity. Popular games include El Juego de la Oca (The Goose Game), Rayuela (Hopscotch), and Escondida (Hide and Seek).
Cultural Experience at Home: Organize a family game day with traditional Argentinian games. Draw a hopscotch grid on the sidewalk, play hide and seek around the house, or find printable versions of El Juego de la Oca online. Make it more exciting by giving small prizes to winners.
7. Watch and Partake in Fútbol
Football isn’t just a sport in Argentina. It is a national identity. Argentine fans, known as “hinchas,” are extremely passionate, making stadiums come alive with chants, songs, and unwavering support. When fans can’t make it to a match, they still make it a communal event, gathering with family and friends to cheer, sing, and celebrate together.
Cultural Experience at Home: Host a family fútbol night by watching an Argentinian football game online or on TV. Teach your kids some Argentinian football chants to make it more interactive. You can also play a family soccer match in the backyard or at a local park. Want to brighten your Au Pair’s day? It could be as simple as clicking on the football game!
8. Celebrate Carnavalito
Carnavalito is a traditional Argentinian dance and festival celebrated in the northwest regions of Argentina. It includes colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic dancing. The dance steps are easy and fun for kids to learn.
Cultural Experience at Home: Create a mini Carnavalito at home by making simple masks or headbands with colorful feathers and paper. Play traditional Andean music and learn the basic dance steps together. Have a mini parade around the house for a fun and festive celebration.
Embrace Family Traditions in Argentina with Your Au Pair
Looking for a way to enrich your children’s lives and introduce them to the world? Hosting an Au Pair from Argentina or another country could be the transformative cultural experience you’ve been waiting for. Your Au Pair will help care for your kids, assist with household tasks, and bring fresh experiences into your home.
Best of all, it’s a cost-effective option compared to traditional childcare, with full support from our team to make the experience seamless and unforgettable. Explore our Au Pairs today and find the perfect fit for your family’s needs!
