Localizing the Fifth of May: One Big Ol’ Global Party

Localizing can be loosely defined as the process of adapting both textual and non-textual elements of a product or service to the needs, habits, culture, and aesthetics of various local markets. That being said, localization not only demands a great deal of linguistic and technological expertise, it also requires a proactive mindfulness of different cultural practices and customs.

Here on Simply CSOFT, as very vocal advocates of cultural awareness, we say there’s no better time like the present to head over to your nearest music festival, fly a kite, and drink a margarita! :)

… but before you do that, take a moment to read on a bit—it might help put that statement into perspective.

For some, today is an ordinary Thursday in early May, the day before the day before the weekend. And yet, in other parts of the world, people right now are celebrating vastly different occasions simply because of their different cultural upbringings.

In Japan and South Korea, today is a day to celebrate children with kites, parades, presents and fun excursions.

In the Netherlands, however, yesterday was the Day of Remembrance (Dodenherdenking) to honor all of those who had fought and died in WWII, whereas today is for celebrating the country’s liberation (Bevrijdingsdag) from Nazi Germany. All throughout the country, music festivals are being held.

Thailand celebrates the crowning of their 9^th king of the Chakri dynasty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, on May 5^th every year. Known as Coronation Day, this celebration lasts three days, beginning on the 3^rd of May. Each day has its own specific rituals, involving scripture chants and ceremonies, and the whole shebang ends with a large feast on the last day.

Finally, in Mexico and many parts of the U.S., people today are celebrating Cinco de Mayo. Translated as the 5^th of May, this day is in commemoration of the triumphant victory the Mexican militia had over the French army in 1862. In recent times, it is mostly known as a celebration of Mexican culture and pride, observed with food, drink, song, and dance. It is also considered by some to be a larger celebration in the US than Mexico itself, observed through the mass consumption of Mexican food and margaritas.

Whatever this day brings you, we hope it’s a good one. And if we didn’t mention festivities going on in your part of the world, feel free to share below. Now go out there and get your margarita on!

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