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August 31st • Tradition & Risk

Las Bolas de Fuego

An incredible festival held in the town of Nejapa, El Salvador, where participants throw balls of fire at each other! This tradition commemorates a volcanic eruption from 1922 and the protection offered by the local saint. Today, we debate the psychology of risk-taking, the fine line between tradition and danger, and why some communities choose to keep extreme rituals alive in a modern world focused on safety.

A spectacular display of fireballs in Nejapa

Speaking Discussion

  • Would you ever participate in a festival where fire was being thrown? Why or why not?
  • Why do humans find controlled danger (like extreme sports or fire festivals) so exciting and addictive?
  • In your country, is there any tradition that would be considered dangerous by outsiders?
  • Should the government have the right to ban traditions if they are deemed too risky for the public?
  • How does participating in a dangerous ritual together help to strengthen the bonds within a community?
  • Is our modern world becoming too safe and losing the excitement of ancient, raw traditions?

Activity 1: The Safety Inspector

The Task: You are a Safety Consultant hired to make las bolas de fuego slightly safer without destroying the tradition.

What two changes will you propose? How will you convince the locals?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "I think taking risks is a part of human nature because..."
  • "A tradition that should never be changed is..."
  • "In my opinion, the most exciting type of festival is..."