The variety of American food owes much to the rich mix of cultures. The abundance of the New World lends itself to the traditional feasts and festivals that are still celebrated by many of the people who found refuge in America, bringing customs from the Old World to blend with the new. To bring good luck for the coming year, Southerners serve a country breakfast of Hoppin" John, a savoury mix of black-eyed peas and rice on New Year"s Day. No Kentucky Derby breakfast can be considered complete without a centrepiece of Bourbon Baked Ham and frosted tumblers of iced Mint Juleps. A Labor Day Clam and Lobster Bake on an East Coast beach at twilight is a simple pleasure to be remembered forever. This is a fun-filled celebration of culture and cuisine.