Christmas Day in Suriname

Background: Christmas Day in Suriname is celebrated on December 25th, as in many other parts of the world. Suriname, with its diverse population that includes Christian Creoles, Maroons, Hindustanis, Javanese, and indigenous peoples, among others, embraces a variety of festive traditions reflecting this multicultural tapestry.

History: The celebration of Christmas was introduced to Suriname during the colonial period when the country was under Dutch rule. As a result, many of the customs have roots in European traditions but have since been blended with local practices and influences from various ethnic groups.

Traditions: Surinamese Christmas traditions often include:

• Church Services: Many Christians attend church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Midnight Mass is particularly popular among Catholic communities.
• Decorations: Homes and public places are decorated with lights, Christmas trees (often artificial due to the tropical climate), and nativity scenes.
• Music: Carol singing is common both in churches and in neighborhoods. Unique to Suriname is the blend of traditional carols with local music styles.
• Family Gatherings: Families come together to share large meals that may feature dishes such as 'kerstbrood' (Christmas bread) or a variety of foods reflecting the nation's ethnic diversity.
• Gift Exchange: Exchanging gifts is a common practice akin to that in Western countries.

What People Do: On Christmas Day, people in Suriname typically spend time with family and friends. The day is marked by feasting on an array of multicultural dishes that could include anything from traditional Western holiday fare to Creole or East Indian cuisine. Children often receive presents from 'Kerstman' (Santa Claus), and it's a time for joyous celebration across the country.

Overall, Christmas Day in Suriname is characterized by its inclusive spirit where different cultures come together to celebrate peace, joy, and goodwill.