‘Christmas in de Country’ …a Berbice perspective

Dec 25, 2019 News

---

By Shikema Dey

You’ve heard the saying before that a whole world lives beyond the capital city, and the same applies for Christmas celebrations. Christmas in the ancient county of Berbice is no different than that of the rest of the country. But while many may believe that Christmas in Guyana is centred on celebrations in Georgetown, the countryside flair of Berbice gives the celebrations there a unique flavour which cannot be found anywhere else. This is ‘Christmas in de Country.’

As one crosses the Berbice River Bridge, the Christmas spirit can be felt; businesses are adorned with festive decorations, while the streets are abuzz with activity. In every taxi, on every music cart, in every bar, music can be heard easing you into that jolly Christmas mood.
As early as December 1, the shopping for Christmas supplies starts. Every household stocks up on goods and goodies for the season. In New Amsterdam, the main shopping centre, Pitt Street, is packed with vendors, sporting stalls filled with the usual yummy treats such as apples, grapes, walnuts and sweets and so much more, all being sold at affordable prices.
At the home of every Berbician, one trend is common; houses are upturned, fresh curtains are hung, old furniture is replaced with spanking new ones. Understandably, the Courts store is one of the busiest shopping spots. Fairy lights are meticulously placed in decorative patterns, a Christmas tree sits in the corner of the house and most importantly, a pot of delicious Pepper pot simmers on a nearby fireside.
Christmas would not be the same unless the floors are polished, and the steps scrubbed before the festive day. As friends and family would agree, a fresh coat of paint always makes the walls look brand new.
The ancient county sports a number of activities that attract the masses, even those from out of town, and adds to the uniqueness of Christmas celebrations there. One such event is the ‘Rock Centre Light Up’ held each year by the Little Rock family. Hundreds of people come

out to see Santa, Mickey, Mini, Sponge Bob and not forgetting Spider-man to entertain the excited kids.
Further up the coast, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club has a week-long Christmas Village held in the town’s primary school. The compound is transformed into a Christmas dreamland for those who visit, and is considered the first of its kind in Berbice. It includes Nativity scenes sporting a twenty-foot Christmas tree, Christmas Chimney, star, Santa and his sleigh, a Christmas home, inflatable Christmas characters, among other attractions.
The club’s Youth Ambassador, Marissa Foster, explained that the idea of a Christmas village was birthed years ago as a fun addition to the usual Christmas activities in the county.
“It’s a family-oriented event and if you notice, on the road there is always alcohol and those stuff. We wanted a place where parents can take their kids to have clean fun, where you can come and enjoy something different, something most see on TV in other countries, and that is what we brought here,” said Foster.
According to Foster too, the village not only focuses on the fun aspects of Christmas, but teaches the children about the true meaning of Christmas.
She added “We wanted some place fun, but also somewhere little kids can learn about why Christmas is celebrated not just about Santa and his Reindeer and the gifts, but also about the birth of Christ.”
The Christmas Village can be considered one of the most unique attractions for the countryside, but the festivities do not end there.

The hustle and bustle of the people continue throughout the month, as Berbicians ‘shop til they drop’ for the ingredients that will make the scrumptious Christmas day meals.
As the time winds down to Christmas Eve, the real fun begins. Stores open way past closing time, affording those the opportunity to complete their late-night shopping.
As this happens, the sound of Christmas music, chatter and laughter can be heard as preparations start for the annual Christmas Eve lime. Parents pass with their kids bouncing with excitement, itching to get a picture with Santa and his friends.
There is no shortage of Santas that evening, as they all line the main road, bringing joy not just to the kids, but adults who need the cheering up as well.
No Christmas Eve is complete without the Masquerade band. The rhythmical sounds of masqueraders are heard as drummers, flautists and other costumed musicians make melodious music, while the men, girls and boys rhythmically flounce along the main road in flamboyant apparel.
Christmas Day brings another excitement of its own. Families wake up to the smell of freshly-baked bread and simmering Pepper pot, while others prefer to commemorate the day giving praise to God.
The Christmas lunch is nothing short of traditional. A large spread complete with all the favourites, Ginger Beer, Garlic Pork, Fried Rice, the Baked Chicken, and not forgetting the final treat – a slice of Black or Fruit cake washed down with a refreshing cup of Sorrel drink.
But not all families go the traditional route. On the Corentyne, some Berbicians prefer to ‘bubble a pot of curry on the fireside’. Whether it may be crab or duck, expect it to be finger lickin’ good.
As Christmas Day winds down, few families can be seen out on the roads, taking a friendly night stroll enjoying the Christmas lights and company of good friends.
Like I said, Christmas in Berbice is no different than Christmas in the capital, but the countryside environment will always trump the busy city.
So if you wish, take a trip to the Ancient County, and experience ‘Christmas in de Country’. Berbice awaits you.

 

 

---

---