Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine October 2018 | Page 528

Christmas on St. Eustatius
. . . what makes it so special?
As the Christmas season approaches on the
island of St. Eustatius, one will detect a subtle
change in the atmosphere. This is the time
of year some islanders enjoy the most as
friends and family all celebrate this wonderful
season together.
It is an expectant,
celebratory mood,
one of sharing,
merriment and love.
It is not, however,
contained only
within the four walls
of the households
on the island. It
spills out into the
streets and visitors
can feel the Statia
love, emanating
from everyone they
meet… as Christmas
draws near.
The Christmas season sees the emergence
of special food and events that lay dormant
for most of the year. One such event, highly
anticipated, and specific to St. Eustatius is
the annual Christmas Red and White Parade.
Hosted by Statia’s
Lady of Culture, Ms.
Marcella Gibbs, parade
participants dressed in
red and white, dance
and/or walk through the
streets to the sounds of
festive Christmas music.
It is a beautiful event
after which people are
treated to live music
and entertainment from
choirs, string bands and
more. And, of course,
there is always food and
drinks on sale.
Although the parade is
Many of the
one of the high points
Caribbean islands
of Christmas, for the kids
Red and White Parade
share similar
there is still a bit more
traditions around
to look forward to. Every
this time. Family members would get together, child on the island between the ages of 0 to 12
usually staying up late at night, cooking and
years old receives a Christmas gift. Organized
baking traditional Christmas black cake,
by the members of the police force, donors
puddings and the inevitable Christmas ham,
and volunteers, this aspect of Statia’s Christmas
while they keep an ear out for the approach
epitomizes the act of giving and sharing – true
of Christmas carolers. On Statia, there is one
Christmas cheer!
special baked treat – the traditional “Christmas
Hard Cake”, which is so good, many islanders
If you are thinking about experiencing
actually bake them year-round, especially
Christmas in another country this year, St.
during cultural events, but it is really a Statia
Eustatius is a splendid choice.
Christmas cake.