But traditions differ, even in a relatively small region like ours. Here’s a glimpse into some interesting customs that give Christmas a uniquely Caribbean touch…
Nine Mornings
This is a festival that is celebrated in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For nine days preceding Christmas (not counting Sundays), people get up early to pay homage in church. Later in the day, they may take part in singing competitions or Christ- mas recitals. It is quite common for bands to play music in various communities throughout the island and there is even a popular carol-singing contest. Each year, the festival manages to put everyone in the Christmas mood!
Jonkonnu and Junkanoo
The first is tantamount to what we know as Ol’ Mas in Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, except it happens in Jamaica as part of the Christmas celebrations. There is also a Christmas morning market that lots of people like to attend. Junkanoo, on the other hand, is a Bahamian festival that takes place in the early hours of Boxing Day and New Year’s Day (similar to our J’ouvert). It began as a celebration of freedom for slaves who were given three days of rest during the Christmas season. Today, it is a colourful celebration of Bahamian culture and art as people parade through the streets in extravagant costumes and dance to the beat of drums, whistles and a vibrant rhythm section. What a way to welcome the New Year!
Jug-Jug
Over in Barbados, they light up for Christmas in a big way! From stores to homes, twinkling lights are practically every- where, and people take great pride in preparing their houses for Christmas by cleaning and painting. One of the most popular traditions, though, is partying – and no Bajan Christmas celebration would be complete without Jug-Jug, a dish in which tasty pigeon peas is the main ingredient. Boiled together with salt meat and pork and seasoned well, everything is minced together with corn flour and cooked. The result? Pure deliciousness!