Costumbres
Navideñas
“ Navidad ”
Colombian Style !
By William Bolivar
There is something absolutely magical about Christmas , particularly if you come from a Latin Country for our culture is unique in celebrating the holiday season . Typically , we combine praying with food and dance . Very appropriate ! We all have many reasons to celebrate , the birth of Christ , the good times and the bad times , for they make us stronger . The special moments we have shared with our loved ones , ( some of whom may no longer be with us ) many times brings us back to an equally warm and nostalgic past , la música parrandera , Villancico Christmas melodies , a natural Christmas tree and the traditional food , are some of the reasons why Christmas Colombian style is particularly unique . Although , there is a special day commemorating the arrival of the wise men ( January 6 th ), people still like to share presents on Christmas day , December 25 th .
Las Tradiciones Colombia , a country of 40 million people , officially begins its Fiesta Decembrina with The Candle Light Day or Dia De Las Velitas , on December 7 th and 8 th , which honors La Virgen Maria , in which all the neighborhoods throughout the country light candles placing them on walkways and on the edges of the streets . Also , la Música Parrandera breaks the season , Novenas and Villancicos are an official part of the celebrations too . Each region has its own traditions , the northern part of Colombia “ La Costa ” which comprises cities such as Cartagena , Barranguilla and Santa Marta , celebrate with música Vellencata . A holiday Turkey dinner , Lechon , Tamales de Arroz , Ayacas the popular Caribanolas and Butifarras meat pies complete a delicious food array .
In Barranquilla on new years eve , people always wait for the incredible giant whistle sound of Cerveceria Aguila , to mark the beginning of the new year . The rather cold Capitol City of Bogota , gets its warmest time of
the season and celebrates with lots of Pollo and Lechon , Tamales and for dessert , a gift from the Sweet Cauca Valley State “ El Manjar Blanco ”. Speaking of the Cauca Valley State its capital city Cali , called “ Heaven ’ s Branch City ” and other surrounding towns such as Palmira and Buga , are known for its “ Sugarish ” celebrations . Famous for their beautiful women ( a true fact ) and its liking for the Salsa Rhythms , ( Grupo Niche and Guayacan are from Cali ). El Calle del Cauca enjoys great Tamales make with Lechon , Dulce de Brevas ( Desamargado ) Arequipe and Arroz de Leche .
Another popular region , famous for its gorgeous flowers and rich land , is Medillin , Capitol of Antioquia State , also called “ City of the Eternal Spring ” and birthplace of Colombia ’ s parrandera music . Its people are unique characters called “ Paisas ” known for their creativity and hard work . In Paisa country the King and Queen of Navidad were also born : El Bunuela Y La Natilla ” which is enjoyed by Colombians from all over . The Sancocho de Gellina ( Hen Stew ) with corn cakes and avocados ( Arepas y Aguacates ) with a cup of Mazamorra and Guava Bocadillos or Sugar Cane Panela are a real treat ! The Pasteles de Gloria are heavenly and the popular alcoholic Chicha drink , made of fermented sugar corn will get anyone in the right mood . The typical parranda drink is the Aguardiente Blanco and if you are in Bogota , you will probably drink Aguardiente Nectar , in Manizales you will drink Aguardiente Cristal ,
1st . & 2nd . Fridays R 4 Networking Socials ! but according to the Colombian Department of Commerce , the most popular Aguardiente in the country is the Arguardiente Antioqueño , “ the real thing ”… some say !
Christmas and New Years Celebrations are a little different in Colombia , than in other countries , for it is not the time for spiritual relaxing , but for cheering , dancing and rejoicing . We pray to the Almighty for Colombians and other Latinos to enjoy a Christmas full of peace and love , not only in our country , but in the entire world .
Feliz Navidad para todos y que sus sueños se hagan realidad con la llega del Nuevo Año !
Places To Check Out !
Themed Events ! Our 1st . Friday - December 2005 events will feature " La Parranda del Año ! Featuring exciting musica navideña , complete with maracas , guiros , aguinaldos , bombas , coquito y mucha mas !!!! Our 2nd Friday will feature exciting Live Entertainment ! Don ' t miss it - Mock New Years Count-down and Champaign toast to a properous 2006 ! Join us on the 1st & 2nd Fridays in December ! Serving Tampa & St . Pete .