Nashauna Drummond, Staff Reporter
Even the buildings come alive with pepper lights in Santiago, Dominican Republic. - CONTRIBUTED
This week Lifestyle takes a look at how some of our Caribbean neighbours celebrate the Christmas season.
AS IN Jamaica, Christmas in the Dominican Republic is a time for family. Most persons return to their hometowns to celebrate with family and friends.
The neighbouring island will be introduced to Christmas one hour ahead of Jamaica. On Christmas day itself, not much is done - except well, maybe a lot of sleeping and eating an elaborate dinner, consisting mostly of roast pig. This is either done on a spit, over an open fire or in an oven. The hangover from the wild parties on Christmas Eve (Noche Buena) leave them no other option.
They can't be blamed for 'living-it up' - they are paid an extra month's pay, which puts them at a partying advantage - the sort of traditional Christmas gesture in Jamaica that we would call a 'bonus'.
Gifts are not given until el Dia de los Reyes - Kings' Day - on January 6, when the three wise men's arrival is celebrated. I guess it's to protect Christmas Day from all the commercialism which some say, crowd out the Christmas message. The younger Dominicans do not seem to care, as their moods are festive all season long.
