courtesy of: The Morning News
written by: Rosalie Klein
It is always surprising to meet the occasional island visitor who mistakenly thinks that Christmas lights and traditional decorations are reserved for northern climes; a ride around Aruba during the season will open their eyes. An authentic holiday spirit is abundant on the island, as evidenced in a number of barrios, where community members create holiday centers and the entire neighborhood are welcome to congregate, socialize and share the seasonal spirit. Such are four ladies from Paradera, who live on a small cul-de-sac with a lovely rock formation. One day over four years ago, Maria Infante approached her neighbor, Gina Luidens, who owned the unused patch of land with the intriguing rock formation, proposing they use it for a “pesebre” – a classic manger scene, in Papiamento.
Gina and Maria were joined by Ana Luidens (no relation) and Maureen Silva in creating this life size Paper Mache tableau out of recycled materials; there is remarkable attention to the detailing of props and sumptuous dress, particularly of the 3 Kings. This is the fourth year they have created this social center, which they start working on as early as the February before.
Friday evening, November 25 witnessed a gala unveiling with Father Mariano of the Paradera Church blessing their creation and a throng of islanders gasping in wonder as the lights came up on the figures in a dramatic opening.
A bright Star of Bethlehem guides visitors to the Pesebre Paradera any night of the week, for those wishing to tour the island and enjoy the seasonal lighting and various parks set up in various neighborhoods. Other suggested sites are Seroe Preto and the Wara Wara Christmas Park. You can find a map to the manger site below.
