The Spanish influence in Christmas in Nicaragua

Officially the celebration of Christmas in Nicaragua commences from December 6, but the real excitement catches on from December 16. Being a Latin American country, some of the old Spanish customs are observed as the real catholic fervor was brought in by the Spanish during the colonial era. Since then, the religious rituals and practices are being observed by the people of this country with intense piety.One such religious Nicaraguan festivity is La Purisima which is observed in every traditional house here.

According to this custom, an ornately decorated alter is placed at the corner of the house along with a statue of Virgin Mary. A good number of chairs are arranged in front of this alter which would be later occupied by the other family members, friends and guests. After the arrival of the guests, celebrations commence by offering prayers to Virgin Mary. The rituals are intercepted by the guests and members of the family participating in singing the traditional hymns. It is a whole round of orchestrated music with whistles, tambourines and other instruments being played in the background. After this, the outdoor celebrations take place by the firing of rockets and firecrackers which are traditionally known as the Caraga Cerrada. It is a real boisterous celebration with songs, prayers, bursting of crackers, distribution of caramels and traditional sweets and drinks along with a host of other gifts.

The La Purisima celebration is an essential part of Christmas in Nicaragua. It is actually the commemoration of the “purest conception of Virgin Mary” and is observed on December 8. The celebrations commence right from the end of November and continue till the whole of December. All the legendary miracles attributed to Virgin Mary are remembered with great devotion and gratitude. A nine day prayer or Novenario is observed by the whole or a few devout members of the traditional Nicaraguan family for the Virgin Mary. There is an interesting aspect to this celebration as each family has its own unique or special image for Mary as inherited from their ancestors.
Following this private celebration, it is time for some fun. La Griteria is celebrated with the elaborate bursting of fire crackers in a row. In the big cities, the sound gets so boisterous that a first-time tourist might fear that a war has just begun! It is actually the celebration that venerates the Holy Mother. This is traditionally observed by making noises and shouting and of course, exchanging gifts. The Christmas Hug is another tradition of Nicaragua.

Following the Mass of the Christmas Eve, the dinner spread is consumed but only in the presence of the adult members of the family. The cards that are exchanged during Christmas in Nicaragua are white and plain. Basically, it is fun, frolic, food, drinks, fireworks and dancing that mark the Christmas celebrations in this region. The entire towns and cities are decorated and characteristically have the loudspeakers broadcasting the Christmas carols in full volume to add to the festive fervor.