New Year in Paramaribo 6

Old Year's Day.

To let in the New Year- four times- for the Netherlands, the UK, Suriname and Guyana- was one purpose of our trip.
The official celebrations begin at mid-day. Shops and businesses are closed. There is an "estafette" or competition for the longest ribbon of firecrackers, held in the town centre.

A fire cracker being unravelled before lighting.

 This is to "shoot out" the old year.
After the fire crackers, the day time street party begins.
Paramaribo is packed with local people and visitors. Street vendors sell beer, soft drinks and snacks.
The local Chamber of Commerce sponsors party buses, one with a band and singers on board, the second with dancers of all ages. Shops and businesses are invited to donate to the costs. In return, the parade will pause outside the premises, and promotional goods are thrown from the buses into the crowd.

The music is a mix of Latin, Caribbean and main stream "pop".
As Tessa and I milled with the crowd, I couldn't help but dance along. I was then beckoned by someone on the second bus to climb aboard, while Tessa was happy to walk alongside and mind the bags.
What a great way to greet the new year.