Old Year’s Night in Suriname

Relate a tale of a family in Suriname partaking in the ‘paggara estafette’ on Old Year’s Night.

Surinamese people celebrate Old Year’s Night with something called a ‘paggara estafette,’ a long red firecracker chain that creates a deafening noise to ward off evil spirits for the New Year. Narrate this unique experience, the reactions of the family, and the significance they attach to this ritual. Consider including elements of family dynamics, community involvement, and the balance between chaos and tradition.