Even the dogs get dressed up for Christmas in Costa Rica, especially the annual Christmas Fair at Monteverde Friends School. He knows there will be plenty of food, music, games, shopping, and of course, shopping. This year’s fair did not disappoint. A new twist was an all-day soccer tournament up on the field, which attracted many families from the wider community who then stayed to do their Christmas shopping from the many local artisans in the meeting house. The dining room was constantly full of people sampling tamales, arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and way too many desserts for this early in the season. Kids enjoyed the trampoline and carnival games, and the usual magical face painting. And many of our parents and students shared their musical talents on stage to keep the atmosphere merry. Please enjoy the photo gallery below.
The fair is just the kick-off of a month of festivities here in Monteverde. This week we will enjoy two concerts from the community choir. Weekly caroling has been happening each Sunday afternoon at different Friends’ houses after meeting. We’ve put our names in for the secret gift exchange (I have to make a hand-made gift – gulp!). Next week’s blog will be about the school’s Christmas assembly with performances from all classes plus the teachers, followed by the meeting’s own talent show then “wassailing.” Then comes the Christmas Eve door-to-door caroling and Christmas Day meeting, dinner and gift exchange.
Like most of life here, Christmas isn’t about Stuff (though there was plenty of beautiful stuff at the fair). It’s about friends, celebrating the Light, and community. I can’t think of a better place for my family to enjoy and understand the true spirit of Christmas.
