submitted by Ashley Loya, Joshua Expeditions Domestic Coordinator

Christmas in the Bahamas ushers in the annual festival of Junkanoo, an energetic, colorful street parade of brightly costumed people dancing to the rhythmic accompaniment of cowbells, drums, and whistles. It is a true celebration to keep the holidays alive! Beginning at 2:00 a.m. on December 26 (Boxing Day), the celebration continues through the early morning hours until dawn’s light signals that the party must come to a close. But then it happens all over again just one week later on New Year’s Day! Junkanoo is the celebration to rival all others.

It is believed that the festival most likely originated in the 16th or 17th century. Around Christmas time in Africa, Bahamian slaves were given three days off, allowing time to leave the plantations and visit their families. They often celebrated the holiday with music, dance, and costumes. After slavery was abolished, Junkanoo almost disappeared, but a few islanders managed to keep the tradition alive, and over time, Junkanoo evolved into a joyous celebration of freedom. It is now an important part of the Christmas season on the islands of the Bahamas.

We as Christians celebrate the same kind of freedom as the Bahamian people. Our freedom comes through Christ, who released us from slavery to our sinful nature and gave us the hope of His return. Freedom in Christ marks the beginning of unbroken, unending fellowship with Him. It is a day we should believe in, think about, look toward, and prepare for with joy and anticipation. Because HE gave his life, now we can truly live! Let us all look beyond the glitter of Christmas and see the real reason we celebrate: Christ, our Savior.