The Pagara Estafette is a Grand Farewell to the Old Year and a Joyous Welcome to the New. This electrifying New Year’s Eve celebration is held annually in Paramaribo, Suriname. The street party is a must-experience for anyone seeking an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year.
History of the Festival
The Pagara Estafette is a celebration rooted in tradition with origins that can be traced back to the 19th century when enslaved Africans in Suriname would gather on New Year’s Eve to sing and dance. Over time, the event evolved into a massive street festival, attracting people from all walks of life.
What to Expect at Pagara Estafette
The Pagara Estafette festival is a day of unparalleled festivities and kicks off early in the morning with a procession of brass bands and lively dancers parading through the streets of Paramaribo. The air is filled with infectious rhythms and contagious energy as the city transforms into one big pulsating dance floor.
As the day progresses, the festivities intensify. Live music concerts featuring Suriname’s top performers excite the crowds, while street vendors will tempt your taste buds with an array of local cuisine. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared sense of anticipation for the New Year.
As the sun sets, expect further revelry as the Pagara Estafette reaches its crescendo with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the night sky. The vibrant colours and dazzling explosions reflect the joy that fills the air.
The party continues well into the night, with dancing under the stars in the company of friends and family. The Pagara Estafette is more than just a celebration; it’s a symbol of hope, renewal, and the vibrant spirit of Suriname.
When is Pagara Estafette?
On Sunday, December 31, 2023, but it carried over onto Monday, January 1 2024.
Where to Experience the Pagara Estafette
The Pagara Estafette takes place in the heart of Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital city. The festivities are centred around the historic Independence Square, but they extend throughout the city’s streets and plazas.
Exploring Suriname’s Cultural Delights
Beyond the Pagara Estafette, Suriname offers a wealth of cultural experiences to discover. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Inner City of Paramaribo, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Suriname’s diverse ethnic groups, and venture into the lush rainforests that cover much of the country.
Surinamese cuisine is incredibly rich with influences from Indonesia, India, China, Holland and the Caribbean, amongst others.
Other Festivals in Suriname
If you are not fin Suriname during Pagara Estafette then try to make it for Keti Koti, held in late June which celebrated the abolition of slavery.
Flights to Suriname
The most direct routes to Suriname from major international hubs include:
- From London: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offers flights from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Paramaribo International Airport (PBM) via Amsterdam.
- From Miami: Surinam Airways offer direct flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Paramaribo International Airport (PBM).
Once you arrive in Paramaribo International Airport, taxis are readily available to take you to your destination.
Accommodation During the Pagara Estafette
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Things To Do in Suriname
For more on Suriname https://www.surinametourism.sr/
