For 81-year-old Tobagonian Whiney Neptune the traditions of Christmas are dying out. Neptune, of Les Couteaux, described a Tobago Christmas as just another day. “The only thing special for a Christmas in Tobago, and I am sure in Trinidad, is the baking of the cakes and preparing of the house for the visit of friends.”
Neptune, who grew up not knowing her biological mother, was raised by her father and step-mother. She has two sisters and a brother. Although both sisters live in Trinidad, Neptune said she was yet to experience a “Trini Christmas.” “Well the basic tradition here is people baking, changing curtains, and decorating the house. One of the main items to be baked other than the black cake and sponge cake are coconut tarts and coconut drops. Of course, ginger beer is one of the main drinks. “For food, we prepare pork, and (ground) provisions like yellow yam, cassava, sweet potatoes and plantains as part of the main dish.”
Traditionally on Christmas Eve night, Neptune said, church choirs would go from house to house singing Christmas carols and when they were done, they would be offered whatever goodies were available. “But, unfortunately, that was long ago. Nowadays, you don’t see the caroling groups.” Neptune, who sells vegetable produce at the Scarborough market, said the tradition of warmth and friendliness among people in the communities are fading with each passing year.
“All the community love dying out, people are more keeping to themselves. What used to happen long ago is the coming together of organisations who invite children and present them with little gifts, but that don’t happen again.” Neptune’s wish for the New Year is that people seek to be more kind to each other and look out for each other. “In addition to helping them to get along in life with the help of God, you must not forget God in your affairs or counsels.”