Page 12 - AHATA
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Wednesday 29 OctOber 2025 LOCAL
A10
Episode CCCXXVII -327
All Hallows’ Eve
The narrative of Etnia Nativa—which means Native and abduction away. Catholicism be- dars. However, Puritans in New Eng-
Ethnicity—highlights the importance of recovering came so deeply rooted that a large land strongly opposed the celebra-
and preserving Aruba’s cultural identity and heritage. percentage of the population remains tion, and historical almanacs suggest
Through this platform, we share an authentic native Catholic today, despite Roman Ca- that Halloween was not yet widely ob-
perspective, educate the public, and inspire readers tholicism having been banned after served across the country.
to adopt a mindset of being an “island caretaker.” the arrival of the Dutch (see episode
212, ‘Building Aruban Education’). The word ‘Halloween’ comes from ‘All
In this episode, we explore the origin and significance Hallows’ Eve,’ meaning the eve of All
of Halloween, a word meaning ‘All Saints’ Eve.’ De- Saints’ Day on November 1, followed
spite its global popularity, not all countries celebrates Until the late 1970s, it was very com- by All Souls’ Day on November 2. Both
this holiday of costumes, candy, and scares, as cul- mon to see Aruban women wearing holidays hold deep significance for the
tural, religious, and political factors often influence fine lace mantillas adorned with intri- Catholic Church, emphasizing remem-
whether—and how—it is observed. cate designs, a striking symbol of the brance and spirituality. In Mexico, for
island’s enduring Catholic heritage. example, these traditions are celebrat-
Halloween is believed to have its roots in both Chris- ed as a living culture and a tribute to
tian traditions and ancient pagan practices. Howev- Overall, Aruba’s religious history reflects the deceased.
er, in some countries—such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, a combination of Spanish and Dutch
and Malaysia—it is considered incompatible with Is- influence, alongside the persistence Since the time of the early Church, ma-
lamic culture. While these nations prioritize their own of Catholic priests from the mainland jor Christian holidays—such as Christ-
religious and family celebrations, in places like Austra- who maintained regular contact with mas, Easter, and Pentecost—were
lia, Argentina, and other parts of the world, Hallow- the localAmerindian population de- preceded by vigils the night before, as
een has not become deeply ingrained. In contrast, spite official prohibitions (see episode was All Saints’ Day. These three days
other countries have gradually adopted the holiday. 257, ‘The Holy Cross of Santa Cruz’). are collectively known as Allhallowtide
This is the case on our island, where Halloween was (all-hallow-tide), a period during which
not originally part of local customs but arrived with Modern Halloween customs are be- Western Christians honor all the saints
the Lago refinery and was later integrated into the lieved to have been influenced by and pray for the souls of the recently
tourism system, primarily to cater to American visitors. the folk traditions and beliefs of Celt- deceased who have not yet reached
In recent years, Halloween has become increasingly ic-speaking peoples, many of whom Heaven.
popular in Aruba, driven primarily by commercial in- practiced their own animistic religions
terests. often referred to as old or pagan reli-
gion. The holiday began spreading to Explore Aruba’s Roots at Etnia Nativa
The first inhabitants of Aruba were animists, practic- America becoming official for a few If you’ve enjoyed discovering our an-
ing a spiritual formof worship believing that everything congregations after 1916, when Angli- cestral stories and want to delve deep-
could harbour a soul or spirit for good or for bad. With can settlers in the American South and er into the true identity of the Aruban
the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, the natives Catholics in Maryland incorporated people, we invite you to experience
adopted Christianity in order to keep their freedom Halloween into their religious calen- Etnia Nativa—the Caribbean’s only
“living museum” of its kind, celebrat-
ing the island’s rich mestizaje (cultural
blending).q
Founded in 1994, Etnia Nativa has
been a cultural pioneer—co-founding
Aruba’s National Park, the Archaeo-
logical Museum, artisan foundations,
and several grassroots initiatives dedi-
cated to heritage and conservation.
But Etnia Nativa isn’t just a place — it’s
a gateway. Quietly tucked away near
the high-rise hotels, this private resi-
dence also serves as a cultural sanc-
tuary, unknown to most tourists. And
that’s part of its magic. Intentionally
exclusive, it welcomes only those with
a genuine curiosity and a thirst for au-
thentic discovery.
Connect with the spirit and soul of Aru-
ba’s ancient heritage through a one-
of-a-kind experience.
WhatsApp: +297 592 2702 or
Email: etnianativa03@gmail.com
