Thousands celebrate Easter Monday across city

Families in the National Park (DPI photo)
Families in the National Park (DPI photo)

Georgetown came alive with a spirit of community and joy on Easter Monday  as families from across the city converged on the National Park and the Kitty seawall to partake in a day of celebration and relaxation.

The scenic backdrop of the sea wall, with its wide, breezy  views of the ocean, and the lush greenery of the National Park, provided the perfect setting for these festive gatherings.

Families converged at both ends of the National Park, where children were absorbed in games and adults were busy helping with kite flying. The blazing sun did not deter the spirits, as families found solace under the shade of trees, where they enjoyed meals and good times together. Some even rented tents for the day, choosing to spend quality time with their families in this idyllic setting.

Alongside the sea wall, the scene was equally lively. Families set up their spots, laying out mats and folding chairs, as children darted about, flying kites that danced and weaved against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. The kite-flying, a cherished Easter tradition, added a vibrant burst of colour to the day, with kites of all shapes and sizes soaring high, much to the delight of the onlookers below.

Stalls operated by small businesses, offering beverages and food, adorned the seawall and certain areas of the National Park, providing snacks to visitors in need. Among the crowd were families from out of town. Stabroek News engaged with families, gathering their perspectives.

 Radica Persaud, alongside her two daughters, traveled from the East Bank of Essequibo to celebrate Easter with her sister’s family in Georgetown. As a single mother, she revealed that this has become an annual tradition for them. “We always come to the city for Easter; the girls really love it, they actually prefer it,” she shared.

Damien Jagroop, joined by his younger brother and wife, expressed their reason for being there: “We’re here to soak in the atmosphere; it’s really nice out here, although it’s quite hot,” he commented.

His partner, Varshani Deolall, mentioned she recently returned to Guyana specifically to spend the holiday with her loved ones. “I’ve missed celebrating Easter in Guyana, so I came back to spend this special time with him,” she stated.

Continuing through the park, Stabroek News encountered Ranveer Ramnarine and his family enjoying a picnic. He explained that this Easter marks a significant first for him, his wife Savita Ramnarine, and their adopted daughter. “This is Melly’s first Easter with us, and we wanted to create memorable moments for her. I’ll be helping her fly her kite later; the sun is quite strong,” he shared.

Jennel and Clive James were discovered enjoying a picnic by the seawall when Stabroek News approached them. The elderly couple disclosed their recent return to Guyana from the United States, expressing their desire to celebrate this Easter with their grandchildren. “We’ve recently come back; we wanted to spend this Easter with my grandkids,” Clive mentioned before excusing himself to assist his two young grandsons with their kites. “It’s a James family Easter celebration, a tradition we uphold every Easter Monday. As you can see, we’re quite old now, so it’s really important for us to spend as much time with them as we can,” Jennel added.

Every corner exuded a sense of togetherness, painted with vibrant colours. The atmosphere resonated with community spirit and familial bonds were palpable.