This has been a holiday season of many first for Mat and I. Our first Christmas as a married couple, our first Christmas away from home, and our first time celebrating what is called ‘Silly Season’. The holidays in Auckland don’t seem to attain the same fervor as in the states. I have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of Christmas music in the stores and Santa’s in the mall. There are lukewarm attempts to commercializing the holidays here, however, none as spectacular as at home. Some American expats find this a welcome relief; some are left feeling like something is missing.
What the Aucklanders lack in their way of Christmas spirit, they certainly make up for in merry making. Parties, and not necessarily holiday themed abound—thus they have dubbed the Christmas season, ‘silly season’. Our first silly season fete was the Maersk Christmas Party. We were invited to dress in national costume, whatever that is, and join his co-workers on a trip around the world. (aka, our party was very similar to a fraternity around the world party—and some of the costumes looked more suited to kegs and frat boys than upstanding employees) Mat and I showed up in our best American costume: jeans, sneakers, baseballs hats and t-shirts…..
Other people showed up wearing costumes that did not represent their nationality, but the stereotypes of other nationalities. WHAT?! We didn’t need to indulge in the free flowing bar to enjoy some of the most hysterical moments the night yielded. Let’s just say, we left after the band went on, but before the belly dancers (3AM we are told).
Here are some silly moments:
Here are some silly moments:
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