Santa’s pirogue lands in Gramercy for Christmas kickoff

Published 11:45 pm Tuesday, November 27, 2012

By Chrissy Carter

Contributing Writer

GRAMERCY – Santa Claus traded his traditional cookies and milk for a big, spicy pot of gumbo at the first Crazy ‘Bout History A Very Cajun Christmas.  The holiday celebration was held Sunday at the St. James Welcome Center in Gramercy where children of all ages celebrated their Cajun heritage while ringing in the Christmas season.

“We are trying to bring out our Acadian history and educate our children while having fun,” said Crazy ‘Bout History Director Connie Donadieu. “We had a fantastic turnout for our first event, and I know that it will get better in the future.”

The Crazy ‘Bout History historical society gained local notoriety for its Halloween cemetery tours, but members thought it was time to create another event the community would enjoy. The initial idea for a Very Cajun Christmas came from former owner of Armand’s Bistro in LaPlace, Jim Rooker. Rooker presented the idea at a board meeting, and the rest was history.

“We had an event like this for five years at Armand’s Bistro, and it was very successful. This is a great way to keep Christmas alive in the River Parishes,” said Rooker.

Mrs. Claus, portrayed by Connie Donadeiu, escorted a very jolly Santa Claus, played by John Dinger, near the swamp where he prepared to greet the boys and girls. Children were thrilled to sit on Papa Noel’s lap and recite to him their Christmas list.

In true Cajun style, each child was presented a gift picked from a pile nestled in a pirogue instead of a traditional sleigh.  

“My kids were so excited to meet Santa,” said parent Patty Parker. “I love the Cajun Santa. This was so much better than going to the mall.”

Meeting Santa was only one of the many fun activities planned at the celebration. Deidre Detiller entertained the crowd by reading “The History of the Candy Cane,” while Crazy ‘Bout History’s very own Theron Oubre,  Kasi Mancuso and Hailey Detiller handed out various sweets to the children.  Youngsters had an opportunity to express their artistic side at the arts and crafts table, and parents could take a chance on a raffle for a beautifully framed Louisiana Bicentennial poster.

Gumbo and potato salad made by “Buggy” Lemoine were served to the crowd, and many community volunteers were on hand to assist in any way possible.

“There is so much history about this area that our kids do not know,” said Crazy ‘Bout History volunteer Dale Williams. “They don’t have to go to a zoo. We have an alligator right in the swamp.”  

Besides the delicious food and beautiful scenery, the real star of the show was Kris Kringle himself. Santa Claus took time out of his busy schedule to visit the families of the River Parishes and assured them that this Christmas will be one to remember.

“I am filled with joy every time I visit south Louisiana, because it gives me a chance to put on a few pounds before Christmas day,” he said. “The gumbo is delicious, and I enjoy all of the beauty and magic the swamp as to offer.”

To find out more about Crazy ‘Bout History and their upcoming events, visit their website at www.crazybouthistoryinc.org.