Bonaire Bits - Culture

The origins of the Bonairean culture are as varied as the ethnic roots of its residents.  Based on the traditions of many generations of Indian, African, Asian and European inhabitiants, Bonaire's culture is is rooted in religious and holiday celebrations chronicled in songs and dancing.  The music is a blend of tribal beats using modern instruments and those made from makeshift farming tools.

Bonairean culture is also based on strong family ties and a general respect for nature and an understanding of Bonaire's arid an environment. Because of the island's warm climate, early residents dressed in light colored, cotton garments. Laborers wore work blouses, long trousers, skirts and head scarves made from imported cloth. The ladies' skirts were designed for working in the fields. The fronts were cut short to avoid dragging along the ground, while the backs hung a little lower for modesty when bending over. Hats made from palm fronds were worn by the men to protect them from the sometimes harsh elements. Of course, when it came to dressing up for a festival or party, no expense was spared. The ladies turned out in fine dresses and the men wore suits and hats that were the fashion of the day.

Influences from around the world have been combined on Bonaire in a truly unique mixture, testifying to how successfully the people have been able to integrate their different ethnic backgrounds. The harsh living conditions on Bonaire during slavery fostered a tremendous resilience in the spirit of the people and produced -- paradoxically -- much of the extraordinary liveliness and richness of Bonairean culture.