Over the next week, we’ll be introducing you to the Granlibakken family and sharing favorite holiday traditions from our international staff.
Today, we’d like you to meet Luis Ortiz, originally from Santa Cruz, Bolivia. For the past 9 years, Luis has worked at Granlibakken. Today, you can find him in the maintenance department.
For Luis, the Christmas holiday means gathering with family (usually 40-50 family members). Holiday celebrations begin 10 days before Christmas for the tree decoration. In addition to the ornaments and 
decorations on the tree, the manger is set up below the tree. On December 24th, family attends mass in the early evening. At midnight, they complete the manger scene with the placement of Baby Jesus. This is followed by the most festive part of the tradition – a family buffet of chicken, steak, pork, different salads and an assortment of sweets including chocolate, Panattone bread and dried fruit. Unlike other traditions in Bolivia like New Year’s and Independence Day, Christmas is about spending time with family.
This Christmas, Luis will spend it with his Granlibakken family with festivities beginning on December 24th with the Torchlight Parade and visit from Santa.
Tags: international staff
