by Valentina from Asunción asks Santa how to say Nochebuena, learns about the Paraná River, and hears about Paraguay’s family gathering traditions
Dear Santa, my name is Valentina and I am nine years old. I live in Asunción, Paraguay, where my abuela says our whole extended family, cousins included, squeezes into one house every single Christmas Eve without complaint.
Dear Valentina, I have delivered to that exact squeeze of a household myself, and I always find it delightfully warm, in every sense.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, how do you say Christmas Eve in Spanish? My teacher taught us the word but I keep forgetting it by the time I get home.
It is Nochebuena, Valentina, meaning the good night, a fitting name for such a warm, important evening. I hope that word sticks a little better this time.
My second question is about our river. My teacher says a huge river forms part of our country’s border. Is the Paraná River really that important?
It is, Valentina. The Paraná River is one of the longest rivers in South America, shaping trade, transportation, and borders across several countries, including much of Paraguay’s. Flying along its wide, dark water each Christmas Eve is a genuinely beautiful part of my journey.
My third question is about our big family gathering. Why does absolutely everyone come together for Nochebuena here, even relatives who barely see each other the rest of the year?
Nochebuena holds deep importance in Paraguayan family life, Valentina, seen as the true heart of the Christmas celebration, drawing extended families together for a late feast, fireworks at midnight, and genuine reconnection. I think that effort, everyone making real space in their year just for each other, is one of the truest gifts of the whole season.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Valentina Cabrera
Asunción, Paraguay
P.S. Feliz Nochebuena, Santa.
Feliz Nochebuena to you too, Valentina. Practiced carefully, just for your family.
