On January 14, 2014 our neighbour Justin Orlando Romero Mora turned two. And on Sunday, January 19th I had the privilege of attending his birthday party.

When Gordon and I received the invitation to Justin’s birthday party we expected there to be a piñata, some candy and a cake. But holy moly, this pirate themed birthday celebration was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced or could have imagined.

Often times I’ve walked by thatched roof beach restaurants on a Sunday afternoon to witness a birthday party going on. To be an invited guest, instead of a curious onlooker was pretty exciting. 

I arrived at El Buen Gusto shortly after 3 pm. The decorations were impressive to say the least. 

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– A Pirate Theme Party at El Buen Gusto

Right away I spotted the birthday boy and his mama enjoying some popcorn. 

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– Justin Orlando Romero Mora (2 years old)

Next I noticed the massive (and elaborately decorated) cake.

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
As guests arrived I wandered around amazed at how big of deal this birthday party was.  I was the only foreigner in attendance, but I felt very welcome.

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration

The party started with piñata smashing. Kids big and small took turns hitting with all their might in hopes that they’d be lucky one to send the candy flying.

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– Collecting candy
Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– Hit it! Hit it hard!

Endless ice cold Coca Cola and Fresca, popcorn and ice cream were served. There was a game of musical chairs.  And a few kids participated in a dance off.  

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– These kids had some moves!

Justin wasn’t the only one that got spoiled. Each child was given more gifts than I could count – pirate paraphernalia, goody bags stuffed with cookies, chocolate and candy, rubber balls, hula hoops and more! 

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Celebration

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– It’s hard to get a smile out of Justin which makes this picture that much more special!

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration

And for the parents and older guests? Bacon wrapped filet mignon dinner and a very special take away gift. 

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– Pirate themed coffee mugs personalised with a picture of the birthday boy!

Unfortunately by the time the kids gathered round the cake to sing Happy Birthday the guest of honor had had enough.

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration
– Cake Time

Justin Turns Two: A Nicaraguan Birthday Celebration

It was a real treat, honour and pleasure to have been a part of this incredible celebration for Justin. This event is definitely on top of my list of favourite Nicaraguan cultural experiences. A birthday party I’ll never forget, that’s for sure!

4 Comments

  1. I too have walked by the elaborate birthday parties at the water front restaurants in San Juan Del Sur. To be invited to the party would be a great experience I’m sure.

    Willard Mac Kay

Comments are closed.