The streets of Manaus came alive with festive cheer as the city celebrated the 'Caravana Natalina' on December 14, a heartwarming initiative organized by the local government in collaboration with Solar Coca-Cola. This enchanting caravan illuminated the North, West, and South-Central Zones of the city, featuring three Coca-Cola trucks and three vibrant Christmas floats that spread joy and holiday spirit throughout the avenues and streets.
Emerson Castro, the director-president of FMS, expressed the delight of the community in witnessing beloved Christmas characters up close, especially for those living in more remote areas. He stated, "It's an initiative by the Prefeitura de Manaus to bring the magic of Christmas to everyone, particularly to neighborhoods. For those who often cannot leave their homes, we're delivering this enchantment and wonderful moment, brightening the Christmas experience for families in the capital with immense emotion and joy."
Throughout the route, crowds gathered in anticipation of Santa's arrival. Local teacher Lidiane Soares brought her six-year-old son, Enzo, to experience the magic firsthand. She praised the initiative for rekindling the true spirit of Christmas in everyone. "It's always a very important moment to share the magic and wonder of Christmas with children. We adults are enchanted too; just imagine how the kids feel! I think this is a fantastic initiative, especially since Christmas is a family celebration that revolves around the birth of baby Jesus," she shared.
Miriã Silva, an airport worker, attended the event with her three-year-old daughter, Eva, for the second year in a row. "It's absolutely wonderful; this enchantment is vital for them. This is our second time participating in the Caravana, and it’s beautiful to see all these children smiling and the emotion of the parents. Kudos to the city government!" she exclaimed.
The 'Caravana Natalina' kicked off at the Coca-Cola headquarters on Avenida Torquato Tapajós, making its way through neighborhoods like Dom Pedro, Chapada, Adrianópolis, Centro, Compensa, and Vila da Prata, ultimately concluding at the scenic Ponta Negra tourist complex. This event is part of the larger 'Natal dos Sonhos - It's Time to Dream, Share, and Achieve' program, dedicated to spreading the Christmas spirit across Manaus.