Whether their memories are about gifts, families, or feasts, the recollections of holidays past are seared into the minds of Hudson County residents.
For Ashley Laureano, 18, of West New York, her best Christmas memories are recent ones, because she got a new sibling four years ago.
“It’s about being gathered around the tree with my family, making Christmas dinner in the morning, and watching this beautiful baby face wanting to open her gifts,” Laureano said of 4-year-old Khloe, whom she held in her arms while being interviewed.
She also remembered fun times with cousins, playing games and eating.
For Miguel Torres of Weehawken, his best memories of Christmas are from the times his relatives in Hudson County, New York City, and Florida could visit.
“It’s all about family,” Torres said. “It’s eating, talking, and listening to all kinds of music.”
The family also enjoys dancing the tango.
Rocio Perez of Union City, 16, echoed the “fun-with-family” theme.
“It’s going outside, playing around, and hanging around with family,” she said. “We have more time together.”
For Hector Gutierrez of North Bergen, it’s also about relatives.
“We love the time with family; family and friends,” he said. “We eat, dance, and have a happy time. Then we exchange gifts.”
North Bergenite Annette Gonzalez remembered one special gift most of all.
“When I was 9 years old, I received a train set,” she said. “It was a great train set for me and my brother, something we both liked.”
For Wemceslao Mella of West New York, who immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic in 2013, his best Christmas memory was an easy pick.
“I’m happy I’m here,” he said. “This was the Christmas I’ve liked out of any place I’ve lived.”
Mella said he and his wife are especially happy to see how Christmas is celebrated in the United States with holiday lights and other decorations.
Joseph Passantino may be reached at JoePass@hudsonreporter.com.