Fernandes Bakery NV Is Spreading The Christmas Spirit With Their Annual Xmas Festival!

September 12, 2025•4 min read

Fernandes Bakery, a proud member of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC), once again brought communities together in Suriname with its annual Christmas Bread Festival. Held in front of the bakery itself, this year’s event attracted over 20,000 attendees, reaffirming its status as a cherished tradition in Suriname’s holiday season.

“The Christmas Bread Festival has grown immensely over the years,” shared Rufin Bajnath, Managing Director of Fernandes Bakery. “What started as a small initiative many years ago has become a major event that opens the Christmas season in Suriname. When people see our bread, they know it’s Christmas time.”

Rufin Bajnath’s journey with Fernandes Bakery began 16 years ago as a supervisor in the snacks department, working on products like cheese balls and other savory treats. “I took it as a learning opportunity,” Bajnath recalled. His dedication quickly earned him a chance to transition to the bakery’s iconic Christmas bread production. “During my early days, we closed my department so all hands could help with Christmas bread. That’s how I learned about its importance,” he said. Over time, Bajnath pursued formal training in baking science and technology at the American Institute of Baking in the United States. Upon returning, he apprenticed under a German expert and eventually rose to the role of Director. “My journey has been one of learning and growth, and I owe my success to the amazing team at Fernandes Bakery,” he added.

The festival was more than just an event; it was an experience designed to bring people together. Attendees enjoyed live music, a magician, a children’s playground, a mini Christmas market, and a spectacular fireworks display. Local entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to showcase their products, ranging from jewelry to barbecue and popcorn, as Fernandes extended its platform to support small businesses.

“This event is about engagement and giving back,” explained Mr. Bajnath. “It’s our way of connecting with the community and thanking them for their support. We even invite people to write letters to Santa Claus, and we fulfill some of those wishes before Christmas.”

The centerpiece of the event was Fernandes’ famous Christmas bread, with 61 meters sampled during the festival, symbolizing the bakery’s 61st anniversary. Beyond the festival, Fernandes has shared over 120 meters of bread through tastings across the country, including supermarkets and local events. “Our bread is a product that connects people. It’s enjoyed by families in Suriname and even exported to places like the Netherlands, New York, and the Caribbean,” Bajnath said.

The preparation for this iconic bread is no small feat. “We begin planning in March to ensure everything—from ingredients to packaging—is ready,” Bajnath noted. “Production ramps up in November, running around the clock. Our dedicated team, including seasonal employees who return year after year, deserves all the credit. Without them, this wouldn’t be possible.”

In addition to the tastings, Fernandes donates thousands of breads to charities, senior homes, and churches across Suriname. “We receive many requests, and while we can’t fulfill them all, we do our best to help as many as possible,” said Bajnath. “For larger requests, we provide breads at cost price to make sure everyone has access to this special treat.”

The festival is not just about celebrating Christmas—it’s about connecting families, businesses, and the broader community. As Bajnath perfectly surmised, “Our Christmas bread carries emotion and magic. It brings people together, and that’s what makes this product so special.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fernandes Bakery creatively adapted its Christmas celebrations to maintain the festive spirit while ensuring community safety - With in-person gatherings restricted, the bakery launched a virtual, live-streamed event, featuring performances, games, and giveaways. As restrictions eased, another Fernandes Christmas event featured a drive-through, transforming the street in front of their bakery into a festive light tunnel where families could safely collect Christmas bread and gifts. These initiatives exemplified Fernandes’ resilience and commitment to spreading holiday joy, even during challenging times.

Fernandes also participates in a TV show where viewers can call in to share their unique ways of enjoying Christmas bread. Each week, the team selects one idea, inviting the contributor to the studio to prepare their creation live. The selected recipes are prepared live in the studio, where the team samples them and shares their reactions, creating a fun and engaging experience for viewers.

The Fernandes Christmas Bread Festival, a true cornerstone of Suriname’s festive season, reflects the dedication and vision of Fernandes Bakery and its team. For Bajnath, who began his career as a young supervisor and now leads the bakery with pride, the festival represents more than a business achievement. “This is about tradition, connection, and making Suriname proud,” he said.

The SGCC congratulates Fernandes Bakery on another successful event and applauds their unwavering commitment to community, tradition, and growth. We extend our deepest gratitude for Fernandes Bakery’s Diamond Sponsorship of the SGCC Year-End Mixer in Suriname. On December 12th our guests will receive the infamous and delicious Fernandes Christmas Bread in their Goodie Bags that we can’t wait to unwrap!