Crissmuss in the Caribbean: Celebrate the Holidays Island-Style
Experience Christmas in the Caribbean like never before the sun, rum, music, and traditions that make the holidays unforgettable. From Jamaica’s Black Cake to the Bahamas’ Junkanoo, discover why the islands are the best place to celebrate the festive season.
CHRISTMAS IN THE CARIBBEAN: A TROPICAL TWIST ON THE HOLIDAYS
Trade snow for sand and sleigh bells for steel drums, Christmas in the Caribbean is unlike anywhere else in the world. With vibrant food, unique traditions, and tropical décor, the holidays here sparkle with warmth and joy. Whether you’re visiting Jamaica, the Bahamas, or Barbados, here’s what makes a Caribbean Christmas truly magical.
CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS DRINKS: A CUP OF CHEER!
No Caribbean holiday is complete without festive drinks. Across the islands, friends and family toast to the season with flavourful creations:
- Jamaica – Sorrel Drink, made from hibiscus, ginger, orange peel, and a splash of rum. This refreshing take on mulled wine Jamaica style.
- Trinidad & Tobago – Ponche de Crème, their creamy take on eggnog which is enjoyed with pastelles
- Jamaica’s Egg Punch – A rich mix of Guinness Stout, milk, and spices.
CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS: FESTIVALS & STREET PARTIES
In the Caribbean, Christmas is not just one day it’s a season-long celebration. Expect beach parties, light displays, and family gatherings from November through December to January.
- Bahamas & Turks and Caicos – Boxing Day comes alive with Junkanoo and Maskanoo, featuring colorful parades, street dancing, and live music.
- Jamaica – The famous Grand Market on Christmas Eve fills the streets with toys, food, and holiday cheer.
CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS FOOD: A FEAST WITH ISLAND FLAVOURS
Forget roasted chestnuts here, the holiday feast is all about flavourful meats and rum-soaked desserts. Warm weather and large family gatherings make a spit-roasted BBQ the perfect meal.
- Jamaica – Glazed Christmas ham steals the show.
- Barbados – Jug Jug, a pork-rich take on Scottish haggis, is a national delicacy.
- Across the Islands – Black Cake (rum-marinated fruitcake) is the star dessert in Jamaica, Bermuda, and St. Vincent.
CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS MUSIC: REGGAE, PARANG & MORE
The sounds of Christmas are just as lively as the food and festivities:
- Jamaica – Reggae and dancehall-infused Christmas carols.
- Trinidad & Tobago – Parang music with Spanish and folk influences.
- Cayman Islands – Choir concerts and beachfront carol sing-alongs.
Music is at the center of the Holiday spirit throughout the Islands. Every island has its own rhythm of joy.
CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS: TROPICAL HOLIDAY MAGIC
Frosty snow may replace sparkling sugar sands, but there’s no shortage of festive decoration here in the Caribbean. From palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights to verandas covered in garland, Caribbean Christmas décor brings festive magic to the tropics.
- Jamaica – Outdoor verandas glow with ornaments and tinsel.
- Barbados – Bridgetown transforms into a holiday light show.
- Cayman Islands – Historic homes open their doors to showcase grand Christmas displays.
CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS SHOPPING: CITY SIDEWALKS, BUSY SIDEWALKS…
The holidays in the Caribbean bring the appearance of Christmas Markets on each island, offering the perfect place to pick up stocking stuffers, seasonal sweets, decorations, and all the supplies needed for a Christmas feast.
- Jamaica – Grand Market is a main event that takes place on Christmas Eve. In communities across the country, streets close to allow children to visit the toy stalls, get their faces painted, and find Santa to share their Christmas wish list one last time.
NEW YEAR’S EVE IN THE CARIBBEAN: RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR
As magical as Christmas is, New Year’s in the Caribbean is equally unforgettable:
- Turks & Caicos – Known as “Old Year’s Night,” with church services, tolling bells, and fireworks.
- Jamaica – Bonfire parties, gala dinners, live music, and beachfront fireworks.
Wherever you choose to go, rest assured there’ll be parties, merriment, and contagious celebration.
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH MARGARITAVILLE CARIBBEAN
From Negril’s Seven Mile Beach to Montego Bay’s vibrant nightlife or Ocho Rios’ chill vibe, Margaritaville Caribbean is at the heart of the islands’ festive spirit. Whether you’re sipping a Sorrel cocktail, joining a Christmas party, or toasting the New Year under the stars, we invite you to celebrate island-style with us.
Margaritaville Caribbean would like to wish you Happy Holidays and a fantastic New Year from our sunny shores to yours.