Barbados’ glittering coastlines, white sandy beaches, friendly locals, and a plethora of family-centred activities and events make it one of the Caribbean’s finest dream holiday destinations for the festive season. Many visitors from around the world trade their winter dwellings for a few weeks to bask in the Barbados sun for the ultimate holiday getaway. If you’re visiting during this time of the year, here are some holiday activities to do Christmas in Barbados the right way.
See the Christmas lights
A holiday drive-about in Barbados is the ideal way to take in the beauty of the island at Christmas time. All across the country, homes and businesses are lavishly lit in true festive spirit. The capital city, Bridgetown, is quite spectacular, particularly Independence Square which is extravagantly decorated with scores of Christmas trees aglow. Not to mention, the roundabouts that connect the highways and byways are ornately adorned and usually feature colourful and vibrant displays.
The Morgan Lewis Christmas Craft Fayre
The Morgan Lewis Christmas Craft Fayre is an exceptional way to observe the largest and only completed sugar windmill still standing in the Caribbean while getting some Christmas shopping done. Featuring local arts and crafts, the showcase brings the best of Barbados under one roof, including woodwork crafts, textiles, local artwork, handmade jewellery, and a great deal more. The event is hosted every Sunday in December.
Shop at the Christmas markets
Another favourite Barbados custom which can be enjoyed over the festive season is attending the busy Christmas Markets on the weekend; a centuries-old tradition borrowed from Germany. There are plenty of these markets around the island selling craft, food, and toys which attract many visitors in search of locally made products and oftentimes organically grown produce. Some of the most common Christmas Markets are to be found at Holders, Brighton, Hastings, and Codrington College.
Virtual Carols by Candlelight
Carols by Candlelight is one of Barbados’ most well-known Christmas festivities. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Barbados, thousands of locals and visitors alike come out for a magical evening at the Prime Minister’s official residence – Ilaro Court. This year the annual Christmas festival of song featuring performances by an eclectic range of celebrate local musicians will now take place virtually, premiering at The Globe Drive-In on December 14, 2020. This is a ticketed event in which all proceeds go to less fortunate persons in the community.
Carols at the Abbey
The carolling continues at St. Nicholas Abbey, a historic plantation house, museum and rum distillery which hosts “Carols at the Abbey” each year on its stunning grounds. Set on the croquet lawn, under a blanket of starts, The Royal Barbados Police Force Band together with local performing acts will serenade a small audience on the evening of December 20, 2020. Another charitable fundraiser, all proceeds of this event go to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Paediatric Ward. Guests are also asked to bring a wrapped gift for a child in need.
Midnight Mass
If you are like many Barbadians you won’t want to miss the traditional church service on Christmas Eve for Midnight Mass. At the stroke of midnight Anglican and Catholic churches across Barbados congregate for a celebration of the nativity of Jesus Christ. Candlelight carolling, the blessing of the crib, and the Eucharist are some of the typical components of Midnight Mass that one may partake and there are many neighbouring churches around Speightstown guests can attend.
Host a Christmas Day lunch
As in all parts of the world, food is a key part of Christmas in Barbados. With our private dining service, you can book a personal chef to prepare a traditional Christmas feast for your family with all the “Bajan” favourites you desire including baked ham, stuffing, jug-jug, sorrel and of course, the beloved great cake for those with an affinity for local rum.
Boxing Day at The Races
Enjoy a day at the races on Boxing Day. The Historic Garrison Savannah, a world heritage site, is filled with excitement and merriment as spectators cheer on their favourites, place bets, sip champagne, and enjoy a thrilling day of some of the Caribbean’s best horseracing.
Catch the fireworks
While most countries celebrate New Year’s Eve, the last night of the year in Barbados is called “Old Year’s Night”. Whether you choose an upbeat evening dancing the night away with friends or something more low-key this year, the spectacular fireworks displays on the West Coast are not to be missed. Countdown on the beach at Saint Peter’s Bay or head to the marina at Port Ferdinand, either experience is perfect for ringing in the New Year.
Watch the first sunrise
After a night of celebration, watch the year’s first sunrise with a glorious view of the East Coast. The beaches at Bathsheba, Bath, or Cattlewash are choice picks to catch the first rays of the New Year. This morning affair is best enjoyed with a packed cooler and picnic basket.
Need more holiday ideas to plan your Christmas in Barbados at Port Ferdinand or Saint Peter’s Bay? Contact your dedicated concierge at 246-272-2000 or concierge@unnaliving.com.
