A Caribbean Christmas: In BarbadosA Caribbean Christmas! Wow, in Barbados, an experience you’ll never forget. Christmas in this island can be compared to Thanksgiving in America. This event is not only celebrated on December 25th, but begins with the Christian calendar of Advent which starts on the Sunday which comes after November 30. Through-out the island many churches hold Christmas recitals of the birth of Jesus. The schools both primary and secondary also have plays surrounding this religious festival. There is also the commercial side of this season with the hustling and
bustling of Barbadians shopping for the perfect gift for friends and family. Families buy groceries to prepare large meals for Christmas Day and Boxing Day (day after Christmas which is also a holiday). It is a custom is Barbados to do most of the home preparations the night before Christmas - change curtains or drapes; bake ham, coconut bread, great cake, and puddings. By doing these things persons are kept awake so they can attend the Christmas morning services at most churches which starts at 5:00am. Churches are usually full with parishioners and service is generally just over an hour long. After church its time to mingle with family and friends and then head off to Queens Park to listen to the Barbados Police Band orchestra rendition of many favorite Christmas ballads. Most families come together at one home to celebrate the occasion and after lunch persons will go to visit friends and deliver gifts. Boxing Day is celebrated with many beach picnics. Christmas Day in Barbados is one you will never forget. Return from Caribbean Christmas to Barbados Vacation Isle Homepage |