In days gone by, Caymanians created their very own winter wonderland – a glistening white sand yard.
During the weeks leading up to Christmas, families would go to the nearest beach on moonlit nights, scoop up sand in thatch baskets or buckets, and carry it back to their yard, a custom known as ‘backing sand’. The sand was divided into piles, and on Christmas Eve morning it was swept to create a sparkling white sand yard.
Pretty pink conch shells were collected to line the footpath to the front door, adding to the festive décor. The sand yard and garden would often feature ornamental plants with vibrant blossoms, including plants sporting tiny red flowers that would emerge only in December.
Youngsters would also gather pieces of broken crockery or bottles to stick in the sand to make ‘moonshine babies’. When the light of the moon reflected on the glass, the shimmering colours served as the islands’ first Christmas lights.
Feasting and fellowship
Feasting was a big part of the holiday celebrations, and there was always an abundance of food on the table at this time of year. Families splurged on beef at Christmas – a rare, once-a-year treat for many. Christmas beef, heavy cakes and sweetened sorrel drink were all favourites – and still are today – in the holiday feast.
Carols were sung throughout the islands. In yesteryear, Caymanians would take part in a tradition known as ‘marching’, where people would
‘march’ from home to home in their district, singing carols and playing instruments.
Kitchen band dances would be held in small kitchens, where family and friends would gather inside to listen to traditional instruments such as the fiddle, kitchen grater and maracas.
Church services
Churches in each district organised Christmas concerts, with children participating by reciting poems or taking part in a skit or play. The church figured prominently in these times, and everyone would attend services dressed in their new Christmas clothes, hats and shoes.
In days gone by, men often left the island to go to sea to earn a living. Many would return to be with their families for the holidays, making it a highly-anticipated and special occasion in Cayman – as it remains today.
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