From dazzling tree lighting ceremonies and holiday craft markets to festive fireworks and visits from Jolly Old St. Nick, Christmas is a magical time of year in the Cayman Islands.
The holiday season here has always been a joyous celebration, a time of concerts and feasting, fellowship and family. In days gone by, the island’s seafaring men – often away for months on end – would return home to reunite with their families, making Christmas a highly anticipated occasion.
Let it glow
Driving around to view the holiday lights and magical displays is a long-held island tradition as friends and family get together to take in the sights and sounds of the season.
Caribbean residences are transformed into Christmas wonderlands, with animated displays, decorations, lights and Christmas music and cheer.
Songs of the season
Christmas concerts are a big tradition on-island, and there are plenty of musical showcases held throughout the season. Among them: Elmslie Church sing-along carol concert and the Cayman Arts Festival’s Christmas concert at the George Town Library.
Churches across the islands organise special Christmas services and concerts, a tradition that figured prominently in old-time Cayman – as it does today.
In days gone by, groups of revellers would stroll door-to-door serenading with carols and popular songs of the day. Today, that tradition continues as members of the Red Bay Church of God Holiness travel throughout the island on a decorated flatbed truck singing carols and spreading holiday cheer.
Giving back
Christmas is a time of giving, and in Cayman that spirit of giving shines bright.
Numerous fundraising efforts and holiday drives take place during the festive season to help make wishes come true. From toy drives and holiday ornaments to Christmas cards and calendars, there’s no better time to show your gratitude and goodwill by helping to spread Christmas cheer.
Whether donating money, goods or volunteering your time with a local charity, it’s Caymankind in action.
Acts of kindness – large or small – can make a difference in people’s lives.
After challenging times, the holiday season holds out hope for good tidings, now and in the New Year.
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