The festive season is rolling around again and Christmas is around the corner. Christmas in Cayman can look different through the lens of all the different cultures represented in this melting pot of nationalities. and though Christmas means different things to many people, there are some common features such as holiday meals, caroling, a magical gift-giving character like Santa, family-time, decorative lights and reflection on the blessings in life, are common throughout and have become a staple part of the festive season. Cayman’s very own festive magic will surely add some sparkle to your stay, even if you aren’t quite prepared for the season.
In Cayman, the most ‘Christmasy’ tradition of all involves “backing sand” – that is, collecting sand from the beaches and iron shore areas in a thatch basket (and yes, your back does a lot of the work!) and depositing sand in little piles in front yards. On Christmas Eve, Caymanians would then rake the sand, making intricate patterns and spreading it across the yard, some say to imitate snow. They put the finishing touches on by decorating the pathways with shiny, pink conch shells. That’s our version of a white Christmas!
With over a million lights casting a veil of wonder over the Cayman Islands, have your camera ready and marvel in the delightful Christmas light exhibitions across the islands. Don’t miss the beautifully choreographed displays at Camana Bay, The Bodden home on South Church Street (opposite Sunset House) and the Crighton House in Prospect.
For something different, get creative and decorate your own classic gingerbread man complete with icing, gumdrops, and more edible decorations while indulging in tiny sandwiches and afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton’s annual Gingerbread House Workshop. The class is led by the Ritz’s own a pastry chef and both children and adults are welcome to join and be part of the festive fun.
Create memories with the traditional jolly old elf, in his full red and white regalia Thursdays (5pm-7pm) throughout December. Don’t miss Caribbean Santa clad in shorts and a tropical shirt Saturdays (3pm-5pm) at Camana Bay.
In the spirit of giving and sharing, with a bonus of keeping those extra pounds at bay, participate in the annual 5k/10k Jingle Bell Walk/Run on Sunday the 9th of December at the Holiday Inn and help raise money to assist various local charities. What a generous way to spread the Christmas spirit!
You can also embrace the merriest time of year and nestle under the stars and enjoy some quality family time watching a jolly family show every Tuesday throughout December at Camana Bay, or catch the Cayman Christmas Comedy show which opens December 11th and travels district to district, if you want a some fun, holiday humor!
But of course, one of the best and most relaxing spots to spend your time over Christmas, is on the beautiful Plantana beach. Wishing all of our guests peace and goodwill throughout the festive season.
