Festive Season in the Caribbean

Caribbean resorts embrace the holidays with special anniversaries

 

The Caribbean offers a unique experience during the holidays. While traditions are part of the fun, the blend of local culture and foods provides an even more interesting, memorable, and tasty reason to celebrate. Couple that with two momentous anniversaries and you’ll have a list of reasons to celebrate the holidays, Caribbean style.

Half Moon, Jamaica

This year’s holiday season coincides with the 70th anniversary of the resort, and celebrations begin mid-December. The sprawling property takes up 400 acres and offers hotel suites, beachfront cottages, and villas and is fronted by two miles of shimmering sands. Guests have more than enough options for activities, including an equestrian center, tennis, an 18-hole championship golf course, and an impressive spa with herb gardens. Indulge in a treatment in the over-the-water bungalows and experience herbal bush tea baths for some local pampering. There are bikes on hand to explore the gardens and property, golf carts stand by to whisk guests to various restaurants and bars, and when the whim hits, an evening stroll under the Caribbean stars creates some intimate memories.

During the holidays, guests are invited to connect to the Half Moon community that began in 1954 and to witness the inspiration of the magic of Half Moon at 70 in curated activities. The kickoff event is an unforgettable evening featuring a special performance by Third World, set on the stunning Great Lawn at Eclipse. A Managers Cocktail & Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place December 20 through 22. You’ll get a chance to mix, mingle, and merry-make with the management team, sip signature cocktails, and watch as the Half Moon Christmas Tree twinkles to life. Kids work like little elves at the cookie decorating extravaganza, and Santa makes his first appearance on December 24, spreading joy along Spice Beach. Everyone joins in for the Grand Market, a Jamaican holiday tradition of shopping before the big date. Shops will open, vendors will be on hand, and treats will be served. Then, on December 25, Santa arrives, not in a sleigh but in a golf cart. Go ahead and indulge in the Christmas feast with local and international cuisines. The year comes to a close with an evening of elegance at the New Year’s Eve Grand Ball. Book here: https://www.halfmoon.com/

Four Seasons Resort, Nevis

Culture is the focus of this year’s festive season at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis. The resort sits on 350 acres with a backdrop of the majestic Nevis Peak. Arrival is via private launch to a pier on Pinney’s Beach, the island’s best beach and longest stretch of sand. Guests have their choice of three infinity-edge pools, an awe-inspiring 18-hole golf course where monkeys roam in the afternoons, multi-court tennis, and pickleball courts. On the water, there are Hobie Cats, sunset sails, snorkeling, and more. And the spa awaits ultimate relaxation. There are yoga, meditation, Pilates classes, and personal trainers on hand to keep you in shape.

This year, the resort is embracing the 50th anniversary of the Nevis Culturama Festival, an annual event that takes place in August. During the holiday season, this Caribbean event’s vibrant energy and spirit will blend with the magic of the holidays. Music will include local sounds; dancers wear traditional colorful costumes for Carnival, and cuisines capture local flavors while embracing traditional holiday foods. Specially curated events will run through the month of December, including several afternoons, during which a high tea event will include traditional bush teas and an assortment of world teas and finger foods. S’mores Under the Stars is a memorable evening under the Caribbean’s captivating night sky. Guests can participate in a cocktail-making class, a pastry-making class, and a Caribbean cooking class. For Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a celebratory menu offers a variety of special items, from Caribbean classics to traditional holiday favorites. Celebrate Hanukkah with a menorah lighting ceremony and delicious Hanukkah snacks like potato latkes and jelly donuts. And welcome the New Year with a full day of New Year’s Eve experiences. Join Pinney’s Carnival New Year’s Eve Party, an unforgettable dining experience where the Caribbean’s vibrant flavors meet the rich traditions of Mediterranean cuisine. Delight in a chef’s display that features a seafood extravaganza with lobster, shrimp, and oysters alongside freshly carved Cinco Jotas Jamon Iberico. Greet 2025 at the Cultural Carnival New Year’s Eve Party, a Carnival- themed celebration merged in an all-white affair, where the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean meets unmatched elegance and excitement. Immerse yourself in a night filled with lively entertainment, enchanting decor, and a festive atmosphere, and welcome the new in true Caribbean style. Book here: https://www.fourseasons.com/nevis/