At The Crane Private Residences, we know Christmas in Barbados is so much more than just a holiday; it’s an experience. Forget about snow and sleigh bells; here, the season is all about enjoying warm breezes, sharing delicious food, and cherishing time with the people who matter most. It’s about celebrating life, love and maybe indulging just a little more than usual. Let’s unwrap the magic of Christmas traditions that make Barbados a truly special place to be this time of the year.
1. Jug Jug, Ham, and Great Cake
When it comes to Christmas in Barbados, the food steals the show. Bajans don’t do small plates and this is the time to load up your plate and go back for seconds (or thirds). The star of the menu? Jug Jug, a Bajan twist on Scottish haggis. It combines pigeon peas, guinea corn flour, and salted meat in a savoury mix that’s rich in flavour.
Then there’s the ham. Not just any ham, this beauty is glazed, studded with cloves, and baked to perfection. In true Bajan fashion, it’s best enjoyed in a soft, fluffy salt bread, with a generous dash of Bajan pepper sauce for that extra kick. And don’t forget the Great Cake, Barbados’ answer to fruitcake but with a lot more rum (because why not?).
At The Crane, you can skip the cooking and let us do the heavy lifting. Our Christmas dinner menu is packed with all these Bajan favourites, so you can feast like family without lifting a finger.
2. Sprucing Up the Home for Christmas Bajan Style
For Bajans, Christmas is the perfect excuse to do a little home improvement and we don’t just mean adding a few extra Christmas lights. The holiday season sees a lot of houses getting a fresh coat of paint, both inside and out. Whether it’s fixing up that leaky faucet or finally getting around to replacing those creaky door hinges, it’s the time of year when every little project gets crossed off the to-do list.
But it’s not just about repairs. Many Bajans go all out with new curtains, rugs, and home decor, giving their homes that ‘fresh’ feel just in time for the New Year. A new living room set? Check. A revamped kitchen? Definitely. While the house is getting its makeover, the whole family might be working together. One might be painting the walls, another is putting up the new curtains, while someone else is already planning where to place the Christmas tree. It’s all about ringing in the season with a little extra sparkle because if you’re going to entertain, your home should be just as ready for the holidays as you are.
3. Christmas Morning
Bajans kick off Christmas with a spiritual reset, donning their finest attire for Christmas morning church services. From crisp suits to colourful dresses, the streets are filled with a burst of festive elegance as families gather to celebrate the season with gratitude and joy.
After church, the celebrations continue at home with a festive family feast. It’s all about sharing good food, laughter and traditions that go back generations. And as the meal winds down, the unmistakable sound of dominoes slapping on the table fills the air, with everyone gathered around for a friendly, competitive game. At The Crane, we can’t think of a better way to embrace the season than surrounded by family, good food, and the joy of island traditions.
4. Sorrel, Rum, and Raising a Glass to the Good Life
A Bajan Christmas isn’t complete without sorrel, a ruby-red, spiced drink that tastes like the season in a glass. Made from steeped hibiscus petals, bay leaves, cloves, and a touch of sugar, it’s a tradition that fills homes with a warm, festive aroma. Serve it chilled, and for those wanting to add a little extra cheer, a splash of rum is always a welcome addition.
And when it comes to rum, it’s not just a drink in Barbados, it’s the heartbeat of our celebrations. Whether it’s a bottle of Mount Gay or a carefully crafted concoction, it keeps the festivities alive.
5. Community Spirit: The Gift of Giving
Christmas in Barbados isn’t just about eating and partying (although we do plenty of that). Bajans have big hearts, and the holiday season is a time to give back. From charity drives to sharing food with neighbours, the true spirit of Christmas here is about lifting each other up.
At The Crane Private Residences, we take the holiday spirit seriously and go all out to ensure every resident feels right at home, especially during this special time of year. Our dedicated staff are here to make sure you feel the warmth and cheer of the season, offering personalised service that brings the magic of Christmas to life. From carolling sessions to a festive Christmas Day lunch and dinner, we create a joyful atmosphere where residents can relax and truly embrace the holiday season. We’re not just about luxurious accommodations; we’re about creating memories, bringing people together, and making sure that every moment feels like home.
Come Home to Christmas at The Crane Private Residences
This Christmas, we invite you to unwind and enjoy the festive spirit with your loved ones, knowing that we’ve got every detail covered. Whether it’s indulging in a delicious Christmas feast, participating in our holiday activities, or simply relaxing in your paradise dream home, our team is dedicated to ensuring you feel at home and embraced by the warmth of the season. Here’s to creating traditions, enjoying the good life, and celebrating Christmas with the true spirit of Barbados, right here at The Crane Private Residences.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!