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Parang

Forget Michael Bublé, and Christmas Carollers turning up on your doorstep to sing one dry rendition of Silent Night, T&T and other islands give us Parang. It has a Spanish influence and is often performed with traditional instruments like the cuatro, maracas, and guitar.

Want to hear it for yourself? My fave DJ Jel has released his 2023 Parang mix, enjoy!!

Jon/Junkanoo

A Christmas tradition in Jamaica and the Bahamas. Usually taking place over the Christmas/New Year period, Jonkanoo is a vibrant street parade featuring music, dancing and traditional costumes. There is also some street theatre that takes place.

(Next year I’ll write a full post on this, keep your eyes peeled!)

Food

Most people’s favourite thing about Christmas is the food. The preparation, and of course the eating, of Christmas dinner provides a great bonding experience for families and loved one. Of course different islands have different staple dishes, but there are some that are standard regardless of where you’re located. Christmas ham (glazed in honey, sugar and pineapple), black and fruit cakes, and the infamous sorrel drink – a personal fave.

TV

I reallyyyy love Christmas adverts, so here is my favourite ever Christmas Ad from the region

Feliz Navijab!

Ri x