Top Christmas Activities in the Virgin Islands
Looking for fun things to do on Christmas in the VI? While everyone is battling the snow further north, December marks the start of the Caribbean’s best season for sunny skies and warm temperatures, and locals love to open the season with numerous Christmas celebrations. These are our top picks for things to do on Christmas in the Virgin Islands:
Learn to Sail
For a unique and rewarding Christmas in the Virgin Islands, you can learn to sail while island hopping and living on a luxurious sailboat. Attend all the best holiday events and swim at the most scenic beaches with a Learn to Sail vacation! When the vacation comes to an end, you will have gained ASA certification and the ability to sail on your own, in addition to cherished memories. Have a look at Go Sail VI’s course options here.
Crucian Christmas Festival
Starting on December 26th and ending on January 4th, the Crucian Christmas Festival in St. Croix is one of the biggest annual events in the USVI! The party mainly takes place in the Festival Village in Frederiksted, where guests are treated to food fairs, pageants, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and on the last day, an extravagant children’s parade and adult’s parade, ending with a brilliant fireworks display.
Sample Christmas Treats
Christmas in the Virgin Islands would not be complete without guavaberry rum. Islanders have been enjoying the liqueur during the holiday season for generations. It is made by blending rum with guavaberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar, ideally combined months in advance for the best result. Virgin Islanders also look forward to enjoying black cake with their holiday meal. It is made of dried fruits that are soaked in rum for months, then blended into a cake batter and baked on low heat, creating a texture similar to British figgy pudding.
St. Croix Christmas Boat Parade
On December 14th, get into the Christmas spirit as you watch boats of all sizes lit up with twinkling lights and inflatable decorations parade past the Christiansted Boardwalk for the St. Croix Christmas Boat Parade, followed by fireworks. Of course, vendors from around the VI will supply food, drink, and opportunities to shop for unique gifts. Festivities start at noon, and the parade starts at 5:00 PM.
Challenge of the Carols
On Christmas morning, singers from all around wake up early to compete in the Challenge of the Carols in Emancipation Garden, St. Thomas. For nearly fifty years, Christmas Day has commenced with the glorious voices of carolers, bringing the community together and inspiring Christmas cheer. The event is open to the public and includes complimentary refreshments!
Tortola Christmas Village
If you’re spending Christmas in the British Virgin Islands, Tortola’s Christmas Village has it all! Tortola Pier Park is transformed into a Christmas wonderland with festive decorations, live entertainment, and vendors selling locally made gifts. It’s the perfect place to find something special for your loved ones or treat yourself and take a piece of the islands back home. The Christmas Village even includes exciting rides and Santa Claus himself! You can visit the Tortola Christmas Village from mid-December through the first week of January.
With so many things to do on Christmas in the VI, spending the holidays here is an easy choice! You can still enjoy festive Christmas activities while relaxing under the Caribbean sun. Book your Learn to Sail vacation before the holiday season comes to a close!