Santa Claus, Papai Noel, Babbo Natale Are Coming to Town: 5 Christmas Traditions from Around the World

2. Barbados

On the Caribbean island of Barbados, traditions revolve around two major things — family and food.

The beginning of the holiday season traditionally starts with the annual Christmas “spring” cleaning. Stores are full of great deals on housewares, linens, and other home goods, and families work together to scrub their homes from top to bottom in anticipation of the holiday.

Every year, the Prime Minister hosts a Carols by Candlelight gathering at the ministerial residence, and thousands flock to the grounds with candles to listen to some of the island’s best voices sing festive songs.

On Christmas Day, before the traditional holiday meal is served, men and women alike head to Queen’s Park in Bridgetown, and promenade through the park in their best dress. It’s traditional to purchase a new tailor-made outfit for Christmas, and this event gives people the chance to show off their new purchase. There’s live coverage on local TV stations, and the best outfits make the front page of the paper. After the promenade and Mass, people head home to eat black cake (similar to British fruitcake) and pineapple-glazed ham.

Everyone should do this at least once… Christmas in Barbados!#LoveBarbados #VisitBarbados pic.twitter.com/4ol5JeOfyx

— Bridgetown Cruise Terminals Inc. (@BctiBarbados) December 1, 2018